Here in Amboseli, it’s the peak of the dry season and literal fires are a very real and potentially lethal concern.

This week, more than 40 of our rangers worked around the clock to put out an enormous blaze that ripped across the conservancy areas between Kimana Sanctuary and Amboseli National Park.

Approximately 8,000 acres of 35,000 have been consumed by the blaze. Luckily, our rangers were able to act before the situation got worse, but it’s still a significant blow, as this area is a known dispersal area for Amboseli’s wildlife and livestock. Rain likely won’t arrive for another month, and this damage will put considerable strain both the domestic and wild animals who rely on this region for grazing.

Fires can be beneficial if done in a controlled manner, but careless actions can have drastic consequences. This fire was started by accident by farmers burning vegetation in preparation for the growing season. Two of our ranger bases, our radio repeater and national telecommunications mast, and several nearby lodges narrowly escaped total destruction.

We are fiercely proud of the work of our rangers in putting out this fire and we are grateful to the Kenya Wildlife Service and community members for working with us to make it happen.

 Video: Joshua Clay