South Africa finalises new laws on lion-hunting

South Africa today said it had finalised new laws to control hunting of lions, leopards and other big predators.

Environment Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk said there would be a ban on all “canned” hunting of lions bred in captivity for the pure purpose of hunting.

He said he intended “putting an end, once and for all, to the reprehensible practice of canned hunting”.

A leading conservation group said the new laws, which enter into force on June 1, did not go far enough.

The main organisation representing professional hunters welcomed the proposed legislation, saying it would help restore South Africa’s tarnished international reputation.

Lion breeders have warned they may take legal action against the government and that they may have no alternative but to kill the mighty beasts if they face financial ruin.