Decision to sell rhino 'is not wrong'

17 July 2009 - 02:00
By unknown

THE decision by SA National Parks to sell white rhino from Kruger National Park could not be faulted, Wildlife Ranching SA saidyesterday.

THE decision by SA National Parks to sell white rhino from Kruger National Park could not be faulted, Wildlife Ranching SA saidyesterday.

WRSA director Wicus Pretorius said the sustainable use of wildlife was a basic principle.

"However, the practice can only be supported if all parties that move, resettle, buy or sell or transport animals meet all regulatory requirements as well as the SA Bureau of Standards regulations."

Pretorius said it would not be in the best interests of the industry if standards were not met.

Earlier this week, Animal Rights Africa (ARA) said it was "appalled" that SANParks was selling rhino and other animals from the park.

ARA's spokeswoman Michele Pickover also alleged SANParks was "allowing hunters to kill Kruger animals by actively promoting and allowing hunting along Kruger's ever-increasing porous borders".

But SANParks backed its decision that the sale of rhino was scientifically determined and did not endanger their growth. - Sapa