Illegal Removal of Sperm Whale Jawbone in New Zealand

SOURCE www.npr.org
The jawbone of a deceased sperm whale washed ashore in New Zealand was illegally removed with a chainsaw and stolen, causing outrage among the indigenous Māori people who consider whale bones as prized treasures. This incident is part of a series of disrespectful actions towards the sacred ancestors of indigenous Polynesians.

Key Points

  • Illegal removal of the jawbone of a deceased sperm whale washed ashore in New Zealand.
  • Indigenous Māori people consider whale bones as prized treasures known as taonga.
  • Whales are revered as sacred ancestors of indigenous Polynesians.
  • Similar incidents of jawbone theft from beached whales have occurred in the past.

Pros

  • Raises awareness about the importance of respecting marine life and indigenous cultural practices.

Cons

  • Disrespectful act towards the deceased whale and the indigenous Māori people.
  • Violation of New Zealand's Marine Mammals Protection Act of 1978.