Marineland, a popular amusement park in Niagara Falls, has been ordered to pay $85,000 after three bears were found to be kept in cramped quarters for several months.
The Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (OSPCA) launched an investigation after receiving a complaint about the living conditions of the bears. The investigation revealed that the three bears, named Henry, Albert, and Alice, were kept in a small enclosure with inadequate space and enrichment.
According to the OSPCA, the bears were confined to a concrete and steel enclosure that was only 20 feet by 20 feet in size. This is significantly smaller than the recommended minimum space for bears, which is 1,000 square feet per bear. The enclosure also lacked proper enrichment, such as trees, rocks, and other natural elements, which are essential for the physical and mental well-being of bears.
The OSPCA also found that the bears were kept in these conditions for several months, from January to April 2019. During this time, the bears were unable to hibernate, which is a natural behavior for bears during the winter months.
As a result of these findings, Marineland was charged with three counts of animal cruelty under the Ontario SPCA Act. The amusement park pleaded guilty to all three charges and was ordered to pay $85,000 in fines and restitution.
In addition to the financial penalty, Marineland has also been ordered to provide proper living conditions for the bears, including adequate space and enrichment. The OSPCA will continue to monitor the bears’ living conditions to ensure that they are being properly cared for.
This case serves as a reminder that all animals, including those in captivity, have the right to be treated with respect and provided with appropriate living conditions. The OSPCA encourages anyone who witnesses animal cruelty to report it immediately to their local authorities.
Marineland has not yet released a statement regarding the charges and the fine. However, it is clear that the amusement park must take responsibility for the well-being of the animals in their care and ensure that they are provided with a suitable environment.
