VIDEO: Hungarian ranger risking his life against poachers in South Africa

Máté Spanisberger is a Hungarian guy in his twenties who chose to protect wild animals in Africa. Poisonous snakes and dangerous predators included. He almost lost his leg in South Africa and chased lots of poachers in Kenya but says he would return to the continent any time because he respects the rangers and would like to help them in any possible way.

Máté told Szeretlek Magyarország that he decided to work in Africa as an adult after he watched Out of Africa (1985) when he was only nine. As a sophomore-year student, he found a relevant ad. An Italian organisation, Conservation Rangers Operation Worldwide, sought eligible people to serve as rangers in Africa.

He submitted his application, took part in an 8+9-day-long training in Italy and found himself months later in Africa protecting wild animals from poachers in Kenya. Afterwards, he went to South Africa, where he defended a rhino farm for one month. He said there are two types of rangers. One is the tour guide who shows places for visitors in national parks. Meanwhile, the anti-poaching rangers protect wildlife by risking their lives.

Hungarian ranger in Africa: he almost lost his leg

There are two kinds of dangers. First, there are the poachers. As volunteers, they can apprehend and even arrest them. But they can use their arms only in case of self-defence. They spend most of their time patrolling, scarcely checking departing vehicles and blocking roads. Meanwhile, you need to be prepared for the wild animals, too. The training includes knowledge about what one should do in the case of close encounter with predators or venomous snakes. That is how Máté (and his leg) survived the attack of a puff adler. Training is crucial, but Máté admitted he learnt the most from the Maasai people, who know their environment, all plants and animals more than anybody.

Máté concluded that he deeply respects the work of the rangers. Therefore, he would help them in any possible way. Here is the video: