Frontline Conservation Leadership
Dr Lynne
MacTavish
Relentless Commitment to Rhino Conservation
Protecting rhinos from extinction requires more than passion — it demands long-term commitment, leadership and presence on the ground.
Dr Lynne MacTavish is a conservation scientist and frontline leader who has dedicated over two decades to wildlife protection, research and education in South Africa.
Explore Frontline Conservation
Reserve Management
From Reserve Management to Frontline Leadership
Lynne has worked at Mankwe Wildlife Reserve since 2000, where she serves as Operations Manager, overseeing conservation activities across the reserve.
Her background includes studies in Travel and Tourism, FGASA Level 2 qualification, and extensive practical experience in wildlife management. Over the years, she has played a key role in transforming Mankwe from a former industrial buffer zone into a multi-generational wildlife reserve protecting some of the world’s most endangered species.
Alongside her operational responsibilities, Lynne coordinates research programmes, student placements and Earthwatch teams, ensuring conservation efforts are informed by science and contribute to long-term ecological understanding.
Discover Mankwe Wildlife ReserveStanding Against Rhino Poaching
A Turning Point
“Their deaths would not be in vain.”
Lynne’s focus turned decisively to rhino conservation following a devastating poaching incident in 2014, when five rhinos were killed on her reserve.
In response, she made a commitment to be a voice for rhinos and dedicate her work to preventing further loss. This moment shaped her approach to conservation: practical, evidence-led and unapologetically focused on protection.
Since then, Lynne has worked closely with anti-poaching units, conservation partners and the Rhino Protection Unit, contributing directly to strategies designed to safeguard rhinos in high-risk environments.
Learn How Rhinos Are ProtectedScience, Research & Education
Bridging Field Conservation with Science
A core part of Lynne’s work lies in bridging frontline conservation with scientific research and education.
She has been a Principal Investigator on Earthwatch projects and has led 73 research teams, contributing to long-term ecological monitoring and conservation science. Lynne has co-authored 13 scientific publications, supporting evidence-based approaches to wildlife protection.
In addition, she is a lecturer in Ecology, teaching approximately 300 students each year about ecosystem management and the complexities of conservation in practice.
Research and Education at the FrontlineAdvocacy & Global Awareness
A Voice for Rhinos on the World Stage
Beyond the reserve, Lynne plays an active role in raising awareness of the rhino poaching crisis at national and international levels.
She has presented to the South African Government, spoken on behalf of the Private Rhino Association at the CITES Convention, and was appointed to the Rhino Alive Board.
Through interviews, documentaries and public speaking, Lynne helps bring global attention to the realities of rhino protection and the urgent need for action.
Stories from the Frontline
Recognition & Credentials
Recognised for Conservation Science and Impact
In recognition of her major contribution to wildlife conservation and the promotion of conservation science, Lynne was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Science by the University of Brighton in England.
These credentials reflect a career defined by dedication, expertise and practical impact.
Meet the Team Behind the WorkLife Beyond the Front Line
Personal, Daily and Deeply Human
Lynne’s commitment to conservation extends beyond her professional role.
Alongside managing the reserve with her father, Dougal MacTavish, she is involved in rehabilitating orphaned animals and caring for wildlife affected by human impact. This hands-on involvement reflects her belief that conservation is not abstract — it is personal, daily and deeply human.
On the Front Line of Conservation