The Art Of Conservation

We recap the vicuna vs rhino horn trade debate from episode 6.National Geographic cut all staff writers – and no-one is happy about it.Rhino stockpiles were raided in South Africa. Can't say we didn't see this coming... And again it's an inside job. New York DEC puts confiscated ivory on display, but is it a good idea?Conservation struggles in UK and Scotland, illustrating again that the challenge is indeed global.GEF launches new fund that raises hope, but will the funds get to those who need it most?

The trade in the South American vicūna is often used as an example of how lifting trade bans can help people and animals alike, but is it a fair comparison for the rhino horn trade debate? Namibia is planning a mass dehorning. Is the government of that country bolstering rhino horn stockpiles ahead of their next effort to open trade? A recent study answers the question of what impact does dehorning have on rhino behavior.  Rhino poaching gang sentenced to terms ranging from 16-20 years.  Two documentaries to watch out for: Rhinoman follows the story of what it is like to be a ranger on the front lines, and Blood Lions is now broadly available. Watch them! A report on convergence intelligence from Earth League International makes for good reading. Homeland Security in the USA launches dedicated unit to combats the illegal wildlife trade.

Poaching kingpin arrested.A recent report highlights the dynamic nature of global rhino horn seizures, with interesting results. With COVID having little impact on the size and frequency of seizures, we ask, yet again, why are we not inspecting and accounting for stockpiled rhino horn?Poached rhino horn transport is changing. Transit routes are evolving but what is influencing this?Yet another article about the claimed values of trophy hunting ignores the consistent fight to deregulate these industries, rather than supporting regulations that would hold the industry accountable and measurable in their social and environmental claims.More than half of the world's rhinos are now in private hands. But could this finally expedite much needed integration of interdisciplinary business models and break the monotony of current conservation arguments in generating desperately needed conservation revenues? We hope so.And… ever wondered about a rhino's fart…? Wonder no more…

A break through in the rhino poaching crisis with an arrest in South Africa's eastern cape province. What will it mean to poaching activity in the area?Do new game fences work to slow poaching? We question the recent investments in new security fences to protect rhino. A recent and seemingly bizarre series of events has seen a dramatic intervention with the new proposed changes to TOPS (Threatened Or Protected Species) regulations. What actually happened and what does it mean for conservation efforts in Southern Africa?Is it right for the state to financially support captive lion breeders as they close their businesses? We debate the recent move to incentivise lion breeders to down tools.South African hunting stats are in. We discuss what was killed, who killed it, and how much they paid to do so.UK adds ivory from walrus, hippo, killer whales, narwhals, and sperm whales to the list of banned ivory.And finally, the business that promised to bring back the woolly mammoth from extinction gains further momentum and investment. But should we really be bringing them back? 

Episode 2 of this season attracted a lot of interest and comment, we answer your questions in this episode:The Platinum Rhino auction fails to solicit a successful bidder – what's next for Hume and his rhino? We give the updates.Rhino Horn trade is unlikely, but the current revenue models are also flawed – what are the challenges in innovating a new approach where renewables, carbon markets, ESG investments and the like are combined? Why is trade so challenging, surely we can flood the market? We discuss the challenges in opening the rhino horn trade and why we should be skeptical of trade while there are so many unanswered questions. How much does it cost to implement and run an anti-poaching unit? Are we over-investing in the militarization of conservation? We discuss the different approaches and the costs experienced in creating, implementing, and operating an APU.

With the world's largest rhino breeding facility up for auction, the team discusses the potential outfall of this huge event.Love him or hate him, John Hume plays an important role in rhino conservation. His often brash commitment to opening rhino horn trade has no doubt contributed to the divisiveness in rhino conservation., but one thing that cannot be denied is  his success in breeding rhino on an enormous scale. With public opinion divided as ever, it is important to understand how we got to this position, why the prior attempts at soliciting investment failed, and what we should learn from this watershed moment in rhino conservation.It is a big topic and we welcome comment and questions to broaden the discussion. Send your questions or comments to info@artofconservation.com or on social media.

Munu the blind black rhino finds a new home.The team contemplates the “region beta paradox” as a reason why we don't see sufficient urgency and how this influences donor expectations in conservation circles. Julian Rademeyr's latest report showcases a grim reality of corruption and its influence on wildlife crime around Kruger National Park. In the weeks after the release, alleged kingpin, Chief Clyde Mnisi, is assassinated and shortly thereafter his wife is gunned down in her home. We explore this decentralization of poaching as a result of the disruptions to syndicates in Kruger and what it means for law enforcement elsewhere. Poaching in South Africa's eastern cape province is on the rise but why is this perhaps more concerning than other areas? Convergence Intelligence is showing signs of real impact in the illegal wildlife trade. A recent conference hosted by Prince William's United for Wildlife, showcased some extraordinary successes in the growing partnerships between the private and public sector, and intelligence agencies. India's conservation successes could yield further evidence in the value of community-based responses to poaching and human wildlife conflict. Should we be de-militarizing our response to wildlife protection?

