Poachers in the Hills – Norman Deane’s Life in Hluhluwe Game Reserve

Poachers in the Hills by Nick Steele is a fascinating first-hand account of wildlife conservation in one of South Africa’s most important game reserves. This 1992 first edition tells the dramatic story of Game Warden Norman Deane and his dedicated Zulu game guards as they battled persistent poaching in the Hluhluwe Game Reserve between 1955 and 1965.

Drawing on authentic experiences, Poachers in the Hills chronicles the dangerous confrontations between conservation staff and poaching gangs in the rugged hills of Hluhluwe. The book also highlights the wildlife the wardens worked tirelessly to protect—particularly black rhino and buffalo—offering a compelling glimpse into the early struggles of conservation in southern Africa.

Illustrated with artwork by Nola Steele, Poachers in the Hills captures both the human stories and the wildlife at the heart of Hluhluwe’s conservation legacy. Today the account remains highly relevant, providing historical perspective on the ongoing fight against poaching in South Africa.

A sought-after title for collectors of African conservation history, Hluhluwe–Imfolozi heritage, and wildlife literature.

Poachers in the Hills Published by Nick Steele, Melmoth, South Africa, 1992. First Edition.

Condition – Near Fine

Covers remain clean and well preserved with minimal handling wear. Binding is firm and structurally sound. Pages are clean and readable throughout. The text block edges show some discoloration consistent with age, but no other notable defects observed.