South Africa is ending its lucrative captive lion industry and is adopting the international ban on rhinoceros horn and elephant ivory trade. The government just released a report citing policies, legislation, and practices on the breeding, hunting, handling, and trade of elephants, rhinos, lions, and leopards.
“The panel identified that the captive lion industry poses risks to the sustainability of wild lion conservation, The panel recommends that South Africa does not captive-breed lions, keep lions in captivity, or use captive lions or their derivatives commercially. I have requested the department to action this accordingly and ensure that the necessary consultation in implementation is conducted.”
Barbara Creecy, South African Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
The captive lion industry has been devastating to South Africa. Canned hunting is one of the most popular forms of trophy-hunting, it is done by the killing of captive-bred wild animals in small enclosures. In South Africa, this type of hunting has become a very lucrative practice and more lions are breaded in captivity.
“Thousands of farmed lions are born into a life of misery in South Africa every year in cruel commercial breeding facilities, This latest move by the government of South Africa is courageous — taking the first steps in a commitment to long-lasting and meaningful change. This is a win for wildlife.”
Edith Kabesiime, Africa wildlife campaign manager for World Animal Protection
