Renowned presenter Chris Packham has pressed for explanations following the importation of a trophy from a critically endangered rhinoceros into the UK for sport. Despite the global conservation group IUCN reporting only 3,142 black rhinos remaining, new data has shown that such trophies were allowed into the country.
Figures from the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species reveal that British hunters not only brought back trophies of black and white rhinos but also imported elephant tusks from one of Zambia’s most endangered herds, as well as trophies of leopards. In addition, British hunters were involved in shooting canned lions and a wild lion in Zimbabwe.
Recent statistics indicate that around 50 trophies of CITES-listed animals entered the UK in 2024, a decrease from nearly 190 in the previous year. British trophy hunters traveled extensively to obtain the bodies, skins, and skulls of various animals, including bears, Hippopotamuses, Zebras, Wolves, and a Baboon.
Expressing strong views, Mr. Packham emphasized the need for immediate action, calling trophy hunting immoral and detrimental to threatened species. He urged ministers to impose a moratorium on hunting trophy imports to end this so-called ‘sport’ permanently.
The Mirror has been actively advocating for a ban on trophy hunting imports, with Defra minister Mary Creagh reaffirming the government’s commitment to the ban recently. Labour MP Irene Campbell echoed the sentiment, stating that it is time to halt the cruel practice of trophy hunting, emphasizing the need to protect endangered animals from being killed for tourist entertainment.
The Campaign to Ban Trophy Hunting is urging Defra Minister Emma Reynolds MP to honor the manifesto commitment to ban hunting trophies. Founder Eduardo Goncalves highlighted the discrepancy between political pledges and actual actions, emphasizing the need for a robust ban on importing hunting trophies from endangered species.
A Defra spokesperson reiterated the government’s commitment to banning the importation of hunting trophies from species of conservation concern, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to engage with stakeholders for a timely implementation of the ban.
