A Texas real estate mogul, Asher Watkins, tragically lost his life during a hunting trip in South Africa. He was attacked by a Cape buffalo, which the safari company described as “sudden and unprovoked.” According to Hans Vermaak, head of Coenraad Vermaak Safaris, Watkins was tracking the animal when it charged at him.
Vermaak expressed his condolences, stating, “The family and our team are understandably shaken.” He noted that Watkins and his family were long-time friends of the safari team.
Cape buffalo have a notorious reputation among trophy hunters. They are viewed as one of the most dangerous animals to pursue, responsible for numerous injuries and deaths each year. The safari company highlighted that no animal instills more fear in hunters than a Cape buffalo.
Watkins’ death has ignited discussions online about the ethics of trophy hunting. Activists, including those from PETA, shared strong reactions on social media. In an Instagram post, they emphasized that animals are not trophies. A comment that said “cheers to the buffalo” gained thousands of likes, reflecting a significant sentiment against hunting.
Statistically, hunting accidents involving dangerous game are not uncommon. A study by the International Wildlife Conservation Foundation found that around 20 hunters are killed or injured each year by Cape buffalo in Africa. Many advocates argue that such hunting should be reevaluated to prioritize wildlife conservation and ethical practices.
Watkins, a passionate outdoorsman, was involved with multimillion-dollar real estate properties across Texas and beyond. His death highlights a tragic irony—the hunter becoming the hunted. His legacy includes surviving family members like his mother and daughter.
For more insights on wildlife conservation and the impact of hunting, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) provides valuable resources on ethical practices and animal protection.
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