The UK’s proposed Animals Abroad Bill seeks to ban the import of hunting trophies, claiming it will discourage trophy hunting and promote conservation. However, critics argue the ban lacks a strong ethical foundation, as domestic trophy hunting and exports remain legal. Conservation scientists warn that such a blanket ban could backfire, reducing funding for conservation, harming local economies, and decreasing community tolerance for wildlife.
Trophy hunting, while controversial, supports habitat protection and funds anti-poaching efforts, especially in regions where ecotourism isn’t viable. It’s not a major threat to species survival compared to habitat loss, conflict, and illegal poaching. In fact, well-managed hunting has helped improve the status of some endangered species. Moreover, the community benefits—such as food and income—are not easily replaced by alternative models.
