LEAD and UF Pro join forces to raise awareness on frontline conservation

LEAD Conservation and UF PRO have released a compelling four-part YouTube series titled Pro’s Guide to Tracking with Rangers and K9s, offering an in-depth look into the real-world application of tactical tracking in conservation. Filmed in South Africa, the series immerses viewers in anti-poaching operations that combine the ancient art of tracking with modern canine deployment—set against the backdrop of high-stakes wildlife protection.

The series follows rangers and dog handlers as they navigate complex terrains, respond to incursions, and work through the pressures of time, heat, and operational uncertainty. Structured like a mini-documentary with real-world scenarios, it explores how visual tracking and scent-tracking dogs can complement each other in identifying and intercepting suspects linked to poaching and illegal activities.

The campaign was made possible through the collaboration of three specialist organisations: LEAD Conservation, Colin Patrick Training, and Colbeck K9.

Colin Patrick Training, founded by master tracker Colin Patrick, is internationally recognised for its high-level tracking instruction across military, law enforcement, and conservation sectors. With decades of experience in the African bush, the team brings unmatched authenticity to the series—guiding both ranger and K9 teams through real tracking exercises and providing expert interpretation of spoor, behaviour, and ground sign.

Colbeck K9, specialists in working dog deployment for conservation and security, supplied and handled the canine tracking units seen in the series. Their dogs are highly trained in scent tracking, apprehension, and operational fieldwork, and the handlers play an essential role in merging instinct and skill under high-pressure conditions.

The production was led by UF PRO, a Slovenia-based tactical gear manufacturer known for producing high-performance apparel used by military, law enforcement, and specialist units worldwide. This series reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to bridging tactical excellence with global conservation efforts. UF PRO has previously supported frontline units through both product sponsorship and awareness-raising campaigns.

In addition to documenting the operational realities of ranger life, the series also contributed directly to conservation funding. UF PRO raised €31,890 through sales of the limited-edition Ranger’s Band, with proceeds donated to LEAD Conservation to support ranger training and capacity development.

Episodes in the series include:

The Incursion – initiating a pursuit following an incursion into protected land

Lost Trail – overcoming the midday sun to re-establish spoor

The Snare Tightens – discovering the suspect’s camp and escalating field operations

K9 on the Hunt – deploying scent-tracking dogs in the final phase of the pursuit

The Pro’s Guide to Tracking with Rangers and K9s is not only a training insight but a rare window into the grit, precision, and commitment of those who stand between Africa’s wildlife and its most persistent threats.

The full series is available on UF PRO’s official YouTube channel.