Stalemate on Rhino and Elephant Hunting Freezes R6.2 Million in South African Safaris

The South African ministry of environment has refrained from issuing trophy export quotas for elephants, leopards, and black rhinos for the past five years, which has greatly affected hunting safaris that can reach up to $350,000 (R6.2 million), according to an industry advocacy group.

The sector has reportedly suffered losses amounting to R2.25 billion ($126 million) as a result of this deadlock, allowing regional competitors to capture market share, stated Richard York, CEO of Wildlife Ranching South Africa, which is currently pursuing legal action to secure the quotas.

“We are unable to provide hunting experiences for some of our most iconic species,” York stated in response to inquiries, noting that no explanation has been given for the lack of quotas, which he claims is a legal requirement.

“Hunters are now seeking alternative markets with clear, lawful frameworks,” remarked York. “This predicament casts us in a negative light, indicating unprofessionalism and unreliability.”

According to research from South Africa’s North-West University, hunting tourism contributes roughly R44 billion to the annual economy.

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

The environment department is promoting larger harvests of game meat for both export and local consumption, having previously expressed intentions to boost leisure hunting and tourism. Following a legal change in 1993 that granted landowners ownership of the wildlife on their lands, wild animal populations have flourished.

The department stated it is “considering the matter” of quota issuance and declined to comment further when approached by Bloomberg, referring to ongoing court proceedings.

WRSA reported that a High Court ruling on July 21 requires the minister to provide records concerning the consideration of quotas. However, the department has indicated that it is not obligated to comply until a decision has been made regarding the quotas.

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

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

A black rhino hunt can cost as much as $350,000 per animal, York noted. Elephants are comparatively cheaper, ranging from $75,000 to $100,000, while hunting a leopard can reach costs of up to $40,000.

“The absence of these quotas has been disastrous,” York added.

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