2025 SCB Global Service Award Winners

2025 SCB Global Service Award Winners

Bhutan Herpetofauna in nutshell

How to dust the information if there is none - a methodology!

Public attitude towards snakes and frogs

SCB 2025 Global Service Awards Presentation

Edinburgh University MSc BWEH inspiring change : Jigme Tshelthrim Wangyal - Championing Bhutan's reptiles and amphibians

Responding to my MSc Biodiversity, Wildlife, and Ecosystem Health, course leaders and alma mater

Where have you come from and what are you doing at the moment?

My journey into conservation began with a childhood fascination for nature, growing up surrounded by Bhutan’s rich biodiversity. This deep-rooted connection to the environment inspired me to pursue higher education in ecology and conservation science. After my MSc, I established a social network called the Bhutan Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Research Group, reflecting my commitment to addressing conservation challenges in Bhutan. This initiative bridges community engagement and scientific research, emphasizing sustainable practices. I went on to complete my PhD in Ecosystem Management, focusing on Ecology and Conservation of amphibians and reptiles of Bhutan. During this time, I gained expertise in biodiversity assessment and ecosystem management, particularly in Bhutan Himalayas and adjoining areas. Post-PhD, I engaged in research, and conservation related projects. A key highlight has been my involvement with the Amphibian Specialist Group (ASG), where I contribute to conservation strategies and awareness campaigns for threatened species and strengthen the ASG capacity by helping interested people become a member of this group through the official networking channel. At present, I am actively seeking opportunities to expand my impact. I am applying my expertise to roles that integrate biodiversity conservation, ecosystem management, and community-driven projects, aiming to contribute to global and local conservation priorities.

Do you have any examples of positive change that you’ve been involved in recently?

Since starting my MSc, I have accomplished several milestones that I couldn’t have imagined achieving before. One of my most rewarding contributions has been authoring field guides on amphibians and reptiles of Bhutan, which have become valuable resources for researchers, conservationists, and enthusiasts in understanding and protecting the country’s unique herpetofauna. These guidebooks have fostered greater awareness and appreciation for these often-overlooked species, furthering local and regional conservation efforts.

Building on the foundation laid during my MSc, I have also published several scientific papers in peer-reviewed journals, highlighting my research on biodiversity and species conservation. These publications not only expanded scientific knowledge but also served as a call to action for the preservation of critical habitats and threatened species.

A particularly humbling and unexpected honour came when a new frog species (Amolops wangyali) was named after me in recognition of my dedication to herpetological research and conservation. This gesture affirmed the impact of my work and motivated me to continue advocating for amphibians and reptiles, which are among the most vulnerable groups of animals globally.

Most recently, I have seen tangible positive changes through my efforts to integrate scientific research with community-based conservation initiatives. By engaging local stakeholders in Bhutan, I have been able to enhance habitat protection strategies and promote coexistence between people and wildlife. These experiences have reinforced my belief in the power of collaboration and knowledge-sharing to drive meaningful change.

What particular opportunities throughout your career and from the MSc have helped shape where you are now?

Throughout my career, and particularly during my MSc, I encountered opportunities that significantly shaped my professional journey. The MSc program not only deepened my knowledge of ecological principles and conservation practices but also instilled a strong drive to push my boundaries and strive for excellence. This experience encouraged me to embrace challenges and actively seek out opportunities for growth.

One of the most impactful aspects of the MSc was the emphasis on networking and collaboration (that group discussion part of the course). The course provided invaluable exposure to diverse professionals, researchers, and practitioners in the field of conservation. Through workshops, seminars, and group projects, I developed the ability to establish meaningful connections with peers, mentors, and stakeholders.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Conservation is a vital field that plays a crucial role in keeping our planet alive and habitable for all species. If you’re looking to get started but aren’t sure where to begin, my advice is simple: there’s no definitive starting point—just start where your curiosity leads you.

Begin by focusing on a species, habitat, or conservation issue that captures your interest. As you delve deeper, you’ll uncover fascinating insights that will fuel your passion even further. Over time, you’ll find yourself gaining expertise and contributing meaningfully to the field. Trust your interests to guide you—they are often the best compass.

For me, my passion for biodiversity conservation led me to pursue an MSc. That decision opened doors to opportunities I hadn’t imagined and equipped me with the knowledge and skills to make an impact. You don’t have to have everything figured out at the start; it’s more about taking that first step and allowing your dedication and curiosity to shape your path.

