President Donald Trump said he is putting a decision to allow imports of elephant trophies on hold after a torrent of criticism.
Trump's reversal came hours after his administration released a rule on Friday to allow hunters who kill elephants in Zimbabwe to bring their trophies back to the United States, which had been banned by the Obama administration.
"Put big game trophy decision on hold until such time as I review all conservation facts," Trump tweeted.
"Under study for years. Will update soon with Secretary Zinke. Thank you!"
Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke said in a statement that he had spoken with Trump and "both believe that conservation and healthy herds are critical." He said the "issuing of permits is being put on hold as the decision is being reviewed."
Early word of the planned change had drawn protests from conservationists, who said it could deplete already at-risk elephant populations.
It also caused a social media firestorm, with opponents posting photos of President Donald Trump's sons Donald Jr. and Eric, avid hunters, posing with dead wild animals.
"President Trump and I have talked and both believe that conservation and healthy herds are critical,” he said. “As a result, in a manner compliant with all applicable laws, rules, and regulations, the issuing of permits is being put on hold as the decision is being reviewed."
It is unclear whether Zinke is reviewing the elephant decision only or the lion decision as well.
Trump's reversal came hours after his administration released a rule on Friday to allow hunters who kill elephants in Zimbabwe to bring their trophies back to the United States, which had been banned by the Obama administration.
"Put big game trophy decision on hold until such time as I review all conservation facts," Trump tweeted.
"Under study for years. Will update soon with Secretary Zinke. Thank you!"
Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke said in a statement that he had spoken with Trump and "both believe that conservation and healthy herds are critical." He said the "issuing of permits is being put on hold as the decision is being reviewed."
Early word of the planned change had drawn protests from conservationists, who said it could deplete already at-risk elephant populations.
It also caused a social media firestorm, with opponents posting photos of President Donald Trump's sons Donald Jr. and Eric, avid hunters, posing with dead wild animals.
"President Trump and I have talked and both believe that conservation and healthy herds are critical,” he said. “As a result, in a manner compliant with all applicable laws, rules, and regulations, the issuing of permits is being put on hold as the decision is being reviewed."
Put big game trophy decision on hold until such time as I review all conservation facts. Under study for years. Will update soon with Secretary Zinke. Thank you!— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 18, 2017
It is unclear whether Zinke is reviewing the elephant decision only or the lion decision as well.
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