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Ernest Hemingway and the Leopard Photo: A Story of Myth.
One of the most iconic images of Ernest Hemingway shows the famed American author standing triumphantly beside the carcass of a large leopard in the African bush, a rifle slung over his shoulder. Dressed in safari gear, his expression is characteristically stoic—confident, weathered, and self-assured. The photograph, taken during his 1933–1934 African safari, has long been interpreted as a testament to Hemingway’s prowess as a big-game hunter, reinforcing his public image as a rugged adventurer and master of the wild.
But the truth behind the image is far more nuanced—and revealing—than the myth it helped create.
The Leopard That Wasn’t His
Contrary to popular belief, Hemingway did not shoot the leopard in the photograph. At the time the photo was taken, he had actually failed to bring down the animal himself. The leopard had been killed by Mayito Menocal, a young Cuban friend and fellow member of the safari party. Hemingway, ever the showman and keenly aware of image, posed with the trophy anyway—capturing a moment that would be remembered as a personal triumph, even though it was not.
This detail underscores a recurring theme in Hemingway’s life: the blurring of fact and fiction, not only in his writing but in the persona he cultivated. The photo became a symbol of the Hemingway legend—the hunter, the man of action, the conqueror of nature. Yet behind the pose was a man who, on that particular day, had come up short. It wasn’t until three months later that Hemingway finally succeeded in shooting a leopard of his own, an achievement he would later recount with pride in Green Hills of Africa, his 1935 nonfiction account of the African safari.
The Rifle: A Beloved Weapon with a Troubled Fate
The rifle slung over Hemingway’s shoulder in the famous photo is a Griffin & Howe .30-06 bolt-action rifle, serial number 956. He purchased it in 1930 from Abercrombie & Fitch in New York for $256.50—a significant sum at the time. Custom-built for precision and durability, the rifle was fitted with a telescopic sight and tailored to Hemingway’s preferences for African hunting.
Interestingly, the rifle originally came with a side-mounted diopter sight, which Hemingway removed shortly after acquiring it. He reportedly never used it, preferring open or telescopic sights for long-range shooting. The Griffin & Howe became one of his favorite firearms, accompanying him on multiple safaris and used to take a variety of game, including kudu, eland, and buffalo.
A Legacy Interrupted by Tragedy
Two years after Hemingway’s suicide in 1961, his widow, Mary Hemingway, attempted to part with the rifle. In 1963, she consigned it to Abercrombie & Fitch with instructions to sell it for $150. However, in a moment of reconsideration, she changed her mind and reclaimed the weapon—perhaps struck by its emotional and historical weight as a relic of her late husband’s adventurous life.
Eventually, Mary passed the rifle down to their son, Patrick Hemingway, who had accompanied his father on later hunting trips and shared his passion for the outdoors. Patrick used the rifle just once: in 1967, while hunting in Montana, he successfully took a moose with his father’s old .30-06—a poignant moment of continuity between father and son.
In the late 1970s Griffin & Howe .30-06 was stolen from Patrick Hemingway’s home in Montana during a burglary. Despite efforts to track it down, the weapon has never been recovered. Its disappearance remains one of the enduring mysteries in Hemingway lore.
Over the years, a persistent rumor has circulated that the stolen rifle—along with other firearms taken in the same heist—was smuggled out of the United States and sent to the Irish Republican Army (IRA)during the height of The Troubles in Northern Ireland. Some speculate it was part of a larger cache of American weapons funneled to Irish republican paramilitaries through sympathetic networks. While there is no verifiable evidence to confirm this theory, the idea that Hemingway’s rifle might have ended up in a conflict far removed from the African savanna adds a layer of irony and melancholy to its story.
Navigating Africa's Hunting Seasons: A Guide for the Ethical and Informed Hunter
Planning an African hunting safari? Understand the key hunting seasons by country and species to ensure a responsible and successful trip. Dates, regulations, and ethical considerations covered.
