South Africa's conservation model is under the spotlight. But are we asking the right questions?
In this episode of PH Journals, I unpack a recent Daily Maverick article about Cape Town's proposed baboon sanctuary and use it as a starting point for a much bigger conversation about wildlife management, hunting and the future of conservation in South Africa.
As a professional hunter, I've spent years working with wildlife and seeing firsthand what it takes to manage land, protect animals and sustain a conservation economy. I believe hunting has played an important role in creating economic incentives for landowners to protect wildlife and maintain natural habitat.
So why are we sometimes so quick to question hunting's contribution to conservation, while other management approaches receive less scrutiny?
In this episode, I share my personal perspective on:
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The proposed relocation of approximately 60 baboons into a sanctuary near Cape Town.
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The public funding commitments behind baboon management and the importance of financial transparency.
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Whether we are solving human-wildlife conflict or simply managing its consequences.
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My observations of baboon conflict in rural areas and why targeted management deserves consideration.
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The role of hunting in South Africa's conservation economy.
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The influence of animal-protection organisations in wildlife-management decisions.
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Why every conservation model should be judged on evidence, accountability, cost and long-term results.
This isn't an argument that hunting is perfect or that every alternative is wrong. It's about asking whether we're giving every available management tool a fair and honest evaluation.
Conservation should be about more than good intentions. It should be about measurable outcomes, sustainable funding and ensuring wildlife has a future.
This is my personal opinion as a professional hunter, and I'm interested in hearing yours.
Do you believe hunting should have a greater role in wildlife-management decisions? And how should we measure whether conservation funding is actually making a difference?
Drop your thoughts in the comments. Disagreement is welcome — let's have an informed conversation.
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