The following questions originate from journalists, animal rights activists and prospective volunteers who rightfully desire to support a cause aligned with the interests of endangered animals.
Answer to question 0
Who or What is Ukutula?
Ukutula comes from the native Zulu word “Ukuthula” which has various meanings according to the dictionary, amongst others “calm, peace, silence or stillness”. All the meanings highlight the quiet to be experienced here, except for the roar of a lion on occasion!
The geographic address of this conservation centre is The Farm Klipkop in the municipal area of Brits, South Africa. It is a family business, but no small business by any means and operated over the past eleven years by myself, my wife Gill, our sons Willi jnr., Berndt and our daughter and Chef, Helga. We could never do this without an incredible support staff numbering around 70 that has included capable managers such as the legendary Sparkly Kagiso Mokgosi and Priza Kekana (Priza is particularly qualified in her role, holding a BSc. degree in molecular and Life Sciences) and Alan Strachan who had over 40 years of experience in Cheetah management when he died in 2018.
The geographic address of this conservation centre is The Farm Klipkop in the municipal area of Brits, South Africa. It is a family business, but no small business by any means and operated over the past eleven years by myself, my wife Gill, our sons Willi jnr., Berndt and our daughter and Chef, Helga. We could never do this without an incredible support staff numbering around 70 that has included capable managers such as the legendary Sparkly Kagiso Mokgosi and Priza Kekana (Priza is particularly qualified in her role, holding a BSc. degree in molecular and Life Sciences) and Alan Strachan who had over 40 years of experience in Cheetah management when he died in 2018.
You maintain there WAS only one solution to the extinction facing many wild animals on earth and particularly predators. What do you mean by this?
Well, in the year 1900 the earth was sparsely inhabited by man and animals would freely roam entire continents, creating an ideal environment for food availability, genetic diversity and preservation of habitats, with little spread of disease. Sometimes they were hunted, but almost exclusively for food. That was the only way they could survive and flourish. But it is no longer.
Why not?
At the turn of the last century, there were around 1.65 Billion of us humans on this earth. This year, there are an estimated 7.7 billion, an increase of 360%! With a human population expanding so expansively and impacting the environments of wild animals, just the one species, the lion has been impacted alarmingly. One particular statistic is staggering. In 1940 there were an estimated total of 450,000 lions in existence. Today it is estimated there are less than 20,000. That is a decrease of almost 96% in just 66 years! How sobering.
Indeed, as the population of humanity has dramatically increased, sadly the populations of wild animals including the lion have decreased precipitously. In every single instance, the cause of extinction is direct interference by man, either through habitat destruction and encroachment, domestic animal breeding causing a depletion of food sources and the spread of disease, or in so many upsetting instances, by wanton killing.
Indeed, as the population of humanity has dramatically increased, sadly the populations of wild animals including the lion have decreased precipitously. In every single instance, the cause of extinction is direct interference by man, either through habitat destruction and encroachment, domestic animal breeding causing a depletion of food sources and the spread of disease, or in so many upsetting instances, by wanton killing.
So what is the solution?
The solution would be to return back to the past – but we all know that will and just cannot happen. It is now too late to proverbially turn back the clock. The crisis however, has bred three groups of people at opposite ends presenting their own solutions.
I would put the conservationists and zoos (we mention these conditionally - only zoos engaged in conservation and research can be justified in my mind, e.g, San Diego Wild Animal zoo, the Smithsonian National Zoo, Calgary Zoo, the Berlin Zoological Garden are just a few that come to mind.) The individuals and establishments in this group work tirelessly to implement solutions which they fully acknowledge are not optimal, but so far have produced satisfying results in preserving species that were on the brink of extinction. This group is relatively small and has never been vocal in its achievements.
The second group are the activists using social media (including movies) whose solution is to restore all captive animals to the wild conditions that existed in the past and who voraciously criticize and attack those who they perceive as their adversaries, namely, the conservationists and zoos (as well as the third group who deserve everything that comes their way!) The activist voices have become very loud recently with the “Cecil the Lion” debacle and the recent movie, Blood Lions. I have personally learned how dangerous it can be to interact with some of these fanatics who create material for their cause by twisting and omitting things said in interviews. I am fully in favour of discussion, but dishonesty will never bring us any solutions.
The third group consists of those who exploit and kill for commerce, be it in the name of so-called sport or use of body parts for some questionable purpose. Many of these individuals have no interest whatsoever in tomorrow, but a small minority justify their killing by saying it will bring tourist and “pharmaceutical” dollars back to support the preservation of the species.
