Interview with Tracker Elvis

Have you always been passionate about the Bush?
Yes, growing up I used to see animals through the fence of Manyeleti Game Reserve as this fence borders where I am from
How long have you been working as a Tracker?
12 years

Did you receive formal training as a Tracker?
I did my training and then an assessment through FGASA
What is your Tracker level
Level 3
What is the best thing about the reserve you work in?
The Timbavati is open to Kruger so not fenced which means the animals can move freely in and out

Describe your most memorable sighting
Fighting Male Lions who were fighting over a territory

Is there any animal you have always wanted to see but haven’t yet?
A Black Rhino
What is your favourite animal to Track?
A Leopard

What is your favourite animal to view from the vehicle?
Wild Dog

Have you ever been lost while on foot in the bush?
Never
Have you ever had any animal charge you? If so what was it?
Yes, I was charged by Lions who were being protective of their cubs

Do you have any advice for people looking to get involved in tracking?
You need to be dedicated and patient
Do you have any books that you would recommend to people interested in learning more about Tracks?
Louis Liebenberg’s Tracking book
If you weren’t a Tracker what job do you think you would have?
I would be a Farmer
Thank you Elvis for the interview! You clearly are an experienced and knowledgeable tracker and hopefully others who are wanting to become trackers can be motivated by your dedication to the industry and follow the same career path as you have done. Tracking is a true art and must be one of the best jobs in the world!

Interview with Tracker Elvis
Have you always been passionate about the Bush?
Yes, growing up I used to see animals through the fence of Manyeleti Game Reserve as this fence borders where I am from
How long have you been working as a Tracker?
12 years
Did you receive formal training as a Tracker?
I did my training and then an assessment through FGASA
What is your Tracker level
Level 3
What is the best thing about the reserve you work in?
The Timbavati is open to Kruger so not fenced which means the animals can move freely in and out
Describe your most memorable sighting
Fighting Male Lions who were fighting over a territory
Is there any animal you have always wanted to see but haven’t yet?
A Black Rhino
What is your favourite animal to Track?
A Leopard
What is your favourite animal to view from the vehicle?
Wild Dog
Have you ever been lost while on foot in the bush?
Never
Have you ever had any animal charge you? If so what was it?
Yes, I was charged by Lions who were being protective of their cubs
Do you have any advice for people looking to get involved in tracking?
You need to be dedicated and patient
Do you have any books that you would recommend to people interested in learning more about Tracks?
Louis Liebenberg’s Tracking book
If you weren’t a Tracker what job do you think you would have?
I would be a Farmer
Thank you Elvis for the interview! You clearly are an experienced and knowledgeable tracker and hopefully others who are wanting to become trackers can be motivated by your dedication to the industry and follow the same career path as you have done. Tracking is a true art and must be one of the best jobs in the world!