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Contemporary Cultural Trade of Lion Body Parts. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12223169. [PMID: 36428396 PMCID: PMC9686618 DOI: 10.3390/ani12223169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Trade in lion parts associated with cultural and traditional use is poorly understood. Here we sought to better understand the role and use of lion body parts in the commercial traditional medicine (muthi) trade of South Africa. In 2019 we conducted a semi-structured questionnaire survey of muthi traders (n = 10) and traditional healers (n = 20) which explored the significance and symbolism of lions, traded parts and preferences, sources and supply of lion parts, and perceived sustainability of lion derivatives in the South African muthi trade. Our results suggest a cultural importance of lion associated with the umndawu ancestral spirit in particular, as well as in the training and practice of cultural-spiritual healers. Lion paws and parts thereof were most frequently reported as sold by traders and demanded by healers, correlating with recent trends in body-part removals from lion mortalities. Respondents indicated that lion parts were obtained from a variety of sources including wild lion populations in neighbouring countries and captive-breeding farms. Our findings are discussed relative to current concerns in lion conservation and highlight a need for further understanding of the traditional medicine complex, the influence that ancestral spirits have on lion body-part trade, and increased engagement with traditional medicine stakeholders.
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Green J, Jakins C, Asfaw E, Parker A, de Waal L, D'Cruze N. Welfare concerns associated with captive lions ( Panthera leo) and the implications for commercial lion farms in South Africa. Anim Welf 2022. [DOI: 10.7120/09627286.31.2.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Breeding and housing wild animals in captive environments can pose challenges for their welfare. In South Africa, thousands of lions (Panthera leo) are bred and raised at commercial captive breeding facilities, so called 'lion farms', for use in tourism, trophy hunting and traditional
medicine. To gain a better understanding of the potential welfare challenges faced by lions on farms we reviewed 91 peer-reviewed articles relating to lion welfare, identified via a systematic review of the scientific literature. Across these studies, we identified 170 different terms relating
to negative behaviours and physical health afflictions. The majority of these terms were associated with disease and injury (124; 73%), followed by negative behaviours (19; 11%), negative mental experiences (15; 9%), nutritional concerns (7; 4%), and environmental challenges or discomfort
arising from the animal's surroundings (5; 3%). Of the 91 articles, 32 (35%) focused on data concerning captive lions. Only two studies focused specifically on data obtained from lion farms in South Africa, whilst the remainder reported on data collected from zoos, wildlife parks, sanctuaries,
game reserves and private ownership. Our preliminary review of the scientific literature draws attention to some of the challenges associated with caring for lions in captivity, and outlines the potential significance of these welfare challenges for commercial lion farms. Our data highlight
the apparent lack of scientific research involving captive lion welfare generally, particularly data collected at commercial breeding facilities in South Africa and the consequences this could have for the welfare of thousands of lions within the industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Green
- World Animal Protection, 222 Grayâ–™s Inn Rd, London WC1X 8HB, UK
| | - C Jakins
- Blood Lions NPC, PO Box 1154, Hermanus 7200, South Africa
| | - E Asfaw
- World Animal Protection, 222 Grayâ–™s Inn Rd, London WC1X 8HB, UK
| | - A Parker
- World Animal Protection, 222 Grayâ–™s Inn Rd, London WC1X 8HB, UK
| | - L de Waal
- Blood Lions NPC, PO Box 1154, Hermanus 7200, South Africa
| | - N D'Cruze
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Recanati-Kaplan Centre, Tubney House, Abingdon Road, Tubney, Abingdon OX13 5QL, UK
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Green J, Jakins C, de Waal L, D’Cruze N. Ending Commercial Lion Farming in South Africa: A Gap Analysis Approach. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11061717. [PMID: 34201312 PMCID: PMC8228895 DOI: 10.3390/ani11061717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In South Africa, African lions (Panthera leo) are bred on farms for commercial purposes such as tourism, trophy hunting, and the international traditional medicine market. Despite its legal status, South Africa’s growing lion farming industry is a contentious issue. In 2020, a high-level panel was appointed to review the policies, legislation, and management of breeding, hunting, trade, and handling of four wildlife species, namely rhino, elephant, leopard, and lions. In May 2021, it was announced that the government will stop issuing permits to new entrants into this industry as well as the issuance of hunting permits and will start amending permit conditions to prohibit breeding and exclude tourism interactions with captive lions, effectively ending the lion farming industry. In order to follow this line of action, a comprehensive, well-managed plan will be required to ensure a responsible transition away from the current industry. Here, using a “gap analysis” management tool, we outline some of the key considerations necessary for a responsible, well-managed exit from the lion farming industry in South Africa. We compiled key background information about the current state of the industry and use this information to identify desired management states and specific steps that could facilitate a successful phase out of lion farming. Abstract African lions (Panthera leo) are commercially farmed across South Africa for sport hunting, tourism, and the international bone trade, primarily in Southeast Asia. Despite its legal status, South Africa’s growing lion farming industry is a contentious issue. In 2020 a high-level panel was initiated to review the policies, legislation, and management regarding the breeding, hunting, trade, and handling of four wildlife species, including lions. In May 2021, it was announced that the government intends to amend existing permit conditions to prohibit lion breeding and tourism interactions with captive lions, as well as to stop issuing permits to new entrants into the industry, effectively ending lion farming. In order to follow this line of action, a comprehensive, well-managed plan will be necessary to execute a responsible exit from the industry as it currently stands. Using a “gap analysis” management tool, we aim to: (1) outline some of the key considerations regarding the current state of the lion farming industry in South Africa; and (2) propose specific action steps that could be taken within five key areas (regulation, animal welfare, health and safety, equitability, and conservation) to help inform a responsible transition away from this type of wildlife farming in the biodiversity economy. For our gap analysis, we conducted a semi-systematic literature search to compile key background information about the current state of the industry. This information was then used to identify corresponding desired management states, and steps that could facilitate a successful phase out of lion farming in South Africa. We hope our approach helps identify key considerations for a responsible transition and can help aid decisions during the management of this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennah Green
- World Animal Protection 222 Gray’s Inn Rd., London WC1X 8HB, UK;
| | - Catherine Jakins
- Blood Lion NPC, P.O. Box 1554, Hermanus 7200, South Africa; (C.J.); (L.d.W.)
| | - Louise de Waal
- Blood Lion NPC, P.O. Box 1554, Hermanus 7200, South Africa; (C.J.); (L.d.W.)
| | - Neil D’Cruze
- World Animal Protection 222 Gray’s Inn Rd., London WC1X 8HB, UK;
- Recanati-Kaplan Centre, Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Tubney House, Abingdon Road, Tubney, Abingdon OX13 5QL, UK
- Correspondence:
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Metacoupled Tourism and Wildlife Translocations Affect Synergies and Trade-Offs among Sustainable Development Goals across Spillover Systems. SUSTAINABILITY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/su12187677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Synergies and trade-offs among the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) have been hotly debated. Although the world is increasingly metacoupled (socioeconomic-environmental interactions within and across adjacent or distant systems), there is little understanding of the impacts of globally widespread and important flows on enhancing or compromising sustainability in different systems. Here, we used a new integrated framework to guide SDG synergy and trade-off analysis within and across systems, as influenced by cross-boundary tourism and wildlife translocations. The world’s terrestrial protected areas alone receive approximately 8 billion visits per year, generating a direct economic impact of US $600 billion. Globally, more than 5000 animal species and 29,000 plant species are traded across country borders, and the wildlife trade has arguably contributed to zoonotic disease worldwide, such as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. We synthesized 22 cases of tourism and wildlife translocations across six continents and found 33 synergies and 14 trade-offs among 10 SDGs within focal systems and across spillover systems. Our study provides an empirical demonstration of SDG interactions across spillover systems and insights for holistic sustainability governance, contributing to fostering synergies and reducing trade-offs to achieve global sustainable development in the metacoupled Anthropocene.
