Atlanta has two brand-new residents with the brightest smiles in the ocean! Georgia Aquarium has welcomed Balor and Zephyr, two male beluga whales rescued from Marineland of Canada, and they are already settling into their new home with the aquarium’s expert care teams.
Their arrival completes the largest marine mammal rescue and transport in history. On September 1, 2026, a consortium of accredited aquariums successfully finished relocating 30 beluga whales and four dolphins from the closed Canadian marine park. Six rescue transports unfolded over six weeks, moving by land and air across three countries with intricate logistics, reuniting animals in small “sub pods” to honor their social bonds.
Sixteen belugas found new homes at SeaWorld parks, ten swam off to Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium, and two belugas plus four dolphins traveled all the way to Oceanografic in Valencia, Spain. But Atlanta’s own duo is stealing hearts here at home: Balor, 10, and Zephyr, 7, were both born under human care and are now adjusting behind the scenes while the aquarium’s veterinarians and trainers watch over them.
The rescue was authorized as an emergency operation, and the aquariums are staying in close contact to share insights as the animals acclimate — a process that may take several months. The aquarium says more updates on Balor and Zephyr are on the way, and visitors can support the mission through its rescue fund.
A new chapter has begun for these gentle giants, and Atlanta gets to be part of their story.
Photo: Georgia Aquarium
