Welfare Implications of the Night Shooting of Wild Impala (Aepyceros Melampus)
Publication Type: |
Journal Article |
Year of Publication: |
1997 |
Authors: |
A.R. Lewis, A.M. Pinchin, S.C. Kestin |
Publication/Journal: |
Animal Welfare |
Keywords: |
animal welfare, culling, impala, wildlife |
Abstract:
The most common method of culling impala (Aepyceros melampus) and many other antelope species in Africa was evaluated from a welfare point of view. The culling of 856 impala from 401 herds was observed and recorded in the Mkuzi Game Reserve, South Africa. Ninety-three per cent of animals were killed instantaneously by the first shot. Results indicated that herd size and composition, distance of herd from hunting vehicle and shot number all have a bearing on the number of animals wounded and missed. It is concluded that the culling of free-ranging impala by night-hunting in the manner described is a satisfactory method on welfare grounds, although a number of recommendations are made which might render the culling process more humane. It is argued that economic and welfare considerations are not necessarily in conflict, and long-term efficiency is likely to be enhanced by addressing both simultaneously.