The training helps rangers respond effectively to any potential threats facing eastern black rhinos and southern white rhinos

The WildLife Foundation, the charity based at Yorkshire Wildlife Park, is funding the vital work of wildlife rangers by supporting specialist training to help protect one of the world's most endangered animals.

Wildlife rangers are on the frontline of conservation, working every day to protect endangered animals, monitor wildlife and safeguard fragile habitats.

Their work often takes place in challenging and dangerous conditions.

The specialist Rhino Tactical Refresher Course at Ol Jogi Conservancy in Kenya's Laikipia County will ensure 30 wildlife rangers remain fully prepared through expert instruction in tactical response, navigation, surveillance, operational readiness and first aid.

The initiative was announced to mark World Ranger Day the 31st of July.

WildLife Foundation CEO Cheryl Williams said: "Wildlife rangers dedicate their lives to protecting some of the world's most endangered species and the habitats they depend on. Their work is essential to the future of rhino conservation which is why we are delighted to support them.

"Specialist training like this ensures rangers have the skills, knowledge and confidence they need to respond to the challenges they face every day. It also helps them continue safeguarding Kenya's rhino population for years to come."

The training helps rangers respond effectively to any potential threats facing eastern black rhinos and southern white rhinos, while ensuring they remain equipped with the latest skills needed to protect one of the world's most endangered species.

Kenya is home to around half of the world's remaining eastern black rhinos, making it one of the most important countries for the conservation of the critically endangered species and the wider ecosystem they help sustain. Ol Jogi Conservancy is home to both black and white rhinos and has not lost a single rhino to poaching since 2015.

Continued training is essential to maintaining that success and preparing ranger teams for future conservation challenges. Each ranger taking part in the refresher course is assessed throughout the programme, helping identify strengths and areas for development.

The programme also supports long-term operational readiness and strengthens conservation efforts across the Conservancy.

This work supports the long-term conservation of eastern black rhinos and southern white rhinos, while helping protect the wider ecosystem that is home to elephants, lions, Grevy's zebra and many other threatened species.