Mystic Aquarium Welcomes Beluga Whale Nunavik

Mystic Aquarium is pleased to welcome Nunavik, a 16-year-old male beluga whale, following a planned transfer from Georgia Aquarium ahead of a carefully coordinated rescue of belugas from Marineland Canada. The move was completed on July 15, 2026 through a carefully coordinated process involving experienced marine mammal veterinarians, animal care specialists, and transport professionals.

Nunavik’s transfer was part of a collaborative animal care plan among accredited institutions designed to support his long-term welfare and social needs. Decisions regarding animal transfers are guided by animal welfare, social compatibility, veterinary oversight, and each animal’s long-term care needs.

“Mystic Aquarium has a long history of caring for beluga whales and advancing scientific understanding of this species,” said Dr. Allison Tuttle, Chief Zoological Officer, Mystic Aquarium. “We are excited to welcome Nunavik and look forward to providing the highest level of care while continuing our important research and conservation work that benefits belugas both in human care and in the wild.”

Nunavik’s move is the first of many as a collaboration of accredited aquariums plans to rescue 30 belugas from the closed Marineland Canada facility. Nunavik is currently being closely monitored as he acclimates to his new environment at Mystic Aquarium. Animal care and veterinary teams are focused on supporting his health, comfort, and adjustment during this transition period.

Mystic Aquarium’s experienced beluga care team and trainers are well positioned to support Nunavik’s continued care.  The Aquarium’s team of animal care professionals, veterinarians, and researchers will support his ongoing social, behavioral, and medical needs.

Mystic Aquarium operates under multiple independent accreditations, including the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums (AMMPA), and the International Marine Animal Trainers’ Association (IMATA), and is certified in humane practice by the American Humane Society. These organizations uphold rigorous standards for animal care and welfare, veterinary care, habitat management, and operational excellence.

In addition to providing expert care for marine mammals, Mystic Aquarium is a leader in beluga whale research and conservation. Through studies conducted with belugas in professional care and collaborations with field researchers, the Aquarium helps address critical questions about beluga health and the challenges facing wild populations. Insights gained through this research help scientists and wildlife managers develop more effective conservation strategies for wild beluga populations around the world.

For more information about Mystic Aquarium and its conservation and research programs, visit mysticaquarium.org.

ABOUT MYSTIC AQUARIUM

Mystic Aquarium, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, is one of the world's leading aquariums, offering exemplary care to a variety of species while also serving as the Northeast's premier marine animal rescue and rehabilitation center. Robust conservation and education programming and unparalleled visitor experiences strengthen personal connections to the animals and their environments. Mystic Aquarium's mission is to protect aquatic life and empower communities to save our oceans, and introduces approximately 800,000 visitors annually to thousands of animals through structured interpretation, especially curated exhibits, and hands-on interactions. As a leading research organization, Mystic Aquarium employs a full staff of scientists engaged in projects focused on our ocean planet's conservation and sustainability.