The decision to allow seven leopards to be shot by trophy hunters has raised the ire of several wildlife conservation groups, but wildlife experts say this may be a drop in the ocean compared with the number killed to clothe members of the Shembe church.

Environment Minister Edna Molewa has lifted a two-year moratorium on leopard hunts, saying her department would approve seven permits nationwide.

But this new quota pales in comparison to the scale of slaughter to supply the traditional skin and medicine trade.