POV Season 17 Episode 12 A Panther in Africa

In this episode of POV season 17, viewers are taken on a journey with Damien Mander, a former military sniper turned conservationist, as he attempts to save the endangered African black rhinoceros from extinction. A Panther in Africa follows Mander and his team of rangers as they patrol the 55,000-acre region of the Phinda Game Reserve in South Africa, protecting the rhinos from poachers who are driven by the illicit trade in rhino horn.

The episode opens with Mander reflecting on his life as a soldier and how he transitioned to becoming a passionate wildlife conservationist. He explains that while serving in Iraq, he realized that his role there was only causing harm and he wanted to make a positive impact in the world instead. He found that opportunity in Africa, where he now works to protect the continent's wildlife.

Throughout the episode, viewers are given behind-the-scenes access to what it takes to protect the rhinos and other wildlife who call the Phinda Game Reserve home. Mander and his team are shown patrolling the reserve, often on foot and through challenging terrain, always on the lookout for any sign of poachers.

The episode also highlights the struggles that conservationists face in their work. Mander explains how the illegal trade in rhino horn drives poachers to go to extreme lengths to kill rhinos, often using brutal methods that leave the animals suffering for hours before they die. Rhino horn is a coveted ingredient in traditional Asian medicine, despite there being no scientific evidence to support its supposed health benefits. Mander and his team are in a constant race against time to protect the rhinos from being killed for their horns.

A Panther in Africa also delves into the politics of conservation. Mander discusses the challenges of navigating the different agendas of the government, private game reserves, and local communities. He explains that conservationists must work with communities living near wildlife reserves, who often see the animals as a danger to their livelihoods. Mander and his team work tirelessly to educate locals on the importance of conservation and show them that tourism generated by the presence of wildlife can bring economic benefits to the area.

The episode culminates in a heart-racing sequence in which Mander and his team must track down a wounded rhino before it is too late. The rhino was shot by poachers, and Mander and his team must act fast to save its life. This scene showcases the dedication and courage of the rangers, who put their lives on the line every day to protect wildlife.

A Panther in Africa is a powerful episode that sheds light on the urgent need to protect endangered species from the illegal trade in wildlife products. It also highlights the tireless efforts of conservationists like Mander, who work relentlessly to protect Africa's wildlife despite the challenges they face. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in animal conservation and the efforts to save endangered species from extinction.