TROUBLED WATERS - Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society

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A REVIEW OF THE WELFARE IMPLICATIONS OF MODERN WHALING ACTIVITIES
Conclusion
A wide range of technology is used during both commercial and Aboriginal Subsistence Whaling
operations, with varying degrees of efficiency being apparent. However, scientific evaluation of the
data collected is hindered by a lack of consistency in reporting and the inadequacy of the current
IWC criteria for judging the onset of death.
Factors relating to the species killed, such as its size, may greatly influence both the efficiency of any
killing method and the struck and lost rate. The prevalent use of secondary killing methods illustrates
the inadequacies of primary killing methods used and there are concerns that, in some hunts, the use
of underpowered cartridges may be resulting in prolonged times to death. Furthermore, the
instantaneous death rate in all hunts falls well below the expectations for other animals killed for
food.
During ASW hunts the lack of data, including on hunting conditions (such as weather) from these
hunts makes it very difficult for the IWC to assess the relative efficiency of each method, and to
suggest improvements. Furthermore, the failure by Japan to submit adequate data on its JARPN hunt
in the Eastern North Pacific, particularly in relation to the killing of sperm whales, prevents any
independent evaluation from other member of the Commission.
References
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