If I could give one piece of advice to my younger self, it would be this: don’t hesitate to ask questions and reach out to people in the field. Many conservationists are eager to share their experiences and offer guidance. Building connections early on can help you identify opportunities and gain insights that will enrich your journey. In the end, the key is willingness—be open to learning, exploring, and embracing challenges. Conservation is a journey as much as it is a destination, and the more invested you are in your interest, the further it will take you.

How did you find opportunities and what advice would you give those starting out in conservation?

I come from a scientific background, having studied BSc Forestry, which laid a strong foundation for my career in conservation. However, one thing I’ve learned is that your background doesn’t have to define or limit your potential in this field. Passion and curiosity are the true driving forces in conservation. I’ve witnessed individuals successfully transition from working on herpetology to focusing on primates or even entirely different ecosystems. These transitions highlight that nothing is impossible if you have the dedication and willingness to learn.

Your starting point is less important than your interest and commitment to making a difference. Conservation is inherently interdisciplinary, and there’s room for people with diverse skills and experiences to contribute meaningfully. If you’re deeply interested and open to exploring new challenges, you’ll find that your passion can lead you to where you want to be—and beyond.

Have you got any tips for coping with the uncertainty that comes with taking on a new challenge?

Uncertainty is natural when stepping into the unknown. Rather than fearing it, try to see it as a chance to learn and grow. Each step forward, even if uncertain, brings you closer to clarity and confidence. Reflect on why you’re making the change. Whether it’s passion, curiosity, or a desire to contribute, keeping your purpose at the forefront will help you stay motivated and resilient. Talk to people who’ve gone through similar transitions. Their insights can be reassuring and provide practical advice. Networking within your desired field can also help you find mentors and opportunities. Tackle the change step by step. Focus on small, achievable goals rather than getting overwhelmed by the bigger picture. Progress, no matter how small, builds momentum. Be prepared to adapt. New paths can lead to unexpected opportunities and interests you hadn’t considered before. Embrace the journey as much as the destination. Ultimately, believe in your ability to learn, grow, and navigate new challenges. Skills from your previous experiences are often more transferable than you might think.

Talking to the public of Phimsong, Trashigang Ca. 2015

 

FINALLY

FINALLY

A Journey Through Shadows

I was born in a valley cloaked by hills,

Where the rivers whispered ancient thrills.

A landlocked cradle, backward and bound,

Where dreams seemed buried beneath the ground.

Barefoot, I trod on jagged stone,

The path to knowledge my heart’s lone tone.

Clothes were sparse, a uniform my pride,

A fragile armor where hopes would hide.

In the school’s embrace, I found my meals,

WFP wheat, humble yet real.

Jute sacks cradled my weary frame,

Under stars that seemed to call my name.

Each step was heavy, each day a fight,

Battling shadows to reach the light.

But I held steadfast, my spirit unbent,

Through storms of hardship, I quietly went.

From kindergarten’s timid call,

To a doctorate that defied it all.

The odds were steep, the road unfair,

Yet I climbed, though the world seemed unaware.

Now I stand, with lessons sewn,

From a past that shaped the seeds I’ve sown.

Though sorrow lingers, triumph is clear,

A story of grit that draws us near.

So hear this tale, of struggle and grace,

Of a soul that rose from a humble place.

May it kindle courage in every heart,

To rise, to endure, to never part.

Wangyal's Torrent Frog, Amolops wangyali - Species New to Science

[Herpetology 2022] A Review of Torrent frogs (Amolops: Ranidae) from Bhutan, the Description of a New Species, and Reassessment of the Taxonomic Validity of some A. viridimaculatus Group Species aided by Archival DNA Sequences of Century-old Type Specimens.

Stephen Mahony, Tshering Nidup, Jeffrey W. Streicher, Emma C. Teeling and Rachunliu G. Kamei

