Meet Your Mjejane Game Ranger: Special Khoza

Meet Your Mjejane Game Ranger: Special Khoza

Why did you decide to become a game ranger and how did you get into it?

I grew up in a village called Lilydale very close to Sabi Sand and Kruger National Park (close to Paul Kruger Gate) so I have been in Kruger few times when I was young , learning about wild life as part of our studies during primary school. After completing my matric I got a bursary from the Endangered Wild Life Trust under a project called the Tracker Training Project, which was a 3 year (2005-2007) project in Sabi Sands ( Sabi Sabi).

What is the best part of your profession?

Being out there working physically in nature, meeting new people , expanding my knowledge of nature and learning about different cultures.

...and the most challenging part?

Difficult clients and language because sometimes other guest don’t understand English.

Why did you decide to become a game ranger and how did you get into it?

I grew up in a village called Lilydale very close to Sabi Sand and Kruger National Park (close to Paul Kruger Gate) so I have been in Kruger few times when I was young , learning about wild life as part of our studies during primary school. After completing my matric I got a bursary from the Endangered Wild Life Trust under a project called the Tracker Training Project, which was a 3 year (2005-2007) project in Sabi Sands ( Sabi Sabi).

What is the best part of your profession?

Being out there working physically in nature, meeting new people , expanding my knowledge of nature and learning about different cultures.

...and the most challenging part?

Difficult clients and language because sometimes other guest don’t understand English.

Do you have specific sub-set of interest in your career that you are keen on, like entomology, ornithology or photography etc?

I am always willing to learn, as a field guide all the above mentioned is part of my interest, where photographing always brings the good memories.

Any interesting stories from your game drive that you would like to share?

I had few encounters with animals but obviously the behavior of animals always change due to the size of the group, availability of young ones, mating season, sick or wounded and other contributing factors. One day a hyena came at night while we were braaing and tried to steal our food and we had to chase it.

Favourite destination in Mjejane and Kruger?

Mjejane : the Crocodile River view  and Mjejane main dam because you can see the beauty of both Kruger and Mjejane Game Reserve while appreciating and learning about nature.

Kruger National Park: Skukuza  based on the history of Kruger which enables the guest to understand and learn about  wild life and diversity.

What sets Jacana River Lodge apart from others?

The lodge lies in the heart of Crocodile River which is part of Kruger national park, self catering lodge where you can always have a meal of your choice, accommodate big families including safe space for children to play. Lots of activities, entertainment and facilities. The staff is friendly and helpful they always make sure that guest are happy without compromising their safety.

How do you handle a challenging wildlife encounter?

Respect the animals in their natural habitat; make sure that your guests are comfortable at all times.

What is your idea of the perfect game drive?

Making it enjoyable, sharing knowledge with guests while adhering to all rules, safety and regulations of the reserve.

What is the best way to view the animals in your opinion, at Mjejane?

Safe distance, comfort zones of the animals and of our clients.

 

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