Three Belugas Die at Shedd in Eight Days, Fueling Rescue-Scrutiny Debate

Three belugas have died at Shedd Aquarium within eight days—Rain and Beethoven after transfers from Marineland, following Peekachu’s earlier death—raising questions about the health and handling of rescued whales. Necropsies and tests are underway as advocates push for greater transparency and a shift toward seaside sanctuaries, amid concerns about rapid beluga population growth at the aquarium and the overall rescue effort.