Recent Deaths of Beluga Whales Raise Ethical Questions About Aquariums

<figure> <img alt="" src="https://platform.vox.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/09/gettyimages-2166080740.jpg?quality=90&amp;strip=all&amp;crop=0,0,100,100" /> <figcaption> Young visitors watch the beluga whales at L'Oceanogràfic in Valencia, Spain. | Miguel Candela/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images </figcaption> </figure> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><em>This story appeared in&nbsp;Today, Explained,&nbsp;a daily newsletter that helps you understand the most compelling news and stories of the day.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.vox.com/today-explained-newsletter" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Subscribe here</a></em>.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Four beluga whales have died in a month at Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium, prompting discussions about the ethics of zoos and aquariums. The latest whale, a 26-year-old female named Osiris, died on September 21, 2026. She follows the deaths of Beethoven, 34, Rain, 20, and Peekachu, 23, who died in late August and early September.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Osiris, Rain, and Peekachu were part of a group of dolphins and beluga whales relocated from Marineland, a theme park in Niagara Falls, Canada, which closed in 2024. The relocation involved significant efforts, including specialized transport and care. However, some of the relocated animals have struggled to adapt to their new environments, even in well-equipped facilities like Shedd.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">In a blog post regarding Osiris’s death, the Shedd Aquarium stated that the whales had received intensive care and were under constant supervision. The aquarium is currently investigating the causes of death for all four whales.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Ethical Considerations</h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">The recent deaths have raised questions about the purpose of aquariums and zoos. While these institutions often market themselves as important for wildlife education and conservation, critics argue that the benefits to animals are questionable. Proponents claim that zoos and aquariums contribute to wildlife conservation through fundraising, reintroducing species, and inspiring environmental interest among visitors. For example, accredited zoos and aquariums reportedly spent over $250 million on habitat projects in 2022.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">However, reintroducing endangered species into the wild is rare, and studies suggest that simply observing animals in captivity does not significantly increase public engagement with wildlife welfare. Captivity can also be stressful for the animals.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Alternatives to traditional zoos and aquariums are being explored. One nonprofit organization is developing a coastal sanctuary for retired whales, but this project is still in progress. Meanwhile, consumers must weigh the stated benefits of zoos and aquariums against the potential harm to the animals.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Final Thoughts</h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong> Consider the balance of values.</strong> While it is important to align actions with personal values, it is also crucial to engage with the world meaningfully. Avoiding all activities that conflict with one’s ethics may lead to a less fulfilling life.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Trivia</h2> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li><strong>Did you know</strong>…that there have been advancements in Alzheimer’s treatments in the past five years? Two new drugs have been shown to markedly slow the progress of dementia.</li> <li><strong>Today’s trivia: </strong>What country is bordered by Chad to the east and Mali to the west? Hint: It is the second-largest landlocked African nation.</li> <li><strong>Yesterday’s trivia: </strong>Who was the classic Broadway star who first sang hits including “There’s No Business Like Show Business”? The answer is Ethel Merman.</li> </ul>