World Ranger Day

Some of my favorite people are rangers. It’s a profound privilege to work alongside these dedicated men and women in the field across Africa. Rangers are the foundation of protected area conservation….if policies are enacted or management recommendations made, they are the ones on the ground making it happen. From desnaring animals caught in poachers’ traps (like this giraffe) to acting as law enforcement agents in the vast wildernesses of national parks, to pulling security for road construction teams, to guiding researchers through unfamiliar terrain, rangers get it done.

Today is World Ranger Day, a day meant for honoring them. Many of them are in the field now, protecting our natural heritage, and likely won’t have the privilege to reflect on this outpouring of gratitude. While today is a special day to focus our appreciation, their work is unending and our gratitude should be too.