Feeding the Deer at Niagara Falls’ Marineland

Ah, the 1980s, a decade filled with unforgettable family trips, and one such adventure led us to the breathtaking Niagara Falls. We stayed on the Canadian side, and in just three action-packed days, we managed to squeeze in a week's worth of attractions. Among the places we visited was Marineland, a spot I remember for one thing above all - the deer.

In this open area, you could buy food for the deer, and then the fun began. As you stepped into the midst of these gentle creatures, they would mob you, creating hilarious photo opportunities. And of course, as a younger brother, one memory that's etched in my mind is watching my sister almost getting trampled by those unruly, hungry deer. It's the kind of moment that sticks with you forever.

But you know, when I reflect on the experience as a whole, it takes on a different hue. The day was hot, and amid the laughter and fun, something didn't feel quite right. The deer appeared unhealthy, and I couldn't ignore the open cuts on some of them. Feeding them started to feel like cheap entertainment rather than an enriching experience.

It's a bittersweet memory, filled with laughter and excitement, yet tainted by a sense of hollowness and cruelty. I haven't returned to Marineland since then, but I truly hope that if they still have the deer, things have changed for the better. I hope that the experience is now more controlled, ensuring the well-being of the animals and offering a more enriching and respectful encounter for visitors.

As the years have passed, I find myself hoping that those deer are now happy and healthy, living in a setting that respects their natural needs and allows them to thrive. Perhaps, if given the chance, I might revisit Marineland one day, with the hope of seeing a positive change and creating new, more fulfilling memories.