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Towards a cost-benefit analysis of South Africa’s captive predator breeding industry. Glob Ecol Conserv 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gecco.2020.e01157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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Montgomery RA, Carr M, Booher CR, Pointer AM, Mitchell BM, Smith N, Calnan K, Montgomery GM, Ogada M, Kramer DB. Characteristics that make trophy hunting of giant pandas inconceivable. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 2020; 34:915-924. [PMID: 31916271 PMCID: PMC7522670 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.13458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2019] [Revised: 12/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/01/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
In November 1928, Theodore Jr. and Kermit Roosevelt led an expedition to China with the expressed purpose of being the first Westerners to kill the giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca). The expedition lasted 8 months and resulted in the brothers shooting a giant panda in the mountains of Sichuan Province. Given the concurrent attention in the popular press describing this celebrated expedition, the giant panda was poised to be trophy hunted much like other large mammals around the world. Today, however, the killing of giant pandas, even for the generation of conservation revenue, is unthinkable for reasons related to the species itself and the context, in time and space, in which the species was popularized in the West. We found that the giant panda's status as a conservation symbol, exceptional charisma and gentle disposition, rarity, value as a nonconsumptive ecotourism attraction, and endemism are integral to the explanation of why the species is not trophy hunted. We compared these intrinsic and extrinsic characteristics with 20 of the most common trophy-hunted mammals to determine whether the principles applying to giant pandas are generalizable to other species. Although certain characteristics of the 20 trophy-hunted mammals aligned with the giant panda, many did not. Charisma, economic value, and endemism, in particular, were comparatively unique to the giant panda. Our analysis suggests that, at present, exceptional characteristics may be necessary for certain mammals to be excepted from trophy hunting. However, because discourse relating to the role of trophy hunting in supporting conservation outcomes is dynamic in both science and society, we suspect these valuations will also change in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert A. Montgomery
- Department of Fisheries and WildlifeMichigan State University480 Wilson Road, 13 Natural Resources BuildingEast LansingMI48824U.S.A.
| | - Madeline Carr
- Department of Fisheries and WildlifeMichigan State University480 Wilson Road, 13 Natural Resources BuildingEast LansingMI48824U.S.A.
| | - Charlie R. Booher
- Department of Fisheries and WildlifeMichigan State University480 Wilson Road, 13 Natural Resources BuildingEast LansingMI48824U.S.A.
- College of Social SciencesMichigan State University509 E. Circle Drive, Berkey HallEast LansingMI48824U.S.A.
| | - Abigail M. Pointer
- Department of Fisheries and WildlifeMichigan State University480 Wilson Road, 13 Natural Resources BuildingEast LansingMI48824U.S.A.
| | - Brendan M. Mitchell
- Department of Fisheries and WildlifeMichigan State University480 Wilson Road, 13 Natural Resources BuildingEast LansingMI48824U.S.A.
| | - Natalie Smith
- James Madison CollegeMichigan State University842 Chestnut Rd Room S369LEast LansingMI48825U.S.A.
| | - Keegan Calnan
- Department of Fisheries and WildlifeMichigan State University480 Wilson Road, 13 Natural Resources BuildingEast LansingMI48824U.S.A.
| | - Georgina M. Montgomery
- Lyman Briggs CollegeMichigan State University919 E Shaw LnEast LansingMI48825U.S.A.
- Department of HistoryMichigan State University506 E. Circle DrEast LansingMI48824U.S.A.
| | - Mordecai Ogada
- Department of HistoryMichigan State University506 E. Circle DrEast LansingMI48824U.S.A.
- Conservation Solutions AfrikaMuthaiga Estate P.O. Box 880–10400NanyukiKenya
| | - Daniel B. Kramer
- Department of Fisheries and WildlifeMichigan State University480 Wilson Road, 13 Natural Resources BuildingEast LansingMI48824U.S.A.
- James Madison CollegeMichigan State University842 Chestnut Rd Room S369LEast LansingMI48825U.S.A.
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Feber RE, Johnson PJ, Macdonald DW. Shooting pheasants for sport: What does the death of Cecil tell us? PEOPLE AND NATURE 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/pan3.10068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ruth E. Feber
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit Recanati‐Kaplan Centre Department of Zoology University of Oxford Oxford UK
| | - Paul J. Johnson
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit Recanati‐Kaplan Centre Department of Zoology University of Oxford Oxford UK
| | - David W. Macdonald
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit Recanati‐Kaplan Centre Department of Zoology University of Oxford Oxford UK
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Deep Uncertainty, Public Reason, the Conservation of Biodiversity and the Regulation of Markets for Lion Skeletons. SUSTAINABILITY 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/su11185085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Public reason is a formal concept in political theory. There is a need to better understand how public reason might be elicited in making public decisions that involve deep uncertainty, which arises from pernicious and gross ignorance about how a system works, the boundaries of a system, and the relative value (or disvalue) of various possible outcomes. This article is the third in a series to demonstrate how ethical argument analysis—a qualitative decision-making aid—may be used to elicit public reason in the presence of deep uncertainty. The first article demonstrated how argument analysis is capable of probing deep into a single argument. The second article demonstrated how argument analysis can analyze a broad set of arguments and how argument analysis can be operationalized for use as a decision-making aid. This article demonstrates (i) the relevance of argument analysis to public reasoning, (ii) the relevance of argument analysis for decision-making under deep uncertainty, an emerging direction in decision theory, and (iii) how deep uncertainty can arise when the boundary between facts and values is inescapably entangled. This article and the previous two make these demonstrations using, as an example, the conservation and sustainable use of lions.