I would put the conservationists and zoos (we mention these conditionally - only zoos engaged in conservation and research can be justified in my mind, e.g, San Diego Wild Animal zoo, the Smithsonian National Zoo, Calgary Zoo, the Berlin Zoological Garden are just a few that come to mind.) The individuals and establishments in this group work tirelessly to implement solutions which they fully acknowledge are not optimal, but so far have produced satisfying results in preserving species that were on the brink of extinction. This group is relatively small and has never been vocal in its achievements.
The second group are the activists using social media (including movies) whose solution is to restore all captive animals to the wild conditions that existed in the past and who voraciously criticize and attack those who they perceive as their adversaries, namely, the conservationists and zoos (as well as the third group who deserve everything that comes their way!) The activist voices have become very loud recently with the “Cecil the Lion” debacle and the recent movie, Blood Lions. I have personally learned how dangerous it can be to interact with some of these fanatics who create material for their cause by twisting and omitting things said in interviews. I am fully in favour of discussion, but dishonesty will never bring us any solutions.
The third group consists of those who exploit and kill for commerce, be it in the name of so-called sport or use of body parts for some questionable purpose. Many of these individuals have no interest whatsoever in tomorrow, but a small minority justify their killing by saying it will bring tourist and “pharmaceutical” dollars back to support the preservation of the species.
How can you justify keeping wild animals in captivity?
For the same reason zoos are keeping endangered animals in captivity. They have to be preserved safely - conservation research and preservation science is best conducted under controlled conditions.
In the wild, lions, cheetahs, hyenas and other large and small predators are reaching numbers close to extinction. It is not only lions and cheetahs that are in peril, but many other endangered or vulnerable species such as the wild dog, black footed cat and leopard. Recently scientists have warned that giraffes are also now on the brink of extinction, as well as 60% of all primates - it is estimated that they will all be gone in 20 years. It seems that almost every month a species is being added to the list of life on the brink of extinction. With increasing human encroachment on their natural range, habitat destruction, disease, inbreeding, poaching and other factors, the extinction of most species now seems unavoidable.
At Ukutula however, we have seen the fruition of more than a decade of efforts in breeding and scientific research that have yielded some very positive results in the preservation of the species. These efforts have been spearheaded by universities and scientists. The conclusions are well documented.
The second reason is the fact that urbanization and the spread of humanity has resulted in the intimate relationship that humans once had with the earth and its fauna and flora now being all but lost. Many education professionals see the value of humans connecting with nature, touching and feeling, experiencing first hand, in real time, the joy of making an emotional connection with animals. Sadly, this is becoming the privilege of only a few with financial means, many of the “few” being foreigners. At Ukutula we reach out to the under-privileged to allow them to be educated and to “feel” what these animals really are and what they mean for our future.
In the wild, lions, cheetahs, hyenas and other large and small predators are reaching numbers close to extinction. It is not only lions and cheetahs that are in peril, but many other endangered or vulnerable species such as the wild dog, black footed cat and leopard. Recently scientists have warned that giraffes are also now on the brink of extinction, as well as 60% of all primates - it is estimated that they will all be gone in 20 years. It seems that almost every month a species is being added to the list of life on the brink of extinction. With increasing human encroachment on their natural range, habitat destruction, disease, inbreeding, poaching and other factors, the extinction of most species now seems unavoidable.
At Ukutula however, we have seen the fruition of more than a decade of efforts in breeding and scientific research that have yielded some very positive results in the preservation of the species. These efforts have been spearheaded by universities and scientists. The conclusions are well documented.
The second reason is the fact that urbanization and the spread of humanity has resulted in the intimate relationship that humans once had with the earth and its fauna and flora now being all but lost. Many education professionals see the value of humans connecting with nature, touching and feeling, experiencing first hand, in real time, the joy of making an emotional connection with animals. Sadly, this is becoming the privilege of only a few with financial means, many of the “few” being foreigners. At Ukutula we reach out to the under-privileged to allow them to be educated and to “feel” what these animals really are and what they mean for our future.
Why must the animals at Ukutula be kept in enclosures?
It is wished it weren't so. However, for the reasons already described, the enclosures serve to keep the animals safe and healthy. The sad reality is that endangered animals in the wild are not safe and healthy and are being destroyed by poachers, disease, traps and poisoning. As was mentioned in the introduction, even game reserves such as Pilanesberg and Kruger National Park are being ravaged by poachers. Despite 24 hour ranger monitoring, ten precious rhino were killed at Pilanesberg in 2015 alone! Where a herd of elephants once a thousand strong roamed the Knysna Forest, there is now just a single cow named Oupoot left. This is a tragedy, knowing the communal nature of elephants. Was this "solution" of elephants in the wild successful? You decide. The well publicized Blood Lions documentary has also highlighted the desire of hunters to include lions in their trophy hunting bounty. No hunters will obtain access to the lions of Ukutula!
Can you mention some of the research that has been done at Ukutula?
