Since 2007, International World Rangers Day, observed on August 31 each year, commemorates a somber event. It originated after the tragic loss of eight rangers in Virunga National Park, Congo, while defending wildlife. The day’s purpose is to raise awareness about the challenges these dedicated individuals face in their conservation efforts.
The term “game Ranger,” once encompassing all bush workers, has evolved to include distinct roles like Field Guides, Wildlife Vets, Field Rangers, Wardens, and Section Rangers in larger reserves.
While people often mistake Field Guides for Rangers, we appreciate the sentiments. However, World Rangers Day is for those behind-the-scenes heroes who courageously safeguard our wildlife from harm. Field Guides educate and engage tourists about the environment without dealing with poaching issues. Though we offer assistance and awareness, we aren’t directly involved in anti-poaching operations.
The Wildlife Vets play a crucial role in aiding injured animals and even putting their lives at risk during poaching incidents. They collaborate closely with Field Rangers and Wardens to provide assistance.
Field Rangers primarily focus on safeguarding wildlife from poachers rather than interacting with animals like Guides do. They undergo comprehensive training to handle diverse and potentially life-threatening situations, not only for the sake of wildlife but also for their colleagues and their own safety. Their bravery shines as they dedicate themselves to protecting wildlife and its future.
These Rangers have the tough task of patrolling massive areas day and night, in blistering heat or cold storms. They can go weeks and sometimes even months without seeing their own friends or families. They have to be careful about many things, often hiding their identity as they don’t want outsiders to find out who they are, as this could even put family and loved ones at risk. It has now become more of a military like lifestyle for these people.
Canine Units are also a big part of helping our Field Rangers now. It means that some of the specialised guys now work hand in hand with their canines, using them to track, find, and sometimes catch the perpetrators. As with many canine units in different sections, the bonds between a handler and his dog are incredibly important. A lot of training and trust go into this as well.
When you speak to some of these people, the say it is not easy, but it is fulfilling, as they know that if it wasn’t for them, there would be nothing to show our children in the future. Even with all the hardships, they are positive and know they are making a difference. The compassion that these people show for wildlife is truly incredible, and we can only hope that it rubs off on future generations.
Wardens and Section Rangers are the guys right at the top of the reserve’s. Warden is the term used in the smaller reserves. The Warden will be in charge of the entire reserve. Where as with a Section Ranger, it is the larger reserves like Kruger National Park that are too large and need more than one person to run. These are the guys that will make all the big decisions, making the best calls they can for the wildlife and the people that work underneath them.
Even though it is their special day today, they will not get the chance to celebrate. These Rangers will be hard at work as if it were any other day. So we will thank you! Thank you for all you do for our wildlife. Without you, there would be no wildlife for us to share.
All photo credits: Timbavati Private Nature Reserve who allowed us to share some pictures of their incredible team.
To secure your best African Safari, contact Wandering Thru Today
