Cecil captured on a November 2012 video made available by Paula French. (Photo: AP)

Following the tragic news of the killing of Cecil the lion, Delta Airlines has announced that it will no longer allow the shipment of hunting trophies around the globe.

Related: RIP Cecil—How You Can Help Protect Africa’s Lions

The airline said in a statement:

“Effective immediately, Delta will officially ban shipment of all lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros and buffalo trophies worldwide as freight. Prior to this ban, Delta’s strict acceptance policy called for absolute compliance with all government regulations regarding protected species. Delta will also review acceptance policies of other hunting trophies with appropriate government agencies and other organizations supporting legal shipments.”

Cecil the Lion was a popular animal at the Hwange National Park and an icon for conservation efforts in the region. He was controversially killed by Walter Palmer, a Minnesota dentist in early July. Zimbabwe’s wildlife minister has said that extradition is being sought for Palmer.

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