JAZA, the Japanese Association of Zoos and Aquariums, decided in May 2015 not to allow dolphins caught by drive fisheries to be brought under human care in JAZA member zoos and aquariums. This decision arrived through mutual consultation with WAZA, the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums, of which we are a Member. This is a decision based on the Association’s animal ethics and welfare code in which is stipulated that “Animals should originate from captive-bred individuals as much as possible, and any animal acquisitions through other means should be not only legal, but also adhere to careful ethical and animal welfare considerations for individuals, as well as the conservation of the species.”
As stipulated for elephants and giraffes, JAZA members do their utmost to avoid bringing in dolphins from the wild, and instead are promoting captive breeding programs. JAZA actively supports Member zoos and aquariums engaged in such efforts to achieve this goal.
Last November, JAZA initiated the Aquarium Division to address various topic in aquariums management such as husbandry and captive breeding programs. JAZA also formed the “Dolphin Conference” in the Aquarium Division to facilitate cooperation, e.g. in promoting professional transfers of dolphins for breeding, share techniques of artificial insemination, and organize workshops on caring for young dolphins born in captivity.
JAZA believes that promoting good animal welfare and contributing to wildlife conservation are important duties of modern zoos and aquariums. The establishment of the Dolphin Conference is a first step to many future efforts to maintain and improve animal welfare and conservation programs in JAZA Member zoos and aquariums.
We appreciate your continued understanding and support.
Japanese Association of Zoos and Aquariums