Earth Protect Blog

Today, the last group of beluga whales from the “whale jail” in Russia have been returned to the ocean. The notorious sea pens that housed 10 orcas and 87 beluga whales who had been captured for sale to marine parks in China are now empty.

The 31 belugas aboard the vessel “Professor Kaganovsky” and the research boat “Zodiac” were the last group of whales to be returned to open ocean waters.

The Russian Research Institute of Fisheries and Oceanography (VNIRO) reports that they carried out the release in accordance with the instructions of President Vladimir Putin and the Russian government, and adds that “despite the complexity of the organization of this unique work, thanks to the professionalism, tremendous efforts and responsible attitude of all participants of the operation, all releases were successful.”

The rescue and release of 97 captive whales is a remarkable and historic achievement. And it would not have been possible without the help and support of people like you. Thank you so much. 

Our thanks also go to the Russian activists, scientists and experts who worked tirelessly to get these whales released, and to our own team who spent time at the whale jail and have been working with Russian authorities throughout the Whale Aid Russia program.

Because of your care and concern, these whales are now back home in the ocean, where they belong. The Whale Santuary.