TREES (Tourism Research in Economic Environs and Society) would like to thank the following people and institutions:

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3 TREES (Tourism Research in Economic Environs and Society) would like to thank the following people and institutions: 1. Special thanks to the CEO, Mrs Adri Kitshoff, for her help and assistance regarding management of the survey. 2. Staff at PHASA for their contribution to the research and for administering the questionnaire on their official website. 3. Members of PHASA and their clients for their willingness to participate and assist in the survey. 4. Staff at TREES (Tourism Research in Economic Environs and Society) for their assistance. 5. Mrs Cecile van Zyl for language editing. i

4 GENDER AGE MARITAL STATUS LEVEL OF EDUCATION COUNTRY OF RESIDENCE OCCUPATION HUNTING ORGANISATIONS HEARD ABOUT OUTFITTER PERFORMANCE OF SOUTH AFRICAN OUTFITTERS AND PROFESSIONAL HUNTERS TAXIDERMY TOTAL NUMBER OF TROPHIES COLLECTED DURING CAREER TOTAL NUMBER OF ANIMALS HUNTED DURING HUNTING CAREER PREFERRED PROVINCE TO HUNT AT SPOUSE/FRIEND ACCOMPANYING HUNTING TRIP TO SOUTH AFRICA NUMBER ACCOMPANYING HUNTERS NUMBER OF PEOPLE FINANCIALLY RESPONSIBLE FOR IN THE GROUP NUMBER OF OBSERVERS ACCOMPANYING THE TRIP LENGTH OF STAY NUMBER OF NIGHTS STAYED EXTRA REASONS WHY SOUTH AFRICA WAS CHOSEN AS HUNTING DESTINATION AIRLINE USED TO TRAVEL TO SOUTH AFRICA PERCEIVED SAFETY AFFECTED BY CRIME NUMBER OF TIMES HUNTED IN SOUTH AFRICA OVER THE PAST YEAR NUMBER OF TIMES HUNTED IN COUNTRIES OTHER THAN SOUTH AFRICA SPENDING DURING HUNTING TRIP (EXCLUDING GAME HUNTED AND DAILY FEES) SPECIES HUNTED TOTAL SPENDING ii

5 4.28 HUNTING METHOD WHY HUNTERS ENJOYED HUNTING IN ASPECTS CONTRIBUTING TO A MEMORABLE HUNTING EXPERIENCE HUNTING OF CAPTIVE BRED LIONS INFORMATION REGARDING LION HUNT RIFLE OWNERSHIP CONCLUSIONS SUMMARY OF TROPHY HUNTERS RECOMMENDATIONS BY RESPONDENTS RECOMMENDATIONS BY RESEARCHERS Figure 4.1: Gender 3 Figure 4.2: Marital status 4 Figure 4.3: Level of education 4 Figure 4.4: Country of residence 5 Figure 4.5: Taxidermy 8 Figure 4.6: Accompanied by spouse/friend 11 Figure 4.7: Affected by crime 17 Figure 4.8: Total spending 23 Figure 4.9: Hunting method 24 Figure 4.10: Hunting captive bred lions 29 Figure 4.11: Information regarding lion hunt 30 Figure 4.12: Rifle ownership 30 iii

6 Table 4.1: Age 3 Table 4.2: Occupation 5 Table 4.3: Heard about outfitter 7 Table 4.4: Performance of South African outfitters and professional hunters 7 Table 4.5: Total number of trophies collected 8 Table 4.6: Total number of animals hunted 8 Table 4.7: Preferred provinces to hunt in 10 Table 4.8: Number of hunters accompanying the trip 11 Table 4.9: Number of people financially responsible for 12 Table 4.10: Number of observers accompanying the trip 13 Table 4.11: Length of stay 13 Table 4.12: Number of nights stayed extra 14 Table 4.13: Airline used to travel to South Africa 15 Table 4.14: Perceived safety 16 Table 4.15: Number of times hunted in South Africa over the past year 17 Table 4.16: Number of times in countries other than South Africa 18 Table 4.17: Other spending during hunting trip 19 Table 4.18: Game species hunted 20 Table 4.19: Top ten species 22 Table 4.20: Aspects contributing to a memorable hunting experience 26 Table 5.1: Summary of trophy hunters 31 iv