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Williams VL, ‘t Sas-Rolfes MJ. Born captive: A survey of the lion breeding, keeping and hunting industries in South Africa. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0217409. [PMID: 31136596 PMCID: PMC6538166 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0217409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2018] [Accepted: 05/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Commercial captive breeding and trade in body parts of threatened wild carnivores is an issue of significant concern to conservation scientists and policy-makers. Following a 2016 decision by Parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, South Africa must establish an annual export quota for lion skeletons from captive sources, such that threats to wild lions are mitigated. As input to the quota-setting process, South Africa’s Scientific Authority initiated interdisciplinary collaborative research on the captive lion industry and its potential links to wild lion conservation. A National Captive Lion Survey was conducted as one of the inputs to this research; the survey was launched in August 2017 and completed in May 2018. The structured semi-quantitative questionnaire elicited 117 usable responses, representing a substantial proportion of the industry. The survey results clearly illustrate the impact of a USA suspension on trophy imports from captive-bred South African lions, which affected 82% of respondents and economically destabilised the industry. Respondents are adapting in various ways, with many euthanizing lions and becoming increasingly reliant on income from skeleton export sales. With rising consumer demand for lion body parts, notably skulls, the export quota presents a further challenge to the industry, regulators and conservationists alike, with 52% of respondents indicating they would adapt by seeking ‘alternative markets’ for lion bones if the export quota allocation restricted their business. Recognizing that trade policy toward large carnivores represents a ‘wicked problem’, we anticipate that these results will inform future deliberations, which must nonetheless also be informed by challenging inclusive engagements with all relevant stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivienne L. Williams
- School of Animal, Plant & Environmental Sciences; University of the Witwatersrand, Wits, South Africa
- * E-mail:
| | - Michael J. ‘t Sas-Rolfes
- School of Animal, Plant & Environmental Sciences; University of the Witwatersrand, Wits, South Africa
- Oxford Martin Programme on the Illegal Wildlife Trade, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Sobratee N, Slotow R. A Critical Review of Lion Research in South Africa: The Impact of Researcher Perspective, Research Mode, and Power Structures on Outcome Bias and Implementation Gaps. Front Ecol Evol 2019. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2019.00081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Dalton DL, Kotzé A, McEwing R, De Bruyn M, Mnisi C, Mwale M. A tale of the traded cat: development of a rapid real-time PCR diagnostic test to distinguish between lion and tiger bone. CONSERV GENET RESOUR 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s12686-018-1060-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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12
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Montgomery RA, Elliott KC, Hayward MW, Gray SM, Millspaugh JJ, Riley SJ, Kissui BM, Kramer DB, Moll RJ, Mudumba T, Tans ED, Muneza AB, Abade L, Beck JM, Hoffmann CF, Booher CR, Macdonald DW. Examining Evident Interdisciplinarity Among Prides of Lion Researchers. Front Ecol Evol 2018. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2018.00049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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13
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Questionnaire survey of the pan-African trade in lion body parts. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0187060. [PMID: 29073202 PMCID: PMC5658145 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0187060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2017] [Accepted: 10/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The African lion is in decline across its range, and consumptive utilisation and trade of their body parts and skins has been postulated as a cause for concern. We undertook a pan-African questionnaire and literature survey to document informed opinion and evidence for the occurrence of domestic and international trade and consumption in African lion body parts across current and former range states. Sixty-five people from 18 countries participated in the online questionnaire survey (run from July 2014 to May 2015), with information provided for 28 countries (including 20 out of 24 countries believed to have extant populations). Respondents were experts within their professional spheres, and 77% had ≥6 years relevant experience within lion conservation or allied wildlife matters. Their opinions revealed wide sub-regional differences in consumptive use, drivers of trade, and access to lions that impact wild lion populations in different ways. Traditional medicine practices (African and Asian) were perceived to be the main uses to which lion body parts and bones are put domestically and traded internationally, and there is reason for concern about persistent imports from former lion range states (mainly in West Africa) for parts for this purpose. The domestic, rather than international, trade in lion body parts was perceived to be a bigger threat to wild lion populations. Parts such as skin, claws, teeth and bones are thought to be in most demand across the continent. The impact of international trade on wild populations was acknowledged to be largely unknown, but occasionally was judged to be ‘high’, and therefore vigilance is needed to monitor emerging detrimental impacts. Seventeen countries were nominated as priorities for immediate monitoring, including: South Africa, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Zambia, Botswana, Kenya, Nigeria, and Cameroon. Reasons for their selection include: prevalence of trophy hunting, ‘hot spots’ for poaching, active domestic trade in lion body parts, trade in curios for the tourist market, and histories of legal-illegal wildlife trade. This survey, and increased incident reports since mid-2015 of lion poisoning and poaching in Mozambique, Zimbabwe and South Africa, and sporadic poaching events in Uganda and Tanzania, are signalling an escalating trend in the trade of lion products that is an increasing threat to some national populations. The evidence is sufficient to make more detailed investigation of this trade a conservation priority.
