Japans research whaling in the northwestern Pacific, anno 2000

In the end of September the Japanies whale research vessels returned to port after their research in the northwestern Pacific. A total of 40 minke, 43 Bryde’s and 5 sperm whales were taken.

Originally, catch permits in the northwestern Pacific were issued for 100 minke whales, and for the first time, catch permits for 50 Bryde’s whales and 10 sperm whales. Due to the fact that the program started a month later than initially planned the sample size obtained wasn’t as planned.

Here are some pictures taken onboard the Nisshin Maru during the research whaling in the northwestern Pacific anno 2000.

A copyright to the pictures belongs to the Institute of Cetacean Research. Anyone interested in using one or more of them must take contact with them prior to any usage.