What threats do the rangers in Armenia's Caucasus Wildlife Refuge face?

The rangers face threats such as illegal poaching, devastating wildfires, and the danger of landmines while protecting the refuge's endangered species like Caucasian leopards and Eurasian lynxes.

How have former hunters become conservation heroes in the Caucasus Wildlife Refuge?

Some former hunters, like a Colombian bird hunter, have transformed into passionate conservationists, using their unique skills to guide visitors and protect the very species they once exploited.

What is the Keepers of the Wild program that supports the rangers in the Caucasus Wildlife Refuge?

The Keepers of the Wild program, run by the World Land Trust, provides salaries for rangers on partner reserves around the world, ensuring there are people on the ground every day to protect natural habitats.

Home / Environment / Fearless Rangers Safeguard Armenia's Wilderness: Leopards, Landmines, and Lifesaving Missions

Fearless Rangers Safeguard Armenia's Wilderness: Leopards, Landmines, and Lifesaving Missions

9 Oct

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Summary

Rangers Boris Vanyan and Manuk Manukyan protect Armenia's Caucasus Wildlife Refuge
They face threats like poaching, wildfires, and landmines to conserve leopards, lynxes, and other wildlife
Former hunters now work as guides, using their expertise to benefit conservation

Fearless Rangers Safeguard Armenia's Wilderness: Leopards, Landmines, and Lifesaving Missions

As of October 9th, 2025, two dedicated rangers, Boris Vanyan and Manuk Manukyan, are working tirelessly to protect the Caucasus Wildlife Refuge in Armenia. The refuge, established in 2011 by the World Land Trust's partner organization, Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Assets (FPWC), faces numerous threats, including illegal poaching, devastating wildfires, and the lingering danger of landmines.

Vanyan and Manukyan, part of an award-winning ranger team, confront these challenges head-on. Their days are filled with planning, patrolling, and responding to emergencies. They use their expertise to track wildlife, monitor camera traps, and even negotiate with local communities to ensure the safety of the refuge's precious inhabitants, such as Caucasian leopards, Eurasian lynxes, and bezoar goats.

Interestingly, some of these rangers were once hunters themselves, but have since transformed into passionate conservationists. One such individual, a Colombian bird hunter, now uses his talent for mimicking bird calls to guide visitors and protect the very species he once exploited. These "keepers of the wild" have become the frontline defenders of Armenia's natural heritage, safeguarding it for future generations.

As the sun sets, Vanyan and Manukyan continue their vigilance, observing the refuge's wildlife and responding to any potential threats. Their dedication and bravery are a testament to the vital role that rangers play in preserving the world's natural wonders.

Disclaimer: This story has been auto-aggregated and auto-summarised by a computer program. This story has not been edited or created by the Feedzop team.