Lion Hunt Sparks Outrage Echoing Cecil’s Death
Research Collared Animal Killed by Trophy Hunter in Zimbabwe
Wildlife advocates are denouncing the recent killing of a collared lion, known as Blondie, in Zimbabwe. The incident draws stark parallels to the 2015 death of Cecil, another collared lion involved in research, which ignited global fury.
Research Lion Targeted
Blondie, a key participant in an Oxford University research project and sponsored by safari company Africa Geographic, was killed in June. Africa Geographic stated the lion was lured from a protected area into a hunting zone with bait, a practice that has drawn sharp criticism.
Despite the lion wearing a visible research collar, Zimbabwe’s National Parks spokesperson, Tinashe Farawo, asserted that the hunt was legal and the hunter possessed the necessary permits. He added that hunting, including the use of bait, is a standard practice for lions and that the collar did not grant immunity.
“Our rangers were present. All paperwork was in order. Collars are for research purposes, but they don’t make the animal immune to hunting.”
—Tinashe Farawo, Spokesperson for Zimbabwe’s National Parks
Debate Over Trophy Hunting’s Role
The incident reignites the contentious debate surrounding trophy hunting. Proponents argue that well-managed hunting generates vital funds for conservation efforts, while opponents advocate for an outright ban on wildlife hunting for sport.
Simon Espley, CEO of Africa Geographic, expressed his dismay, stating Blondie’s killing “made a mockery of the ethics” that trophy hunters profess. He highlighted that the lion was a prime breeding male and that the visible collar should have deterred hunters.
Zimbabwe permits up to 100 lion hunts annually, generating significant revenue. The country’s parks agency estimates that trophy hunting brings in approximately US$20 million per year, with individual hunts costing tens of thousands of dollars. In comparison, a 2023 report indicated that ecotourism in Botswana generated over $2 billion in revenue, highlighting alternative economic models for wildlife conservation (WWF).
Conservation Concerns Mount
Zimbabwe is home to about 1,500 wild lions, with a third residing in Hwange National Park. Globally, lion populations are estimated at around 20,000, but face declining numbers due to habitat loss and human conflict. The International Union for Conservation of Nature lists lions as vulnerable.
The case mirrors the 2015 killing of Cecil by American dentist Walter Palmer, who lured the lion out of Hwange National Park with bait. While Zimbabwean authorities initially sought Palmer’s extradition, the process did not materialize, and charges against a hunting guide were later dropped.
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