We'll use any media distraction, it's what we do !
The Wrap reports Cecil, who was well-known in Zimbabwe, was found skinned and decapitated outside a national park on the outskirts of Hwange after Walter Palmer, a Minnesota dentist, reportedly paid $50,000 to shoot him with a bow and arrow.
Warthogs can be had for about $55 USD, excluding transport, meals and lodging. One of the 'big five' comes a bit more.
A favorite resident at the Hwange National Park, Cecil wasn't just known for his good looks. He was also a participant in a study backed by Oxford University that required him to wear a GPS collar.
That's right! He was a sort of a..... 'cash cow.'
"I had no idea that the lion I took was a known, local favorite, was collared and part of a study until the end of the hunt," said Palmer in a statement released Tuesday. "I relied on the expertise of my local professional guides to ensure a legal hunt."
CNN reports two Zimbabwean men will appear in court Wednesday over the killing of Cecil, and authorities say they plan to seek an investigation against Palmer.
No discussion of Palmer's license and permits is expected.
According to Zimbabwean officials, Cecil was lured out of the park by Palmer, who then shot him with a bow. Palmer is now being condemned by animal lovers around the world, as well as many of those in Hollywood.
Licensed hunting reserves near game parks, who knew? I wonder which corrupt Zim politicians pocketed the fees and licensing money ?