This Is Life For Someone Who Fights Off Poachers

<p> Ol Pejeta Conservancy </p>
<p> Ol Pejeta Conservancy </p>

Rangers are on the front line every day protecting our wildlife. Dedication is an understatement, as they pour 100 percent of their time and effort into guarding rhinos, ensuring safety for tourists and helping to keep daily life at Ol Pejeta Conservancy (OPC) running smoothly.

Ranger Gideon at Ol Pejeta Conservancy. Photo: Gideon

Name: Gideon
Age: 26 years old
Location: Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Tisha: What has been your most rewarding or most difficult moment as a ranger?

Gideon: It is a hard time when the moon is full.

How much do you work?

I work 84 hours a week. I have 6 days off a month.

Rangers at OPC undergo regular training to keep them up to date on techniques of security and wildlife monitoring. Photo: OPC

Where would you like to travel someday?

Canada.

What is your favorite meal?

Rice.

What do you wish you had to fight poachers?

More arms, good vehicles and to boost security.

What do your family/friends/significant other think of your profession?

They appreciate what I do, but they worry too.

OPC is integral to the survival of rhinos, they are the largest black rhino sanctuary in east Africa. Photo: Tisha Wardlow