Impasse Over Rhino and Elephant Hunting Halts R6.2 Million in South African Safaris

The South African environment ministry has not issued trophy export quotas for elephants, leopards, and black rhinos over the past five years, which has significantly impacted hunting safaris that can cost up to $350,000 (R6.2 million), according to an industry lobbying group.

The industry has reportedly incurred losses of up to R2.25 billion ($126 million) due to this stalemate, allowing regional competitors to gain market share, stated Richard York, CEO of Wildlife Ranching South Africa, which is currently involved in legal proceedings to obtain the quotas.

“We are unable to offer hunting opportunities for some of our most iconic species,” York noted in response to inquiries, mentioning that no rationale has been provided for the failure to issue quotas, which he asserts is a legal obligation.

“Hunters are now exploring alternative markets with defined, lawful frameworks,” York remarked. “This situation reflects poorly on us and portrays unprofessionalism and unreliability.”

According to a study by South Africa’s North-West University, hunting tourism contributes approximately R44 billion to the annual economy.

The current hiatus on quotas contradicts the policy promoted by the current minister, Dion George, and his predecessor, Barbara Creecy, regarding the sustainable use of South Africa’s biodiversity and natural resources.

The environment department is advocating for an increased harvest of game meat for both export and local consumption, expressing prior intentions to encourage more leisure hunting and tourism. Since a legal change in 1993 that granted landowners ownership of the wildlife on their properties, wild animal populations have rebounded.

The department indicated it is “considering the matter” of issuing quotas and refrained from further comments when contacted by Bloomberg, citing ongoing court proceedings.

WRSA mentions that a July 21 High Court decision mandates the minister to present records related to the consideration of quotas. However, the department has stated that it is not obliged to comply until it has reached a decision regarding the quotas.

While provincial authorities can issue permits for hunts, the fees charged are significantly lower than those paid by hunters from the U.S. and other countries wishing to bring home their trophies—like elephant tusks or stuffed leopard heads.

The United Nations’ Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species allows South Africa to permit the hunting of up to 150 elephants annually, 150 male leopards, and approximately 0.5% of the national black rhino population, equating to about 10 animals.

A black rhino hunt can cost as much as $350,000 per animal, York noted. Elephants are relatively less expensive, ranging from $75,000 to $100,000, while hunting a leopard can go up to $40,000.

“The lack of these quotas has been catastrophic,” York added.

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