In: The Herpetological Journal. 32(3); 142-175. DOI: 10.33256/32.3.142175

                                                                                Amolops wangyali species novel

Abstract                   

Seven species of the Asian torrent frogs (genus Amolops) have previously been reported from the eastern Himalayan country of Bhutan. Species identifications from the region have been largely Seven species of the Asian torrent frogs (genus Amolops) have previously been reported from the eastern Himalayan country of Bhutan. Species identifications from the region have been largely based on photographed animals with few voucher specimens available and no molecular sampling. Understanding the taxonomic status of Bhutan’s torrent frogs has also been hampered by the poorly understood distributional limits of species from surrounding regions. Herein we utilised molecular phylogenetic and morphological data for vouchered specimens from Bhutan and provide a complete literature review of all Amolops populations reported from the country. Phylogenetic relationships were estimated by combining available sequence data (from GenBank) with newly generated sequences from recently collected Bhutanese Amolops populations. We also obtained archival DNA sequences from the type specimens of Amolops formosus, A. himalayanus, and A. kaulbacki, collected between 82 and 151 years ago. Our comparative analyses revealed a large, new (to science) species of the Amolops viridimaculatus group from eastern Bhutan. Morphological examinations of related taxa revealed that A. senchalensis from India is not a synonym of A. marmoratus. Molecular phylogenetic results supplemented by morphological data unambiguously demonstrate i) that A. himalayanus is present in eastern Nepal, ii) the presence of a previously undocumented population of A. nepalicus in eastern Nepal, iii) a 200 km range extention for A. kaulbacki into Yunnan, China, iv) that A. gyirongensis should be considered a junior subjective synonym of A. formosus, and v) that A. splendissimus from Vietnam should be considered a junior subjective synonym of A. viridimaculatus. Based on our results, we expand the Amolops viridimaculatus group to include nine species, including A. formosus, A. himalayanus, A. kaulbacki, and the new species described herein. We provisionally include a further three species in the viridimaculatus group based on morphology, A. longimanus, A. nidorbellus, and A. senchalensis. Combining our data with the literature review allowed us to identify several unidentified Amolops species from recent phylogenetic studies and remove nine frog species (including Hyla, Sylvirana, and seven Amolops species) from Bhutan’s amphibian checklist. We recognise four species of Amolops in Bhutan, three of which cannot be confidently identified to the species level based on currently available data.

Keywords: Anura, taxonomy, Himalayas, conservation, vouchered-specimens

Amolops wangyali sp. nov.

 adult male holotype (SCZM 2019.07.18.1) in life (A & B: images taken ex-situ) and immediately after euthanisation, prior to fixation (C–G): A. dorsolateral view; B. lateral view of head, red arrow shows the shoulder gland; C. dorsolateral view; D. ventral view; E. posterior view of thighs; F. palmar view of left hand; G. plantar view of left foot. Scale bars represent 10 mm.

Amolops wangyali sp. nov.

 adult male holotype (SCZM 2019.07.18.1) in life (images taken ex-situ) adult female paratype (SCZM 2019.07.18.2) in life (A & B) 

Amolops wangyali sp. nov.

juveniles in life (A–D) showing ontogenetic variation in colouration and markings: A & B. dorsolateral and profile views of a nearly metamorphosed juvenile (SCZM 2019.07.18.3), from the type locality, images taken ex-situ; C. dorsolateral view of larger juvenile (SCZM 2019.07.20.1), from Rongthong (27.2808, 91.53937, ca. 1,520 m a.s.l.), Trashigang District, Bhutan, image taken ex-situ; D. dorsal view of uncollected halfgrown juvenile, from Jere Chhu/Stream, Khaling Town, Bhutan, image taken in-situ; E. habitat at the type locality, Bodidrang Chhu/ Stream, taken from the Singye Thegchog Bridge two days after the collection of the holotype (20 July 2019); F. adult female paratype (SCZM 2019.08.02.1) from Bodidrang Chhu/Stream, image taken immediately after euthanisation, prior to fixation. Scale bar represents 10 mm.

Etymology: 

The specific epithet is a patronym, named in recognition of Mr. Jigme Tshelthrim Wangyal, a Forest Officer with the Department of Forest and Park Services, Ministry of Agriculture and Forests, Government of Bhutan. Jigme is an accomplished Bhutanese herpetologist and has published many papers on the subject (Wangyal, 2011, 2013, 2014; Wangyal & Gurung, 2012, 2017; Wangyal & Das, 2014; Wangyal et al., 2020). Jigme’s extensive network of Forest Officers, researchers and wildlife enthusiasts have supplemented his extensive personal observations in several of his publications, and as a consequence, many of the species currently on Bhutan’s amphibian and reptile checklist were first documented in the country through his efforts. He continues to support and inspire interest in amphibian and reptile research through seminars and field training workshops and is a vocal proponent for improving standards of herpetological research in Bhutan. 

