WASHINGTON, July 23, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ --The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today confirmed the suspension of the import of sport-hunted African elephant trophies taken in Zimbabwe.

Jeffrey Flocken, North American Regional Director of the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) said:  "In this time of crises, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's decision to uphold the suspension of the import of elephant trophies from Zimbabwe is right thing to do.  While elephants are being slaughtered for their ivory across Africa, it is ridiculous to even be talking about shooting them for sport.  Instead, let's put our energy towards stopping the killing"

It is estimated that between 25,000 and 50,000 elephants are killed for their ivory each year.

About IFAW (the International Fund for Animal Welfare)
Founded in 1969, IFAW saves animals in crisis around the world. With projects in more than 40 countries, IFAW rescues individual animals, works to prevent cruelty to animals, and advocates for the protection of wildlife and habitats. For more information, visit www.ifaw.org. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

SOURCE International Fund for Animal Welfare