Bred to be killed

Brent Stirton's Image

A captive-bred lion snarls at the manager of a lion-breeding farm in South Africa.

Lions are raised to maturity and then, aged about seven, sold to hunters to be shot in special enclosures. While legal, it is highly controversial. Proponents argue that lion farms (there are around 200 in South Africa) are necessary for the survival of the species, decreasing hunting among wild populations, and serving as DNA banks to support the repopulation of areas where lions have been decimated. Critics raise ethical and welfare concerns.


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 EOS-1D X
  • 24–70mm f2.8 lens at 24mm
  • 250 sec at f16
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