Are ranger patrols effective in reducing poaching‐related threats within protected areas?

Ranger patrols significantly increase the likelihood of eliminating poaching-related threats, with the probability rising from 7% without patrols to up to 57% with increased patrols. Poaching is most prevalent at lower elevations (1,801–2,200 m) near roads and tourist trails, while higher elevations (2,601–3,000 m) and areas closer to ranger posts see fewer threats. The study used 10 years of ranger-based monitoring data and dynamic multi-season occupancy models to analyze poaching patterns in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, revealing that strategic placement of ranger posts and increased patrols can effectively mitigate illegal activities.

Moore, J. F., Mulindahabi, F., Masozera, M. K., Nichols, J. D., Hines, J. E., Turikunkiko, E., & Oli, M. K. (2017). Are ranger patrols effective in reducing poaching‐related threats within protected areas? Journal of Applied Ecology, 55(1), 99–107. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/1365-2664.12965