Minister Barbara Creecy, South Africa's minister of the Department of Environment Forest and Fisheries, recently released the much-anticipated white paper that addresses the “One Welfare” commitment she made over a year ago. And it is a big step forward. We unpack the white paper and what it means for conservation efforts as well as issues of sentience and socio-economic transformation. Research suggests that Botswana's reintroduction of trophy hunting has not worked in its promise to offer sustainable economic opportunity for communities. A recent shark killing contest is attracting growing public criticism – and rightly so! We share insight into the corrupt individuals behind this Florida event. Please sign the petition to end these abhorrent events and email your legislators here.Meanwhile on the USA west coast, law makers pass a bill that will radically reduce plastic waste. And a revision of school food schemes to include plant-based options will also go a long way in improving human and ecological health of that region. Some big takeaways from the UN Ocean Conference give us cause for celebration.Jane Goodall gets turned into a Barbie. And she's over the moon! But could Attenborough be the next Ken?What is the meta-verse teaching us about real world conservation?The Congo Basin plays host to a new carbon credit, marketed by Gabon.A new docu-series illustrates how brands can play a critical role in communicating powerful conservation stories. We tip our caps to Hills Pet Nutrition and their work showcasing the K-9 units operating on the front lines of conservation in South Africa. 

Peter struggles with Covid, Simon can't remember where he is, and Shannon holds down the fort.5 African countries sign the Hwange declaration - a commitment to pressure CITES to open trade in ivory for one fire sale. The concept is fundamentally flawed and as usual, this for the trade wrap their arguments up in poorly researched or blatantly inaccurate data - we explain why.Deforestation accelerates in Brazil. We unpack the empty promises made at COP26 in Glasgow last year.Should you be able to buy a puppy from a commercial breeder in the USA? Huame Society's latest paper suggests what we already believe. You can help by singing the petition.

Rob Barber from Golden Africa Safaris in Botswana. Rob gives us updates on travel trends after COVID. Join Rob in the Okavango Delta - Go on a one-of-a-kind safari in Botswana June 9-17, 2022 with Golden Africa Safaris! Our listeners get 10% off with the discount code “SEF”. Green Century Funds are holding Home Depot accountable for where they source their plywood. But are Home Depot's shareholders supporting this proposal?Are K9s effective in the illegal wildlife trade? What about dog bots? Kilo9Academy is not only training and placing anti-poaching dogs in the field, but they can also train your personal dog. Their co-founder, Christjan Visser, is an incredible trainer and ranger who needs your help. Please support Christian and help him get the surgery he desperately needs.Remember India, the “pet” tiger in Texas that got out a year ago? We follow up on what has happened to India. Where is he now and how is he doing?Is India an example of why the Big Cat Public Safety Act is so important to pass?How important is convergence  intelligence in the illegal wildlife trade, or any other illegal trade for that matter?

Simon joins us from the US through modern technology.Poachers tranquilize rhino to remove horn in Orang National Park in AssamDespite the poaching attempt in India, can you believe that the Indian Rhino numbers could actually be up?This year there was an Indian Rhino census—guess what the total was?Is it okay to protect animals even at the expense of the surrounding communities?Would community intelligence officers work in South Africa the way they work in India?We discuss the need to clone Dr. Jana Pretorius and Petronel Nieuwoudt (Care for Wild).Who is the Kering Group? Do you wear any of their fashion lines? Should they disclose the suffering inflicted on the animal skins featured in their lines? Are they doing enough? Use your power and send a message straight to the Kering Group hereCould donkeys go extinct in our lifetime? How popular is donkey hide collagen?What responsibilities do companies have these days? Is it profit before planet, or planet before profit?Are companies leading by example or letting their customers lead them?Could slaughter-free collagen be in our future?Some updates on the Big Cat Public Safety Act.

Show Notes:S2 E19 – The Weekly News 05-12-2022 with Shannon Elizabeth, Peter Borchert & a special guest interview with Dr. Louise de Waal/Blood LionsSimon is in the USA, so Shannon and Peter are in charge. Peter is updating Rhino Review, while Shannon helped to take care of a 6-day-old baby rhino over the weekend. Peter talks about the evolution of rhinos across 55 million years. Do you know what the largest land mammal ever to have lived was?A story in Science Magazine notes that a research team believes they have found pieces of the asteroid that killed off the dinosaurs. Do you know how many millions of years ago that was?  During an archeological dig in Luzon in the Philippines, fossils of an “Ice Age” rhinoceros were found. Can you guess what they discovered about these bones dating back 700,000 years ago?We welcome Dr. Louise de Waal, the Director and Campaign Manager of Blood Lions, who tells us all about their new campaign #CancelCaptivity, why it is so important, and how you can help.Blood Lions launches a new campaign to urge the ministers in South Africa to implement protections for captive bred lions. Sign the Blood Lions petition.Peer-Reviewed Paper: Welfare concern associated with captive lions and the implications for commercial lion farms in South Africa.Wild Choices will help you make ethical choices about captive wildlife tourism facilities in South Africa. Bats buzz like hornets! Can you guess why?Four black rhinos were translocated to a private reserve in South Africa's KwaZulu-Natal province. Was this really the best thing for these rhinos? What group was behind the big move?

Trophy hunter kills Botswana's largest elephant, and claims he is a hero. With just $50k paid for the hunt, the arguments in defense of this senseless past time of killing for fun are getting thinner and thinner. Simon calls out trophy hunters to engage in discussion in one final bid to understand the psychology in taking pleasure in killing and suffering.Canada's seal clubbing season opens. With just 3% of kills being attributed to traditional use by the indigenous Innuits, we debate the claimed value of the fur industry. Canada is not a shining example of environmental leadership! Rhino have been relocated back into Mozambique's Zinave National park, but is it a good thing? We debate the value of relocations as a measure of protecting rhino.Should we endorse mining industry heavyweights investing in conservation, or is it greenwashing?Is doomism more damaging than denialism? GEF celebrates a commitment of US$600m from the USA – but is it enough?Shannon launches her documentary about Munu, the blind black rhino adopted by her foundation. With Munu as a shareholder in the documentary, Shannon wants to innovate how content funds conservation.

