Activists condemn trophy-hunting club for 'turning wildlife into commodities'

Safari Club International draws hunters to Las Vegas for four-day convention billed as the 'Ultimate Hunters' Market' - highlighted by auction of animal hunts

The world's largest trophy hunting club was on the defensive at its giant annual auction in Las Vegas as animal rights advocates and conservation experts traveled from across the globe to condemn the industry that killed Cecil, one of Africa's most famous lions.

The Safari Club International on Wednesday kicked off its elaborate four-day convention and "Ultimate Hunters' Market" inside the Mandalay Bay luxury hotel and casino - drawing 25,000 people to the members-only show. In ballrooms and convention halls with signs describing the event as the "THE BIGGEST THE BEST", hunters mingled with outfitters, gun makers, booking agents, taxidermists and other industry representatives and enthusiasts.