Over the years Ukutula has worked with local and international researchers on various educational and research projects as diverse as feline aids, tuberculosis, diabetes, foetal development in lions, enrichment, reproduction and anaesthesiology.
A specific research project that comes to mind is the tiger genome and comparative analysis with lion and snow leopard genomes – it is a project that we are particularly proud to have participated in. Ukutula made a significant contribution to this project by making its animals available for the research. One of the studies was so extensive that 7 different scientific papers were published by various international universities. The non intentional discoveries are what really interest me. In this study it was conclusively discovered that the white lion is NOT a distinct species as had been claimed by many previously. At the conclusion of that study, Ukutula became an outspoken advocate for ethical breeding, especially attempts to breed white lions. There is a reason why scientists and universities from around the world choose to conduct their studies at Ukutula - our animals are kept in optimal health and as such are suitable for various research projects.
A specific research project that comes to mind is the tiger genome and comparative analysis with lion and snow leopard genomes – it is a project that we are particularly proud to have participated in. Ukutula made a significant contribution to this project by making its animals available for the research. One of the studies was so extensive that 7 different scientific papers were published by various international universities. The non intentional discoveries are what really interest me. In this study it was conclusively discovered that the white lion is NOT a distinct species as had been claimed by many previously. At the conclusion of that study, Ukutula became an outspoken advocate for ethical breeding, especially attempts to breed white lions. There is a reason why scientists and universities from around the world choose to conduct their studies at Ukutula - our animals are kept in optimal health and as such are suitable for various research projects.
Why are lion cubs removed from their parents at a very young age and hand-reared? Is this just for volunteer/tourist benefit?
Cubs are only removed from their parents in order to familiarize them with humans for research and education purposes. Experience has proven that cubs left with the mother after birth become wild, unmanageable and stressed, making it cruel to keep them in captivity.
Ukutula is first and foremost a Conservation Centre and as such, is distinctly different from most volunteer initiatives involving lions, cheetahs and tigers. It is neither a sanctuary, nor is it a zoo or a circus where "trainers" have their animals perform all kinds of tricks for photo opportunities and commercial gain. Proceeds from the activities at Ukutula Conservation Centre are being used to cover the significant daily expenses, as well as the new laboratory and education centre which have cost in excess of ZAR 2,8 million.
Studies conducted at Ukutula in the past, including ongoing current studies, have all been vital for the future preservation of the species. As you will see from our website, high profile scientists (see Pro Fetura as just one example), universities and veterinary surgeons are spearheading this research. Many scientific papers have been published on the basis of research done at Ukutula. The following link provides a full list of this research: Ukutula Research
Volunteers do play a very important role in the daily familiarization of the cubs with humans - it takes a lot of dedication, attention and time to achieve this goal. There can also be no doubt that it brings about a unique sense of enjoyment to be so closely affiliated with such a special species of animal, but this is always secondary to the primary purpose of research. The information gleaned every day by volunteers, students, scientists and vets is invaluable.
Ukutula is first and foremost a Conservation Centre and as such, is distinctly different from most volunteer initiatives involving lions, cheetahs and tigers. It is neither a sanctuary, nor is it a zoo or a circus where "trainers" have their animals perform all kinds of tricks for photo opportunities and commercial gain. Proceeds from the activities at Ukutula Conservation Centre are being used to cover the significant daily expenses, as well as the new laboratory and education centre which have cost in excess of ZAR 2,8 million.
Studies conducted at Ukutula in the past, including ongoing current studies, have all been vital for the future preservation of the species. As you will see from our website, high profile scientists (see Pro Fetura as just one example), universities and veterinary surgeons are spearheading this research. Many scientific papers have been published on the basis of research done at Ukutula. The following link provides a full list of this research: Ukutula Research
Volunteers do play a very important role in the daily familiarization of the cubs with humans - it takes a lot of dedication, attention and time to achieve this goal. There can also be no doubt that it brings about a unique sense of enjoyment to be so closely affiliated with such a special species of animal, but this is always secondary to the primary purpose of research. The information gleaned every day by volunteers, students, scientists and vets is invaluable.
Are the older lions exercised, if yes, for what purpose?
The overall health of our animals is and always has been our utmost priority. Research can never be conducted effectively on weak and unhappy animals. For this reason all lions under the age of two years are regularly taken on walks with our rangers for the purpose of enrichment. We strive to educate volunteers and tourists alike as they accompany these animals, providing them with the unique opportunity of observing the social dynamics and interactions with each other. It is truly exhilarating to see the lions running and jumping, climbing into trees, pulling tails and splashing through the water and then chasing one another and tumbling in the long grass. Our volunteers and tourists especially appreciate preserving their memories with photography!
What do you do with all your adult lions? Do they all remain at Ukutula, or are they sold on/ or other homes found for them?
