Trophy-hunting of large predators has been well-nigh unthinkable for decades. But now it’s not only thinkable, it’s back on the agenda – and raising some vexing questions for conservationists.
In Papua New Guinea, where salt-water crocodiles have eaten several people, the government decided in December to allow an Australian guide to lead commercial safaris to shoot the killer crocs. The hunters pay up to $180,000 for the privilege, enriching the guide and, possibly, locals far more than if the government carried out the cull.
Meanwhile, burgeoning grizzly bear populations around Yellowstone National Park in the north-western US have led the…