As we focus on the ongoing poaching stats, it is important to quantify the good work being done. Peter shares some successes in prosecutions across Africa to India for poaching related crimes. We must support the people on the front lines more than ever.Care For Wild Rhino Sanctuary takes in another orphan. If you can support them, please do so. They do extraordinary work.Indonesia's challenges with palm oil production continues as suspicion grows as the government is accused of collusion and price fixing. Palm oil usage in bio-diesel is also cause for concern. But we shouldn't let this discourage the potential of bio-diesel.What is the best use of conservation dollars? Habitat Protection? consumer education? legislation? A new report suggests the more effective measures to protect wildlife, orang-utans in particular. The science of kindness. A recent study suggests that by doing good, we are literally happier. E.O. Wilson's Biophilia, supports this growing theory.Four Paws is doing amazing work, rescuing many destitute animals in war torn Ukraine. Are zoos really contributors to conservation? A recent report suggests what we believe - with a few exceptions, the answer is not as much as they'd like us to believe… Zoos breed constantly under the banner of conservation and it is largely accepted. But why not sanctuaries? Are we not perpetuating a double standard?

A new scholarship that supports young African women entering the conservation economy, opens its applications for the 2023 academic year this Friday, 1 April. Peter's editorial focuses on how do we address the issues of education, but also the major shortcomings in the funding of global conservation. Could subsidy reform at a government level play a role? 7 members of the African Parks Network team murdered by Islamic extremists in Benin sends chilling warning to conservation communities all over the continent. Is this a taste of things to come?Hippo ivory trade is on the rise with much of the trade heading to the USA. What on earth are these teeth being used for and how does it affect the illegal trade in hippo parts ?IMF prices its first rhino bond t, in part, protect endangered black rhino in Southern Africa.HSI-Africa succeeds in obtaining a high court interdict to halt the awarding of the controversial trophy hunting quotas in South Africa. Why do we dehorn rhinos? Here's a great video explaining why and how…Bizarrely, CITES approves the trade of intensively bred totoaba, an endangered species. What impact could this have on conservation efforts in Mexico?India conducts a wildlife survey and the results are encouraging.And finally, a Sumatran rhino calf is born in Way Kambas!

Massive sink holes are appearing on the seabed of the Beaufort Sea in the Arctic with  melting permafrost to blame. Is this a sign of accelerated climate change? New research from 2 American universities suggests that the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act of 1937, which was instituted to tax hunters for unregulated hunting, is the reason why conservation claims by trophy hunters are so exaggerated. More evidence suggests that South Africa's recent trophy hunting quotas offers little economic value. But again, are this divisive conversations not distracting us from the urgent work we actually need to be looking at for real and sustainable transformational value on the African continent? United for Wildlife, from Prince William's Royal Foundation, recently hosted a conference in Botswana, exploring the role financial and transport industries can play in curbing the illegal wildlife trade. Simon shares his experience. Thank you to our friends at Zambesia and MackAir for their very kind hospitality! And poaching in India evolves as Anthrax poisoning is identified in the killing of two elephant in that country.

South Africa's minister of the Department of Fisheries, Forest and the Environment recently announced South Africa's commitment to trophy hunting by publicising the trophy hunting quota for the year ahead. Included in the heady mix of commercialised blood lust are 150 elephant, 10 leopard and shockingly, 10 critically endangered black rhino. Given the continued poaching crisis, the incompleteness of the commitment to end captive lion breeding and intense rhino breeding, the ministry seems to be backtracking, and we are suitably confused at the mixed messaging, the inconsistency in application of science, ethic and the inaccurate economic numbers used in the justification of these hunts. Peter and Simon take a deep look into the rationale behind these quotas and hope that the minister will too.The quotas are seemingly in stark contrast to the “One Welfare” policy adopted by Minister Barbara Creecy, and further evidence suggests that this allocation, almost exclusively for foreign white trophy hunters from America, is likely to do very little for conservation, reputation of the country and importantly, to promote authentic transformation in a sector that offers near zero representation of gender or racial transformation. 

No discussion about the state of our planet, most notably our oceans, is complete without the inclusion of Her Deepness, Dr Sylvia Earle. For more than half a century Sylvia has been one of the loudest and most articulate voices of reason and science in the pursuit to not only protect and correct the state of the ocean, but also in inspiring others to do the same.In this episode, Simon and Sylvia discuss her latest book, a collaboration with the National Geographic Society entitled “Ocean, A Global Odyssey”. The conversation also explores the great “Anthropause”, the state of our oceans, the advancement of women in ocean conservation, the power of conscious consumerism, what we can learn from indigenous communities - and what we can teach them, and why there is cause for great optimism. Sylvia's Mission Blue organization remains on the up and is truly worth supporting, especially the identifying and protecting of the world's Hope Spots.

