As a lover of wildlife and nature, the idea of being a ranger has always sounded somewhat appealing to me.
After all, what could be better that being paid to live in the wilderness and encounter wild animals every day? However, being a ranger is more than just a dreamy job, it’s a lifestyle and a commitment. A passion for the wild, dedication and a strong work ethic are just a few of the characteristics that define a good ranger.
The 31st of July is World Ranger Day. This is a day that serves to commemorate all of those rangers that have fallen in the line of duty, as well as recognising the huge amounts of work that rangers do every day. Ranger Alex from [highlight] Rhino River Lodge [/highlight] shares a little more about what it takes to be a ranger:
When and how did you decide that you wanted to be a ranger?
I have always felt a need deep inside to work with wildlife and decided to be a ranger at the age of 11.
How did you become a ranger?
I corresponded through FGASA for my theory qualification. For the practical side of things, I had to quit my job as an adventure instructor in order to spend time gaining practical experience in the bush.
What is the hardest part about being a ranger?
As a ranger, you need to forget about the outside world and adapt to life in the wilderness, far away from civilisation and all the creature comforts that come with it.
What is the biggest benefit about being a ranger?
I have grown as a person by being exposed to people from all over the world with different cultures and ideas.
What is your favourite memory from working at Rhino River Lodge?
Watching a pride of lions fighting over a kill. The whole valley seemed to come to a standstill as these majestic animals fought fiercely over a kudu carcass. Their deep roaring echoed through the valley, alarming some nyala in the distance who all popped their heads up in a mixture and curiosity and fear.
What characteristics do you need to be a ranger?
You need to be dedicated to saving wildlife and have strong people skills.
There you have it. Straight from a ranger’s mouth! Challenging and rewarding; that is the life of a ranger. [highlight] WildWeb [/highlight] would like to recognise and thank every ranger out there that has committed their lives to making a difference to nature and conservation. We salute you all.
