Jacket Notes
WORKING as a wildlife conservationist has to rank among some of the most fulfilling vocations. No two days are the same, particularly in the African wilderness. There is a perception that game rangers lead an idyllic life, and to a large extent that is true. Rewards that often defy description are balanced by the ever-increasing pressure on our planet’s dwindling resources. And therein lies the challenge.
The last two decades have seen a shift in the traditional role of game rangers. The sacrifices made by these selfless men and women determined to make a difference are noteworthy. It is this that has been the primary inspiration for this book.
Set in the heart of South Africa’s big-game country and compiled from my experience in a career spanning more than 40 years, Heart of a Game Ranger is a mix of anecdotal vignettes about the life of a wildlife custodian, and a roller-coaster ride of emotions. As in my previous books, ManEaters, Mambas and Marula Madness and The Man with the Black Dog, there are a number of issues that typify much of a ranger’s work: the introduction of endangered species into the reserve; the question of when it is necessary to intervene to treat injured animals or when we should allow nature to take its course; and the effect of increasing elephant numbers on biodiversity in the Lowveld.
And although it is not the main focus of this book, I felt it necessary to devote a segment to the increasing scourge of rhino poaching and our individual endeavours to protect these beasts. It’s my intention to show that despite the fact there are problems in paradise, all is not lost and innovation thrives.
Now world famous, a team of all-women antipoaching rangers known as the Black Mambas have broken the mould and are playing their part. I also write about the efficacy of Olifants River Game Reserve’s small but dedicated team of rangers who are committed to protecting our precious wildlife.
I take you into the heart of the fray, detailing their hairraising skirmishes with rhino poachers and the tragic consequences of the aftermath of this war, a war we did not start but one we are determined to finish.
However, it’s not all dark; nature is tolerant and forgiving so there is reason for hope. Essentially it is still a wonderful world full of promise and beautiful surprises like Saba, my Belgian Malinois, who I acquired at a time in my life when I thought I would never own another dog. My change of heart was motivated by the need for canine assistance to help track down rhino poachers. I hope you enjoy reading about Saba and forgive my exuberant pride as I wax lyrical about her achievements.
‘Heart of a Game Ranger: Stories from a Wild Life’, Jonathan Ball Publishers, R250
Mario Cesare