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Brent Stirton's Image

This southern white rhino had been snared and killed for its horn on Selati Game Reserve, Hoedspruit, South Africa.

It was one of two animals slaughtered in two days. Most reserves now employ armed guards, but it’s impossible to protect free-ranging animals in such large areas, and rhino poaching is at an all-time high in Africa. The killing has also become opportunistic, with many poachers who previously would only snare smaller animals taking advantage of the high price paid for horns. The snaring of rhino was unheard of until two years ago. Poaching has also moved into much larger circles, with sinister links to organised crime.


Behind the lens

Brent Stirton

Brent Stirton

South Africa

Brent is a Senior Correspondent for Getty Images. He does most of his work for National Geographic Magazine, focusing on the intersection of humans and the environment.

Image details

  • Canon 5D Mark II
  • 16-35mm lens
  • 1/10 sec at f11
Copyright in WPY competition photographs remains the property of the respective photographers. You may not copy, share, reproduce or republish the photographs except as expressly permitted by copyright law. For media image usage enquiries, please contact us.

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