Field Training Spotlight | Mongena & Dinokeng Game Reserves, South Africa

Global Conservation Force continues to invest in strengthening the skills, confidence, and safety of wildlife monitoring professionals across South Africa. Recently, GCF Rangers and Instructors led specialized field workshops at Mongena Game Reserve and Dinokeng Game Reserve, bringing together advanced training in dangerous game tracking, monitoring, and radio telemetry.

Over the course of three days of live, in-field training, participants immersed themselves in practical exercises designed to refine both individual skills and team coordination when working in challenging wildlife environments.

Training Highlights

Advanced Dangerous Game Tracking & Monitoring

GCF Instructor Val led sessions on dangerous game approaches, teaching participants how to read and use landscape, terrain, wind direction, and pressure zones to make safer, smarter movements while monitoring wildlife. Participants also practiced interpreting track and sign, learning how to identify territories, distinguish between black and white rhinos, recognize male versus female tracks, and even pinpoint specific individuals.

On-Foot Approaches to Dangerous Wildlife

Monitoring dangerous wildlife often requires moving quietly and efficiently in the field. Val guided trainees through practical scenarios, blending advanced tracking skills with safety-focused approach techniques to reduce risks during monitoring operations.

Advanced Radio Telemetry Applications

Dr. Lauren Watine brought her extensive expertise in wildlife research, guiding participants through fine-tuned radio telemetry skills. Trainees learned to apply telemetry in complex, dynamic environments, combining technology with tracking methods to more effectively locate and approach wildlife, even under difficult conditions.