An independent analysis of a novel approach to dolphin slaughter used in the 'drive hunt' (Oikomi) in Taiji, Japan

It is estimated that each year within Japanese waters up to 22,000 small whales, dolphins and porpoises (known collectively as ‘small cetaceans’) are killed in hunts that involve a range of techniques. The Taiji Fishing Cooperative, Japan has published the details of a new killing method which involves cutting (transecting) the spinal cord. Analysis of video material of this method indicates that it does not immediately lead to death, and that the time to death data provided in the description of the method, based on termination of breathing and movement, is not supported by the available video data. Damage to the vertebral blood vessels and the vascular rete from insertion of the rod will lead to significant haemorrhage, but this alone would not produce a rapid death in a large mammal of this type. The method induces paraplegia (paralysis of the body) and death through trauma and gradual blood loss. This method of slaughter and killing does not conform with the recognised requirement for ‘immediate insensibility’ and would not be tolerated or permitted in any regulated slaughterhouse process in the developed world.