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Muposhi VK, Gandiwa E, Bartels P, Makuza SM, Madiri TH. Trophy Hunting and Sustainability: Temporal Dynamics in Trophy Quality and Harvesting Patterns of Wild Herbivores in a Tropical Semi-Arid Savanna Ecosystem. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0164429. [PMID: 27736930 PMCID: PMC5063477 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0164429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2016] [Accepted: 09/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The selective nature of trophy hunting may cause changes in desirable phenotypic traits in harvested species. A decline in trophy size of preferred species may reduce hunting destination competitiveness thus compromising the sustainability of trophy hunting as a conservation tool. We explored the trophy quality and trends in harvesting patterns (i.e., 2004-2015) of Cape buffalo (Syncerus caffer), African elephant (Loxodonta africana), greater kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros) and sable (Hippotragus niger) in Matetsi Safari Area, northwest Zimbabwe. We used long-term data on horn and tusk size, age, quota size allocation and offtake levels of selected species. To analyse the effect of year, area and age on the trophy size, quota size and offtake levels, we used linear mixed models. One sample t-test was used to compare observed trophy size with Safari Club International (SCI) minimum score. Trophy sizes for Cape buffalo and African elephant were below the SCI minimum score. Greater kudu trophy sizes were within the minimum score threshold whereas sable trophy sizes were above the SCI minimum score between 2004 and 2015. Age at harvest for Cape buffalo, kudu and sable increased whilst that of elephant remained constant between 2004 and 2015. Quota size allocated for buffalo and the corresponding offtake levels declined over time. Offtake levels of African elephant and Greater kudu declined whilst the quota size did not change between 2004 and 2015. The quota size for sable increased whilst the offtake levels fluctuated without changing for the period 2004-2015. The trophy size and harvesting patterns in these species pose a conservation and management dilemma on the sustainability of trophy hunting in this area. We recommend: (1) temporal and spatial rotational resting of hunting areas to create refuge to improve trophy quality and maintenance of genetic diversity, and (2) introduction of variable trophy fee pricing system based on trophy size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor K. Muposhi
- School of Wildlife, Ecology and Conservation, Chinhoyi University of Technology, Private Bag 7724, Chinhoyi, Zimbabwe
| | - Edson Gandiwa
- School of Wildlife, Ecology and Conservation, Chinhoyi University of Technology, Private Bag 7724, Chinhoyi, Zimbabwe
| | - Paul Bartels
- Department of Nature Conservation, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa
| | - Stanley M. Makuza
- School of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Chinhoyi University of Technology, Private Bag 7724, Chinhoyi, Zimbabwe
| | - Tinaapi H. Madiri
- Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority, PO Box CY140, Causeway, Harare, Zimbabwe
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15
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Lane EP, Brettschneider H, Caldwell P, Oosthuizen A, Dalton DL, du Plessis L, Steyl J, Kotze A. Feline panleukopaenia virus in captive non-domestic felids in South Africa. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 83:a1099. [PMID: 27380652 PMCID: PMC6238724 DOI: 10.4102/ojvr.v83i1.1099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2015] [Revised: 12/08/2015] [Accepted: 12/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
An outbreak of feline panleukopaenia virus (FPLV) infection was diagnosed by pathology, electron microscopy and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in vaccinated captive-bred subadult cheetahs in South Africa. Subsequent to this disease outbreak, 12 cases of FPLV diagnosed on histology were confirmed by PCR in captive African black-footed cat, caracal, cheetah, lion, ocelot and serval. Phylogenetic analyses of the viral capsid protein gene on PCR-positive samples, vaccine and National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) reference strains identified a previously unknown strain of FPLV, present since at least 2006, that differs from both the inactivated and the modified live vaccine strains. A previously described South African strain from domestic cats and cheetahs was identified in a serval. Surveys of FPLV strains in South African felids are needed to determine the geographical and host species distribution of this virus. Since non-domestic species may be reservoirs of parvoviruses, and since these viruses readily change host specificity, the risks of FPLV transmission between captive-bred and free-ranging carnivores and domestic cats and dogs warrant further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily P Lane
- Department of Research and Scientific Services, National Zoological Gardens of South Africa.
