The wall of potential death - This is but a minor fraction of the snares that have been removed from Hlane Game Reserve that is managed by Big Game Parks in Swaziland.

The ranger’s eyes have to be super sharp to be able to find these snares that have been well hidden by poachers along game trails. Each snare removed saves an animal from a horrible death.

Swaziland has a "No-Nonsense" approach to dealing with poaching and conservation is strongly supported by the Monarchy. This has played a huge role in particularly deterring rhino poaching. Commitment from the top together with well-trained, committed boots on the ground is what is needed and the ranger teams that I met in Swaziland are amongst the finest I have had the privilege of working with!

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.