Episode 41 - The Weekly News 06-23-2021 - Poaching Kingpin Assassinated!

Alleged rhino poaching kingpin Petrus “Mr Big” Mabuza has been assassinated. But what does this mean in the broader rhino poaching war?Early rhino fossils found, furthering the belief that these enormous rhino ancestors were the largest mammals to ever walk the earth.Simon calls for civility in the persistent media attacks against conservation scientists and commentators, even though he himself doesn’t agree with them. We must move beyond the hate and threats of violence if we are to find a positive way forward.Today is the inaugural World Female Ranger Day - we call for support for these brave eco-warriors.Peter’s editorial has some interesting insights as he describes a day in the life of an environmental journalist. Could crimes against the environment be tried as ecocide? A group of international lawyers believes it can - and must - be. South Africa’s DFFE calls for public comment on the implementation of the recommendations from the recent high level panel. Tanzania paoching declines.The Yulan dog  festival is back - if we in the west object, are we guilty of double standards in animal welfare?Scar the most famous lion in the world died this past week, and in so doing resurrected the debate on anthropomorphising wild animals. Should we refrain from naming iconic wild animals? Finally, the rampant slaughter of wolves in the USA again makes headlines.