Beluga rescued from Canada's Marineland dies suddenly at SeaWorld San Diego, after four others from the park died in Chicago

Cyprus, a nine-year-old male, had stopped eating in the two days leading up to his death on Sunday, October 18. Imaging showed his intestinal tract was not functioning normally, pointing to a life-threatening condition; veterinarians kept watch through the night but could not save him. He had arrived on August 22, and the results of a full necropsy will be shared with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Xavier and Jasper, his two travelling companions, remain in stable condition.

The three whales were transported more than 2,500 miles in specialised cold-water units to reach the facility.

Marineland closed this summer after financial difficulties and sustained criticism over its treatment of belugas.