While Prince William is taking a pause from royal duties to enjoy his children’s half-term holidays, fans won’t have to wait long to see him on screen.
The second episode of his groundbreaking new wildlife docuseries, Guardian, has just premiered on BBC Earth’s YouTube and social media channels. The series shines a powerful spotlight on the brave rangers risking their lives in the Himalayas to protect the endangered snow leopard.
Inspired by the legendary Sir David Attenborough, Guardian aims to reshape how we view rangers worldwide and highlight their crucial role in conserving nature.
What’s in Episode Two?
Viewers are taken deep into the rugged Spiti Valley, high in the Himalayas, where rangers strive to create a sustainable balance between snow leopards and local communities.
Through immersive footage and heartfelt interviews, the episode follows ranger Kalzang Gurmet and his team as they navigate extreme conditions—bitter cold, high altitudes, and treacherous weather—all in the name of conservation.
The episode also honors the memory of Phunchock Tashi, a ranger who tragically lost his life earlier this year in the line of duty—a sobering reminder of the real dangers these guardians face daily.
Prince William’s Message
Prince William emphasized the vital but often overlooked role of rangers in protecting the natural world.
“I’ve had the privilege of meeting many rangers over the years and witnessed the vital work they do,” he said. “Yet their stories often go unheard. Protecting our planet is now one of the most dangerous jobs on Earth. We must recognise these Nature’s Guardians and the critical role they play.”
He praised them as “an inspiration to us all,” standing between poachers and endangered species while promoting sustainable coexistence and fighting habitat loss.
“As they safeguard our oceans, forests, plains, mountains, and biodiversity, they also educate communities and advance scientific knowledge. These unsung heroes are the true guardians of nature and the future of our planet.”