7 South Africa is a country with a very large diversity of animal species, especially game species. Wildlife tourism products such as game farm tourism are recognised as one of the cornerstones of South Africa s wildlife tourism industry and have shown extraordinary growth over the last 50 years. Wildlife tourism is defined as tourism that is based on encounters with non domesticated animals and the encounters can occur in either the animals natural environment (for example, in a national park) or in captivity (for example, at a zoo). It includes both non consumptive (for example, game viewing, hiking and walking safaris) and consumptive activities (for example, hunting and fishing) (Higginbottom 2004). One of the major contributors to wildlife tourism in South Africa is hunting (Bauer & Herr 2004; Saayman et al., 2011), and is defined by Reynolds and Braithwaite (2001) as the consumptive use of wildlife in either natural habitat, semi captured or farmed conditions. In South Africa, hunting can be classified into the two main categories of trophy and biltong (local hunter) hunting. To be able to understand this industry and to determine the size thereof, research is needed in both the just mentioned categories of hunting. As numerous research projects have been done in the past on the biltong or the local hunter in South Africa, the opposite is true regarding trophy hunting. Trophy hunting can be defined as the selective hunting of wild game animals where parts of the hunted animal are kept as a trophy or memorial. This is usually the skin, antlers and/or head, while the carcass itself is sometimes used for meat (Saayman et al., 2009). In order to obtain a holistic view regarding hunters profile and spending, consistent research is needed in both categories. It has been argued that trophy hunting generates millions of rands, which strongly contributes to the country s economy in revenue. Recent literature regarding this industry is lacking, especially regarding the economic impact as well as the profile of these hunters. This will assist government, hunting organisations and product owners in making informed decisions that will assist the industry to grow, prosper and to develop better marketing strategies.. As a result, TREES (Tourism Research in Economic Environs and Society), in cooperation with PHASA (Professional Hunters of South Africa) made a decision to conduct research on the trophy hunting industry in South Africa, thereby filling a gap in the literature of this very large 1

8 industry. This 2013 survey was the first of its kind and it is planned to be repeated every two to three years. This research will be discussed in the rest of this research based technical report. This research project had the following primary aims: To determine the profile of trophy hunters in South Africa. To determine the spending patterns of trophy hunters. To determine trophy hunters reasons for hunting. To determine trophy hunters hunting patterns. To estimate the economic impact of trophy hunting on South Africa. To determine the most popular species hunted and species that generate the highest income. The study was conducted by means of quantitative research during which a questionnaire was developed (from adapted questionnaires previously used) by TREES at the North West University that measured the following aspects: Demographic data; Expenditure data; Hunting behaviour; and Hunting motivations. The survey was web based and hosted on the official PHASA website. Respondents could complete the questionnaire electronically and submit it. A total number of 147 usable questionnaires were received back between January and October The data is based on the 2012 hunting season. 2

9 The following section illustrates the results obtained from the research. 4.1 GENDER According to Figure 4.1, 97% of respondents indicated that they are male and 3% are female (Figure 4.1). Female, 3% Male, 97% Figure 4.1: Gender 4.2 AGE The largest group (34%) of respondents indicated that they are between the ages of 51 and 60 years, followed by 30% who are between 61 and 70. Seventeen percent (17%) of respondents indicated that they are between 41 and 50, while 10% are between 31 and 40 years. The average age of trophy hunters is years (Table 4.1). Table 4: 1: Age AGE < % 10% 17% 34% 30% 8% 3

10 4.3 MARITAL STATUS Eighty nine percent (89%) of respondents indicated that they are married, 7% are not married and 3% are divorced. Only 1% indicated that they are in a relationship (Figure 4.2). 1% 3% 7% Not married Married In a relationship Divorced 89% Figure 4.2: Marital status 4.3 LEVEL OF EDUCATION Figure 4.3 indicates that 86% of respondents are well educated with 40% of respondents who have obtained a diploma or degree, 27% have obtained a professional qualification and 19% have obtained a post graduate qualification. 45% 40% 35% 30% 25% 20% 15% 10% 5% 0% 40% 27% 19% 14% Completed school Diploma/degree Post graduate Professional Figure 4.3: Level of education 4

11 4.4 COUNTRY OF RESIDENCE Figure 4.4 shows the majority of respondents (88%) indicated that they are from the United States of America, 9% originate from South Africa and 1% respectively from Namibia, Denmark or the United Kingdom (Figure 4.4). Other countries from which respondents originate (less than 1%) include: Australia, Canada and Mexico. 100% 90% 88% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% 9% 1% 1% 1% South Africa Namibia Denmark United Kingdom United States of America Figure 4.4: Country of residence 4.5 OCCUPATION More than half of respondents (51%) indicated that they are in a professional occupation (Table 4.2), followed by 25% who are self employed, and 10% who are in managerial positions. Six percent (6%) are sales personnel, while 3% respectively indicated that they are in an administrative occupation or they are farmers. Other occupations include pilot, construction, homemaker and military officer. Table 4.2: Occupation Occupation 2013 Professional 51% Manager 10% 5

