Public policy addressing biodiversity loss is most likely to be effective when it is informed by appropriate evidence and considers potential unintended consequences.

We evaluate key evidence relating to the Hunting Trophies (Import Prohibition) Bill that was discussed in the UK Parliament between 2022 and 2024. Legal hunting for trophies is not a major threat to any of the species or subspecies imported to the UK, but likely or possibly represents a local threat to some populations of eight species. This hunting does, or could potentially, benefit 20 species and subspecies, and people. Among other concerns, the impact assessment failed to adequately consider the costs and benefits to local communities in countries where such hunting occurs. Informed by these analyses, we discuss alternative regulatory options.

Authors: Daniel W. S. Challender, Michael 't Sas-Rolfes, Amy Dickman, Darragh Hare, Adam G. Hart, Michael Hoffmann, David Mallon, Roseline L. Mandisodza-Chikerema, Dilys Roe

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Challender, D. W. S., 't Sas-Rolfes, M., Dickman, A., Hare, D., Hart, A. G., Hoffmann, M., Mallon, D., Mandisodza-Chikerema, R. L., & Roe, D. (2024). Evaluating key evidence and formulating regulatory alternatives regarding the UK's Hunting Trophies (Import Prohibition) Bill. Conservation Science and Practice, 6(10), https://doi.org/10.1111/csp2.13220

  • Dr Michael 't Sas-Rolfes

    Research Associate

  • Ms Roseline Mandisodza-Chikerema

    Expert Associate