early in/BOWFANATIC, I find it a little upsetting that both of you are quick to make judgements and be so closed minded in regards to something so important. I bet if someone were to make a post stating that deer hunting should be illegal, both of you would be quick to post a response stating why it should be allowed. I have done extensive research on the subject of hunting African species, mainly for various projects in college. I don't want to post a "book" here, so I'll keep it simple. Africa has a Game Dept. that is so well organized that any DNR in the U.S. would be well served to model themselves after it. They can account for every $ spent and it always goes back to wildlife and wildlife habitat. The areas where hunting is allowed have far greater populations of game and more healthy populations at that. To answer the question "Why would anyone want to shoot an elephant?" If you have to ask, you don't "get it." I suggest reading "Death in the Long Grass" by Peter Hathaway Capstick. Yes, it would be just for a "trophy", but it is much more than that. By the way, as soon as an elephant hits the ground, the closest village is notified and they come claim the meat. It is often enough to sustain them for a month or more. It all comes down to population density. When a species reaches it's maximum healthy carrying capacity, it must be managed. Hunting is often the best way, due to the fact that it not only keeps the population in check, but it generates revenue as well. Please do some research and educate yourselves. You will find some great reading/videos about some amazing hunts, and discover that someday you may want to go on a adventure to a far off land someday. If you don't that's fine, to each his own, but don't try to take it away from those of us who do. We, as hunters, don't need to fight amongst ourselves that is just what the antis want to see.