All animal enthusiasts are against trophy hunting. It is difficult to comprehend that there exist individuals who derive pleasure from killing vulnerable animals like lions and rhinos.
This “activity” has pushed numerous species to the brink of extinction. Despite the controversies and opposition from conservation organizations, such hunting continues to be legally permitted in many regions.
However, sometimes nature itself has its own form of retribution… and one hunter met a fate that can be deemed as “karma.”
Scott Van Zyl, a prolific trophy hunter from South Africa, was not only an avid hunter but also operated a “safari” company that offered clients opportunities for big game hunts.
His targets included lions, cheetahs, giraffes, and elephants.
In 2017, Van Zyl embarked on one of his hunting expeditions in Zimbabwe… but on this occasion, he did not make it back.
As reported by the BBC, the hunter set out with a group of dogs and a local guide. He ventured off alone in pursuit of crocodiles and was presumed missing when his tracking dogs returned without him.
His footprints and bag were discovered near the riverbank. Local authorities conducted an examination of the crocodiles and found human remains, which were later confirmed through a DNA test to be those of Van Zyl.
Following the dissemination of the story, numerous individuals commented that he deserved what happened, viewing it as karma for his extensive animal killings.
One Green Planet, although not rejoicing in the hunter’s demise, highlighted that the incident further substantiates the reasons why trophy hunting should not be permitted. It unnecessarily puts the lives of hunters at risk.
“Let’s face it, Zyl had no business engaging in hunting to begin with,” they expressed. “We must question whether the ‘thrill of the hunt’ is genuinely worth jeopardizing one’s own life, all the while intentionally taking the lives of others.”
What do you think of this story? Did this hunter deserve what happened to him? Share this story with your thoughts!
Rewritten Source: https://www.theanimalclub.net/dogs/trophy-hunter-who-targeted-elephants-and-lions-gets-eaten-by-crocodiles/