WWF charity officials have awarded the Russian Anatoly Belov the 2010 WWF Duke of Edinburgh Conservation medal. Held at a special ceremony in Windsor Castle, the veteran anti-poaching ranger of some 22 years was delighted to be bestowed with such an honour. Based in the Southwestern Primorsky province on the Russia-China border , Mr. Beloy’s long term work has been crucial in protecting the endangered Amur tiger from extinction.
HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, said –
I am delighted that WWF has chosen to honour Mr. Belov with the award of The Duke of Edinburgh Conservation Medal for his tireless work to achieve the conservation of the seriously threatened Amur tiger. The efforts of Mr. Belov and his colleagues during the last 22 years to discourage the poaching of these animals in the Chinese-Russian border area have been crucial in the effort to save this species from extinction.
Belov’s anti-poaching activities in the province has helped the Amur tiger population grow from about 50 tigers to around 500. In his 22 years of service, Belov has detained hundreds of poachers and confiscated many weapons. The Duke of Edinburgh Conservation Medal was first given out 40 years ago, and is awarded by WWF charity officials for outstanding service to the environment at both home and abroad.
Director General of WWF International, Jim Leape, said –
The world, and the tiger, need more conservation champions like Anatoly Belov, whose determination, fearlessness, and hope are helping to save this magnificent species. His tireless efforts to fight poaching – the main threat to tigers in the wild – should be an inspiration to all of us and speak to the power of one individual to make a difference.
Adopt a Tiger with WWF UK
The WWF is a non profit organisation who can only sustain their tireless work in saving the planet and its inhabitants through donations. You can help raise funds through the WWF Adopt an Tiger scheme.
From as little as £3 a month you receive a certificate, a print of your animal, a greetings card, and a soft toy that would make a fantastic charity gift for a loved one.
