Japan harpoon killing endangered whales

News that Japan intends to test a new style harpoon, designed to kill some of the world's most endangered whale species, has been condemned by Whalewatch, a global coalition of over 140 animal welfare organisations.

Whalewatch believes that however "advanced" harpoons become, whaling activity is inherently cruel.

There is no humane way to kill any whale at sea. There are a number of uncontrollable factors i.e. visibility, sea conditions, distance/speed estimation and gunner accuracy, all which ultimately prevent an ensured lethal shot.

There will always be a significant risk of a harpoon striking a whale in a position which does not cause immediate death, but does cause intense and prolonged suffering.

"If anything, a mis-aimed 'fragmentation' harpoon may cause more suffering, as shards of metal could cause massive soft tissue and nerve damage," said Laila Sadler, Marine Scientist for the RSPCA, on behalf of Whalewatch.

On the grounds of animal welfare, Whalewatch is pressing the government of Japan and the International Whaling Commission to halt all scientific permit whaling operations.