Ranger perceptions of, and engagement with, monitoring of elephant poaching

Ranger-based monitoring holds significant potential for global conservation, yet its effectiveness hinges on the engagement and ownership of those collecting the data. A study in Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe, revealed that while rangers viewed biodiversity data collection as a routine duty crucial for guiding patrol strategies, they lacked active engagement with data management or utilization. The research identified key drivers of their behavior: a strong sense of duty, deference to authority, and adherence to organizational hierarchies. To enhance monitoring sustainability, the study proposes leveraging existing ranger culture while fostering appreciation for data collection and addressing challenges related to well-being, resources, and capacity.

Kuiper, T., Massé, F., Ngwenya, N. A., Kavhu, B., Mandisodza‐Chikerema, R. L., & Milner‐Gulland, E. J. (2020). Ranger perceptions of, and engagement with, monitoring of elephant poaching. People and Nature, 3(1), 148–161. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1002/pan3.10154