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Illegal bird trapping equipment seized in raid
Illegal bird trapping equipment seized in raid
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Eleanor Lawson
BBC News, West Midlands
Police have seized illegal bird trapping equipment after carrying out a raid at an address in Wolverhampton.
West Midlands Police said officers supported a joint agency warrant in relation to a wildlife crime investigation on Wednesday, attending an address on Stowheath Lane, Bilston.
No arrests were made but some illegal trapping equipment was seized.
The West Midlands Ringing Group, who supported the police with the raid, said a suspect was believed to be catching and selling wild finches.
A spokesperson for the group said: “We were proud to support our local police on a wildlife crime warrant.
“No birds were found, but illegal trapping equipment was seized [including] lime sticks.”
Lime sticks are covered in an adhesive material.
A spokesperson for West Midlands Police said inquiries were ongoing.
US millionaire fatally attacked by buffalo in Limpopo
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More Headlines on: Millionaire Trophy Hunter Gored to Death by Buffalo on Safari –
Hunter’s harrowing final moments before being impaled on sharp curved horns of ‘black death’ revealed
Millionaire Asher Watkins, 52, was on a $10,000 organized hunting safari in South Africa when he was killed by a Cape buffalo
Falyn Stempler News Reporter
15:33 ET, 07 Aug 2025Updated 15:36 ET, 07 Aug 2025
Millionaire ranch trader Asher Watkins, 52, was killed by a Cape buffalo on a hunting trip in South Africa
A seasoned big game hunter met a tragic end when he was fatally attacked by the very buffalo he sought as a trophy in South Africa last week.
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Asher Watkins, 52, who built his wealth through ranch trading in the U.S., was on a $10,000 hunting safari organized by Coenraad Vermaak Safaris when he was tracking a massive 2,800-pound buffalo, considered one of the “big five” most dangerous to hunt.
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In a cruel twist of fate, the buffalo turned on Watkins in a “sudden and unprovoked attack” during the hunt at the expansive 50,000-acre Bambisana concession, delivering a fatal charge that killed him almost instantly.
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The Cape buffalo, as locals refer to the species in the region, is ominously nicknamed the “Black Death” due to their involvement in roughly 200 deaths each year and for being more lethal to hunters than lions, rhinos or crocodiles.
The Cape buffalo stands up to 5 ft. 6 in. and is distinctive for its curved horns with dark, shaggy brown fur that can easily camouflage in the wild.
The notorious Cape buffalo, also referred to as Black Death, is responsible for killing many hunters annually
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The notorious animal was described as having the most “fearsome reputation” of all “species on the planet” given that they are “responsible for several deaths and many injuries to hunters each year, Hans Vermaak wrote in a statement on CV Safaris’ website.
“The buffalo is regarded as the most dangerous animal to pursue in Africa,” they wrote on their website. “[They] can absorb astounding amounts of lead even when shots are well placed and a charging buffalo comes at an alarming speed.
They warned, if attacked, “Cool nerves and a steady hand are crucial.”
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Vermaakcalled the incident “deeply traumatic” for those who witnessed it and said that the other safari members and Watkins’ family “are understandably shaken.”
“He was tracking it together with one of our professional hunters and one of our trackers,” Vermaak added.
Watkins was an avid hunter and animal lover
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Watkins’ social media accounts reveal his avid interest in hunting and his belief in the importance of wildlife conservation. His profile features photos of himself with various trophies from hunts over the years, including a mountain lion and several deer.
The circumstances that led to the buffalo’s deadly attack on the hunting party are still uncertain, but reports suggest the animal became aggressive before charging at Watkins.
Now family is remembering the avid hunter as they grapple with his untimely death, including Watkins’ ex-wife Courtney who posted a touching tribute on social media.
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“This photo is from another time, another chapter of our lives — but it’s one that will always be a part of our daughter’s story,” she captioned a family photo on Facebook. “On Sunday, August 3, … Asher Watkins, died suddenly in a tragic accident involving a Cape buffalo while on a hunting trip in South Africa.
“It’s a reality that’s still hard to put into words. Our hearts are heavy as we navigate the days ahead.”
We’ve been in a state of shock and heartbreak ever since, trying to process not just the loss, but the complexity that comes with it,” she added.
“Thank you to everyone who has reached out, prayed, or simply held us in your thoughts. Your love has truly carried us through the hardest few days of our lives.”
Hunter Hans Vermaak, representing CV Safaris, also expressed his condolences to The Sun: “It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts we confirm the tragic death of our client and friend Asher Watkins from the USA.
“On Sunday, while on a hunting safari with us in South Africa’s Limpopo Province, Asher was fatally injured in a sudden and unprovoked attack by an unwounded buffalo. He was tracking it together with one of our professional hunters and one of our trackers. This is a devastating incident and our hearts go out to his loved ones.
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Asher and a trophy deer (Image: Facebook)
“We are doing everything we can to support the family members who are here with us and those back in the United States as they navigate this tragic loss.”
His family has been informed about the tragedy, and some have spoken out.
Karma strikes: Millionaire trophy hunter killed by the very buffalo he was hunting
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A 52-year-old American millionaire and experienced trophy hunter, Asher Watkins, was fatally gored by a Cape buffalo during a licensed hunting expedition in South Africa. The incident occurred in the Limpopo province, a region known for its game reserves and big game safaris.
According to reports, Watkins was participating in a licensed safari with Coenraad Vermaak Safaris, one of South Africa’s oldest and most prominent hunting operators. He had already successfully hunted a waterbuck earlier in the trip and was tracking a large Cape buffalo, a species often dubbed the “Black Death” due to its notorious aggression and unpredictability.
While attempting a close range shot, the buffalo charged without warning. Despite the presence of a professional guide and tracker, the animal managed to reach Watkins, goring him fatally. Medical personnel were called to the scene, but he was declared dead on arrival.
Authorities have confirmed that the incident is being treated as a tragic accident. An investigation is ongoing, though no foul play is suspected.
Cape Buffalo: Africa’s most dangerous game
The Cape buffalo is one of the most feared animals in the African bush. With a weight exceeding 1,500 kg and capable of charging at great speed, it is responsible for more hunter fatalities on the continent than any other large animal. When injured or threatened, the buffalo often retaliates aggressively, making it especially perilous to pursue on foot.
Though legally hunted under conservation permits, Cape buffalo are known to test even the most seasoned hunters. Watkins, a frequent participant in international hunts, had reportedly undertaken several similar expeditions in the past.
Conservation debate rekindled
Watkins’ death has sparked renewed conversation over the practice of trophy hunting. While proponents argue that licensed hunts bring in revenue for conservation and local communities, critics question the ethics and risks involved.
Animal rights advocates have called the incident a stark reminder of the consequences of treating wild animals as trophies. Meanwhile, the safari operator expressed condolences to the family, stating all safety protocols had been followed.
Watkins, a father of one, is survived by his daughter and former wife. His death marks one of the rare but grim reminders of the lethal risks associated with big game hunting in Africa.
FAQs
Q1. What is a Cape buffalo and why is it dangerous?A1. The Cape buffalo, often called the “Black Death,” is known for its aggression, especially when injured. It weighs over 1,500 pounds and can charge at lightning speed.
Q2. What’s the controversy surrounding trophy hunting?A2. Supporters argue it supports conservation and rural economies. Critics see it as unethical and exploitative toward wildlife.
For more news like this visit The Economic Times.
Exposing the Big Game 