Durrell’s chief scientist has been recognised by the Prime Minister of Mauritius for his significant contributions to wildlife conservation on the island for over half a century.
Professor Carl Jones MBE received the Grand Officer of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean.
This award is the second-highest national honour in Mauritius and was bestowed upon Prof Jones on the recommendation of the country’s Prime Minister.
Prof Jones joined Durrell in 1985 and has since helped to save several Mauritian species from extinction, such as the pink pigeon and Mauritius kestrel. The award recognises over 50 years of conservation work in Mauritius.
Gerald Durrell would have been thrilled as he always had a long-term vision for Mauritius, and I think we have exceeded that
Professor Carl Jones
He said: “When we started work in Mauritius, 50 years ago, so few people there realised how important their wildlife was, so to get an award from the Government of Mauritius is wonderful recognition for our investment in the island over the last half century.
“I am really proud of all of the species that we have restored together, including populations of birds, bats and reptiles. When I walk into the forest and I see pink pigeons and Mauritius kestrels, I actually feel quite emotional.
“Gerald Durrell would have been thrilled as he always had a long-term vision for Mauritius, and I think we have exceeded that, and he would be delighted with all that we have achieved.”
Prof Jones is also the scientific director of the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation, a charity set up by Gerald Durrell in the 1980s to support wildlife protection in Mauritius.
Durrell chief executive Rebecca Brewer said: “Carl being nominated for this award is just a huge testament to the dedication and passion he has for protecting and saving some of the most endangered species from extinction.
“We are hugely fortunate to have Carl as our chief scientist here at Durrell, he really does embody everything that Durrell stands for. We are so proud of you Carl, well done!”
Islanders can find out more about Durrell’s work in Mauritius online.