Meet the world’s first ever female anti-poaching unit on the frontline against wildlife illegal hunters.
© Matilde Gattoni
Started as an experiment in 2013, the Black Mambas have grown into a team of 26 unarmed women rangers patrolling 400 square kilometers in South Africa’s famous Kruger National Park, where they provide a much-needed lifeline for critically endangered animals.
In a country that lost almost 1,200 rhinos to international poaching syndicates last year, Black Mambas have reduced illegal hunting activities by 76 percent by chasing poachers, removing snares and engaging local communities in environmental conservation. We met the women at the core of this success.
Dedicated, courageous and passionate, they defy dangers, sacrifices and gender stereotypes for the sake of nature. As rhinos and elephants keep on falling to feed the illegal trade in bushmeat, ivory and traditional medicines, the Black Mambas have become our best chance to save some of the world’s most iconic animals.
Story produced together with photographer Matilde Gattoni. Text and pictures available