Controversial Dolphin Hunt, Likely to Leave 1,400 Dolphins Captured or Killed, Begins in Japan

Photo: Kyodo via AP Images

According to BBC, the event is controversial for its tactics — fishermen drive the dolphins into the shallow waters of Taiji’s cove and kill or capture the mammals — and for its resistance to change.

Dolphins slaughtered during the hunt are sold for their meat, while those that are captured are sold to aquariums and marine parks.

The BBC reports that the demand for dolphin meat is down, partially due to the high levels of mercury found in the meat over the past few years, and that interest in purchasing live dolphins has also declined as more marine parks and aquariums come up against criticism for buying wild animals and keeping them in captivity.

There is a quota of 1,400 dolphins set for this year’s hunt, reports the outlet. This quote extends to six different species of dolphin. The 26 fishermen permitted to take part in the hunt are also allowed to slaughter 3 different species of whale.

In addition to annual hunts like these, Japan is seeking out more opportunities to kill whales. The country withdrew from the International Whaling Commission last year to be able to resume commercial whaling in 2019.

source: people.com