The pen might be mightier than the sword, but not mightier than my love for conservation or Aquila’s conservation efforts!

Aquila went to massive effort and expense to source and re-introduce lions and lion cubs that we saved from a doomed ‘canned lion’ fate. For this we received international acclaim and heaps of positive publicity across all forms of media, as well as industry support. It is true that several years ago we allowed tourists to interact with lion cubs and assist at feeding times as the cubs were too young and too defenseless to be released into their new sanctuary. This practice was stopped many years ago and not because of any complaints as implied.

In a conservation effort, we currently offer free educational introductions to our Cheetahs, highlighting the plight of the free ranging cheetah and their critically diminishing numbers. It’s important to note that our cheetahs were captive bred and not “born free” as the article insinuates. They do not form part of Aquila’s game drive and the experience is strictly controlled and in the interest of cheetah survival worldwide.

Many reputable tour operators world wide including those mentioned support us with confidence, having visited the reserve and having satisfied themselves that our conservation practices meet their high standards and those of respected international conservation authorities.

Whilst this article makes interesting reading, I have no idea why Aquila has been implicated in it as it is common knowledge that Aquila condemns the despicable canned lion hunting industry. Aquila’s lions still thrive on our reserve in their massive sanctuary and enjoy Aquilas mountains, valleys, rivers and kloofs. None have ever been sold or hunted and I have no idea why for the first time ever, our conservation ethics have been challenged. If the journalist in a responsible journalism effort took the time to Google Aquila, I’m sure he would of written a more accurate & complimentary article .

Searl Derman

Owner Aquila Private Game Reserve