Protect Endangered Giants From Cruel Trophy Hunters
Final signature count: 362
362 signatures toward our 30,000 goal
Sponsor: The Animal Rescue Site
South Africa plans to allow trophy exports of endangered elephants rhinos and leopards and unless we act now more of these irreplaceable animals could be lost forever to profit driven killing.
South Africa’s Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has proposed new export quotas for 2026 and 2027 that would allow 150 elephants, 12 black rhinos, and 11 leopards to be killed for trophies each year1. The proposal follows a four-year pause and would reopen international exports of tusks, horns, and skins.
The numbers may appear limited. The impact may not be.
Black Rhinos and Leopards Face Uncertain Futures
Black rhinos remain critically endangered. South Africa holds roughly 2,000 of the world’s 6,700 remaining animals2. Under CITES rules, exports are typically capped at 0.5% of the national population, which allows for about 10 animals. The draft quota proposes 122. The justification for exceeding that figure remains unclear.
Leopards are listed as vulnerable. Population estimates vary widely, and reliable field ageing of males has long been questioned4. Hunting would be restricted to 11 designated zones, but conservation groups have warned that data gaps and enforcement challenges make precaution essential4.
Elephants in Open Systems
The government cites a national elephant population of more than 43,500 animals and an annual growth rate above 5%2. Yet most elephants live in protected areas such as Kruger National Park, where hunting is prohibited3. Trophy hunts occur primarily on private reserves bordering these parks.
In open ecosystems like Greater Kruger, elephants move freely across boundaries. Mature bull elephants—those targeted for large tusks—play critical roles in herd stability and genetics. Research has shown that selective removal of these bulls can alter social structure and reduce average tusk size over time3.
Economic Claims and Ethical Questions
Supporters argue that hunting tourism contributes billions to the national economy. Research from North-West University estimates the sector adds R44 billion annually and supports approximately 95,000 jobs5. Industry groups say export suspensions cost billions in revenue2.
Critics counter that trophy hunting represents a small share of overall tourism spending and delivers limited benefits to local communities4. They warn that killing endangered animals for export risks ecological harm and global reputational damage.
Act Before the Quotas Are Final
The draft quotas are now open for public comment. Once approved, they are set to be repeated in 20271.
Elephants, rhinos, and leopards cannot speak for themselves. Their survival depends on decisions made now.
Sign the petition and urge the Department and the Director-General to reject these export quotas before more endangered animals are lost.