12 Administrative 3% Sales personnel 6% Farming 3% Mining 1% Education 1% Self employed 25% 4.6 HUNTING ORGANISATIONS Respondents were asked to indicate to which hunting organisations they belong. The following organisations were mentioned: Safari Club International (53%) National Rifle Association, USA (25%) Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (17%) Cape hunt and Conservation (5%) Dallas Safari Club (12%) Cape Hunters Association South Africa (CHASA) (1%) Ducks Unlimited (7%) Foundation for North American Wild sheep (2%) North American Hunting Club (5%) Professional Hunters Association South Africa (PHASA) (1%) 4.7 HEARD ABOUT OUTFITTER Respondents were asked to indicate how they heard about the hunting outfitter whom they hunted with while in South Africa (Table 4.3). Thirty two percent (32%) indicated that they heard about the outfitter from a trade show, followed by 30% who heard about the outfitter through word of mouth and 18% who heard about the outfitter from a hunt donation, for example Safari Club International trade show (Table 4.3). 6

13 Table 4.3: Heard about outfitter Media 2013 Trade Show 32% Word of mouth 30% Hunt donation (for example SCI trade show) 18% Internet 8% Hunting magazine 3% Private functioned organised by outfitter 2% *Please note that percentage will not add up to 100% 4.8 PERFORMANCE OF SOUTH AFRICAN OUTFITTERS AND PROFESSIONAL HUNTERS Table 4.4 illustrates the ratings of South African outfitters and professional hunters as experienced by respondents. Most of the services and performance of outfitters and professional hunters were rated as good to excellent: Well equipped (94%); Go the extra mile (94%); Professional (94%); and Well trained (93%). Table 4.4: Performance of South African outfitters and professional hunters POOR FAIR AVERAGE GOOD EXCELLENT Well equipped 2% 2% 2% 26% 68% Well trained 2% 1% 4% 13% 80% Knowledge of wildlife and hunting aspects 1% 2% 11% 85% 1% 7

14 Well organised and well managed 1% 3% 21% 74% 1% Hospitable 1% 1% 13% 84% 1% Go the extra mile 1% 2% 3% 12% 82% Professional 2% 1% 3% 12% 82% 4.9 TAXIDERMY With regard to the taxidermy services used by respondents, 62% indicated that everything was done by South African taxidermists, while 38% of respondents stated that they make use of dipping and shipping, which indicates that taxidermy work is done in the respondent s country of residence (Figure 4.5). 38% 62% Dip and ship to be done in country of origin All done by South African taxidermy Figure 4.5: Taxidermy 4.10 TOTAL NUMBER OF TROPHIES COLLECTED DURING CAREER Respondents were asked to indicate the number of trophies they had collected during their hunting career. Fifty four percent (54%) collected between one and ten trophies, 25% 8

15 between 11 and 20 and 8% between 21 and 30 trophies. The average number of trophies collected was 18 (Table 4.5). Table 4.5: Total number of trophies collected NUMBER % % % % % % % AVERAGE TOTAL NUMBER OF ANIMALS HUNTED DURING HUNTING CAREER Table 4.6 indicates that 45% of respondents have hunted between one and ten animals in their hunting career, followed by 23% who hunted between 11 and 20, and 12% who respectively hunted between 21 and 30 or 51 and more animals. The average number of animals hunted is 36. Table 4.6: Total number of animals hunted NUMBER % % % % % 9

16 % AVERAGE PREFERRED PROVINCE TO HUNT AT Respondents were asked to indicate the provinces they prefer to hunt in on a scale of 1 to 9, as illustrated in Table 4.7. The following provinces were rated as the most preferred provinces (based on respondents top 3): Limpopo (54%); Eastern Cape (35%); KwaZulu Natal (24%); Northern Cape (23%); and North West (21%). Table 4.7: Preferred provinces to hunt in Limpopo 33% 16% 5% 1% 7% 5% 3% 1% 10% Northern Cape 13% 5% 5% 5% 7% 7% 3% 6% 5% North West 12% 5% 4% 9% 10% 3% 4% 3% 7% Free State 4% 7% 5% 5% 12% 6% 6% 5% 3% Western Cape 9% 7% 4% 4% 5% 7% 7% 1% 5% Eastern Cape 20% 5% 10% 5% 9% 1% 4% 5% 6% Gauteng 3% 1% 4% 3% 7% 3% 3% 9% 9% Mpumalanga 3% 6% 7% 6% 7% 3% 3% 7% 4% KwaZulu Natal 10% 7% 7% 7% 4% 4% 5% 3% 7% 10

