Connecticut aquarium settles beluga care violations for $12K

Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut has agreed to pay a $12,200 fine to settle a federal investigation into alleged animal care and water quality violations. This settlement follows the deaths of three beluga whales, which were brought to the aquarium from Canada in 2021. The U.S. Department of Agriculture's investigation revealed that the aquarium staff failed to seek veterinary care for a whale named Havok during his final hours, despite observing distressing behaviors. Additionally, high levels of coliform bacteria were found in the whales' pools, which may have contributed to the health issues of another whale, Havana. The three beluga whales, Havok, Havana, and Kharabali, suffered from genetic health problems that were not detectable prior to their arrival at Mystic. Havok died in August 2021 from an intestinal disease, while Havana and Kharabali passed away in 2022 and 2023, respectively, due to storage disease. The aquarium's vice president stated that the alleged violations did not play a role in the whales' deaths, attributing their health issues to pre-existing conditions. The settlement was proposed to avoid the costs associated with litigation, and the aquarium has since taken steps to address the issues raised by the investigation. Animal advocacy groups have been monitoring the aquarium's care of the whales, with some experts expressing concern over the facility's management of the animals. Despite having a previously good reputation for animal care, the investigation has raised significant questions about the aquarium's practices. Critics argue that the settlement is insufficient and call for more accountability to ensure the welfare of marine mammals in captivity.