Australia bans canned hunt trophies to protect African lions

The Australian government has banned canned hunting trophies to protect African lions whose population has declined rapidly due to illegal hunting and environmental stresses.

A statement released by the Australian Embassy in Nairobi on Saturday said a ban on import and export of trophies made from lions takes effect immediately.

"Canned hunting is unethical and cruel; the people of Australia want this practice stopped. Canned hunts offer an easy and sure kill because the odds are stack in favor of the hunter," Australian High Commissioner to Kenya John Feakes said in the statement.

A canned hunt refers to a trophy hunt in which an animal is kept in a confined area to enhance its likelihood of capture by the hunters.

The Australian public has in recent times expressed disgust towards this practice that expose lions to brutality.

"The lions will always be killed because they simply cannot escape. It is an abominable and cowardly practice," Feakes remarked, adding the ban will promote animal welfare and ethical treatment of African lions.

African lions are listed on Appendix 11 of the convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) based on mortal threats facing them.

The Australian government has joined conservation groups to campaign against trophy hunting of African lions.

Feakes noted his government's ban on canned hunting of African lions has inspired animal welfare advocates globally. Endi