The tragic death of Asher Watkins, a 52-year-old millionaire American trophy hunter, has sent shockwaves through the hunting community and beyond. While pursuing one of Africa’s most feared animals, the Cape buffalo, Mr. Watkins was fatally gored during a safari in South Africa.
Known for his vast wealth built from luxury ranch sales and his passion for hunting, Watkins’ demise has highlighted the dangers that even the most experienced hunters face in the wild. This blog delves into the incident, the deadly reputation of the Cape buffalo, and the life and legacy of Asher Watkins.
The Fatal Encounter: Tracking the “Black Death”
On a Sunday in the vast 50,000-acre Bambisana concession located in South Africa’s Limpopo Province, Asher Watkins was engaged in what should have been an exhilarating hunting experience. The target was a massive Cape buffalo bull, weighing approximately 1.3 tonnes (about 2,860 pounds), ominously nicknamed the “Black Death.”
Despite the presence of professional hunters and trackers from Coenraad Vermaak Safaris guiding the expedition, the buffalo suddenly charged at Watkins at an alarming speed of 35 miles per hour, fatally injuring him. Cape buffaloes are notorious for their unpredictability and aggressive behavior.
Locals have long referred to them as “Black Death” because of the danger they pose—responsible for around 200 human fatalities annually in Africa. This makes the Cape buffalo statistically more lethal to hunters than lions, rhinoceroses, or crocodiles. The safari company’s website aptly describes the Cape buffalo as “the most dangerous to pursue in Africa,” warning hunters to prepare for sudden and unprovoked charges.
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The exact reason for the buffalo’s sudden aggression remains unknown. However, it is well documented that even uninjured buffaloes may charge hunters without warning, making hunting them one of the riskiest pursuits on the continent. The animal is known for its cunning and belligerence, often seeking refuge in thick bush when threatened or wounded. Its reputation for unpredictable attacks makes every buffalo hunt a tense, adrenaline-filled challenge.
The Incident and Response
Mr. Watkins was on a 7,500-pound guided hunting safari with Coenraad Vermaak Safaris, tracking the buffalo through the bush alongside a professional hunter and a tracker. According to Hunter Hans Vermaak, the attack was sudden and unprovoked. The hunting team was devastated by the tragic loss, expressing deep sorrow for Mr. Watkins and extending their sympathies to his family.
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Watkins’ family, including his mother Gwen, stepfather, and brother Amon, were waiting at the safari lodge when the incident occurred, making the loss even more heart-wrenching. The safari company assured that they were providing full support to the family members both on site and back in the United States as they grieved.
The tragedy serves as a grim reminder of the inherent dangers of big-game hunting. While safaris often promise adventure and the thrill of the hunt, they also expose hunters to unpredictable wildlife behavior that can turn fatal in moments.
The Life and Legacy of Asher Watkins
Asher Watkins was far more than a trophy hunter; he was a man whose life was deeply intertwined with ranching and wildlife. Based in Texas, he amassed his wealth through the Watkins Ranch Group, selling luxury ranches valued at up to 30 million pounds. His involvement with Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty connected him to high-end real estate and affluent clientele, reflecting his successful business acumen.
Watkins was also a member of the Dallas Safari Club, an organization that advocates for wildlife conservation alongside hunting. His social media presence revealed a deep passion for hunting and wildlife preservation, with numerous photos showcasing trophies such as mountain lions and deer. This duality—hunter and conservationist—reflects a complex relationship many in the hunting community have with nature: respecting and preserving wildlife while pursuing big-game trophies.
His extensive collection of high-end hunting rifles was another testament to his dedication and enthusiasm for the sport. The tragic end of a man so devoted to hunting highlights the unpredictable nature of the wilderness, where experience and wealth can still not guarantee safety.
The death of Asher Watkins is a sobering example of the risks associated with hunting some of Africa’s most dangerous animals. The Cape buffalo, or “Black Death,” lives up to its fearsome reputation, and the fatal encounter serves as a stark reminder that no matter how skilled or prepared a hunter may be, nature remains a powerful and sometimes unforgiving force.
While his legacy as a successful businessman and passionate hunter will be remembered, the incident also underscores the importance of respect and caution in the wild. The hunting community mourns the loss of Asher Watkins, whose life was marked by ambition, passion, and ultimately, a tragic confrontation with one of Africa’s deadliest creatures.