17 4.13 SPOUSE/FRIEND ACCOMPANYING HUNTING TRIP TO SOUTH AFRICA Seventy four percent (74%) of respondents indicated that they were accompanied by a spouse or a friend, while 26% indicated that they were not (Figure 4.16). 26% Yes No 74% Figure 4.6: Accompanied by spouse/friend 4.14 NUMBER ACCOMPANYING HUNTERS According to Table 4.8, 38% of respondents indicated that they were accompanied by two to five hunters, followed by 30% who were accompanied by one hunter and 24% who travelled alone. The average number of hunters accompanying the respondent on the trip is 2.57 people. Table 4.8: Number of hunters accompanying the trip SIZE 2013 None 24% 11

18 1 person 30% 2 5 people 38% 6 8 people 4% 10+ people 4% AVERAGE NUMBER OF PEOPLE FINANCIALLY RESPONSIBLE FOR IN THE GROUP According to Table 4.9, 43% of respondents were financially responsible for one person, followed by 41% who paid for two to four people and 10% who were not financially responsible for anyone. The average number of people the respondents were financially responsible for is 1.87 people. Table 4.9: Number of people financially responsible for NUMBER OF PEOPLE 2013 None 10% 1 person 43% 2 4 people 41% 5 6 people 4% 7+ people 2% AVERAGE NUMBER OF OBSERVERS ACCOMPANYING THE TRIP More than half (54%) of respondents indicated that they were not accompanied by observers, while 29% were accompanied by one person and 10% by two people (Table 4.10). Those who had three observers accompanying them accounted for 5%, while 1% indicated that they had four or more observers accompanying them. The average number of observers is 0.86 people. 12

19 Table 4.10: Number of observers accompanying the trip NUMBER OF PEOPLE 2013 None 54% 1 person 29% 2 people 10% 3 people 5% 4 people 1% 4+ people 1% AVERAGE LENGTH OF STAY Table 4.11 illustrates that 34% of respondents respectively indicated that they stayed between seven and nine or between 10 and 12 nights. This was followed by 12% who stayed between four and six nights, 7% between 13 and 15 nights and 6% who stayed between 16 and 18 nights. The average amount of nights spent at the hunting destination is 9.50 nights. Table 4.11: Length of stay NUMBER OF NIGHTS 2013 None 1% 1 3 nights 4% 4 6 nights 12% 7 9 nights 34% nights 34% nights 7% nights 6% 19+ nights 2% 13

20 AVERAGE NUMBER OF NIGHTS STAYED EXTRA As indicated in Table 4.12, 42% of respondents stated that they did not stay for a longer period than the length of the hunting trip. This is followed by 39% who stayed between one and three nights, 8% who stayed between four and six nights and 6% who stayed between seven and nine nights. The average number of nights spent extra is 2.52 nights. Table 4.12: Number of nights stayed extra NUMBER OF NIGHTS 2013 None 42% 1 3 nights 39% 4 6 nights 8% 7 9 nights 6% nights 3% 13+ nights 2% AVERAGE REASONS WHY SOUTH AFRICA WAS CHOSEN AS HUNTING DESTINATION Respondents were asked to provide reasons for why they selected South Africa as a hunting destination. The most mentioned reasons included: The variety of game available; Convenience; Costs and pricing; Safety; 14

21 Recommended by friends and families; The value of South Africa as a hunting destination; and The good quality of game AIRLINE USED TO TRAVEL TO SOUTH AFRICA Respectively, 37% of respondents made use of Delta Airlines and SA Airways to travel to South Africa, followed by 5% who made use of British Airways (Table 4.13). Therefore, 38% (SA Airways and SA Express) of respondents make use of South African based airlines. The reasons why respondents chose these airlines include the fact that the airline offered a direct flight, as opposed to a stop over, they used accumulated mileage with a specific airline, the airline had the best route and pricing or the airline offered the best service. Table 4.13: Airline used to travel to South Africa AIRLLINE 2013 Air Canada 1% Air France 1% British Airways 5% Delta 37% Emirates 3% Nam Air 1% Qantas 1% SA Airways 37% SA Express 1% SAF 1% Swiss Airlines 1% Turkish Airlines 1% 15

