Study Reveals Illegal Trade and Cruelty in South Africa's Captive Lion Industry

Research highlights severe animal welfare violations and calls for comprehensive government action to phase out captive lion farming.

The study uncovers the use of legal lion breeding and hunting to mask illegal bone trade activities.
Animal welfare violations include malnutrition, lack of clean water, and unsanitary living conditions.
Reports detail unsafe working conditions, such as lack of protective gear for workers handling hunted animals.
Recommendations include a full industry audit, a breeding moratorium, and a phase-out plan to prevent bone stockpiling.
The South African Government faces pressure to enforce regulations and fulfill its pledge to end captive lion farming.