The full moon means different things to different people. To most, it is something of immense beauty as a full, bright and rounded moon rises over the horizon at dusk. To the rangers fighting the war against rhino poaching, it means an increased risk of infiltrations by heavily armed groups and brings with it the associated amplified levels of danger.
The work of these rangers does not include the comforts of life and the call to respond to an incident can happen day or night under the most adverse weather conditions. The dedication of the anti-poaching units that I have worked with is extremely encouraging and gives me immense hope for our protected areas and the iconic animals that they contain.
This conservation photography 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.
