Poaching has been one of the major perils encountered by wildlife across the African continent, but recently, a far more subtle threat has reared its ugly head.
South African hunters have been breeding new varieties of wild animals via genetic experiments, largely for the purpose of earning hunting trophies. This has led to a widespread gene mutation across various species of wildlife, and scientists have warned that these manipulations could lead to permanent genetic pollution. Most of the experiments – which have led to the birthing of animals with unusual colour varieties – had usually involved springboks and impalas, but lately, lions, rhinos and cheetahs have also been dragged into what has been described as a “contamination”.
In 2019, the South African government amended the Animal Improvement Act to allow for the domestication and improvement of many wildlife species, including those of endangered animals such as buffalos and antelopes. However, this move has been criticised by more than a few wildlife scientists and researchers. According to this disenchanted group of wildlife enthusiasts, the new law allows for wild and domestic varieties of species to exist side by side, with such a situation capable of polluting South African wildlife to a point of no return.
Some researchers hold the view that this legislative amendment makes it possible to carry out experiments lumping lions with rabbits, and rhinos with dogs. They also argue that the law allows for domesticated animals to be genetically modified, and that if not checked, the ecosystem may be altered to the point that it would be impossible to differentiate wildlife from domesticated animals.
In defending the legislation, the government has stated that breeders and hunters would still have to carry out these experiments in line with regulations that serve to protect endangered species, but that hardly resolves the concerns of wildlife scientists and conservationists. It remains to be seen what these experiments evolve into, but at least there is now increased awareness of the possibility of risk.