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Does Trophy Hunting Support Biodiversity? A Response to Di Minin et al. Trends Ecol Evol 2016; 31:495-496. [PMID: 27045460 DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2016.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2016] [Revised: 03/07/2016] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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17
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Meat from the Wild: Extractive Uses of Wildlife and Alternatives for Sustainability. CURRENT TRENDS IN WILDLIFE RESEARCH 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-27912-1_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
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Williams VL, Loveridge AJ, Newton DJ, Macdonald DW. 'Skullduggery': Lions Align and Their Mandibles Rock! PLoS One 2015; 10:e0135144. [PMID: 26536601 PMCID: PMC4633142 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0135144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2015] [Accepted: 07/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
South Africa has legally exported substantial quantities of lion bones to Southeast Asia and China since 2008, apparently as part of the multinational trade substituting bones and body parts of other large cats for those of the tiger in wine and other health tonics. The legal sale of lion bones may mask an illegal trade, the size of which is only partially known. An observed component of the illegal trade is that quantities of skeletons are sometimes declared falsely/fraudulently on CITES export permits. Furthermore, there are emerging concerns that bones from tigers reared in captivity in South Africa and elsewhere are being laundered as lion bones using CITES Appendix II permits. There is therefore a need for tools to monitor the trade in lion body parts and to distinguish between lions and tigers. Our research indicates that it is possible to use skeletons, skulls and cranial sutures to detect misdeclarations in the lion bone trade. It is also possible to use the average mass of a lion skeleton to corroborate the numbers of skeletons declared on CITES permits, relative to the weight of the consolidated consignments stated on the air waybills. When the mass of consolidated consignments of skeletons destined for export was regressed against the number of skeletons in that consignment, there was a strong correlation between the variables (r2 = 0.992) that can be used as a predictor of the accuracy of a declaration on a CITES permit. Additionally, the skulls of lions and tigers differ: two cranial sutures of lions align and their mandibles rock when placed on a flat surface, whereas the cranial sutures of tigers are not aligned and their mandibles rest naturally on two contact points. These two morphological differences between the skulls of tigers and lions are easy to observe at a glance and provide a method for distinguishing between the species if illegal trade in the bones is suspected and the skulls are present. These identifications should ideally be confirmed by a DNA test to provide rigorous evidence to prosecute offenders violating CITES regulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivienne L. Williams
- School of Animal, Plant & Environmental Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- * E-mail:
| | - Andrew J. Loveridge
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - David J. Newton
- School of Animal, Plant & Environmental Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- TRAFFIC, East/Southern Africa Regional Office, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - David W. Macdonald
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Human attacks by large felid carnivores in captivity and in the wild. Wilderness Environ Med 2015; 25:220-30. [PMID: 24864068 DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2014.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2013] [Revised: 12/31/2013] [Accepted: 01/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Whereas those who live in the native ranges of the large feline carnivores are well aware of the risks of cat and human encounters, North Americans and Europeans are increasingly exposed to exotic animals through travel, ecotourism, leisure pursuits in rural areas, occupational exposure, zoo and animal park visits, wild habitat encroachment at the urban-wildlands interface, and contact with exotic pets. In encounters during which persons have been severely injured, lapses in animal management protocols, lack of appropriate adult supervision, and intoxication have been reported. Unlike common domestic pets that have lived in close association with humans for thousands of years, no matter where individual large felines may have been raised, they remain wild carnivores with strong prey-drive and territorial instincts. The emergency management of large felid attacks is similar to that of other major trauma: stabilization; management of significant orthopedic, neurologic, vascular, and soft tissue injuries; antibiotic coverage provided for the number of organisms that inhabit their mouths and the potential for tetanus and rabies; and early management in survivors of likely posttraumatic stress disorder. We must actively explore responsible measures globally that can be taken to ensure biologically appropriate, ethical, safe, and sustainable conservation of these large carnivores in both their natural habitats and captivity.
