Canned hunting has been a highly debated topic globally for many years. Unlike traditional hunting, which takes place in the wild under natural circumstances for both the animal and hunter, canned hunting contains animals by a fence or enclosure to make it easier for the hunter to succeed in killing an animal. Also known as “captive” hunting, the practice is banned in 20 states in the United States and has been protested in more than 62 cities around the world. Many hunting organizations as well as animal rights and conservation groups also advocate against it. Canned hunts have included animals that were formerly tame, pets, and many endangered species. It also often involves animals bred specifically for this type of hunting, including bears, rhinos, lions, wild pigs and many other species. Several citizens of countries in Africa and other parts of the globe have accused wealthy hunters for depleting wildlife in their regions and harming conservation efforts. There have been many high profile instances and cases where the animals were shot while confined to cages, hunted illegally and other issues including driving some species to extinction.
Hunting began initially as a means of obtaining food, clothing and other materials, and has been used in special incidences to help control animal population of certain species. But very few hunters today continue the practice for these reasons and hunt for game or sport alone.
You can help the issue of canned or captive hunting by helping to raise awareness and letting your voice be heard when the topic arises in your community or around the world. Strengthened conservation efforts can also help wildlife, including endangered species, so supporting local or international conservation efforts with donations of money, time or products/goods is another way to help.
