SATIB Insurance Brokers Brokers’ “athlete extraordinaire” and staunch supporter of our Ranger Protect Program, Andre du Toit, and Andrew Booth of KZN Trail Running met at Manyoni Private Game Reserve with a small group to conduct a recce for the much-anticipated Ranger Patrol experience.
The first day saw the group setting up camp in a Fever Tree forest and familiarising themselves with their surroundings, then heading off for an 8km late afternoon run. There was lots of banter, plotting and planning done whilst enjoying dinner around the fire and a timely roar of a nearby lion had them scuttling off for some much-needed sleep.
Day 2
After a quick cup of coffee and a lazy stretch the team took to the game paths and clocked 15km en route to Zebra Hills Lodge. Moving as a patrol “unit” they ran/ hiked likely crossing points and game paths taking in possible signs of intrusion while keeping a watchful eye on the presence of potentially dangerous game. The rangers joined them for brunch on arrival at Zebra Hills where they discussed the challenges they face and the good work they do.
There was just enough time to include a mandatory cool off in the enticing pool at Zebra Hills, which has a water hole less than 50m away and teaming with animals, before they headed out to learn more about the Wild Dog program they have on the go at Manyoni. Great game viewing en route included two lion sightings, breeding herd of elephant, rhino, giraffe and heaps of general game and birds.
Day 3
The purpose of this experience is to engage with rangers and conservation initiatives and to raise awareness for both. So, the camp was understandably a hive of activity long before the first strains of dawn made its appearance. They were to witness the release of two male lions into the reserve. Just prior to these two males being introduced to their new terrain, a final search of the area was made to insure there were no potential threats or pitfalls. Just as well, as lurking in the dense bush, not more than 20m from the boma was a strapping, and no doubt territorially protective male lion.
After hours of the lions sizing each other up, it was decided to delay the release of the two male lions, as the conservation staff didn’t want to inhibit their safety and release them straight into a fight.
The Ranger Patrol proved to be an incredible success with so many special moments and memories made. Even though a Recce run they managed to ensure 16 rangers had cover for one year and look forward to future Ranger Patrols to ensure the rest of the ranger team enjoy the same cover and peace of mind.
“This is a unique experience that we hope to duplicate in host reserves around the country in our effort to support Rangers in South Africa and ultimately across Africa. We are super excited to launch the Ranger Patrol with KZN Trail Running”, confirmed Andre on their return.
