Biologist George Schaller gets medal

This video says about itself:

Serengeti Lions and George Schaller

9 December 2008

George Schaller, Ph.D., the world’s preeminent field biologist, is with the Wildlife Conservation Society and has traveled across the globe to work with a variety of species, including two rediscovered species once thought extinct. Here he discusses his work with lions.

From Wildlife Extra:

Panthera’s Vice President Dr. George Schaller receives National Geographic Society’s prestigious Hubbard Medal

The conservation charity Panthera’s Vice President and legendary biologist Dr. George Schaller has been awarded National Geographic Society’s Hubbard Medal for his lifetime commitment to conserving the world’s wildlife.

Recognised by many as the world’s preeminent field scientist and naturalist, Dr. Schaller has dedicated six decades to protecting and studying some of the planet’s most endangered and iconic animals, including mountain gorillas, snow leopards, lions, Tibetan antelope, wild yak, jaguars, giant pandas and tigers.

Schaller has been instrumental in establishing more than 15 protected areas around the globe on behalf of these wild animals, often single-handedly forging partnerships with heads of state, national governments, NGOs and local communities. In 1956, Schaller joined other biologists on the Murie expedition to Northeastern Alaska, which resulted in the establishment of the world’s largest wildlife preserve – the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.

Panthera’s CEO Dr. Alan Rabinowitz shared, “George is a conservation legend and a true champion for wild animals and places everywhere. As one of the world’s foremost wildlife biologists, he helped to carve and create the field of wildlife conservation. Armed only with a notepad, George courageously charted untouched territories in search of wildlife, and continues to do so even today.

“Named for the National Geographic Society’s first president, Gardiner Greene Hubbard, the Hubbard Medal is the Society’s highest honour, recognizing individuals’ lifetime achievements in exploration, discovery and research. Past recipients include Charles Lindbergh, Jane Goodall, Jacques Piccard and James Cameron.