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Miller SM, Harper CK, Bloomer P, Hofmeyr J, Funston PJ. Evaluation of microsatellite markers for populations studies and forensic identification of African lions (Panthera leo). J Hered 2014; 105:762-72. [PMID: 25151647 DOI: 10.1093/jhered/esu054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The South African lion (Panthera leo) population is highly fragmented. One-third of its wild lions occur in small (<1000 km(2)) reserves. These lions were reintroduced from other areas of the species' historical range. Management practices on these reserves have not prioritized genetic provenance or heterozygosity. These trends potentially constrain the conservation value of these lions. To ensure the best management and long-term survival of these subpopulations as a viable collective population, the provenance and current genetic diversity must be described. Concurrently, poaching of lions to supply a growing market for lion bones in Asia may become a serious conservation challenge in the future. Having a standardized, validated method for matching confiscated lion parts with carcasses will be a key tool in investigating these crimes. We evaluated 28 microsatellites in the African lion using samples from 18 small reserves and 1 captive facility in South Africa, two conservancies in Zimbabwe, and Kruger National and Kgalagadi Transfrontier Parks to determine the loci most suited for population management and forensic genetic applications. Twelve microsatellite loci with a match probability of 1.1×10(-5) between siblings were identified for forensics. A further 10 could be added for population genetics studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan M Miller
- From the Department of Nature Conservation, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria 0001, South Africa (Miller); the Veterinary Genetics Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa (Miller and Harper); the Molecular Ecology and Evolution Programme, Department of Genetics, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa (Bloomer); the Veterinary Wildlife Services, South African National Parks, Private Bag X402, Skukuza 1350, South Africa (Hofmeyr); the Department of Nature Conservation, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria 0001, South Africa (Funston); and the Lion Program, Panthera, New York, NY (Funston).
| | - Cindy K Harper
- From the Department of Nature Conservation, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria 0001, South Africa (Miller); the Veterinary Genetics Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa (Miller and Harper); the Molecular Ecology and Evolution Programme, Department of Genetics, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa (Bloomer); the Veterinary Wildlife Services, South African National Parks, Private Bag X402, Skukuza 1350, South Africa (Hofmeyr); the Department of Nature Conservation, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria 0001, South Africa (Funston); and the Lion Program, Panthera, New York, NY (Funston)
| | - Paulette Bloomer
- From the Department of Nature Conservation, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria 0001, South Africa (Miller); the Veterinary Genetics Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa (Miller and Harper); the Molecular Ecology and Evolution Programme, Department of Genetics, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa (Bloomer); the Veterinary Wildlife Services, South African National Parks, Private Bag X402, Skukuza 1350, South Africa (Hofmeyr); the Department of Nature Conservation, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria 0001, South Africa (Funston); and the Lion Program, Panthera, New York, NY (Funston)
| | - Jennifer Hofmeyr
- From the Department of Nature Conservation, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria 0001, South Africa (Miller); the Veterinary Genetics Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa (Miller and Harper); the Molecular Ecology and Evolution Programme, Department of Genetics, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa (Bloomer); the Veterinary Wildlife Services, South African National Parks, Private Bag X402, Skukuza 1350, South Africa (Hofmeyr); the Department of Nature Conservation, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria 0001, South Africa (Funston); and the Lion Program, Panthera, New York, NY (Funston)
| | - Paul J Funston
- From the Department of Nature Conservation, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria 0001, South Africa (Miller); the Veterinary Genetics Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa (Miller and Harper); the Molecular Ecology and Evolution Programme, Department of Genetics, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa (Bloomer); the Veterinary Wildlife Services, South African National Parks, Private Bag X402, Skukuza 1350, South Africa (Hofmeyr); the Department of Nature Conservation, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria 0001, South Africa (Funston); and the Lion Program, Panthera, New York, NY (Funston)
