Congratulations to Namibia and South Africa

Committee I have adopted by consensus proposals from Namibia and South Africa that five “surplus male” black rhinos should be removed as trophies each year, after a convincing presentation by each Party of its management strategies and the state of the stock. The males to be removed by trophy hunting are identified as non-contributors to the conservation of the species, as they are either post-breeding age or in a condition that excludes the possibility that they can breed due to various disabilities.

Some of the most poignant arguments for the proposals have to do with animal welfare concerns; these old males engage in territorial fighting and suffer wounds, or deliver wounds to incoming young males, and even to females and juveniles, during breeding season. Therefore, it is best to remove these animals to prevent serious injuries and untimely deaths, as these particular males are no longer able to breed their females and thus, their time of genetic contribution is over. NGO objections that these animals should instead be transfered to other areas where black rhino were once endemic or are presently scarce in order to rebuild stocks was rejected as an impractical conservation strategy.

IWMC congratulates Namibia and South Africa for the exquisite detail and practicality of their management and oversight, data bases, and their skills in individual animal identification. They have brought their black rhino stocks back to an increasing condition, and are expertly maintaining them in harmony with their natural environments. The Chair of Committee I is also to be congratulated for her wise and fair handling of the debate and the consensus decision. The adoption of these proposals was a well deserved victory for conservation and sustainable use.