Policy

Permit to Hunt Black Rhino Auctioned Off for $350,000 in Dallas

Money to go to species conservation, but animal activists are outraged

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A permit to hunt an endangered African black rhino has sold for $350,000 at a closely watched auction that's been criticized by wildlife and animal rights groups. 

The Dallas Safari Club and the African nation of Namibia auctioned the permit Saturday to raise money for efforts to protect the black rhino. 

Safari Club spokesman Steve Wagner confirmed the sale of the permit at the closed-door event. He declined to name the buyer. 

The auction has drawn howls from critics, including wildlife and animal rights groups, and the FBI last week said it was investigating death threats against members of the club.