22 United Airlines 2% Other 8% 4.21 PERCEIVED SAFETY Table 4.14 illustrates the perceived safety of respondents regarding tourism in South Africa. In general, respondents felt that South Africa is a relatively safe hunting destination. All aspects were rated as relatively safe to very safe: Tourism attractions visited (98%); At the airports in South Africa (96%); Cities visited (96%); While travelling in South Africa (96%); and At the game ranch or hunting concessions area (92%) None of the aspects mentioned in Table 4.14 were rated as not at all safe. Table 4.14: Perceived safety NOT AT ALL SAFE RELATIVELY SAFE VERY SAFE At the airports in South Africa At the game ranch or hunting concessions area While travelling in South Africa 3% 53% 43% 8% 91% 1% 4% 59% 37% Cities visited 14% 66% 20% Tourism attractions visited 1% 57% 41% 16

23 4.22 AFFECTED BY CRIME The majority of respondents (89%) indicated that they were not affected by crime while hunting in South Africa, while 11% had been a victim of crime (Figure 4.7). 11% Yes No 89% Figure 4.7: Affected by crime 4.23 NUMBER OF TIMES HUNTED IN SOUTH AFRICA OVER THE PAST YEAR More than three quarters (78%) of respondents indicated that they have hunted in South Africa once during the past year, followed by 8% who indicated twice and 6% who had never before hunted in South Africa (Table 4.15). On average, respondents had hunted in South Africa an average of once in Table 4.15: Number of times hunted in South Africa over the past year NUMBER times 6% 1 time 78% 2 times 7% 17

24 3 times 4% 4 times 2% 5 times 1% 6 times 1% 7 times 8 times 1% AVERAGE 1 time 4.24 NUMBER OF TIMES HUNTED IN COUNTRIES OTHER THAN SOUTH AFRICA Table 4.16 indicates that 35% of respondents stated that they have not hunted in other countries besides South Africa, followed by 27% who did so once and 18% who did so twice. The average number of times respondents hunted in other countries than South Africa is three times. Table 4.16: Number of times hunted in countries other than South Africa NUMBER times 35% 1 time 27% 2 times 18% 3 times 7% 4 times 2% 5 times 3% 6 times 1% 7 times 1% 18

25 8+ times 6% AVERAGE 3 times 4.25 SPENDING DURING HUNTING TRIP (EXCLUDING GAME HUNTED AND DAILY FEES) Average spending on transport to South Africa amounts to $ , of which respondents indicated that 38% of airlines used were South African based airlines. Therefore, an additional amount of $ can be added to the other expenses ($ ) of trophy hunters (excluding game and daily fees), resulting in an amount of $ for other expenses. The items with the highest spending include shipping costs and trophy handling ($ ) and additional tours and travel ($629.06) (Table 4.17). The average spending on daily fees was $ per respondent, which translates to a total spending of $ on daily fees ($ x 10 nights). Table 4.17: Other spending during hunting trip ITEMS Transport in South Africa (not included in daily fees) SPENDING $ Spending on SA Airlines $ Aspects not included in daily rates/fees: Food $63.80 Ammunition $53.07 Clothing $90.71 Hunting gear, excluding ammunition $

26 Shipping costs and trophy handling $ Licenses and permits $ Additional tours and travel costs $ Other $ TOTAL $ All prices displayed are in US$ 4.26 SPECIES HUNTED The average spending of hunters (Table 4.18) on game species amounts to $ Therefore, the average amount spent on game species per respondent per season is $ ($ / 147 (number of respondents) = $ ). Table 4.18: Game species hunted GAME SPECIES TOTAL ANIMALS (n) TOTAL ANIMALS (%) TOTAL AMOUNT ($) AVERAGE PRICE ($) Springbok Impala Kudu Blesbok Black Wildebeest Blue Wildebeest Warthog Zebra Oryx

27 Red Hartebeest Eland Bushbuck Nyala Waterbuck Mountain Reedbuck Duiker Buffalo Ostrich Reedbuck Bush pig Steenbok Lion Klipspringer Giraffe Bontebuck Elephant Grysbok Grey Rhebuck Leopard Hippopotamus Oribi TOTAL % $ Total = number of species hunted x average price All prices displayed are in US$ 21