Rob Barber from Golden Africa Safaris joins us in studio as we discuss our reaction to a poorly penned article that argues for trophy hunting as a suggested force for conservation. Debate rages as we explore this contentious issue. Is the value of trophy hunting overstated? Are local communities truly engaged with? What drive trophy hunting as conservation? Simon points out that arguing that anti hunters are the emotional ones, misses the point – are trophy hunters the overly emotional ones after all…? We think so and explain why… Rob explains his deep love and affection for the potential role of anthropology in tourism, specifically in Botswana. But how do we honor first nation people in tourism and conservation? Golden Africa Safaris have perhaps got it right…Jim Jeffries explains the hypocrisy and classism associated with trophy hunting. Crass, but he makes a good point.

The Anthropocene. What are the real implications and how quickly is it all happening? Does Leonardo di Caprio's latest film, Don't Look Up hit the mark?Is  poverty being reversed?Are our political  and economic systems fit for purpose to reverse the damage big business has caused on the planet?  If there were no conservation or environmental charities in the world, where would be?  Some big questions unpacked on this week's show…

2022 is off to a rocky start. Peter Borchert and Simon Borchert talk about the devastating news of the passing of Dr Richard Leakey, an icon of global conservation. But what lessons did Richard, Betty White and others leave for us in how we make sure that we continue their work and legacies?Simon provides feedback on the Christmas campaign to raise funds for Daisy, a 12 hour old rhino calf that was rescued by Care For Wild Sanctuary. Her road to recovery is a tough one, but we can support her and the other 5 rhino calves rescued during September due to the spike in rhino poaching in Southern Africa. Simon explains how Daisy came to acquire the snazzy jacket that has everyone talking.

Simon & Peter talk about their conservation heroes of 2021.The list could be endless, but we talk about the recent passing of Archbishop Desmond Tutu, E.O. Wilson and Thomas Lovejoy and celebrate Dr Esmond Martin, Wangari Maathai, Merlyn Nkomo, Dr John Hanks, Peter Fearnhead, Jane Goodall and Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka as some of this year's conservation heroes.We wish all our listeners a prosperous, successful and exciting 2022. The fight to save our wild places has never been tougher, but it is made easier by all the amazing folk who do so much for so little. We salute you all. 

Peter and Simon talk about the spike in poaching in South Africa and how the problem is spreading across the country. Isn't it time we put divisive arguments of trade or no trade aside for us to focus on the triage, the immediate urgency to collaborate and halt the poaching before there is nothing left to trade?And how will long term strategies include the empowerment of indigenous people? Authentic socio-economic transformation must be central to Africa's future.5 orphans in 3 weeks. The consequences of this spike in poaching is resulting in huge pressure on already strained sanctuaries. The Shannon Elizabeth Foundation has joined forces with Care For Wild to raise funds for these destitute orphans. Please consider giving the gift of saving a life by supporting our fund on behalf of your loved ones.Is media hysteria around poaching accurate or even helpful?And have polar bears evolved to use tools?

Peter Borchert is in studio!Shell loses deal in Cambo but continues with the controversial seismic surveys in South Africa. Meanwhile, a French company Visio Terra finds evidence of over 18,000 oil slicks off Africa's west coast and the Niger Delta continues to suffer an oil spill that has been active since 5 November. When will corporations be held accountable for the continued negligence?Unresolved land claims continue in Kruger National Park.Elle Magazine bans any advertising or content that includes animal furs. Seems late, but none the less we welcome the move.A new conservation tourism platform launches to assist with the directing of global aid to communities at risk due to Covid-19.Trophy hunting remains under pressure in the UK, but what are the implications if banned? A recent news report suggests that for US$45k, you can hunt a captive bred tiger in  Africa.Cameroon sends in the military to protect their threatened elephants. 

Peter Borchert is back!African Parks Network and 7Beyond Phinda relocate 30 rhinos from South Africa to Rwanda.Shell respond to growing public pressure about the seismic surveys being conducted on South Africa's east coast. And their response is predictably void of any ethical accountability but will the application for a court interdict be successful? We hope so. Please sign the petition to bring this reckless activity to an abrupt end. See the schedule below to participate in country wide protests in South Africa scheduled for 5 December and join #oceansnotoil in stopping this reckless practice.Do you want to see the gorillas in Rwanda? We talk about how best to see these magnificent primates. Mantis Collection and &Beyond have an incredible and ethical offerings. A sensational series of videos of an elephant encounter (see video below) has surfaced on line, causing a media storm. We share insights from leading rangers and guides and caution against judgement until the involved are able to respond appropriately.  

Shannon and Simon return from the Okavango Delta and discuss the important of responsible tourism. Thank you to Golden Africa Safaris for hosting us.Invest Bank and United For Wildlife release financial report on the illegal wildlife trade in South Africa.Expeadia Group will no longer support properties that promote animal interactions on their platforms and France bans wild animals in circuses, the mink trade and dolphin shows. Big wins.Conservation International has released a report on the important zones around the world that we must protect if we are to stand a chance of beating the climate crisis. “Blue Carbon” plays an important role in this new science, as do mangrove swamps.South Africa's east coast is under threat as Shell begins seismic surveys offshore in the search of more oil & gas. Sign the petition here.Gabon has quickly become the last refuge of the African forest elephant.

