Chris Packham has called for explanations following the importation of a trophy from an endangered rhinoceros hunted for sport into the UK.
The host of Winterwatch criticized government officials after recent data uncovered the arrival of a trophy from a Critically Endangered Black Rhinoceros in the country. Despite only 3,142 black rhinos remaining globally, according to the conservation group IUCN.
Statistics from the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species revealed that British hunters not only brought back trophies of black and white rhinos but also imported elephant tusks from a highly endangered herd in Zambia, along with trophies of leopards. British hunters were also involved in shooting several ‘canned’ lions, which are semi-tame creatures bred in captivity and then hunted in enclosed areas where they cannot flee, including a wild lion in Zimbabwe, reminiscent of the Cecil incident in 2015.
The most recent available figures from 2024 show that around 50 trophies of CITES-listed animals entered the UK during that period, a decrease from nearly 190 in 2023. British trophy hunters traveled as far as Canada and Eastern Europe to acquire the remains, skins, and skulls of bears. Other animals hunted by Britons included Hippopotamuses, Zebras, Wolves, and a Baboon.
Chris Packham urged action, stating, “The government has repeatedly expressed its commitment to banning trophy hunting imports. However, official data now reveals that import permits have been issued for souvenirs of endangered animals killed for recreation. Trophy hunting is deeply unethical and exacerbates the plight of threatened species. Ministers should announce an immediate halt on hunting trophy imports. We must put an end to this abhorrent so-called ‘sport’ once and for all.”
The Mirror has been a vocal advocate for banning trophy hunting imports, and despite delays, Defra minister Mary Creagh reaffirmed the government’s dedication to a ban late last year.
In response, Labour MP Irene Campbell emphasized the need to end the cruel practice of trophy hunting, stating, “Endangered animals should not be sacrificed for the amusement of tourists. The Labour manifesto promised to ban hunting trophy imports, and I am eager to collaborate with the Government to fulfill this pledge.”
The Campaign to Ban Trophy Hunting is now reaching out to Defra Minister Emma Reynolds MP to ensure the government upholds its manifesto commitment. The campaign’s founder, Eduardo Goncalves, remarked, “The government has criticized the Conservatives for allowing hunting trophies into the country while pledging to ban them. However, these figures indicate that Labour has also approved trophies of highly endangered animals since coming into power.”
A Defra spokesperson affirmed, “As outlined in the manifesto, we are dedicated to prohibiting the reprehensible practice of importing hunting trophies from species of conservation concern to enhance animal welfare. We are actively engaging with relevant stakeholders to implement a robust ban promptly.”