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From a hunting heritage to nature's guardian

Protecting wildlife isn’t just a job it’s a legacy for me. It’s a duty passed down through my family, rooted in deep respect for nature and a commitment to preserving it for future generations. Every step I take in this path is a tribute to my father’s wishes, honoring his passion and continuing the mission he believed in so deeply. It’s not only fulfilling work – it is very personal.

International Ranger Award recipient Jampel Lhendup shares his story of becoming a protector of nature and wildlife (As narrated to Chimi Wangchuk, WWF-Bhutan)

Becoming a ranger

My father was once a poacher. At the age of five, I accompanied my father for hunting where he taught me how to identify tracks and signs of wild animals, and how to set up traps and snares. He taught the hunting tactics to accurately ambush the animals. The sole purpose of the hunting was for survival. One time we encountered a mother serow with a calf. First, we shot the calf and as we carried it away, the mother followed us. We shot the mother too. We saw blood oozing out through eyes.

I saw tears rolling down my father’s cheeks. He told me, “We are not going to eat this meat and we are not going to hunt anymore”. “They know how to love each other; they are just like us the humans.”

That day he made me promise that I have to protect animals. That was the reason why I have become a ranger.

Therefore, protecting wildlife isn’t just a job it’s a legacy for me. It’s a duty passed down through my family, rooted in deep respect for nature and a commitment to preserving it for future generations. Every step I take in this path is a tribute to my father’s wishes, honoring his passion and continuing the mission he believed in so deeply. It’s not only fulfilling work – it is very personal.

Challenges faced by rangers on sites

Rangers across the globe have been working with increasingly limited resources, whether it's time, money, manpower, or materials. This situation demands greater commitment, efficiency, creativity, and adaptability. It encourages prioritization of tasks, streamlining of processes, and innovative problem-solving. While it can be stressful, it also offers an opportunity to build resilience, develop lean strategies, and focus on what truly adds value. Ultimately, success in such environments often hinges on smart planning, clear communication, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Every patrol we undertake carries inherent risks - be it from encounters with poachers, unpredictable wildlife, or the challenges posed by rough and often unforgiving terrain. Awareness, preparation, and teamwork are essential to navigate these dangers safely and effectively. Rangers around the world step into the field every day, driven by passion and duty - but too often without the essential tools, training, or support truly need. Facing threats from poachers, harsh environments, and limited resources, Rangers remain on the front lines of conservation. It's time we recognize Rangers sacrifices and stand with them by providing the equipment, protection, and recognition that Rangers deserve. Empowered rangers mean a stronger and safer future for wildlife and wild places.

 

Memorable impacts on the ground

The Royal Manas National Park where I work has piloted SMART in 2013 which the SMART was rolled out at national level in 2017.

We switched from SMART deskstop to SMART Connect in 2018 having advantage over real time data gathering, analysis, monitoring and reporting to enhance conservation efforts

 

About being an award recipient

I am deeply honored and humbled to stand here today. First and foremost, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the IUCN World Commission on Protected Areas for this recognition. This award is not just a personal achievement, it is a tribute to the countless Rangers working tirelessly on the frontlines of conservation around the world. Your courage and commitment continue to inspire us all. I also sincerely dedicate this award to my King, government and people of Bhutan for unwavering support and the strong conservation policies, that guides and empower our work. Without this solid foundation, none of our efforts would be possible.

 

Message to fellow Rangers in Bhutan and across the globe

To all my Ranger colleagues, thank you for your incredible support, teamwork, and shared dedication. This journey has never been about one individual—it has always been about our collective effort. This award belongs to each and every one of us. I would like to express my deep appreciation to all our conservation partners—your collaboration, expertise, and belief in our mission continue to make a lasting difference. Thank you once again for this great honor. Let us continue to work together for the future of our planet and all the life it holds.

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