Danika manages the Mzimkulu Vulture Hide in the Southern Drakensberg, overseeing its upkeep, marketing, and partnerships with tour companies and local businesses. A qualified FGASA field guide with Big Five experience, she brings hands-on field skill and a deep dedication to vulture conservation to her first full-time role in conservation.
Danika grew up in Boksburg, Gauteng, and began her career as a field guide and ranger, gaining experience across several private game reserves. She qualified as an FGASA field guide with Big Five experience and completed a Wildlife Management qualification through WildlifeCampus, before joining Wildlife ACT in 2026 in her first year of full-time, hands-on conservation work.
Based at Giants Cup Wilderness Reserve in the Southern Drakensberg, Danika manages the Mzimkulu Vulture Hide, a safe feeding site supporting the Southern Drakensberg Vulture Project. Her role includes overseeing the hide’s maintenance and upkeep, managing bookings and marketing, and building partnerships with tour companies and surrounding restaurants to support the hide’s continued operation.
Outside of work, Danika enjoys staying active at the gym, going on horse outrides, and trying out new restaurants.
“I am driven by a deep love for animals and nature. I have always had this calling where I feel I need to do more.”