Prince William goes hunting in Spain ahead of launching wildlife campaign

The trip is bound to be seen as poorly timed

The future king will back calls for world leaders to end illegal poaching

Prince William has been enjoying a hunting trip in Spain – just days before he launches a campaign to tackle the illegal wildlife trade.

The heir to the throne flew out to Spain with Prince Harry on Thursday to shoot wild boar and stag at a private estate in rural Cordoba, the Sun reported.

The princes are regular visitors to the sprawling 37,000-acre Finca La Garganta estate, which is owned by the Duke of Westminster, one of the wealthiest men in Britain.

But while William and Harry are not breaking Spanish law by hunting the animals, none of which are protected species, their timing is set to cause controversy.

Next week, the future king will participate in a high-profile, Government-hosted conference on the illegal wildlife trade, which aims to highlight the devastating impact of poaching animals such as rhinos, and elephants and calls for international action.

The conference is to be held on Thursday at Lancaster House and Prince Charles will also be in attendance.

Tomorrow father and son will release a joint video message to highlight the campaign, which bears the slogan “Let’s Unite for Wildlife”.