I have enjoyed reading the responses in this thread. I must admit to being a little surprised by some of the responses, but that is the real interesting part. Goes to show how we perceive and misperceive many of the folks that we interact with on a somewhat regular basis, although mostly through this media platform. Thank you to the OP for getting this started, it’s been a good educational read.
For me, there are some animals that just hold more appeal than others and I choose to pursue them ahead of the others, largely due to limited funds. Funny though, my priority list seems to be ever-changing. Before my first trip to Africa, Eland, Hartebeest, tiny 10 and others were not high on the list. Then I got to see and interact with them in the field and everything changed. Re-shuffled if you will
I have hunted Leopard, Lion and Elephant and would do so again in a heartbeat! Planning to hunt Buff in Mozambique next year.
I always thought elephant would remain beyond my budget and in my mind was the absolute pinnacle of Dangerous Game/Big Game hunting. Then I reassessed my priorities and decided I should figure out a way to make it happen sooner rather than later. In examining what was most important I decided the Hunt was the real trophy and I would much rather have the experience than tusks as a trophy (ivory or replica). So I booked a tuskless hunt in Zimbabwe and it was the best decision I ever made. By far the most thrilling, exhausting and enjoyable hunt I have yet to experience in Africa. And cost a fraction of what a trophy Bull hunt would have.
To answer the original question directly, I can’t think of anything I would NOT hunt so long as it was legal, sustainable, ethical and fair chase. There are a few animals I don’t have a burning desire to chase after. Giraffe and Croc, Blue Wildebeest (already shot a few) and some others, but I may change my mind one day. You know, another re-shuffle
So I understand everyone has different desires that motivate them and certain animals that turn their crank, or not. To each their own to make their individual choices, as it should be, but I have very much enjoyed hearing what folks have hunted, hope to hunt, or have no desire to hunt.
As we make our choices and examine our personal viewpoints, let us all remember some critical and time tested truths as they pertain to hunting and conservation in Africa. If it pays, it stays! Hunters are the true and original Conservationists and our dollars pay the freight in maintaining or restoring healthy populations of range animals and providing anti-poaching to protect that resource. Not to mention keeping wild places wild and not tilled under or grazed off by cattle, goats and sheep.
Happy Hunting!
