Hunt in South Africa ends in tragedy as millionaire hunter falls victim to a roaming buffalo
In a heart-wrenching incident, a safari accident in the South African province of Limpopo has claimed the life of American hunter Aser Watkins. The accident occurred during a safari trip, where Watkins and his companions encountered a Cape buffalo, one of the most dangerous animals on the planet.
Watkins, known in the American hunting community for his numerous trophies that included deer and mountain lions, was fatally injured when the 1.5-ton Cape buffalo charged at him at a high speed, around 34 mph. The incident took place in the presence of a professional guide and tracker.
The Cape buffalo, also known as the "Black Death," is notorious for its aggression and unpredictability. These animals can weigh up to 900 kg and charge at speeds of up to 50 km/h, causing about 200 deaths annually in Africa.
Organizers of the safari had warned participants about the danger of encountering the Cape buffalo. To ensure safety, they emphasized key safety precautions such as maintaining a safe distance, avoiding provocation, seeking immediate cover, and relying on professional guidance to navigate the situation.
If faced with an enraged bull, it is crucial to stay calm and avoid sudden movements. Running, especially in a straight line, can trigger an attack. If danger is imminent and there's no cover, using anything at hand to distract the bull, targeting its sensitive nose and nostrils with a light blow from a stick, can help deter an attack.
Zoologist Alexander Kasyanov advised that if a bull charges, moving in a zigzag pattern can help to confuse it, as bulls have poor maneuverability. However, this method is risky and not always effective.
Aser Watkins leaves behind a daughter and a wife, from whom he is divorced. His ex-wife described the incident as a "tragic, hard-to-accept accident" in her social media posts. Watkins traveled to Africa with his brother, mother, and stepfather.
The organizers of the trip announced Watkins' death and took on all the expenses and arrangements for supporting his family. The Cape buffalo is known for its high risk to hunters, and professional hunting or safari expeditions require strict adherence to safety protocols and the use of expert guides.
This unfortunate incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers that come with close encounters with large, dangerous African wildlife during safaris and hunts. It is essential to respect these animals' space, follow safety guidelines, and rely on professional guidance to ensure a safe and memorable experience.
The general-news about the safari accident in the Limpopo province, South Africa, involving American hunter Aser Watkins and a Cape buffalo, a notorious and dangerous animal, has led to discussions on crime-and-justice and accidents. Despite being a well-known hunter with numerous trophies, Watkins lost his life during the trip, a stark reminder of the risks involved in close encounters with large, dangerous African wildlife during sports activities like hunting or safari expeditions. The organizers emphasized safety precautions, but even with expert guides, incidents like these can occur.
