Protecting Endangered Species with Wildlife ACT

Over the past quarter, Wildlife ACT has continued to strengthen our mission of saving endangered species and restoring balance to Africa’s ecosystems through targeted, collaborative, and science-driven conservation work. From honouring those on the frontlines of protection, to deploying cutting-edge monitoring tools, to engaging the next generation of conservation leaders, each milestone reflects the collective effort and dedication of our teams, partners, and supporters.

Honouring Rangers on World Ranger Day

Wildlife ACT was proud to join Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife and partners at Umlalazi Nature Reserve to mark World Ranger Day. This annual gathering offered a powerful opportunity to recognise the crucial role Rangers play in protecting wildlife and wild spaces. We paid tribute to their dedication and resilience, standing alongside conservation partners in solidarity. Our heartfelt thanks go to our Monitors, Field Technicians, Community Liaisons, Fenceliners, Coordinators, and Leaders for their tireless commitment to endangered species and empowered communities.

African Wild Dog Collaring in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park

Thanks to the generous support of Science-Based Ingredients, Wildlife ACT’s monitoring team achieved a significant milestone in June and July 2025. Tracking collars were successfully fitted on three members from two African Wild Dog packs — the Mfukuzweni and Msasaneni packs — within Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park.
These operations were carried out in collaboration with Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, veterinary teams, and African Wildlife Vets, forming part of a wider science-led monitoring programme. With fewer than 700 African Wild Dogs remaining in South Africa, such collaring enables precise daily tracking to gather real-time data on movement, pack dynamics, and potential threats. This data is essential for informed conservation management decisions and safeguarding the future of this endangered species.

Strengthening Black Rhino Conservation at Somkhanda

With support from the Fondation Segré Conservation Action Fund through IUCN Save Our Species and other funding partners, Wildlife ACT has expanded conservation interventions for the Black Rhino population at Somkhanda Game Reserve.
Key achievements during the reporting period include:

• Over 250 children participating in the Rhino Art Expo competition.

• 32 children attending Wildlife Kids Camps, with more scheduled.

• 18 young adults from the Gumbi community gaining conservation experience through the revitalised Maphambili Ambassador Club.

• The installation of an additional LoRaWAN gateway, increasing reserve coverage from 60% to over 80%, improving the performance of GPS tracking units.

• 100% of the known Black Rhino population recorded during this period through sightings and camera trap data.

• Detection of two new Black Rhino calves on camera traps.

Celebrating Women’s Day in Conservation

National Women’s Day in South Africa on 9 August provided an opportunity to honour the women of Wildlife ACT who lead, innovate, and inspire across all areas of our work. Women from across our teams shared personal reflections on their experiences in conservation, the challenges they face, and the pride they take in their contributions. Their voices highlight the vital importance of inclusion and diversity in ensuring a sustainable conservation future.

Conclusion

From field operations to community engagement, and from celebrating dedicated rangers to amplifying women’s voices in conservation, the past months have been marked by progress, collaboration, and hope. These achievements are only possible through the support of our partners, donors, and the communities we serve. Together, we are building a future where endangered species and the people who protect them thrive side by side.