While South Africa's rhino poaching death toll continues to increase, the Kruger National Park's specialist anti-rhino poaching units say they are convinced they can stop the scourge.

Of the 150 rhino poached so far in 2012, 87 were killed in the Kruger National Park.
 
The media were given special access to crime scenes and some of the tactical team members at an event hosted by the Environmental Affairs Department.

Bruce Lesley, who leads one of the South African National Parks' (SANParks) specialist anti-rhino poaching units, said they had come to accept the dangers they faced.

"Every time we go out, we face poachers," he said.

SANParks environmental crime investigations chief, Ken Maggs, said the poachers were not bound by any rules of engagement.

"It is only when your life or that of your colleagues is in danger, that you can respond in a lethal way," Maggs said.

He said many poachers have military backgrounds.

"They're very good bushmen. They're very good trackers. They're well-disciplined in the bush and you're up against quite a formidable enemy."

Despite this, and the rise in rhino killings, Maggs said he remained positive this was a war his side could win.

Specialist environmental crime investigators said the sheer size of the Kruger National Park made it a prime target for rhino poachers.