Abstract
CITATION: Somers, M. J. et al. 2020. The implications of the reclassification of South African wildlife species as farm animals. South African Journal of Science, 116(1/2):7724, doi:10.17159/sajs.2020/7724.
Highlights
The Government Gazette No 42464 dated 17 May 20191 amended Table 7 of the Animal Improvement Act (Act no. 62 of 1998), which lists breeds of animals, to include at least 32 new wild animal species, including 24 indigenous mammals
We point out numerous concerns in the new legislation, including the process of consultation, and argue that the law will not improve the genetics of the species mentioned but will have considerable negative genetic consequences and pose ecological and economic risks
We suggest that this new law is in direct conflict with other biodiversity laws in South Africa
Summary
The Government Gazette No 42464 dated 17 May 20191 amended Table 7 of the Animal Improvement Act (Act no. 62 of 1998), which lists breeds of animals, to include at least 32 new wild animal species, including 24 indigenous mammals. 62 of 1998), which lists breeds of animals, to include at least 32 new wild animal species, including 24 indigenous mammals. The list includes threatened and rare species such as cheetah, white and black rhinoceros, and suni. The cornerstone of the original Act is ‘To provide for the breeding, identification and utilisation of genetically superior animals to improve the production and performance of animals in the interest of the Republic; and to provide for matters connected therewith.’. By declaring these wild animals as landrace breeds (in Table 7 of the regulations), the Act implies that they are locally developed breeds.
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