Social media abounds with accusations like "what happened to Ricky?" containing angry accusations that because Ricky is no longer at Ukutula, he must have been sold to be shot by a hunter. Again, social media is a dangerous place - statements like this are made with reckless abandon stating suspicion as fact. I recently read a quote that says it all: "I'm not sure I want popular opinion on my side - I've noticed those with the most opinions have the fewest facts"!
I would love to provide an outcome for each and every single one of our precious animals. Established genetic practice makes the sharing of DNA imperative for healthy animals. We therefore share our lions with other breeders - some are local, some international. A very relevant issue not appreciated by the activists is that of privacy, although then again it would seem they are so determined to eliminate any breeding of endangered species that this would not matter in any case! I am simply not able to provide the details of each exchange due to the requests of the other party. Very sadly too, many activists are vehemently opposed to zoos, and previous experience in disclosing zoo destinations for our animals has not been good for either the zoo or ourselves.
Can I determine that the breeders with whom our lions are exchanged have the same ethical and moral standards as Ukutula? No. But I can promise you that we do take every possible precaution to ensure that none of our animals will be exposed to unethical breeders. One of the measures we have adopted for the well-being of our animals is an online tracking system named "ECOSCAN" which is utilized to protect our animals against any form of exploitation. This system enables constant tracking of each animal by means of an implanted electronic chip, known as RFID (Radio Frequency Identification).
Although nothing is perfect, it is hoped that this measure will raise the level of scrutiny of each animal and contribute toward elevated standards of ethical conduct amongst breeders and conservationists.
Secondly, at Ukutula the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) guidelines and their "One Plan Approach" are followed.
This strategy recommends that captive breeding programs for wildlife be established before the native wild population becomes so unstable that any possible interference further aggravates its decline. Lions and cheetahs are considered particularly vulnerable under these guidelines.
Recently, an third tool has been gaining traction in South Africa which is going to help Ukutula greatly. Known as the Independent Wildlife Registering Authority System (WS2), and developed in Australia, it is used by 140 breeder associations worldwide in 45 different countries and has a collective database exceeding 40 million animals (farm and game). DNA based, the system applies uniform standards that include identification, certification, registration and licensing of all animals. Not only will this tracking mechanism prevent interbreeding, but it will be yet another measure to ensure that no lions from Ukutula ever end up in the hands of operators providing lions for the hunting industry.
I would love to provide an outcome for each and every single one of our precious animals. Established genetic practice makes the sharing of DNA imperative for healthy animals. We therefore share our lions with other breeders - some are local, some international. A very relevant issue not appreciated by the activists is that of privacy, although then again it would seem they are so determined to eliminate any breeding of endangered species that this would not matter in any case! I am simply not able to provide the details of each exchange due to the requests of the other party. Very sadly too, many activists are vehemently opposed to zoos, and previous experience in disclosing zoo destinations for our animals has not been good for either the zoo or ourselves.
Can I determine that the breeders with whom our lions are exchanged have the same ethical and moral standards as Ukutula? No. But I can promise you that we do take every possible precaution to ensure that none of our animals will be exposed to unethical breeders. One of the measures we have adopted for the well-being of our animals is an online tracking system named "ECOSCAN" which is utilized to protect our animals against any form of exploitation. This system enables constant tracking of each animal by means of an implanted electronic chip, known as RFID (Radio Frequency Identification).
Although nothing is perfect, it is hoped that this measure will raise the level of scrutiny of each animal and contribute toward elevated standards of ethical conduct amongst breeders and conservationists.
Secondly, at Ukutula the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) guidelines and their "One Plan Approach" are followed.
This strategy recommends that captive breeding programs for wildlife be established before the native wild population becomes so unstable that any possible interference further aggravates its decline. Lions and cheetahs are considered particularly vulnerable under these guidelines.
Recently, an third tool has been gaining traction in South Africa which is going to help Ukutula greatly. Known as the Independent Wildlife Registering Authority System (WS2), and developed in Australia, it is used by 140 breeder associations worldwide in 45 different countries and has a collective database exceeding 40 million animals (farm and game). DNA based, the system applies uniform standards that include identification, certification, registration and licensing of all animals. Not only will this tracking mechanism prevent interbreeding, but it will be yet another measure to ensure that no lions from Ukutula ever end up in the hands of operators providing lions for the hunting industry.
I read on the internet that some previous volunteer to Ukutula claims that you hire out cubs for parties and events. Is this true?
