Prince William announces new wildlife documentary show as he hails David Attenborough as 'inspiration'
The series highlights the work of rangers who protect endangered animalsPrince William has hailed Sir David Attenborough as his “inspiration” as he fronts a new wildlife documentary show.
The Guardians series, which was Prince William’s idea, highlights the work of brave rangers who protect endangered animals from poachers.
William, along with The Royal Foundation’s United for Wildlife programme, has launched the series on April 23.
Earlier this week, at a preview screening, the Prince of Wales, 42, explained he hopes their work – “one of the most dangerous jobs on the planet” – will be “valued, respected, seen”.
Prince William announces new BBC documentary
Prince William also credited the BBC’s foremost wildlife broadcaster as motivating him to pursue the telling of rangers’ stories. Sir David has supported Prince William’s Earthshot Prize – recognising contributions to environmentalism – since it was first awarded in 2021. And Prince William has attended screenings of the Sir David’s documentaries privately.
“Big inspiration for me growing up,” Prince William said of Sir David.
“And [he was] able to present wonderful parts of the world to many of us most of us will never get a chance to visit. I hope this does the same kind of thing,” the heir to the throne added.
He went on: “It reminds people that there are still wonderful parts of the world and there is still hope. And there’s still amazing work being done.”
Prince William also addressed how much more dangerous the job has become. He noted 1,400 rangers have been killed while on duty in the past decade.
“At some point, we have to say enough is enough. And kind of highlight all the bravery that these men and women show on a daily basis to protect our natural world,” he added.
He also said a further 1.5 million rangers were needed to meet global environmental biodiversity targets by 2030.
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What is Prince William’s wildlife show about?
Speaking to camera in the first episode, Prince William tells viewers: “I’ve been fortunate enough to travel to Africa many times over the years. And the continent has always held a special place in my heart.
“Deep in the Central African Republic lies Dzanga-Sangha, one of our planet’s last great untouched wildernesses.
These iconic species remain a target for poachers.
“Here, elephants and gorillas still roam through ancient forests alongside communities who have lived in harmony with nature for generations. But these iconic species remain a target for poachers, and protecting them is a daily battle.”
What channel is Prince William on?
Episode one in the six-part Guardians series – The Incredible ‘Elephant Village’ Under Siege – can be watched on the BBC Earth YouTube channel or in the video player below.
It follows Modiki Claver, an award-winning ranger who was previously a poacher. He is now dedicated to protecting the animals he once hunted from traffickers.
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Other episodes are expected to focus on men and women safeguarding snow leopards in the Indian Himalayas, and marine life in Mexico’s Sea of Cortez. The Kruger national park in South Africa, as well as Sri Lanka and Caru Indigenous Land in Brazil will also feature.
New episodes will be available every Friday.
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