VIDEO: Former Dolphin Trainer Exposes Cruelty of Taiji Dolphin Captures

By Mark J. Palmer

WARNING: Some of the images show cruel treatment of dolphins that might be upsetting.

A former dolphin trainer describes the terrible drive hunts in Taiji, Japan. There, hundreds of dolphins are slaughtered each year and sold in markets. But a choice few are taken for a miserable life in concrete tanks in aquariums in Japan, China, and many other countries.

For the first time in Japan, where the live captures of dolphins in the Taiji drive hunts continue, a former dolphin trainer has spoken openly about the realities of the drive hunts and the life of captive dolphins in aquariums.

This video was produced by our colleagues in Japan, Mr. Masato Sakano of Circlet, with the support of Ms. Sakae Hemmi.

This actual trainer’s testimony clearly shows the cruelty of the drive hunts and the unnatural and miserable life endured by dolphins who end up in aquariums.

Clips are included of various examples of captures of dolphins and orcas in Taiji during the bloody drive hunts.

For media inquiries: Masato Sakano lukacchi@bird.ocn.ne.jp

The International Marine Mammal Project of Earth Island Institute is posting this video with the producer's permission.

Congratulations to the brave dolphin trainer for coming forward.

Our thanks to Sakae and Masato for this important video.