In pictures: Zimbabwe's Cecil the lion
- Published
Cecil the lion was a favourite with the tourists who visited Zimbabwe's Hwange National Park. Here's a selection of some of their photos:
Before he was killed on 1 July, Cecil was a major attraction for visitors as he would allow vehicles to get close to him - and even followed this one allowing them to get close up images.
Cecil led two prides containing six lionesses and 12 cubs along with another lion called Jericho.
Following his death, his own six cubs will be killed as the new lion who takes over the pride will not allow them to live, conservationists say.
The 13-year-old was recognisable because of his large size and distinctive shaggy black mane.
He was being studied by lion conservation researchers at Oxford University and wore a GPS collar that allowed them to track him.
Walter Palmer, a US dentist from Minnesota, is believed to have paid about $50,000 (£32,000) to hunt down Cecil.
Trophy hunting is big business and in 2013, 49 lion head "trophies" were exported from Zimbabwe.
It is alleged that bait was used to lure the lion outside Hwange National Park during a night-time pursuit. Mr Palmer says he thought the hunt was legal and was unaware Cecil was protected.
- Published30 July 2015
- Published29 July 2015
- Published29 July 2015
- Published30 July 2015
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