Animal activists are applauding news this afternoon that Marineland in Niagara Falls is facing animal cruelty charges.
Camille Labchuk with Animal Justice Canada says the charges prove that the end of animal captivity for amusement in Canada is coming to an end.
Labchuk says they are shocked, surprised, but overall pleased.
She's hopeful that charges pending against Marineland will include marine mammals at the park.
Labchuk compared the charges against Marineland to what happened with the Bowmanville Zoo, commending the OSPCA.
She says she's hopeful that this is the start of a trend where they will be investigating and enforcing the laws against captive animal facilities like zoos and aquariums.
The OSPCA has laid five animal cruelty charges related to the treatment of peacocks, guinea hens and black bears.
One count is for failing to provide adequate and appropriate food and water for approximately 35 American Black Bears.
The OSPCA say the charges were laid after an investigation into a complaint received earlier this month.
Marineland closed its doors for the season on October 9th.
The park is slated to reopen in May.