Is modern whaling necessary? The Japanese claim their whaling is conducted for research purposes as stated under the International Convention for the Regulation of Whaling. However, the Japanese are not suppose to kill calves. The Australian government is currently gathering evidence that will be used in international court against Japan. Baleen Whale Catch Limits under Section 14 of The Schedule to the Convention states:

It is forbidden to take or kill suckling calves or female whales accompanied by calves. 

Keyword is the seemingly insignificant but very significant word “or” to give meaning that female whales with calves are protected. The image at left shows a minke whale calf being hauled out of the ocean, most likely with its mother.

Aboriginal whaling is prohibited from taking a calf or “any whale accompanied by a calf” as well. Baleen Whale Catch Limits under Section 13(a)(4) of The Schedule to the Convention states:

For aboriginal whaling conducted under subparagraphs (b)(1), (b)(2), and (b)(3) of this paragraph, it is forbidden to strike, take or kill calves or any whale accompanied by a calf. For aboriginal whaling conducted under subparagraphs (b)(4) of this paragraph, it is forbidden to strike, take or kill suckling calves or female whales accompanied by calves. 

Hat tip to Kevin.