IT IS one of the toughest endurance sport events, and those taking part are among the bravest of the brave … the wildlife rangers who daily risk life and limb to protect Africa’s magnificent wild animals.

The Wildlife Ranger Challenge is a series of mental and physical tests that will culminate on September 21 with a multi-nation half-marathon across some of Africa’s most remote landscapes. 

Pic: Marcus Westberg / Tusk

Now in its fifth year, the event is expected to attract 170 Wildlife Ranger teams from 24 different African countries, who will race in their respective territories, each runner carrying 22kg of kit.

The event is organised by Tusk and the Game Rangers Association of Africa with support from the Scheinberg Relief Fund, and has raised more than $18.5 million in funds since it started in 2020.

Pic: Big Life Foundation

“This is a critical time in the story of life on Earth,” says  Charlie Mayhew OBE, Founder and President of Tusk. “In less than 50 years we have lost nearly 70% of the planet’s mammals, birds, fish and reptiles. This loss of nature and biodiversity profoundly affects us all: we depend on it for survival.

“One strategy to help halt the loss of nature is to fully recognise, respect and invest in the vital work of Wildlife Rangers: thousands of brave men and women who work as guardians of vast areas of the planet’s land and water.”

The duties of a Wildlife Ranger include not only anti-poaching operations and law enforcement, but also habitat monitoring, environmental education, fire management and dog training.

There’s ecological research, intelligence gathering, the collaring of wildlife and removal of snares, assisting injured animals and acting as emergency first-responders for the local communities.

Pic: Impact / Madagascar Mahajeby Rangers

Rangers also act as diplomats, educators, intermediaries and peacekeepers, educating local people about the broad benefits of wildlife conservation and encouraging them to live peacefully alongside endangered wildlife. 

Yet to be a Ranger in Africa is to carry out hazardous and sometimes life-threatening work. They face threats to life from armed poachers and illegal wildlife trafficking networks, as well as attacks from predatory animals.

Pic: Marcus Westberg / Tusk

Violence, injury, disease and death are not uncommon in the line of duty. Rangers endure tropical diseases, dehydration, bushfires and the isolating effects of long periods away from home.

And here’s a sobering thought – there is also a critical lack of insurance cover for Rangers and their families. It’s estimated that half of Rangers have no life insurance.

To keep updated about the Challenge, or to support the work of the Wildlife Rangers, see the official event website. This Wednesday, July 31, is World Ranger Day, honouring the work they do as Earth’s guardians, risking their lives to defend wildlife and wild places.

The evocative lead image in this post is by Marcus Westberg.