Prince William pays heartwarming tribute to Iain Douglas-Hamilton: 'Memories will remain with me forever'

Kensington Palace confirmed that he wished to mark the death of a man whose work transformed global understanding of elephant behaviour and the threats facing the species.

In the statement, Prince William said: “I am so sad to hear of the passing of Iain Douglas-Hamilton, a man who dedicated his life to conservation, and whose life’s work leaves lasting impact on our appreciation for, and understanding of, elephants.

“The memories of spending time in Africa with him will remain with me forever.

“My thoughts go out to Iain’s family, especially his wife Oria and children Saba and Dudu. W”.

Dr Douglas-Hamilton was one of the world’s most prominent elephant researchers, known for a career that spanned several decades across East Africa.

His early studies were among the first to document the scale of poaching and the dangers it posed to elephant populations.

His findings played a major role in shaping modern conservation policy, influencing governments, charities and scientists working to protect African wildlife.

The Prince of Wales has long held conservation as one of his core public priorities.

His relationship with Dr Douglas-Hamilton developed over many years through shared work in Africa and through charities including Save the Elephants and Tusk.

William has previously spoken about the impact those early experiences in Africa had on him, describing how time spent with conservation leaders helped shape his understanding of environmental pressures and wildlife protection.

Save the Elephants, founded in 1993 by Dr Douglas-Hamilton and his wife Oria, became a central organisation in the field of elephant conservation.

The group’s research introduced new tracking technology, mapped elephant movements across borders and documented rising challenges, including habitat loss and conflict between humans and wildlife.

Its work has been credited with helping policymakers, local communities and international bodies respond more effectively to threats facing elephants.

Tusk, where Dr Douglas-Hamilton also served as an ambassador, has worked closely with the Prince of Wales for more than a decade.

The organisation supports conservation projects across Africa, with William presenting the annual Tusk Conservation Awards to recognise individuals and groups making significant contributions to protecting wildlife.

Dr Douglas-Hamilton’s influence could often be seen in the work of those honoured by the charity.

Tributes to the conservationist are expected from across the sector, reflecting a lifetime spent gathering data, building partnerships and campaigning for elephants at a time when their future was far from secure.

His daughter Saba Douglas-Hamilton, a well-known wildlife presenter and conservationist herself, has often spoken about her parents’ commitment to safeguarding wildlife and the challenges faced by organisations working on the ground.

Prince William’s message highlights the personal impact Dr Douglas-Hamilton had on him as well as the wider legacy he leaves within conservation.

His words echo the sentiment shared by many who worked with Dr Douglas-Hamilton during a career defined by scientific rigour, dedication and a deep belief in the importance of protecting one of the world’s most iconic species.

The Prince’s tribute reflects the regard in which Dr Douglas-Hamilton was held by those who continue the work he championed, and the lasting mark he leaves on the global effort to protect elephants.