LionsThey are perhaps the greatest character in the brochure for African travel.And in many of the larger parks across the African continent they are not too difficult to see either - could even be described s prolific. In fact many would consider you unlucky to visit Africa and not see at least one on safari. But this perhaps sends a slightly inaccurate message to the world that lion numbers healthy and stable. Sadly, this couldn't be further from the truth.As much as they are abundant in places like Kruger National Park, Masai Mara and Okavango Delta, their numbers have been in a steady decline in recent decades. So much so that population estimates suggest that there are more polar bears in the wild than there are lion in Africa. A staggering thought to say the least!Lion are critical to the environmental and economic success of the continent. They are a keystone specie. But their protection and strained history with humans is a deeply complex relationship and one that requires a profound level of patience, experience, understanding and a multidisciplinary approach to ensure their survival and by association, ours as well.In this, the latest series from the Art Of Conservation, Simon Borchert will be chatting to Dr Peter Lindsey, director of the Lion Recovery Fund and one of the most astute conservationists working in this field. Once a month, Peter and Simon will chat about Peter's travels, his observations and his work. Not just in lion conservation but across a host of pertinent and relevant topics in conservation.This is part one in an ongoing series.

COP26 in Glasgow yields few reasons for optimism as leaders seemingly fall short of authentic accountability yet again.The Shannon Elizabeth Foundation launches new education fund. Merlyn Nkomo joins us in studio to talk about the challenges young Africans face in developing a career in the biodiversity economy and her role in spearheading the One Woman's Legacy Scholarship Fund.

Will COP 26 bring the urgency we desperately need? The UK has a plan, but how will we hold leaders accountable?Rhino Oz doing well after the world's first CT scan on a rhino. Care For Wild leading the charge yet again in rhino conservation - please support them if you can!A new study suggests that due to poaching, female elephants are evolving to no longer grow tusks. How is this possible?Najin, the world's oldest northern white rhino, is retired from the desperate breeding program to save the species. Stunning images from photographer Justin Mott tell the sad tale.More poachers are arrested and 3 are sentenced to hefty 85 year sentences behind bars.Is consumer demand in elephant ivory declining in China? A new WWF study suggests we may have reason to celebrate, but we're not popping corks just yet… Meanwhile an elephant tramples a suspected poacher to death in South Africa.Botswana begins to move rhinos after a spike in poaching activity in that country. But will they be safe? The world begins to rally behind the call to stop oil drilling in the Okavango Delta, but can we stop it in time?CITES meets to discuss the continued plight of the vaquita - we call for everyone to support Earth League International in their fight to save the world's smallest porpoise.

WE ARE BACK! And season 2 is looking good - filled with more news, more guests, more interviews, more debate, more insight and more ways to get involved!Today, Shannon and Simon reflect on a visit to Yellowstone and America's Pacific north West.Should billionaires be going to space when we need to save this planet first?Should donors and NGOs be reevaluating their relationships? We think so…The UK FINALLY lifts its travel ban on South Africa.More poaching arrests in South Africa's Kruger National Park.Jaguars in South America are being poisoned - a similar situation to retaliatory wildlife killing in Africa?Earthshot prize winners announced. The awards keep coming as the World Wildlife Photographer of the Year is also announced.Can drones be a real game changer in conservation?And Simon invites trophy hunters to discuss why they don't stand up for animal welfare issues. We will see who responds…

Backlash from last week's show reminds us that unity in conservation is a win and should be treated as such. With one week to go until the deadline to submit comments to South Africa's Minister of Forrest, Fisheries and the Environment, we encourage all to support the bill.138kg of rhino horn seized in Vietnam - and with it 3 tonnes of lion bones. Is this an indication of things to come as lion breeders begin to offload stock en mass ahead of the ban of the captive lion breeding industry  in South Africa?Is it a case of no news is good news when it comes to the lack of info since the assassination of alleged rhino patching kingpin Petros Mabuza? The UK is looking to add whale and walrus ivory to its potential ban on animal trophies.what's the difference between conservation and animal welfare?Aaron Gekoski is set to launch a new documentary exposing the atrocities of wildlife tourism in south east Asia, entitled The Eyes of the Orangutan. The EIA releases a report on biodiversity ahead of the conference in China in a few months - but will the conference in China really change anything? We try to set our cynicism aside. Unsuccessfully.Will Branson and Bezos going to space mean anything for the planet? We think so…Cory Booker reintroduced a bill to reign in the rampant and misleading industrial beef and pork farmers.Mexico reduces protections for the vaquita, undermining the incredible work by the likes of Earth League International and others to bring the totoaba trade to book in the gulf of California. Surely it is time for there to be international repercussions for transgressing international treaties like CITES? If CITES has no jurisdiction to impose sanctions, then who can? We support the call for the International Criminal Court to introduce the charge of ecocide.

Dr Andrew Muir, CEO of Wilderness Foundation, shares his experience of his time on the high level panel appointed by Minister Barbara Creecy to evaluate new legislation on sustainable use of wildlife in South Africa. We hear the urgent call for unity in global conservation circles to support the policy to ban the captive lion breeding industry. To support this bill, please read the policy document here and submit your support to the minister by July 28, 2021. For more information, please email info@artofconservation.com.Peter's editorial explores the growing controversy behind the proposed relocation of 13 elephant from the Howletts Wildlife Park in the United Kingdom to the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Kenya. 

This week we answer your burning questions.With questions from around the world, we answer questions like, what are the best conservation books to read and learn more? Should we sell rhino horn stockpiles to wealthy philanthropists, or should we destroy them? Do ivory and rhino burns or crushes work? Should NGOs support or challenge the captive lion breeding bill in South Africa? How do environmental bills get passed into law in the USA and should presidents execute more executive orders? And lastly, how do listeners access all the show notes and archives for the podcast?More questions in future - please send yours! Ask us anything you want to know about wildlife photography, art, documentaries - anything!

South Africa is facing a critical period in conservation legislation reform. 2 months after Barbara Creecy, the minister of the Department of Forest Fisheries and the Environment, released the findings of a high level panel to investigate the contentious intensive captive lion breeding industry and rhino breeding industry, the policy paper has now been released for public comment before being law. It is a convoluted process but it has already sent ripples through the conservation community. But perhaps the greatest threat to this landmark legislation not going through, are the conservation NGOs themselves. The legislation offers a major step forward in conservation efforts and should be supported - but we need unity. In this special report, we talk to investigative journalist and Research Fellow at the Centre of Criminology, University of Cape Town - Don Pinnock about the urgent need for unity in conservation and the need to support this landmark amendment.We encourage all of our listeners to sign the petition and to show support for the shutting down of the appalling captive lion breeding industry.The high level panel's findings can be found here.The policy document can be found here. All interested parties have 30 days from the 28th of June to submit comment for consideration by the minister.Peter's editorial focuses on the extravagant funeral of assassinated and alleged rhino poaching kingpin, Petros “Mr Big” Mabuza and asks why was he seen by many as a hero of the people.

Alleged rhino poaching kingpin Petrus “Mr Big” Mabuza has been assassinated. But what does this mean in the broader rhino poaching war?Early rhino fossils found, furthering the belief that these enormous rhino ancestors were the largest mammals to ever walk the earth.Simon calls for civility in the persistent media attacks against conservation scientists and commentators, even though he himself doesn't agree with them. We must move beyond the hate and threats of violence if we are to find a positive way forward.Today is the inaugural World Female Ranger Day - we call for support for these brave eco-warriors.Peter's editorial has some interesting insights as he describes a day in the life of an environmental journalist. Could crimes against the environment be tried as ecocide? A group of international lawyers believes it can - and must - be. South Africa's DFFE calls for public comment on the implementation of the recommendations from the recent high level panel. Tanzania paoching declines.The Yulan dog  festival is back - if we in the west object, are we guilty of double standards in animal welfare?Scar the most famous lion in the world died this past week, and in so doing resurrected the debate on anthropomorphising wild animals. Should we refrain from naming iconic wild animals? Finally, the rampant slaughter of wolves in the USA again makes headlines.

Are we seeing a wave of optimism in conservation and sustainability circles? A theme winds through this episode as we unpack reasons to be hopeful that things are changing for the better around the world.Peter's editorial talks about South Africa's Youth Day being the inspiration for World Day of the African Child - a day that shines. spotlight on th education challenges that still face the continent and how conservation can play a role in this much needed correction.How big are countries relatively speaking? Here's a way to compare them.Whales wash ashore in California, adding to the global concern of the impact of shipping on whales, but perhaps there is new hope. A new movement is growing and even The Ocean Race is playing their part.Can you really be swallowed by a whale?The mistreatment of diary cows has Shannon fuming and rightfully calls for industrial farming practices to be discouraged. But should it happen over night? Are overnight bans or restrictions reasonable for activists to expect?Israel bans fur trade and calls on other countries to do the same.The elephants trekking through China are now under a police guard.Good news from Indonesia - 2 baby Javan rhino have been spotted!Kenya announces elephant naming festival to boost conservation awareness. Staying in Kenya - Paula Kahumba joins this years list of Rolex National Geographic Conservation winners. Well deserved.More prize winners as “The Green Nobel Prize” - the Goldman Environmental Prize announces its winners - and 5 of the 6 are women. A great proof point of the transformational work that is being achieved on the ground around the world. 

Inspired by stories like Huberta, the migrating hippo and the elephants trekking across China, Peter's editorial focuses on the great and mysterious migrations of animals. Simon believes media outlets should be more responsible though and explains how sensationalist media can put wildlife and people at risk.Donkey collagen is a booming industry - and so are the animal welfare issues that come with it.Should social media companies like Facebook do more to prevent the growing number of illegal wildlife trade transactions on social media platforms? Proposed legislation should be supported. Simon suggests a discussion on our Wildlife & Conservation Club on Clubhouse. Follow the profile for more details here.Kenya's anti poaching efforts are working with no rhino poaching incidents reported for 2020.One poacher killed and several arrested in South Africa as SANParks reacts to the potential of increased poaching as the effects of Covid continue to grip the country.In response to yet another public call for rhino horn trade to be legalised, Simon asks that we be honest about motive. We must put differences said, yes, but we also need to agree on the objective and that should be how to protect wild rhino, not how to protect the opportunity of a few to profit from trade.Are we being hypocrites in challenging the fossil fuel and extraction industries? Perhaps, but that doesn't mean we shouldn't improve our own habits and continue the pressure on unscrupulous corporates like Recon Africa.Namibia could be facing new poaching challenges.The first fully vegan 3-star Michellen rated restaurant opens its doors in New York while Burger King open their first fully vegan outlet in Germany. A sign of a growing shift in animal welfare issues?

