Wildlife

Lion Welfare and the Canned Hunting Industry

Lions face welfare threats from canned hunting facilities in South Africa, bone trade, and population decline across sub-Saharan Africa.

Key Facts

Around 6000-8000 lions are kept in captive breeding facilities in South Africa
Canned lion hunting involves shooting captive-bred lions in enclosed areas
Lion bones are exported to Asia as a substitute for tiger bones
Lion cubs are used in commercial cub petting attractions before being killed
Wild lion populations have declined by approximately 43% over the past 21 years

Welfare Considerations

Captive-bred lions in commercial facilities are kept in overcrowded, barren enclosures. Cubs separated from mothers for petting attractions suffer early social deprivation. Animals in canned hunting facilities show high stress indicators. Lions shot in enclosed areas may not be killed immediately, prolonging suffering. Wild lions killed in conflict or by trophy hunters may survive injured for extended periods.

What You Can Do

Never participate in lion cub petting or walking with lions activities
Oppose canned hunting through boycotts and political advocacy
Support organizations campaigning for a ban on lion bone trade
Donate to wild lion conservation programs
Advocate for legislation banning captive lion breeding for commercial purposes