A recent study published in Nature Conservation has brought to light the alarming practices within South Africa’s lion farming industry, revealing its role in fueling the illegal international trade in big cat bones.
Conducted by World Animal Protection, the study uncovers the exploitation of legal activities such as captive lion breeding and canned hunting as fronts for illicit trading, underscoring the need for immediate government intervention.
The investigation, based on interviews with workers at closed-access lion facilities in South Africa’s North West Province, paints a grim picture of the industry. Legal breeding operations are being manipulated to mask illegal activities, including the trafficking of lion and tiger bones.
Moreover, the study highlights severe animal welfare violations, including malnutrition and unsanitary conditions, as well as unsafe working environments for facility staff.
Although South Africa’s High Court declared the export of lion skeletons unconstitutional in 2019, and the government announced plans to shut down the captive lion industry in 2021, a lack of enforcement has allowed these practices to persist.
This legal gray area has enabled some facilities to continue operations that outwardly appear legitimate but are deeply intertwined with organized crime networks that facilitate the illegal bone trade.
The study’s authors are calling for a comprehensive overhaul of the industry, including a full audit of all captive lion farms, an immediate breeding moratorium, and stringent measures to prevent the stockpiling of lion bones.
They also urge the South African government to implement a clear, time-bound plan to phase out the industry entirely, ensuring ethical treatment of animals and the safety of workers.
Lead researcher Dr. Angie Elwin and Senior Researcher Dr. Neil D’Cruze emphasize that without decisive action, the controversial captive lion industry will continue to pose serious legal, conservation, and ethical challenges.
The publication of this study coincides with World Lion Day, as NGOs like Blood Lions mobilize public support to pressure the South African government to extend bans on captive breeding and trading to other predators.
With an estimated 8,000–12,000 lions and other big cats held in over 350 facilities across the country, the study serves as a critical call to action.
It challenges both South Africa and the international community to address the complexities of the captive lion industry and put an end to the suffering and exploitation of these majestic animals.