ReconAfrica under investigation by the SEC for misleading investors - could this be the beginning of the end of their controversial exploration in Southern Africa?Electric cars are great, but what do we do with the used and unrecyclable batteries?The container ship burning off the Sri Lankan coast has dumped tons of plastic into the ocean, polluting the Sri Lankan coastline.India reintroduces cheetah into the wild with the help of the Endangered Wildlife Trust from South Africa.South Africa and France join forces to protect biodiversity.Notorious poacher arrested in Bangladesh.CSI assistance in Kenya.South African conservation at a crossroads…

Peter’s editorial focuses on World Endangered Species Day. To commemorate the occasion, the Shannon Elizabeth Foundation will be raising funds for Munu, the blind black rhino.The results of The New Big 5 are in! Has your favourite animal made the list?Big cats make the news - a tiger escapes in Texas and lions in a Hyderabad Zoo in India test positive for COVID-19.A mixed bag of rhino news - poaching is up in Botswana, more arrests and convictions in South Africa, Dr William Fowlds leads a team of international experts to insert isotopes in rhino horn and Kevin Pietersen collaborates with Hublot to help Care For Wild.Simon rants about the misinformation in media about the fall-out of Minister Barbara Creecy’s High Level Panel.An up and down week for the Galapagos Islands - Darwin’s Arch collapses but the newly rebranded Re:Wild along with Leonardo di Caprio invest US$43million in preserving this crucial wilderness.

Captive lion breeders in South Africa begin to prepare a class action suit against the Department of Forest, Fisheries and the Environment. The Texas bankruptcy court denies the application by NRA’s Wayne le Pierre to dissolve the controversial organisation in the same week that media around the world condemns his shocking trophy hunt of an African elephant.Idaho’s governor, Brad Little passes a shocking bill that promotes the unethical slaughter of 90% of the state’s wild wolves. Pressure mounts for ReconAfrica as further questions are asked of their less than acceptable conduct in Namibia and Botswana.SANParks’ CEO Fundisile Mketeni faces allegations of sexual misconduct.Peter revisits his view of Seaspiracy in his latest editorial.

Minister Barbara Creecy from South Africa’s Department of  Forest, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) surprised many conservationists with a bold move to ban the captive breeding of lion and rhino. Creecy delivered the long awaited report  during a press conference this past Sunday.Having convened a High Level Panel in 2019, the ministry has examined all available data and accepted the panel’s recommendation to dissolve the captive lion breeding - a deplorable industry fuelling the lion bone and canned hunting industries. The Minister also accepted the recommendation to no longer pursue the international trade in rhino and to uphold the CITES ban.Conservationist and the co-founder of Blood Lions, Ian Michler, has been one of the instrumental figures in achieving this victory for conservation. Having dedicated over 20 years to this campaign, we spoke to him about what this news means and what work still needs to be done.Ian joins Peter Borchert, Shannon Elizabeth and Simon Borchert in an exclusive interview.For Minister Creecy’s full speech, please click here.To read the full report by the High Level Panel, please click here.

Earth Day Round Up! Greta Thunberg goes toe-to-toe with Rep Ralph Norman in a subcommittee hearing in Congress. Shannon thanks everyone for donating on Clubhouse, and we discuss ways that everyone can do their bit.Furch Guitars and Taylor Guitars are moving toward a more sustainable future and are becoming more conscious about the use of endangered and exotic woods in the manufacturing of their guitars - providing yet another way artists and consumers can use the power of their dollar to improve the planet. A new species of venomous snake discovered in Asia.  The latest union of hunters in South Africa, called the Sustainable Utilisation Coalition, leaves a lot to be desired…SANParks have a great week with multiple apprehensions in Kruger National Park.We discuss the update on ReconAfrica’s drilling in Namibia.

We could be close to getting ReconAfrica to commit to a public panel about their fracking in Namibia and Botswana which is putting the entire Kavango Basin and surrounding communities at a huge risk.In the spirit of corporate colonisation, Total pushes forward with their oil pipeline that will connect the oil fields in Uganda’s Lake Albert Basin with the Tanzanian coast some 1400km or 900 miles to the east. Can we stop it?Zimbabwe has decided to sell some 500 elephant trophy hunts at $70,000 per hunt. The intention is to use these funds to fund conservation. A difficult discussion ensues in studio as we try to find an alternative to managing elephant populations. Cape Town’s Table Mountain - the most diverse floral kingdom in the world - suffered a massive fire this week. But could it have been avoided? Peter thinks so… We encourage all listeners to donate if they can to SPCA Wildlife Division as they begin the rehabilitation efforts for so many affected animals.Are you on Clubhouse? Then join Shannon and Simon as they host their Earth Day special on the Wildlife & Conservation Clubhouse at 6pm CAT/12pmEST/9amPST. For every speaker we will donate a bag of dogwood to the K( Anti-Poaching Unit at the Care For Wild Rhino Sanctuary! If you’re on an Apple devise and need an invite to join Clubhouse, please drop us an email at info@artofconservation.com and we will hook you up. 

Petronel Nieuwoudt and Don English and the other courageous soles presented in this documentary are heroes. Not the kind of fictitious superheroes who wear capes, they are instead the real heroes. The kind that gets scared, that cry, that worry, that bleed… Yet they show up anyway. Every day and every night. And against incalculable odds.Emerging filmmaking heroes Morgan Pelt, Garth de Brun Austin and Sean Viljoen tell Petronel and Don’s story in this remarkable documentary. A four year odyssey that has resulted in one of the most important conservation documentaries of recent times. The Last Horns of Africa is a focus not just on the persistent poaching crisis that continues to decimate rhinos, but more importantly on the people that are literally risking their lives to save these gentle giants.Shannon Elizabeth and Simon Borchert interview the creators of The Last Horns Of Africa.