Firstly, Ukutula has NEVER made lion cubs available for commercial profit. Other than taking cubs to schools for educational purposes, in the past there have only been two instances where cubs appeared outside of a school environment, and both were not compensated. The University of Pretoria arranged for a paraplegic event held at the it's indoor sports stadium ( LC de Villiers High Performance Centre ) and asked Ukutula to make available cubs for this event which was attended by several government officials and foreign dignitaries. The only other instance was where two cubs were taken to the home of a young girl who was too ill with leukemia to make the trip to Ukutula and whose wish was to see a cub before she died. Ukutula has hosted numerous "Reach for a Dream" events for children on site. This non-profit organization fulfils the dreams of children of all income groups and of any race, colour or creed between the ages of 3 and 18 years who have been diagnosed with a life-threatening illness by a doctor.
Finally, again these postings on the internet sadly prove how easy it is for suspicions and hearsay accusations to be posted as if they were fact. In this particular instance, the source of the lies is a disgruntled ex-volunteer who clearly is venting his hurt feelings because he was looking for answers in the wrong places and as a result received a response from somebody at Ukutula that the questions he was asking were "none of his business". Indeed, I cannot fault such an answer. The business of what goes on here at Ukutula lies in my hands and is my business. I wonder why he never approached me? Makes one think, doesn't it? The true intention of this ex-volunteer is clearly apparent - his accusations are linked to the Blood Lions page in an attempt to add further credence to the fabrication in the movie. I can only encourage careful consideration of all facts without being influenced by innuendos and deceptive postings such as this one.
Finally, again these postings on the internet sadly prove how easy it is for suspicions and hearsay accusations to be posted as if they were fact. In this particular instance, the source of the lies is a disgruntled ex-volunteer who clearly is venting his hurt feelings because he was looking for answers in the wrong places and as a result received a response from somebody at Ukutula that the questions he was asking were "none of his business". Indeed, I cannot fault such an answer. The business of what goes on here at Ukutula lies in my hands and is my business. I wonder why he never approached me? Makes one think, doesn't it? The true intention of this ex-volunteer is clearly apparent - his accusations are linked to the Blood Lions page in an attempt to add further credence to the fabrication in the movie. I can only encourage careful consideration of all facts without being influenced by innuendos and deceptive postings such as this one.
The much publicized movie Blood Lions makes a number of accusations against Ukutula. What is your response?
The movie is constructive in some respects, but is immensely destructive too. It fails to recognize that there are legitimate conservation projects requiring breeding programs for scientific research. Instead the production attempts to "throw the baby out with the bath water" as the expression goes. Instead of focussing on the many positive scientific papers published on the research performed at Ukutula, (by the way, all of these documents are found in the same place as the letter from the University of Pretoria which the production chose to highlight), the producers instead focus only on innuendo in terms of what happens to the lions that leave Ukutula for other places, leaving the viewer with the conclusion that Ukutula is just another one of those breeders for the bullet.
There is a thin line between presenting a fact on one hand and on the other hand manipulating information to create "facts". Without evidence, insinuation becomes libel. I invite free discussion and visitation to Ukutula at all times, on the proviso that the purpose of the visit is disclosed - we do not support "ambush" tactics such as those deployed by the documentary producers. Our initiatives are not clandestine - to the contrary, we are extremely proud of the scientific contributions that have been made, are currently making and that are yet to be made. We do not need to hide behind any construed business model such as breeding of lions for the hunting industry - our ethics and morals have always been an open-book. We passionately believe that the truth will always prevail - we have no fear of "informers", such as those upon whom the documentary depended for it's information. Again, accusations in this production are made to appear as fact. My suggestion to any sincerely interested person, including the many potential present and past volunteers who according to the media now feel "duped" because Ukutula was breeding lions for the hunting industry, that they should be acutely aware of the heightened sensationalism when such productions are made. Prudent viewers should always base conclusions on fact and not on innuendos and emotional sensationalism.
You will notice too that a disproportionate amount of time in the production is spent at Ukutula. Why? Because they had the freedom to roam through our establishment. Because we have nothing to hide. But this production team thought they had an "easy target". Did you notice any death threats, threats of physical injury or intimidation like some of the scenes? No. The more the operators in the scenes depicting aggression and intimidation had to hide, the shorter and more abrupt were the footages. The information provided by volunteers and staff alike is accurate. Sadly, the innuendo is made that we have something to hide in not allowing free filming of material for social media. The very reason we are so sensitive is exactly because of the kind of footage you now see depicted in such productions as Blood Lions. Footage is twisted, taken out of context and can be extremely harmful to the legitimate endeavours being conducted at Ukutula for the future existence of the lion species. The attempt to throw Ukutula's relationship with the University of Pretoria into question regarding the destiny of older lions is an example of the reprehensible methods used in this production. The effort is clearly to discredit the University for it's association with Ukutula and an attempt to shame the university. The outcomes of older lions would clearly be beyond the mandate of any scientific study - asking the scientist to assume this responsibility is unreasonable. However, if I had been interviewed before the "ambush" at Ukutula, I would gladly have provided a satisfactory answer which would not have necessitated such an awkward and inopportune question to the representative of the University.
