Nature Conservation-friendly exotic skin

The vast majority of conservation-friendly exotic skin products have come from wild animals
specifically reared for their meat and skins. A percentage of the income generated from these
animals is ploughed back into the industry and used in conservation programmes for the
management and upkeep of important wildlife sanctuaries in the country.

Game farming and wildlife population control

On game farms, wild animals are bred for the sake of preserving them. When the animal
population gets too big and threatens to damage the environment, however, controlled hunting
is used to bring the numbers down. The hides of these animals then become the exotic skins
bought by designers and craftsmen to make luxury items, such as leather luggage and belts.

Currently, there are approximately 6,000 game farms in South Africa, as former cattle farmers
have recently been converting their farms into wildlife ranches. It is estimated that over
500,000ha are being converted from cattle to game every year.

Ostrich farming is becoming increasingly popular and their skins are now more in demand than
cattle skins. Snake skin belts, python skin purses and other snake skin products are also highly
desirable to discerning buyers.