28 The top five game species (Table 4.19) that were hunted in 2012 include Springbok, Impala, Kudu, Blesbok and Black Wildebeest. The top five game species that generated the most income were Lion, Kudu, Buffalo, Springbok and Zebra. Both Kudu and Springbok were part of the top five in both categories. Table 4.19: Top ten species TOP TEN SPECIES HUNTED TOP TEN INCOME GENERATORS 1. Springbok 1. Lion 2. Impala 2. Kudu 3. Kudu 3. Buffalo 4. Blesbok 4. Springbok 5. Black Wildebeest 5. Zebra 6. Blue Wildebeest 6. Blue Wildebeest 7. Warthog 7. Nyala 8. Zebra 8. Black Wildebeest 9. Oryx 9. Eland 10. Red Hartebeest 10. Blesbok 4.27 TOTAL SPENDING The total spending (Figure 4.8) can therefore be divided into game hunted ($ ), daily fees ($ ) and other expenses ($ ). The total amount spent by trophy hunters in the 2012 hunting season is $ ($ x R8 p/$ = R ). Based on the statistics received from The Department of Environmental Affairs and Statistics South Africa it is estimated that, South Africa receives in the vicinity of international hunters in 2012, if this is multiplied with R (average spending), the economic value for trophy hunting translates to R1.24 billion (R

29 560) or $156 million. Respondent were also asked if hunting in South Africa is seen as value for money, and 87% replied yes. Game Hunted Daily Fees Other Expenses $ $ $ Figure 4.8: Total spending All prices displayed are in US$ 4.28 HUNTING METHOD According to Figure 4.9, the most preferred hunting method was stalking (72%), followed by 13% of respondents who indicated they prefer hunting mostly from a vehicle and 6% prefer pertinent bow hunting. Other methods include a combination of hunting from a vehicle and stalking as well as stalking and waiting in hides. 23

30 80% 70% 72% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 13% 10% 0% Mostly from a vehicle 4% 3% 6% Stalking Lie in wait Hides Pertinent bow hunting 2% Other Figure 4.9: Hunting method 4.29 WHY HUNTERS ENJOYED HUNTING IN 2012 Three reasons had to be given why respondents enjoyed hunting in South Africa during The following reasons were mentioned most: The variety of game; The professional hunter is professional at all times and is interested in the hunter; The great accommodation and facilities; Safety reasons; Sightseeing and experiencing new places; and Good and professional service ASPECTS CONTRIBUTING TO A MEMORABLE HUNTING EXPERIENCE Respondents were asked to rate the aspects that contribute to a memorable hunting experience according to a scale of not at all important to extremely important, as illustrated by Table

31 The following aspects were rated as important to extremely important: The meeting of your expectations of the hunt (100%) Good management of game on reserves and game farms (100%) To have an adventure experience (97%) Shot placement on the game (97%) Game population size (97%) There should not be too many hunters (96%) Controlling hunter densities (96%) Experiencing an African hunting safari (96%) The scenery and ambience of the game farm (94%) Well managed nature and game (94%) The following aspects were rated as not at all important to less important: The opportunity to hunt dangerous species (lion, buffalo) (42%) Perception that game were abundant in the area (36%) Weather conditions (32%) Number of shots taken at game (31%) The fact that a wounded animal got away (29%) Shooting range to be provided (25%) 25

32 Table 4.20: Aspects contributing to a memorable hunting experience Not at all important Less important Important Very important Extremely important Weather conditions 6% 26% 41% 20% 7% The scenery and ambience of the game farm Smells and noises of animals in the area To be outdoor sand enjoy nature Well managed nature and game 1% 5% 23% 46% 25% 3% 16% 28% 36% 17% 1% 8% 28% 63% 1% 1% 5% 36% 57% 1% Game population size 3% 14% 43% 40% The fact that I shot game I planned to hunt Perception that game were abundant in the area Number of shots taken at game 1% 10% 24% 29% 35% 6% 30% 33% 30% 1% 13% 18% 26% 23% 20% The fact that I killed game 7% 20% 32% 18% 22% 26

33 Quality of trophies killed during the hunt Diversity of game killed during the hunt 3% 8% 25% 38% 26% 3% 9% 23% 38% 27% Shot placement on the game 1% 2% 14% 23% 60% The fact that a wounded animal was found The fact that a wounded animal got away Experiencing an African hunting safari Comfort of accommodation on game farm Shooting range to be provided Meals and refreshments on game farm Adequate butchery facilities on game farm 9% 1% 7% 22% 60% 24% 5% 16% 14% 41% 2% 2% 8% 30% 57% 1% 10% 28% 28% 34% 7% 18% 28% 23% 23% 1% 5% 30% 32% 31% 5% 11% 32% 26% 26% Controlling hunter densities 1% 3% 15% 35% 46% 27

