Not all heroes wear capes, especially those fighting to safeguard the vulnerable lives of the wilderness. Prince William’s latest docuseries, Guardians, brings global attention to the unsung heroes of wildlife conservation. Among the six regions featured, Sri Lanka stands out for its dedicated efforts in wildlife protection.
The Sri Lanka Episode
In one of the most impactful episodes of the series, we learn how Sri Lanka’s wildlife veterinary experts not only rehabilitate injured or orphaned animals but also patrol protected areas, respond to emergencies, and navigate the emotionally and politically charged terrain of human-wildlife conflict. Their tireless work to rehabilitate injured elephants and leopards takes centre stage. The human-elephant conflict featured in the episode reveals the intricacies of communities and animals living in overlapping spaces.
Guardians – Prince’s Passion Project
Launched by Prince William through The Royal Foundation’s United for Wildlife initiative, each 6–10-minute episode of the series spotlights the dedication and bravery of rangers from diverse regions, including the Central African Republic, the Himalayas, Mexico, South Africa, Sri Lanka and Brazil.
These individuals stand as the frontline defenders of nature, combating threats like poaching, illegal fishing and habitat destruction. Prince William, inspired by the storytelling legacy of Sir David Attenborough, introduces each episode, emphasising the critical role rangers play in preserving biodiversity. “Every day, they take huge risks as nature’s frontline of defence, standing between poachers and endangered species, supporting sustainable human-animal coexistence and fighting habitat loss.”
It offers viewers an intimate look into the lives of wildlife rangers operating in some of the world’s most challenging environments. The series highlights the global environmental issues conservationists face while underscoring the personal risks rangers endure – many facing life-threatening situations daily. Premiering on May 23, 2025, the series is available on BBC Earth’s YouTube and social media channels.
Why the Spotlight on Sri Lanka Matters in a Global Context?
Sri Lanka is a world biodiversity hotspot where majestic Asian elephants and elusive leopards share territory with growing human populations. As such, the work of wildlife veterinarians is both indispensable and complex. These professionals do far more than treat wounded animals; they are frontline defenders of biodiversity, ensuring a balance between wildlife conservation and community well-being.
By highlighting their work, the series does more than tell a story. It elevates global awareness about the realities of conservation in action. It emphasises the need for veterinary care, community involvement and environmental stewardship to work together for sustainable coexistence. In doing so, the series honours the grit and compassion of Sri Lanka’s wildlife defenders and reminds the world that saving species requires more than policy. It demands heart, courage and everyday heroism.
As a responsible tour company, we hope it also gives travellers an insight into the delicate balance of conservation and tourism. It motivates visitors to go beyond simply “seeing” wildlife to understand the fragile ecosystems and the relentless efforts of people working to protect them. We can only ensure the future of wildlife tourism by safeguarding the well-being of wildlife and their natural habitats.
For travellers, it means making conscious choices, like opting for ethical safari providers that prioritise animal welfare, respecting park regulations and supporting eco-friendly accommodations. For tour operators, it means taking sustainable and responsible initiatives that fund conservation, which Blue Lanka Tours undertakes vehemently.
The series lays bare the challenging nature of conservation in a developing country like Sri Lanka, which has one of the highest densities of wild Asian Elephants. It makes you appreciate every wildlife encounter and inspires action to preserve their existence and habitats. It underscores the importance of responsible tourism, especially ethical wildlife safaris.
What Can You Do to Help Conservation Efforts as a Traveller
- Book tours with responsible travel operators
- Choose less-visited national parks instead of crowded ones
- Say No to elephant rides
- Visit ethical sanctuaries or rehabilitation centres that prioritise animal welfare
- Choose eco-lodges or hotels that support local conservation projects
- Never engage in behaviour that disrupts the natural behaviour of wildlife or poses a risk to them
- Do not buy souvenirs or products made from materials sourced from animals, such as ivory, coral or turtle shells
- Consider volunteer opportunities or guided walks led by conservationists
We are With the Guardians
This spotlight isn’t a mere tribute but a call to action: to support, fund and recognise those who defend the defenceless – not with headlines or fanfare, but with quiet, relentless dedication. Blue Lanka Tours has been crafting responsible Sri Lankan travel since its inception because we believe travel should be a force for good. Sri Lanka’s extraordinary wildlife and biodiversity-rich landscape deserve to thrive for countless future generations and travellers. As much as we are proud of showcasing the island to the world, we are even more proud of the unsung heroes working day and night to ensure a safer existence for the magnificent wildlife that makes Sri Lanka spectacular. Are you with us in our shared gratitude to them?