Rapid Response to Poaching Incidents

Rapid_Response_Ranger_Callout_©PeterChadwick_AfricanConservationPhotographer 4

When the call comes through that there is some form of poaching taking place on a protected area, the anti-poaching unit needs to respond instantaneously. At Somkhanda Private Game Reserve, that is owned by the Gumbi Tribe and managed by the Wildlands Conservation Trust, the ranger team was on the move in just a few minutes after the initial call came through.

This prevented an incursion that had been planned by bush-meat poachers with their dogs. Good relations with the neighbouring community is vital in such instances as pro-active intelligence aids greatly in gaining early warning of possible incursions by poachers.

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.