Blood Lions: Bred for the Bullet

In recent years a disturbing picture of a brutal practice known as "canned hunts" has emerged, particularly in South Africa. Canned hunts involve lions (and other animals) who are confined to fenced-in areas, where they are shot down by "sportsmen" who are promised guaranteed kills. This PBS-aired exposé documentary from filmmakers Bruce Young and Nick Chevallier examines the cruel world of lion farms that are run by predator breeders, who force lion mothers and their cubs to be separated at a young age, while the "farmers" (who have no special knowledge of lion biology) allow unhealthy bloodlines to flourish. Much of this is actually done in the name of conservation. At least 200 purported sanctuaries provide hundreds of lions for quick, easy kills, ensuring big profits for the breeders (the size and color of the lion's mane often determines the price of the kill, which can cost hunters thousands of dollars). The South African government permits—but doesn't necessarily endorse—this blood sport. Sadly, well-meaning volunteers also pay to pet or walk with the lions, not realizing their ultimate fate. Predator breeders scorn anti-hunting activists as "greenies" (one undercover film crew here comes close to a violent confrontation with a breeder). Blood Lions also visits a trophy hunting convention in Las Vegas, where hunters smugly extol the so-called sport, claiming the mantel of conservationists. Other issues include the lion bone trade in Asia, where bones are thought to have medicinal value. A few steps, such as a ban on imported trophies, have had limited success in discouraging canned hunts. While the film offers some suggestions on how to end the hunts, its main goal is to outrage and hopefully mobilize viewers, which it definitely accomplishes. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (S. Rees)