“The European Commission has adopted measures to control wildlife trade that come into force on 5th February 2015.

The first measure concerns the import of hunting trophies and is designed to ensure that any such imports are legal and sustainable. The species concerned are African lion, polar bear, African elephant, Southern white rhinoceros, hippopotamus and argali sheep.

Trophy hunting is a widespread practice and, when managed sustainably, it can help conserve species and generate income that benefits rural communities while protecting biodiversity.Nevertheless, there has been great concern about the trade in hunting trophies from lions, polar bears, elephants and rhinoceroses. Criminal groups are increasingly involved, and wildlife trafficking has become a form of transnational organised crime that resembles trafficking in human beings, drugs and firearms.

Karmenu Vella, European Commissioner for Environment, Maritime and Fisheries said: “The hunting of iconic species is a very sensitive area and one where Europe needs to lead at international level to promote responsible practices. I am confident that today’s Regulation takes an important stand against illegal and unsustainable hunting of these precious species. These steps are an important contribution to keeping the trade legal and safe.”

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Source: European Commission