Poaching in Uganda: Perspectives of Law Enforcement Rangers

Abstract

Much of prior empirical research examining poachers and poaching strategies have originated from interviews with poachers and wildlife law enforcement officers within North American settings. Few studies have empirically analyzed poacher categories and poaching strategies within an African context. Furthermore, most studies have overlooked important situational elements that influence poacher activities. Based on semi-structured interviews and informal conversations with law enforcement rangers and supervisors and, participant observations of routine day foot patrols, this study presents the findings of an exploratory analysis on poaching in a protected area in Uganda.