Africa. The word conjures images of vast savannas, thundering herds, and the primal thrill of the hunt. But a successful and ethical hunting safari hinges on one crucial element: understanding the intricate tapestry of hunting seasons. Forget simply showing up with a rifle; responsible hunting demands knowing when and where you can legally and sustainably pursue specific game.
Why Hunting Seasons Matter: More Than Just Dates
Hunting seasons aren't arbitrary dates on a calendar. They are carefully crafted windows designed to:
Protect Wildlife Populations: Align hunting with periods of peak animal health and avoid disrupting crucial breeding seasons.
Promote Sustainable Harvesting: Ensure that populations remain healthy and viable for future generations.
Support Conservation Efforts: Revenue generated from regulated hunting often directly funds anti-poaching patrols, habitat preservation, and community development.
Ignoring hunting seasons has severe consequences, ranging from hefty fines and license revocation to significant damage to wildlife populations. In short, ignorance is not an excuse.
A Country-by-Country Overview (Key Seasons):
This is where it gets specific. Instead of vague generalities, let's look at examples of hunting seasons in key African hunting destinations:
South Africa:
General Season: May to September is generally considered the optimal time for hunting, coinciding with the dry season.
Specific Species: Kudu (March - October), Impala (All year). Waterbuck (July - November). Season dates can vary regionally, so always confirm with local authorities or your outfitter.
Important Note: South Africa has a highly developed hunting industry with extensive regulations. Licences and permits are essential.
Namibia:
General Season: February 1 - November 30th.
Specific Species: Springbok (February 1-November 30), Gemsbok (February 1-November 30), Hartmann's Zebra (Februaray 1-November 30).
Important Note: Namibia's hunting regulations are particularly strict, emphasizing fair chase and ethical practices.
Tanzania:
General Season: July 1st to December 31st.
Specific Species: Lion and Leopard hunting are strictly controlled and have very limited quotas, often requiring years of advance booking and substantial fees. Check with your outfitter well in advance.
Important Note: Tanzania's hunting areas are often remote, requiring meticulous planning and logistical support.
Zimbabwe:
General Season: May to November.
Specific Species: Elephant and Buffalo hunting are popular.
Important Note: Political and economic instability can affect hunting regulations and access. Stay updated on the latest developments.
Zambia:
General Season: May to November.
Specific Species: Sable Antelope is a highly sought-after trophy.
Important Note: Zambia has a growing hunting industry with opportunities for both plains game and dangerous game.
Crucial Considerations Beyond the Dates:
Local Regulations: Hunting seasons and permit requirements can vary significantly between regions within a country. Never assume uniformity.
Quota Systems: Many species have strict quotas, limiting the number of animals that can be harvested.
Firearm Regulations: African countries have stringent firearm laws. Research import permits and temporary firearm licenses well in advance. Use a reputable gun broker if needed.
Ethical Hunting Practices: Fair chase, respect for the animal, and proper handling of the harvest are paramount.
Finding Reliable Information:
Professional Hunting Outfitters: A reputable outfitter will be intimately familiar with local regulations and can guide you through the permit process.
Government Wildlife Agencies: Official websites of national parks and wildlife authorities are the most authoritative sources of information.
Hunting Associations: Organizations like the Professional Hunters' Association of South Africa (PHASA) can provide valuable resources and ethical guidelines.
The Bottom Line:
An African hunting safari is a significant investment of time and money. Don't let a lack of preparation derail your dream. By understanding the nuances of hunting seasons, respecting local regulations, and embracing ethical practices, you can ensure a memorable and sustainable hunting experience that contributes to the conservation of Africa's magnificent wildlife.
Hunting season in Africa is more than just a time of year; it's an intricate part of a larger ecosystem. It requires careful planning, ethical conduct, and a deep understanding of the local environment. By supporting responsible hunting practices, we can contribute to wildlife conservation, empower local communities, and ensure that future generations can experience the wonder and majesty of Africa's wild landscapes. If you're considering a hunting trip to Africa, choose a reputable outfitter, do your research, and remember that you are a guest in this incredible land.