The extremes to which this production goes in its attempt to crush any activity involved with the breeding of lions further adds food for thought for balanced, logical viewers. Imagine, one lady even expresses her doubts as to the quality of the dead cows fed to the lions. Immediately the viewer is onside with the reasoning. Of course, just another reason why this industry needs to be outlawed, they reason. What if the meat has antibiotics, or what if it is diseased? The poor lions are being poisoned by these unscrupulous breeders! Firstly, we humans don't even ask these questions about the meat we are eating! Secondly, what about all the cows hunted by lions across Africa? Is it possible that this meat is tainted with GMO grain feed with cancerous effects? What about the weak and diseased animals these lions are hunting in the wild? I am sorry, but this kind of commentary smacks of an effort to maximize on sensationalism. It sadly distracts from the most critical issues of our time, namely the real efforts required to ensure the very future existence of the species.
There is a thin line between presenting a fact on one hand and on the other hand manipulating information to create "facts". Without evidence, insinuation becomes libel. I invite free discussion and visitation to Ukutula at all times, on the proviso that the purpose of the visit is disclosed - we do not support "ambush" tactics such as those deployed by the documentary producers. Our initiatives are not clandestine - to the contrary, we are extremely proud of the scientific contributions that have been made, are currently making and that are yet to be made. We do not need to hide behind any construed business model such as breeding of lions for the hunting industry - our ethics and morals have always been an open-book. We passionately believe that the truth will always prevail - we have no fear of "informers", such as those upon whom the documentary depended for it's information. Again, accusations in this production are made to appear as fact. My suggestion to any sincerely interested person, including the many potential present and past volunteers who according to the media now feel "duped" because Ukutula was breeding lions for the hunting industry, that they should be acutely aware of the heightened sensationalism when such productions are made. Prudent viewers should always base conclusions on fact and not on innuendos and emotional sensationalism.
You will notice too that a disproportionate amount of time in the production is spent at Ukutula. Why? Because they had the freedom to roam through our establishment. Because we have nothing to hide. But this production team thought they had an "easy target". Did you notice any death threats, threats of physical injury or intimidation like some of the scenes? No. The more the operators in the scenes depicting aggression and intimidation had to hide, the shorter and more abrupt were the footages. The information provided by volunteers and staff alike is accurate. Sadly, the innuendo is made that we have something to hide in not allowing free filming of material for social media. The very reason we are so sensitive is exactly because of the kind of footage you now see depicted in such productions as Blood Lions. Footage is twisted, taken out of context and can be extremely harmful to the legitimate endeavours being conducted at Ukutula for the future existence of the lion species. The attempt to throw Ukutula's relationship with the University of Pretoria into question regarding the destiny of older lions is an example of the reprehensible methods used in this production. The effort is clearly to discredit the University for it's association with Ukutula and an attempt to shame the university. The outcomes of older lions would clearly be beyond the mandate of any scientific study - asking the scientist to assume this responsibility is unreasonable. However, if I had been interviewed before the "ambush" at Ukutula, I would gladly have provided a satisfactory answer which would not have necessitated such an awkward and inopportune question to the representative of the University.
The extremes to which this production goes in its attempt to crush any activity involved with the breeding of lions further adds food for thought for balanced, logical viewers. Imagine, one lady even expresses her doubts as to the quality of the dead cows fed to the lions. Immediately the viewer is onside with the reasoning. Of course, just another reason why this industry needs to be outlawed, they reason. What if the meat has antibiotics, or what if it is diseased? The poor lions are being poisoned by these unscrupulous breeders! Firstly, we humans don't even ask these questions about the meat we are eating! Secondly, what about all the cows hunted by lions across Africa? Is it possible that this meat is tainted with GMO grain feed with cancerous effects? What about the weak and diseased animals these lions are hunting in the wild? I am sorry, but this kind of commentary smacks of an effort to maximize on sensationalism. It sadly distracts from the most critical issues of our time, namely the real efforts required to ensure the very future existence of the species.
Blood Lions wants the practice of volunteers, cub petting and lion walks banned. What do you say to this?
If the answer is to prevent the cruel and disgusting treatment of animals, my response is one of unreserved support. But if the answer is to halt the world standard scientific research for species survival, accomplished through the contribution of volunteers, including the sanctioned human contact with cubs and lion walks, then I say shame on them.
The earth is facing the 6th mass extinction of species, this time caused by humanity. Extinctions are taking place so fast now that practices once spurned and viewed as undesirable have to be viewed as reality and embraced, even if they are not popular with everybody. For us at Ukutula the well-being of our precious animals is, and will continue to be our priority. We invite volunteers from all over the world to come and spend time here with us - you will be educated and impressed by the new multi-million state-of-the-art laboratory. This is just one more FACTUAL proof that Ukutula is contributing toward the continued existence of the lion species in our future, as is any volunteer participating in our program. With a clear conscience you can pet a cub and walk with a lion - ensuring that lions will remain our heritage for centuries to come.
