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Wildlife Quests
For the curious, the wild at heart, and those who dream beyond the beaten path. Hosted by a passionate wildlife traveller Will Routledge, each episode dives into the world of conservation, exploration, and human connection with nature. From in-depth conversations with wildlife experts and conservationists to unforgettable stories from the front lines of wild and untamed places. Wildlife Quests brings you stories that inspire, educate, and ignite your love for the wild world. Whether you're a traveller, a nature nerd, or someone who just wants to hear about people doing extraordinary things, this podcast is for you.
Wildlife Quests
The Orangutan Whisperer: Leif Cocks on Saving a Species
In this powerful episode, I sit down with Leif Cocks renowned primatologist and founder of The Orangutan Project. We explore Leif’s remarkable journey from zookeeper to one of the world’s most vocal advocates for orangutan conservation. Leif shares what inspired him to dedicate his life to protecting great apes, the early challenges of establishing The Orangutan Project, and the complex realities of working on the front lines of wildlife conservation.
We dive into the threats facing orangutans today from poaching and habitat loss to the dark underbelly of the illegal wildlife trade and black markets. Leif’s insights are raw, eye opening, and deeply moving, offering a rare look into the heart of one of the world’s most urgent conservation battles.
Leif is also the founder of the International Tiger Project, International Elephant Project, and Forests for People. He has helped raise over 25 million dollars, protect thousands of acres of rainforest, and save hundreds of orangutans.
To learn more and help support the projects head over to: https://www.orangutan.org.au
To find out more about this channel and the shows head over to my website: https://www.wildlifequests.com
Follow me on YouTube for full videos of my travels: It's a Wildlife - YouTube
You can reach out to me on my blog if you have a story you would like to share, or if you are interested in learning more about my journey or my guests: https://wildlifequests.com