In the world of Monster Hunter, humans, dwarves, and Wyverians (humanoids with dragon DNA) live alongside countless species of megafauna known as monsters. Monsters range from large raptors to walking natural disasters and living plagues.

On many occasions, monsters will eventually begin to limp and attempt to retreat during a hunt. At this point, the hunter/player has to decide whether to tranquilize and capture the monster or kill it.

After a capture, it is stated that the monster will be researched before being released back into the wild. Although this may seem like the more humane option, the monster will likely have a diminished quality of life. It may have lost multiple body parts and sustained permanent injuries. It may have difficulty hunting or attracting a mate. If it doesn't die from starvation, it may have a much higher chance of being preyed upon. By sparing the monster, we may actually be negatively affecting its ability to survive.

As a side note, each canonical hunt must be authorized by a member of the Guild. So, canonically, hunts are not conducted without some degree of oversight or authorization.

So, is it more moral to simply kill a non-sapient animal that is acting on instinct for various reasons, or to spare it while potentially leaving it with a lower quality of life?

What's more morale, killing a monster after a hunt or capturing, then releasing said monster( w/ injury) in the video game series Monster hunter?