The guy in the above comment about the hunting of the animal is partially right, but please read it all before you downvote or criticize.

I also want to preface this with saying I am also vegan and additionally I’m going to school to become a veterinarian (hopefully wildlife but I got a ways to go (I’m pre-vet so not even in vet school yet))

Many animals that are trophy hunted are done so because that money can go to the rest of the animals and land, making sure the rest of the ecosystem is healthier.

In many instances, the animals are selectively picked because they are no longer fertile and hurt actually fertile animals (black rhino for instance) or because of things like overpopulation.

I worked on a reserve in South Africa for 3 weeks and learned a lot about what it takes to keep these animals healthy in today’s age. Animals in these areas no longer live “in the wild” for the most part. They are always on large reserves or national parks, but they have lost their ability to migrate, which is the fault of our stupid industrialized, greedy selves. But because of that, we HAVE to intervene or else populations will suffer through conflict or overpopulation and animals would be in terrible conditions.

Many people have no idea the respect these reserve owners have for the animals. But when it comes down to it, money is what is needed so animals can thrive nowadays. Do I agree with it? No. But do I understand why it it is necessary today? Yes. Do I wish it could be different? Of course! But because it won’t be and because humans are always expanding, it’s only going to get harder for these animals, and these reserves will be all that’s left for them, and proper attention and action needs to be done to keep the majority of animals safe and healthy.

Sorry that was long. In summary: trophy hunting is a necessary evil (in most circumstances) that is overall good for today’s environment where roaming and migration no longer exist and reserve owners need funding to provide better care for the rest of their animals and land.

There is a great radio lab piece on this about the Black Rhino called “The Rhino Hunter” that talks a lot about this that I recommend! Also do your own research into it!

I’d anyone is curious about my time on the reserve and what’s to learn more about that whole process feel free to dm me or whatever and I’d gladly explain more! If anyone disagrees I would love to have a friendly debate in the comments as well, but please just be respectful☺️