34 Good management of game on ranches and reserves There should not be too many hunters Strict regulations for permits and hunting licensing should be in place The meeting of your expectations of the hunt To have an adventure experience Adventures and adrenaline rush hunting experience The opportunity to hunt dangerous species (lion, buffalo) Camaraderie you experience during the hunt Being with hunting companions To spend time with family and friends 10% 32% 58% 1% 3% 12% 32% 52% 7% 10% 27% 28% 28% 14% 41% 45% 1% 2% 13% 32% 52% 3% 7% 23% 28% 36% 22% 20% 17% 16% 25% 1% 3% 10% 30% 55% 7% 7% 16% 20% 50% 10% 5% 14% 19% 52% 28

35 4.31 HUNTING OF CAPTIVE BRED LIONS More than three quarters (77%) of respondents indicated that they would not hunt captive bred lions, while 23% indicated that they would (Figure 4.10). Yes No 23% 77% Figure 4.10: Hunting captive bred lions 4.32 INFORMATION REGARDING LION HUNT Respondents who have hunted lions before in South Africa were asked whether the professional hunter has informed them whether the lion was bred in captivity or the wild. Sixty eight percent (68%) of respondents indicated that they were not informed (Figure 4.11), while 32% stated they were informed regarding the lion s breeding status. 29

36 Yes No 32% 68% Figure 4.11: Information regarding lion hunt 4.33 RIFLE OWNERSHIP According to Figure 4.12, the majority (70%) of respondents stated that they made use of their own rifle that they brought along with them, while 30% made use of the professional hunter s rifle. Own Rifle Ph provided the rifle 30% 70% Figure 4.12: Rifle ownership 30

37 5.1 CONCLUSIONS Table 5.1 shows the summary of the profile of Trophy Hunters to South Africa. Table 5.1: Summary of trophy hunters APECTS 2013 GENDER Male (97%); Female (3%) AGE MARITAL STATUS Married (89%); Not married (7%) LEVEL OF EDUCATION Diploma/ degree (40%); Professional (27%) COUNTRY OF RSIDENCE United States of America (88%); South Africa (9%) OCCUPATION Professional (51%); Self employed (25%) HUNTING ORGANISATIONS Safari Club International National Rifle Association, USA Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Cape Hunt and Conservation Dallas Safari Club HEARD ABOUT OUTFITTER Trade shows (32%); Word of mouth (30%) PERFORMANCE OF SOUTH AFRICAN OUTFITTERS AND PROFESSIONAL HUNTERS TAXIDERMY NUMBER OF TROPHIES COLLECTED DURING HUNTING CAREER NUMBER OF ANIMALS HUNTED DURING HUNTING CAREER PREFERRED PROVINCE TO HUNT AT Well equipped Go the extra mile Professional Well trained All done by South African taxidermists Limpopo 31

38 Eastern Cape KwaZulu Natal Northern Cape North West SPOUSE/FRIEND ACCOMPANYING HUNTING TRIP TO SOUTH AFRICA NUMBER ACCOMPANYING HUNTERS NUMBER OF PEOPLE FINANCIALLY RESPONSIBLE FOR IN THE GROUP NUMBER OF OBSERVERS ACCOMPANYING THE TRIP LENGTH OF STAY NUMBER OF NIGHTS STAYE EXTRA REASONS WHY SOUTH AFRICA WAS CHOSEN AS HUNTING DESTINATION AIRLINES USED PERCEIVED SAFETY AFFECTED BY CRIME NUMBER OF TIMES HUNTED IN SOUTH AFRICA OVER THE PAST YEAR Yes 2.57 hunters 1.87 people 0.86 people 9.50 nights 2.52 nights The variety of game available Convenience Costs and pricing Safety Recommended by friends and families Delta Airlines SA Airways British Airways Tourism attractions visited At the airports in South Africa Cities visited While travelling in South Africa At the game ranch or hunting concession area No Once 32

39 NUMBER OF TIMES HUNTED IN COUNTRIES OTHER THAN SOUTH AFRICA 3 times SPENDING DURING HUNTING TRIP $ TOTAL DAILY FEES $ TOTAL SPENDING ON GAME HUNTED $ AVERAGE SPENDING OF TROPHY HUNTERS TO SOUTH AFRICA TOTAL ECONOMIC VALUE OF TROPHY HUNTING HUNTING METHOD WHY HUNTERS ENJOYED HUNTING IN 2012 ASPECTS CONTRIBUTING TO A MEMORABLE HUNTING EXPERIENCE HUNTING CAPTIVE BRED LIONS INFORMATION REGARDING LION HUNT RIFLE OWNERSHIP R ($ ) R1.24 BILLION Stalking The variety of game The professional hunter is professional at all times and is interested in the hunter The great accommodation and facilities Safety reasons The meeting of your expectations of the hunt Good management of game on reserves and game farms To have an adventure experience Shot placement on the game Game population and size No No Own rifle 5.2 SUMMARY OF TROPHY HUNTERS Respondents were mostly male, married with a diploma or degree and in a professional occupation. 33

