Ian Redmond says, âI am a naturalist by birth, a biologist by training, and a conservationist by necessity. But conservation for me isnât just about saving species. On a larger scale, the planet needs us to save functioning eco-systems; on a smaller scale, we must also recognize that species are made up of individual animals. For me, it became personal when I had the privilege of getting to know individual wild animals in the wild… I can truthfully say that some of my best friends are gorillas, and I care passionately about them and the future of all life on Earth.” His career shifted from research to conservationist when one of his subjects was killed. His work on behalf of animals was recognized in 1996 when presented with PAWS Humane Achievement Award, and appointed O.B.E. in 2006 at the Queenâs Birthday Honours.