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Wild hare hunting Morocco: A Hunter’s Tale from the Wild Plains
I still remember the morning air—cool, dry, and laced with the scent of wild thyme. The sun hadn’t yet crested the horizon when we set out across the scrublands near Benslimane, rifles slung, dogs eager, and hearts pounding. Hare hunting in Morocco isn’t just a sport—it’s a ritual, a test of patience, instinct, and respect for the land.
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🐇 The Moroccan Hare: Elusive and Legendary
The North African hare (Lepus capensis) is a master of deception. Unlike rabbits, hares don’t burrow—they rely on camouflage and speed. Their lean bodies and powerful hind legs make them lightning-fast across rocky terrain. In Morocco, they’re most active at dawn and dusk, preferring solitude and silence. Locals say, “If the hare ran straight, no man could catch it.” And they’re right.
These hares thrive in grasslands, vineyards, cork oak forests, and even semi-arid zones. They’re solitary, nocturnal, and notoriously clever. You won’t find them in packs—but you’ll find their tracks, if you know where to look.
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🎯 The Hunt: Tradition Meets Terrain
We hunted using the walk-up method, with trained pointers sweeping the brush. The dogs froze—statues in motion—then flushed the hare from cover. It darted left, then right, zigzagging through the scrub. I raised my 20-gauge shotgun, led the shot, and fired. Dust kicked up. Silence. Then cheers.
In Morocco, hare hunting is legal from October to February, with hunts allowed Friday through Monday. Bag limits vary, but most regions allow 2–5 hares per day. Permits are required, and non-residents must hunt with licensed guides.
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🏞️ Where It Happens: Morocco’s Best Hare Zones
• River Camp (Mohammedia): Rolling fields, eucalyptus groves, and vineyards—ideal hare habitat.
• Middle Atlas (Azrou & Ifrane): Cooler climate, cedar forests, and high-altitude terrain.
• Souss Valley: Agricultural plains with high hare density.
• Rif Mountains: Rocky slopes and dense brush—challenging but rewarding.
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🔫 Gear and Guns
I used a 20-gauge semi-auto, loaded with shot. Lightweight, fast, and perfect for quick targets. Most hunters prefer 12-gauge or 20-gauge for hares. Dogs are essential—pointers, spaniels, or even local breeds trained to freeze and flush.
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🍽️ After the Hunt: What We Do with the Hare
Back at camp, we cleaned the hare and prepared it the traditional way: tajine with olives, preserved lemon, and wild herbs. The meat is lean, earthy, and rich in flavor. Some hunters prefer grilling or stewing, but tajine is the soul of Moroccan cuisine.
Locals also use hare meat in pastilla, a savory pie wrapped in phyllo and dusted with cinnamon and sugar—a blend of sweet and savory that surprises every palate.
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📊 How Many Hares?
In a good season, Morocco yields over 300 hares across private estates like River Camp A. But they’re getting rarer. Habitat loss and overhunting have made conservation critical. That’s why bag limits and seasonal closures exist—to protect the balance.
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🧠 The Culture of Hare Hunting
In Morocco, hunting is tied to Berber tradition. It’s not just about the kill—it’s about the chase, the land, and the bond between hunter and dog. Elders pass down techniques, stories, and respect for the game. You don’t waste. You don’t brag. You hunt with purpose.
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✅ Final Thoughts
Hare hunting in Morocco is raw, real, and unforgettable. It’s the crunch of dry earth underfoot, the flash of fur in the brush, the silence before the shot. It’s mint tea at sunset, stories around the fire, and the satisfaction of earning your meal.
If you’re looking for a hunt that challenges your reflexes, connects you to tradition, and immerses you in North African wilderness—this is it.
https://m.uh.app/news/hare-hunting-in-morocco-an-adventure-for-the-brave-hare-hunting-is-a_R35d0Ka1Ee-qfrvuH2AEDA
