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MONDAY, APRIL 7, 2003

Spring is whale-watching time for fans of the gray whale as the animals make their annual migration. It's also whale-hunting time for the Makah Nation of Washington.

The tribe used to hunt the whale until its numbers were decimated by non-Indian exploitation worldwide. A resumed hunt, first in 1999, has generated international opposition to an animal that is a central part of tribal culture, language and life.

Animal-rights activists have succeeded twice in stopping the hunt, sending the federal government back to the drawing board to draw up new conditions. The case could be reheard by the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals or sent to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Get the Story:
Mammoth mammals making annual trek (The Seattle Times 4/7)

Get the Decision:
ANDERSON v. EVANS, No. 02-35761 (9th Cir. December 20, 2002)

Relevant Documents:
Opinion: Makah Nation whale hunt is not legal (02/12)
Makah Whaling Environmental Assessment | Marine Mammal Protection Act

Relevant Links:
The Makah Nation - http://www.makah.com

Related Stories:
Tribes and U.S. seek review of whale hunt ruling (03/14)
Makah whale hunt faces another review (12/23)
Federal judge shoots down treaty challenge (08/09)
U.S. pushes for whaling rights (6/10)
Whale hunt a go for Makah Nation (7/16)
Makah whale hunt faces threat (3/30)
Friends, foes turn out for Makah hearing (2/2)
Makah whale hunt up for review (01/16)
Court rules on Makah whaling (6/12)
Makah ruling overturned (6/9)
Metcalf's Indian history (6/9)
Metcalf pleased with ruling (6/9)