40 They originate from the United States of America and support hunting organisations such as Safari Club International, National Rifle Association and Rocky Mountain Elk foundation. They have heard about the hunting outfitter whose services they made use of via trade shows and word of mouth. The performance of South African hunting outfitters was rated as good to excellent, especially the fact that they are well equipped and go the extra mile to give the hunter a great experience. Respondents indicated that they make use of South African taxidermists for the preparation, shipping and all other services relating to the hunter s trophy. Respondents have collected on average 18 trophies during their hunting career and have hunted on average 36 animals. They prefer to hunt in Limpopo, the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu Natal, Northern Cape and North West. More than half of respondents were accompanied on the trip by their spouse or a friend along with three other hunters and one observer, of whom they are financially responsible for two people. They stayed on average ten nights in South Africa. Those who stayed for an extra period after the hunting trip stayed for three nights. The reasons hunters chose to hunt in South Africa are due to the variety of game available, convenience and costs and pricing. Respondents made use of Delta and SA Airways as transport to South Africa. The majority of respondents were not affected by crime and indicated South Africa to be a relatively safe hunting destination, especially tourism attractions they visited, the airports and cities visited. Respondents hunted once in South Africa in the past year and three times in countries other than South Africa. The average spending of trophy hunters to South Africa is R The top five game species hunted are Springbok, Impala, Kudu, Blesbok and Black Wildebeest, while the top five income generating species are Lion, Kudu, Buffalo, Springbok and Zebra. 34

41 The total economic value of trophy hunting is R1.24 billion. Respondents felt that hunting in South Africa is value for money. Respondents enjoyed hunting in South Africa because of the variety of game, the professionalism and interest of the professional hunter and the great accommodation and facilities. Respondents also felt that a memorable hunting experience is due to the meeting of your expectations of the hunt, good management of game on reserves and farms and having an adventure experience. Respondents will not hunt captive bred lions, but more than half of respondents indicated that the professional hunter has not given them information about the hunted lion s breeding status. The majority of the respondents used their own rifles while hunting in South Africa. 5.3 RECOMMENDATIONS BY RESPONDENTS The following recommendations were made by respondents regarding trophy hunting in South Africa: Hunting outfitters need to be honest and upfront regarding the hunt and costs involved. Better control needs to be administered at airports so as to prevent rifles and hunting gear from being stolen. Security needs to be tightened at domestic airports so as to prevent airport workers from soliciting money. Hunting fees are too expensive and need to decrease. Make SAPA 540 applications available online Bribing and aggravation from staff working in the department for hunting and rifle permits need to be addressed. Application for hunting permits in South Africa is too complicated and prohibitive; the system needs to be simplified. 35

42 Make exportation of game meat legal, with proper safety measures, seeing as South Africa has the best quality of game meat. Reward professional hunters and outfitters who successfully introduce and maintain rare species to the wild. Costs pertaining to prepping and shipping of trophies are too expensive and need to decrease. 5.4 RECOMMENDATIONS BY RESEARCHERS The following recommendations are made by the researchers: That this research be repeated every two to three years as only then one would be able to determine trends in the hunting industry. That the South Africa government and hunting industry must continue to provide safe and stable hunting conditions to foreign hunters. The results of the research can be used to develop better products, better marketing material and to develop legislation that contributes to the hunting industry. The research can also assist hunting organisations and hunting products to be better managed. This research will assist hunting organisations, government and product owners during decision making processes. 36

43 Higginbottom, K Wildlife tourism: impacts, management and planning. Altoona Vic: Common Ground Publishers. Bauer, J. & Herr, A Hunting and fishing tourism. In Higginbottom, K. (eds.), Wildlife tourism: impacts, management and planning. Altoona Vic: Common Ground Publishers. Saayman, M., Van der Merwe, P., Rossouw, R. & Scholtz, M A socio economic impact study of the Limpopo province hunting industry. Potchefstroom: Institute for Tourism and Leisure Studies. Reynolds, P. C. & Braithwaite, D Towards a conceptual framework for wildlife tourism. Tourism Management, 22(1): Saayman, M.; Van Der Merwe; P., Rossouw; R. & Oberholzer, S A socio economic impact study of the Northern Cape hunting industry. Potchefstroom: Institute for Tourism and Leisure Studies 37