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Rescued beluga Cyprus dies at SeaWorld San Diego

SeaWorld San Diego said Cyprus, a nine-year-old male beluga rescued from a closed Canadian marine park, died Sunday night after a sudden health decline.

Published October 19, 2026 • Sources: SeaWorld San Diego and ABC7 Eyewitness News

Cyprus had been eating consistently and adjusting after arriving from Marineland in Ontario on August 22, according to SeaWorld's statement. The park said he abruptly stopped eating over the weekend, and an ultrasound identified a potentially serious intestinal problem.

Animal: Cyprus, a nine-year-old male beluga

Arrival in San Diego: August 22, 2026

Status of other rescued belugas: SeaWorld said they remain stable and under close monitoring

Further testing planned

SeaWorld said additional testing is planned to learn more about Cyprus's condition. ABC7 reported that he is the sixth beluga from the Marineland rescue effort to die after relocation to facilities in the United States and Europe.

Official statement: SeaWorld San Diego →

Original reporting: Read the ABC7 report →