UPS: We'll Keep Shipping Big-Game Trophies

While airlines at home and abroad move to ban the shipment of big-game trophies in the wake of recent public outcry, at least one company will continue to transport the heads of lions, leopards, elephants, rhinoceros, and buffaloes: UPS. The shipping giant tells the Washington Post that it follows US and international laws—and not public opinion—when deciding what to transport. “There are many items shipped in international commerce that may spark controversy,” says UPS' public relations director. “The views on what is appropriate for shipment are as varied as the audiences that hold these views."

The stance, however, isn't sitting well with Humane Society International. "We urge UPS to join the growing list of airlines that prohibit the transport of trophies," an official with the group tells the Dodo. In the meantime, UPS competitor FedEx says that while it doesn't ship animal carcasses, it will ship legally obtained animal parts "for taxidermy purposes." (The Jimmy John's sandwich chain is feeling the heat over big-game hunting.)