Simon is becoming a snake wrangler, Shannon has spider bite and Peter decides to stop eating fish. It is also a big week for nature documentaries!My Octopus Teacher wins a BAFTA. We talk about how Seaspiracy exposes the fishing industries.The Last Horns of Africa hits home. Hard. We discuss the documentary that follows two of our friends, Petronel Nieuwoudt from Care For Wild Rhino Sanctuary and Don English, the most important man in South Africa’s war against rhino poaching. Saving The Wild’s Jamie Joseph reacts and calls for public support in ensuring Don remains the man in charge.President Biden negotiates with Brazil’s President Bolsonaro in defending the Amazon Rainforests - but will it work?Last chance to vote! The New Big Five heads into its final week - please vote in this awesome initiative!

According to Peter’s editorial this week in RhinoReview.org, animals are provably worth more alive than dead - throwing a spanner in the works of consumptive use economic arguments. World Bank sees the potential of a conservation economy as it launches its first wildlife bond designed to protect the endangered black rhino in South Africa.Great news in Kenya as Ol Pejeta announces birth of white rhino calf.Nepal begins first census since 2015 of their one-horned rhino population.China opens first polar bear hotel. Sign the petition to bring this obscene animal cruelty to an end.International concern is mounting as Recon Africa, the morally bankrupt Canadian oil company, advances its drilling in Namibia and Botswana and silences indigenous communities in their path.Poaching on the rise in Africa and India with more tigers poached for the illegal wildlife trade.

Peter’s editorial questions the messaging of International Women’s Day when so many women in poverty stricken countries are still so oppressed. We need to do more and conservation can be a major player in correcting gender based violence and gender inequality. Shannon talks about her new Scholarship fund for young African women to enter the conservation sciences. Mandy, a white rhino that survived a poachers bullet several times recovers to have her first calf in time for International Women’s Day!Should eco-tourism operators adhere to an accreditation system to evaluate their sustainability efforts? We think so.Lions maul tracker to death.Harris Beef exposed as horrific abusers of cattle on behalf of Costco. We talk about the power of conscious consumerism.Sharks glow! A recent study describes the bioluminescence capabilities of several shark species off the coast of New Zealand.South Korea’s largest dog meat auction is banned.

It’s World Wildlife Day and we’ve dedicated our show to a day that reminds us just wonderful the wild world is!Peter’s editorial this week showcases some of the more interesting species on the African continent. From Madagascar’s Aye-Aye to the sex life of a clown fish, we’ve got some insights that will capture your imagination.TRAFFIC and WWF chooses World Wildlife Day to release a report that puts pressure on France and the central role they play in the illegal wildlife trade.An iceberg the size of Los Angelas has broken off the Brunt shelf in Antarctica.Canada to push forward with the Jane Goodall Act, designed to give elephants, dolphins, great apes, and other animals the right to live free from hunting, captivity, and abuse.Norway continue with their archaic and barbaric whaling practices.

The economics of conservation is a hot topic and we weigh in. We need to protect more habitat and employ more people to protect it - but how are we going to pay for it all?We discuss the possibilities of a reengineered conservation economy as UNEP releases the “Making Peace With Nature” report. The report joins a chorus of thinkers who recognise the need for convergence of good business with authentic philanthropy.Should we be demanding that NGO’s provide a R.O.D. - a Return On Donation to donors? We think so… Audited performance reports of NGOs could inspire more giving and investment.We are asked if fake rhino horn would squash the illegal trade in horn? We discuss the shortcomings of the applied Gresham’s Law of Economics when applied to the modern illegal wildlife trade..Referenced article - Peter Borchert’s editorial in Daily Maverick this week…

Peter’s editorial reflects on World Pangolin Day. A day that promotes the world’s most trafficked mammal. And the stats are simply scary… We discuss some amazing people that deserve your support in protecting these curious creatures.Canadian mining giant ReconAfrica continues its assault on the Okavango Delta and in our opinion they’re doing so with near zero regard for the wildlife or the people who call this World Heritage Site home. We unpack what we know so far. And there is not much to be optimistic about. If you want to be inspired to protect the Okavango, watch Steve Boyes’ Into The Okavango. His work and story is awe-inspiring.China’s Guangdong province launches a surprising program that supports local whistleblowers in the illegal wildlife trade.Agroforestry-grown coffee offers hope for Amazonian communities and proves the value of regenerative farming. Some good news - herpetologists have discovered the world’s smallest reptile in Madagascar - a nano chameleon!

What is IUCN and CITES? We explain the structure and role of these conservation bodies and debate how they could be improved in a modern conservation and political landscape.The decline of nature is directly linked to our quality of life - yet why don’t we act with more urgency to repair and protect the planet? We think about the the link between positive media and positive behaviour and how COVID has perhaps resensitised us.And in fantastic news for South Africa, the environmental court in Kruger National Park’s Skukuza reopens for business after the constitutional court reinstated it with immediate effect.Dallas Safari Club take their annual conference on-line with auctions of trophy hunts of critically endangered animals like the black rhino. Pablo Escobar’s hippos are causing havoc in Medellin - almost 30 years after his death.Finally, a beautiful story of how senior Londolozi ranger, Shaun D’Araujo discovers a new way of looking at wildlife with a lesson taught by a blind guest…