Just four short years ago, the brutal dolphin hunts in Taiji claimed the lives of nearly 1,000 dolphins, with an additional 180 condemned to lives in captivity. This season, we witnessed a marked decrease, with the number of deaths dropping by more than half and dolphin captures reduced by nearly 90%.
Despite the remaining suffering, these numbers paint a picture of hope and progress. This season saw:
- Dolphins successfully escaped from the hunters 11 times.
- Hunters returning empty-handed on 77 occasions.
- 29 red cove days, a decrease from previous years.
- Approximately 379 dolphins were killed, down from the previous season’s estimate of 606 dolphins losing their lives at the hands of hunters.
- Only 14 dolphins were captured for captivity, compared to the 180 captured just four years ago.
This progress wouldn’t be possible without ongoing collective action, utilising multiple campaign tactics to keep sustained pressure on ending the brutal Taiji dolphin hunts once and for all.
We’ve exerted sustained pressure on the industry, with notable victories including the closure of a major Taiji dolphin meat supplier last year. This year, our efforts focus on further slowing down the captive trade.
The momentum is building, and we refuse to give up until the day no dolphin faces such brutality in the cove.
Together, we can end the Taiji dolphin hunts. Please continue to support our efforts by raising awareness, advocating for change, and inspiring others to join the fight.
With your help, we can turn the tide and create a future where these magnificent creatures swim free.