Today is World Ranger Day and we hope you will join us in celebrating the brave rangers around the world who risk their lives every day to protect the planet’s endangered plants and animals.

Sadly, today is also a day to commemorate the many rangers that have given their lives for conservation. Rangers in Virunga have paid a heavy price over the years. Yet they still put on their boots each day and head out to protect the park — never knowing if they will return.

Rangers close in on poachers in Virunga’s savanna

Today, as conflict and instability grips the region, the risk to Virunga’s rangers couldn’t be greater. The images below will give you a glimpse into their daily lives as they work tirelessly to protect Africa’s oldest national park. Please make a special donation today to support and honor them!