The earth is facing the 6th mass extinction of species, this time caused by humanity. Extinctions are taking place so fast now that practices once spurned and viewed as undesirable have to be viewed as reality and embraced, even if they are not popular with everybody. For us at Ukutula the well-being of our precious animals is, and will continue to be our priority. We invite volunteers from all over the world to come and spend time here with us - you will be educated and impressed by the new multi-million state-of-the-art laboratory. This is just one more FACTUAL proof that Ukutula is contributing toward the continued existence of the lion species in our future, as is any volunteer participating in our program. With a clear conscience you can pet a cub and walk with a lion - ensuring that lions will remain our heritage for centuries to come.
In January of 2017 it was announced that a billboard depicting interaction with lion cubs was being removed from OR Tambo International airport because it "sends the wrong message to arriving tourists". Does this effect your efforts?
Whilst it is regrettable because it deprives tourists of exposure and the choice of experiencing a very precious human need, (as well as education for survival of the species), it assumes that all human/cub interaction has dubious purposes and is unethical. This is very sad, because the activity has brought tourist dollars to the legitimate operators who rely on tourism for their continued existence, as well as that of their animals. As for Ukutula? We don't rely on airport billboards to promote our science. Enlightened visitors to Ukutula examine all the facts themselves and then make their own decisions.
I had to again notice that the Blood Lion movement was instrumental in this removal by tweeting the airport, as well as the new SA tourism CEO. I recently read an excellent quote from our own South African musician, Dave Matthews, who said it better than I can: "We give the podium to a lot of people who shouldn't have the podium. The message that's delivered the loudest and in the most entertaining way is the one that we're going to put on because that's what we want. We want ratings more than we want to deliver information. That's just where the culture's gotten."
I had to again notice that the Blood Lion movement was instrumental in this removal by tweeting the airport, as well as the new SA tourism CEO. I recently read an excellent quote from our own South African musician, Dave Matthews, who said it better than I can: "We give the podium to a lot of people who shouldn't have the podium. The message that's delivered the loudest and in the most entertaining way is the one that we're going to put on because that's what we want. We want ratings more than we want to deliver information. That's just where the culture's gotten."
The year 2017 WAS NOTABLE FOR SOME MORE controversy relating to the lion breeding industry in South Africa. I read that two white lions escaped from an establishment in Limpopo and mauled a man who was gathering wood on the adjacent farm. He subsequently died. Animal Rights activists are having a field day decrying your industry for this. Any comments?
Yes, I had heard about this tragic event. My heart goes out to his family. The report specifies that the man died as a consequence of complications from disease. Even if he had survived, a number of points need to be recognized about this tragedy. Firstly, the animals were no longer in captivity when this mauling occurred. They had escaped and were in the wild. They acted as lions in the wild would. This proves that although they are raised by humans, they remain instinctively wild when not in captivity. Would the animal rights activists have been as vocal if these lions had never had any human connection and killed this man? I somehow doubt it. Lions are inherently potentially dangerous animals - that is why we have scrupulous protocols in place to preserve them and the humans with whom they come in contact.
An internet search will yield countless accounts of attacks by Pit-Bulls around the world where humans are mauled to death by dogs that escaped from their enclosures. These are dangerous animals, just like lions. The one is "domesticated", the other not. I find no animal rights activists campaigning in behalf of the "poor"Pit-Bull!
Finally, one little voice amongst the activists decries "for profit" motive of all those who promote human/lion interaction, including the establishment in this story. This argument holds so little substance - anybody having experience with these animals will know what voracious animals they are - the only way to sustain them is to have some kind of business model that will afford the substantial costs involved which expand considerably with the veterinary costs required to keep the animals in peak health.
An internet search will yield countless accounts of attacks by Pit-Bulls around the world where humans are mauled to death by dogs that escaped from their enclosures. These are dangerous animals, just like lions. The one is "domesticated", the other not. I find no animal rights activists campaigning in behalf of the "poor"Pit-Bull!
Finally, one little voice amongst the activists decries "for profit" motive of all those who promote human/lion interaction, including the establishment in this story. This argument holds so little substance - anybody having experience with these animals will know what voracious animals they are - the only way to sustain them is to have some kind of business model that will afford the substantial costs involved which expand considerably with the veterinary costs required to keep the animals in peak health.
I have seen social media outrage at somebody witnessing a lion cub being smacked on the nose because it was pulling on a visitor's shoe. Is this not cruelty?
Animal behaviourists like Louis Dorfman will tell you that lions have tremendous character and especially when they are young they can be extremely mischievous. Just like with humans, discipline is necessary in the animal kingdom. Studies of lions show distinctive behaviour when limitations are exceeded. What do they do? They slap one another, often in the face, because this allows for the most visual communication. We never flinch when we see such rendering of discipline, do we? As the adoptive "parents" of these cubs, we strive to replicate the social structure as closely as possible - this includes a slap on the nose if a cub is refusing to let go of something. Such actions never hurt the cub, they merely reinforce the presence of authority and the need for limitations. This discipline helps the animal in later life as well as they co-exist in the prides at Ukutula with the various family dynamics, authority and subjection. The photo below shows that typical behavioural characteristic.
Finally, what is your message for the animal rights activists?
The time has arrived for a reality check. It is time to credit science, rather than ignore it. Petting lion cubs, walking with lions and even trophy shooting or killing lions for their body parts is not what got us to where we are today, on the brink of extinction of the species. These are symptoms of a distorted society, not the cause. Any victimization of an industry that is breeding lions is both counter-productive as well as destructive and is actually reducing the survival chances of the species, rather than saving it. It is time to quit sensationalism and emotional manipulation - it is time to focus on the real issues that have to be addressed urgently if any of these magnificent animals are to be around in 20 years.
The first and major issue for the activists to focus on if they really do care, is the destruction of the species' habitat. This has occurred over the last century and is the reason for the serious impact on reproductive ability, genetics, as well as food sources. This issue alone has caused the majority of fatalities in the species. I think a powerful movie showing what man has and is doing in this respect could have much more impact than a "Blood Lions" documentary or vicious lies on social media designed to discredit legitimate conservation efforts, don't you?
Secondly, if we are to remove the plagues of killing these animals for their body parts, or hunters shooting the animals for trophies, then kill the demand AND consumption, not the captive lion industry! In agitating for the banning of captive animals and breeding programs, the activists are actually hastening the extinction process. Why? Besides the invaluable scientific studies which can only be conducted on captive animals, the total numbers of lions in the world actually have a chance of increasing, which is essential for genetic diversity. Ban captive lion programs (and any other endangered species for that matter!) and you merely risk seeing an even more rapid decline in the wild population as the consumption is directed to what is remaining in the wild and the price rises for the commodity due to scarcity. We have already seen this in the case of the rhino, elephant and in the case study on this website of the Totoaba fish. It is now so scarce with the bans on fishing, that even the drug cartels are fishing now rather than dealing drugs!
Thirdly, I say to activists, if there is a problem in the breeding industry with unethical practices, why shut it all down? Isn't it just the simplest thing to regulate rather than suffocate? Every other valuable industry is regulated, why not this one too?
Finally, as for us here at Ukutula, we say to the activists: We will continue to do what we do with the help of our discerning volunteers and scientists until science dictates otherwise!
Expression: "To be tarred with the same brush" ; meaning if all the people or things in a group are tarred with the same brush, you think or say they are all bad because you know some of them are bad
The first and major issue for the activists to focus on if they really do care, is the destruction of the species' habitat. This has occurred over the last century and is the reason for the serious impact on reproductive ability, genetics, as well as food sources. This issue alone has caused the majority of fatalities in the species. I think a powerful movie showing what man has and is doing in this respect could have much more impact than a "Blood Lions" documentary or vicious lies on social media designed to discredit legitimate conservation efforts, don't you?
Secondly, if we are to remove the plagues of killing these animals for their body parts, or hunters shooting the animals for trophies, then kill the demand AND consumption, not the captive lion industry! In agitating for the banning of captive animals and breeding programs, the activists are actually hastening the extinction process. Why? Besides the invaluable scientific studies which can only be conducted on captive animals, the total numbers of lions in the world actually have a chance of increasing, which is essential for genetic diversity. Ban captive lion programs (and any other endangered species for that matter!) and you merely risk seeing an even more rapid decline in the wild population as the consumption is directed to what is remaining in the wild and the price rises for the commodity due to scarcity. We have already seen this in the case of the rhino, elephant and in the case study on this website of the Totoaba fish. It is now so scarce with the bans on fishing, that even the drug cartels are fishing now rather than dealing drugs!
Thirdly, I say to activists, if there is a problem in the breeding industry with unethical practices, why shut it all down? Isn't it just the simplest thing to regulate rather than suffocate? Every other valuable industry is regulated, why not this one too?
Finally, as for us here at Ukutula, we say to the activists: We will continue to do what we do with the help of our discerning volunteers and scientists until science dictates otherwise!
Expression: "To be tarred with the same brush" ; meaning if all the people or things in a group are tarred with the same brush, you think or say they are all bad because you know some of them are bad