Outrage Over the Killing of Blondie: Trophy Hunt Controversy in Zimbabwe

The recent killing of a collared lion named Blondie by a trophy hunter in Zimbabwe has drawn sharp rebuke from wildlife groups, reminiscent of the global outcry following the death of Cecil the lion in 2015. Both lions were part of research projects and met their ends outside protected areas in Hwange National Park.

Blondie wore a research collar sponsored by Africa Geographic and was part of an Oxford University study. Despite the visibility of his collar, the lion was lured with bait into a hunting zone. The legality of the hunt has done little to quell the outrage, with conservationists calling it a breach of ethical hunting standards.

Zimbabwean authorities have defended the hunt, highlighting its legality and the financial benefits to conservation efforts. Yet, the controversy continues to polarize opinions on hunting, with debates over its impact on funding conservation versus moral objections against killing wildlife for sport.

(With inputs from agencies.)