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Ranger Dean

 


This young man is Dean, and he is a ranger at Tandala Trail Camp in the Dinokeng Reserve. Dean is not just any ranger; he is my favorite ranger. At 25, his wealth of knowledge about bush flora and fauna equals any seasoned ranger I have gone with to the bush.


In this photo, Dean hopped out of the vehicle to explain why elephants eat the bark of certain trees. It is because the bark of some trees is sweet and delicious. Dean also explained that the damage done to the trees will kill them unless the ellies only tear the bark from one side. If there is bark left on one side, the tree can mend itself, basically grow back the bark that acts as a shield against destructive weather and invading insects.  


There are many things that I appreciate about Dean. His ability to identify birds by their call, tracking skills, and knowledge of the flora are remarkable. But the best thing is that he won’t carry a gun. Instead, he has a long stick that can help control a situation if an animal becomes aggressive. But, he is so attuned to the behavior of animals that he knows how to avoid dangerous situations. He’s a bush animal whisperer. 


Most rangers carry a gun in case of an animal attack that may threaten the lives of visitors. But, frankly, this is a bunch of bunk. Animals hear the game vehicle and usually head for the hills, or better, just ignore it - they are so not interested in a metal blob that stinks of diesel. 


The other reason many rangers carry guns is that it makes them feel powerful. In To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, Atticus says something to his son Jem about courage not requiring a man to carry a gun. Dean loves the bush. And, he is forever studying and learning about everything that lives in the bush. Because of this and what kind of human he wants to be, Dean doesn’t need to carry a gun to feel powerful and courageous.


One more thing about Dean. He said that he was never a very good student in school but he found his love and passion in the bush - It saved him.


#personalmemoir #writing #tandalatrailcamp #lastmonthsinsouthafrica #elephants #baobobtrees #gunsinthebush, rangersandguns #neverrunfromalion #womenwritersoverfifty #courage #natureisamazing #findyourpassion

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