Embracing Diverse Roles as a Female Ranger in Bhutan
Credit: Ranger Federation of Asia
In 2021, I began my journey as a Forestry Officer at the Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary (PWS), Bhutan. My first visit was unforgettable: rustling leaves, distant calls of langurs, and alarm cries of barking deer painted a vivid picture of a thriving ecosystem. It was the start of my journey as a protector of wildlife. A few months into my service, a moment solidified my commitment to wildlife protection—a rare encounter with a Royal Bengal Tiger while patrolling Bagaykhola. Watching the tiger move gracefully through its natural habitat felt like a divine sign, reaffirming my purpose as a ranger.
Over the years, I embraced multiple roles, expanding my skills in biodiversity surveys, habitat management, and anti-poaching enforcement. As a law enforcer, I led SMART (Spatial Monitoring and Reporting Tool) patrolling to monitor illegal activities, protect endangered species, and enforce wildlife laws. Each patrol brought its challenges, navigating difficult terrains, confronting potential threats, and ensuring my team’s safety, but every effort contributed to making PWS a safer, well-monitored sanctuary.
Beyond fieldwork, I had the honor of representing Bhutan at the 10th World Ranger Congress in France as a SMART Focal Point, where I presented our success in combating wildlife crime.
I have led several research surveys and conservation projects, including population assessments of species such as the White-bellied Heron and Hornbill, tiger camera trapping, habitat restoration, and patrol route maintenance. Managing lowland grasslands, enhancing waterholes, and maintaining plantations further deepened my engagement in conservation.
My journey from a young officer in 2021 to a leader in 2025 has been one of resilience and passion. Being the only female ranger in PWS has not been easy, but I have never let it limit me. I work alongside my male colleagues, proving that dedication, courage, and knowledge not gender, define a ranger.
Today, I stand as a role model for aspiring female conservationists, encouraging more women to take up the responsibility of protecting Bhutan’s rich biodiversity.