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Occurrence, prevalence and intensity of internal parasite infections of African lions (Panthera leo) in enclosures at a recreation park in Zimbabwe. J Zoo Wildl Med 2013; 44:686-93. [PMID: 24063097 DOI: 10.1638/2012-0273r.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
A coprological survey was conducted to determine the types, prevalence, and intensity of infection of internal parasites in a population of captive African lions (Panthera leo) at a recreational game park in Zimbabwe. Individual fecal samples were collected on three occasions over a 4-month period from each of 30 lions (55%) out of 55 animals held. The samples were examined using flotation and sedimentation techniques to assess the presence and count of parasite eggs, oocysts, and cysts per gram of feces as well as larvae identification. The overall prevalence of helminth infections was 100% (30/30), and 80% (24/30) of fecal samples also were positive for protozoan parasite forms. Eggs of Ancylostoma spp. were found in the feces of 23 (76.7%) lions, Physaloptera sp. in 14 (46.7%) lions, Toxascaris leonina in 13 (43.3%) lions, Toxocara cati in 12 (40%) lions, and Gnathostoma spinigerum and Toxocara canis in 2 (6.7%) lions. Furthermore, eggs of Cylicospirura subequalis, Gnathostoma spp., Lagochilascaris major, Acanthocephalan and Linguatula spp. as well as larvae of Aelurostrongylus sp. were identified in the feces of one lion. Oocysts of five apicomplexan parasites and cysts of one mastigophoran protozoan parasite were recorded, namely, Cystoisospora leonina in 11 (36.7%) lions' feces, Cystoisospora spp. in 9 (30.0%) lions, Cystoisospora felis in 5 (16.7%) lions; Toxoplasma-like spp. in 5 (16.7 %) lions, and Giardia spp. in 8 (26.7%) lions. The majority of lions (28/30) showed mixed infections with different internal parasites, whereas only two animals had single parasite infections. The intensity of infection was relatively low. Some parasite forms observed and identified, such as Eimeria spp. oocysts, were spurious and probably originated from the prey species for the lions. Among the parasites identified were some of zoonotic importance that have health implications for at-risk personnel and visitors who get into contact with the animals.
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Lindsey PA, Balme GA, Funston P, Henschel P, Hunter L, Madzikanda H, Midlane N, Nyirenda V. The trophy hunting of African lions: scale, current management practices and factors undermining sustainability. PLoS One 2013; 8:e73808. [PMID: 24058491 PMCID: PMC3776777 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0073808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2013] [Accepted: 07/25/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The trophy hunting of lions Panthera leo is contentious due to uncertainty concerning conservation impacts and because of highly polarised opinions about the practice. African lions are hunted across at least ~558,000 km(2), which comprises 27-32% of the lion range in countries where trophy hunting of the species is permitted. Consequently, trophy hunting has potential to impart significant positive or negative impacts on lions. Several studies have demonstrated that excessive trophy harvests have driven lion population declines. There have been several attempts by protectionist non-governmental organisations to reduce or preclude trophy hunting via restrictions on the import and export of lion trophies. We document the management of lion hunting in Africa and highlight challenges which need addressing to achieve sustainability. Problems include: unscientific bases for quota setting; excessive quotas and off-takes in some countries; fixed quotas which encourage over-harvest; and lack of restrictions on the age of lions that can be hunted. Key interventions needed to make lion hunting more sustainable, include implementation of: enforced age restrictions; improved trophy monitoring; adaptive management of quotas and a minimum length of lion hunts of at least 21 days. Some range states have made important steps towards implementing such improved management and off-takes have fallen steeply in recent years. For example age restrictions have been introduced in Tanzania and in Niassa in Mozambique, and are being considered for Benin and Zimbabwe, several states have reduced quotas, and Zimbabwe is implementing trophy monitoring. However, further reforms are needed to ensure sustainability and reduce conservation problems associated with the practice while allowing retention of associated financial incentives for conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Andrew Lindsey
- Lion Program, Panthera, New York, United States of America
- Mammal Research Institute, Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
- * E-mail:
| | - Guy Andrew Balme
- Lion Program, Panthera, New York, United States of America
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Paul Funston
- Lion Program, Panthera, New York, United States of America
| | | | - Luke Hunter
- Lion Program, Panthera, New York, United States of America
| | - Hilary Madzikanda
- Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority, Harare, Mashonaland East, Zimbabwe
| | - Neil Midlane
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
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