The killing of Cecil the Lion, a famous emblem of Zimbabwe’s wildlife by an American dentist has sparked an online firestorm. I view God as both Male and Female. I recognize feline power as manifestation of God Power when God is represented as Female. Hunting, killing, and poaching of wild, big, roaring cats like Lions, and Tigers is a direct affront to entire Female species.
It is extremely disgraceful to read that American tourists are spending large amounts of money to kill hundreds of African lions each year as a sporting activity. If man wants to challenge these Big Cats in a real battle to take pride in his physical strength and courage, he must do so without using any kind of weapons or protective gear.
Danger, excitement and maid service: How safari outfitters sell lion hunts to rich Americans
The Washington Post
Christopher Ingraham
© Markus Gilliar-Pool/Getty Images Lions are seen at the Lion Park on June 25, 2010 in Lanseria, South Africa.
American tourists kill hundreds of lions for sport each year. And it’s not cheap — the cost of a lion-hunting safari can run into the tens of thousands of dollars. Walter Palmer, the dentist who allegedly killed Cecil the lion illegally in Zimbabwe, is said to have paid $54,000 for his hunting trip.
The number of African lion trophies taken by American hunters has doubled in recent years, according to the International Fund for Animal Welfare. Given the rising popularity and the amount of money at stake, African safari outfitters have begun aggressively marketing their packages in an attempt to stand out from the crowd.
Most outfitters advertise their prices in U.S. dollars. They promise danger and excitement, but also luxurious accommodations, including spas, well-stocked wine bars, and maid service. Most allow family members or other “observers” to tag along — for a price. Some companies guarantee a trophy animal. Others promise discounted rates. Still others provide frills like the opportunity to hunt rare white lions, or to hunt from a vehicle if a hike is too much. Here’s how a handful of them are selling their wares to would-be hunter-tourists online.
African Sky Hunting
7-day lion and plains game hunting package: $29,130. Additional $1,350 per observer.
“This package offers an exceptional hunting experience at a very reasonable price,” the Web site promises. “In all cases, the camps and lodges we use are luxurious with en-suite bathrooms, electricity, stylish decor and sumptuous food — places where a lady would feel at home and comfortable. … The option of hunting from one of our well-equipped vehicles is also available should you have any medical problems, or are limited by not being able to walk long distances.” Snacks are “always available.” At the Kalahari camp, “the swimming pool is perfect for cooling off after a hard day’s hunt trekking through the Kalahari sand.”
When hunting a lion, “First shot placement is all important, as the follow-up on a wounded cat can be extremely exciting if not downright dangerous. A poorly shot lion will lie in wait and is capable of great speed in a charge.” However, “The success rate on the trophies is close to 100%.”
Africa Hunt Lodge
Male lion package start at $16,500 for blonde mane lions and go up to $30,000 for white lions. Observers $150 per person per day.
“Africa Hunt Lodge allows the opportunity to hunt and harvest Monster South African Lion any date of the year,” the copy promises. The fee includes first-class lodging, the service of guides and trackers, alcoholic beverages, and maid and laundry service. “Our Lodge staff will wash, dry and iron your laundry daily. There is no need to bring an outfit for every day of hunting.” They offer gift certificates as well.
Serapa Safaris
$690 per person per day, minimum of 10 days for a lion hunt. Additional $290 per person per day for observers.
“Experience the luxury of the African dream.” Prices include use of a 4-wheel drive vehicle, animal baiting, and “luxurious” accommodations, including a spa. “All bedroom suites are fully air-conditioned.” Families are welcome: “While your out tracking your trophy, the rest of your party can relax at our world-class facilities, enjoying great food, and great company.” A gallery page includes photos of happy clients and their kills. Clients include men, women, and families with small children.
Safari Bwana
$12,500 through $58,000 for male lions, depending on size and type
“Excellent Lion opportunities at the best prices South Africa has to offer. All cats are hunted by tracking and on foot with 100% success rate as per South African Lion hunting standards … mark my words, these cats in South Africa are far more aggressive and tuned to human contact making them unafraid of any human approach.” The introduction to the Web site warns: “Don’t expect to forage into the vast untrammeled wilderness fighting off marauding Lion and fierce warlike savages, much like Selous or Burton did, you’ll will be disappointed.”
“I highly recommend this form of Lion hunting in South Africa, not only as a thrilling dangerous game encounter, but also as a means of taking the pressure off the wild lions of Africa!”
Discount African Hunts
$28,500 per hunter. “Add an observer for only $150 a day.”
“Get your TROPHY LION while you still can! … The lions in this area are feeding on resident game populations and are dangerous!” Don’t worry: “You will be in good hands, as your PH [professional hunter] has personally been involved in the taking of over 300 lions without losing a client yet! … This is your chance to get a $35,000 fully maned trophy African Lion for only $28,500!”
A happy customer from Alabama writes: “They exceeded my expectations as 12 miles of tracking ended with me shooting the highly agitated lioness at a distance of 25 yards.”
Safari Hunting Njema
$29,800 – $46,200
“Track and chase these magnificent beasts on foot, for the most exciting and thrilling hunt you’ll ever experience!! Let our Highly Experienced Professional Hunters, safely guide you on the ULTIMATE HUNT!” Don’t forget to check the small print: “Trophy fee for typical lion in photographs but not necessarily the specific lion.”
One happy customer testifies: “Thank you for a most thrilling, exciting, most wonderful safari I have ever been on and in making it so special — especially for a grandma.”
Bullet Safaris
Pricing unavailable
“These big cats are a prized trophy and are pure excitement to hunt,” Bullet advertises. “You are scared 3 times on a lion hunt, first when you see the big tracks on the ground, next when you hear his intimidating roar, and for a third time when you lay your eyes on him.” Don’t worry though, the lions will come to you: “Lion hunting can be done in a blind waiting for a lion to feed or can be done by stalking the bait, typically early in the mornings to find the lion there at first light. Once on the bait, lions are typically easier to get a shot at than a leopard.”
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