Being a conservation ranger out on patrol is about being observant at all times and being prepared to cover huge distances. Areas covered need to be carefully checked for signs of any poaching activity. Bush meat poaching using snares and/or dogs is a constant threat that destroys countless numbers of animals across protected areas and poachers will often return again and again to favorite areas.

It is always extremely rewarding for the rangers to have recovered a bunch of snares that have been well hidden by poachers. Here, members of the IPSS Anti-Poaching Unit at Somkhanda Private Game Reserve recovered twenty snares that poachers had placed during adverse weather conditions. The poachers thought that the rangers would not be active in the field, however, they were wrong. Well done to the team!

This project is carried out in partnership with the Game Rangers Association of Africa (GRAA) that provides support, networks and representation for game rangers across Africa. This conservation photography project will use rangers as the “lead characters” to highlight the issues faced by conservationists and showcase opportunities for improved support of rangers in the future. Positive and targeted messages will be communicated that emphasise the critical role that rangers play in African conservation in ensuring that the continent’s natural heritage is preserved for the benefit of future generations. Support Africa’s Rangers by supporting the GRAA.

Peter Chadwick is a Fellow of the International League of Conservation Photographers (iLCP) whose mission is to further environmental and cultural conservation through photography. The iLCP’s goal is to use the art of high-quality photography to encourage people to take action in support of tangible and meaningful conservation measures.

Visit African Conservation Photography for a full gallery of Ranger images.