Suggested common name:  Wangyal’s torrent frog.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, we identified four species of Amolops from Bhutan: (1) Amolops sp. 1. (viridimaculatus group: from Tshewang & Letro, 2018), (2) A. cf. gerbillus (marmoratus group), (3) A. cf. putaoensis (monticola group), and (4) A. wangyali sp. nov. (viridimaculatus group). Outside of the new species described herein, we were unable to determine species identities for these taxa given the available data. Until such time as vouchered specimens are clearly identified from the country by means of a detailed morphological comparison of vouchered specimens with relevant taxonomic literature, and/or with the aid of DNA sequence data, the following nine species must be formally removed from the amphibian checklist of Bhutan: (1) Amolops formosus, (2) A. gerbillus, (3) A. himalayanus (including A. aff. himalayanus), (4) A. mantzorum, (5) A. marmoratus, (6) A. monticola, (7) A. wenshanensis, (8) Sylvirana cf. guentheri, (9) Hyla annectans (including Hyla cf. annectans). Unintentional misidentifications in the literature can result in significantly overestimated/ erroneous geographic distributions for species, a situation which undermines conservation efforts. Inaccuracies in such assessments could even result in the redirection of conservation resources (funds and efforts) away from vulnerable range restricted species that require urgent attention. For these reasons, we encourage authors not to assign species names to taxa in publications if there is any uncertainty regarding the identification of the species. Many populations of amphibians reported from Bhutan (and elsewhere in Asia) are provided non-specific locality details (e.g. lack GPS coordinates, elevation details), are not represented in museum/university collections by vouchered specimens, and are often published without photographic evidence. Locally abundant species can often be dismissed as “common”, or of little scientific interest, and subsequently ignored by researchers; however, studies on Himalayan amphibians have demonstrated that “common” or widespread species occasionally represent complexes of morphologically similar species (e.g. Dubois, 1975; Kamei et al., 2009; Dever et al., 2012; Khatiwada et al., 2017; Mahony et al., 2013, 2018, 2020), so careful attention to document every species should be made when possible. Our review of Amolops reports in literature demonstrate that some taxonomic information can be obtained from good quality images of uncollected animals, but inevitably an accurate species inventory for Bhutan’s amphibian fauna will not be possible without permanently maintained reference collections of vouchered specimens. Range restricted species may be only one drought, forest fire or hydroelectric dam away from extinction, thus the urgency to catalogue the Himalayan biodiversity has never been more urgent. 

 

NO ONE HAS IT ALL - Simple reasons to remain humble!

Tshering Dema, unstable, sleeps on the jute sacks and stays in a shack but in her hands are twin handsome boys she gave birth to some weeks ago.

Sonam Yangdey, living in a posh house, drives posh cars, went to the best hospital in town for ante-natal care but see her crying for she has another miscarriage.

Kuenzang Choden, beautiful, good job, good house, good husband yet her pillow suffers every night with wetness of her tears, because she is yet to conceive.

Life is deep, who can understand it?

Tshelthrim Wangyal, lives with his parents, his father is a poor carpenter, he goes to school on foot every morning with empty stomach, yet he is exceptionally brilliant.

Tshewang Rinzin, a son of a wealthy politician, goes to school, with escorts and assorted food and drinks, yet he cannot assimilate what he is being taught.

Tashi Dorji, son of a medical doctor, crippled, he cannot help himself, his father cannot help him yet he treats others and they get healed.

What is in this life itself?

We all have it in bits, that is the irony of life. So why the bitterness, the envy, the anger, let's learn to manage our bit and see how we can make it better.

Rinchen Dema, virgin, focused, intelligent, but she was raped on her way to school, she became pregnant, and life was on hold for a moment. Life! Life!! Life!!!

Karma Choden, prostitute, nothing to write home about, married to a good man, have four lovely kids and doing great.

Choekey Lhamo, intelligent, rich family, beautiful, good job, humble, but yet to have a man to call her own.

Wangchuk, despite coming from a poor family holds a PhD and has landed a good public service job, yet he is very arrogant, while Jigme who had no formal education and is employed just as an Assistant to a Professor is still humble, humane, and generous.

No one should think he is better than the next person because we have our life in bits. As we try to manage our bits, let us also try to be a support system.

No one is more, no one is less, we are all unique in our own way.

It is so funny and indeed pitiable to see someone acting so proud and inhumane just because he or she has a slight advantage over others in a particular area of life. Someday when death beckons, you will respond with all your cluttering material possessions.

HAPPY CONTENTED LIFE TO ALL WHO READ THIS PIECE OF THOUGHT FROM A POOR MAN

Seeking Relevance!

THE AMPHIBIANS OF BHUTAN

This book: “The Amphibians of Bhutan” is all about the frogs, toads, salamander, and the obscure and enigmatic caecilians that occur in Bhutan. Of the more than 8,000 species of amphibians currently known worldwide, only 80 anurans, a single species of salamander (Caudata), and at least two undescribed caecilians (Gymnophiona) are recorded in Bhutan. This number is likely far less than accurate since there have been no serious attempts to document this group of animals by researchers or institutions, due to the fact that these moist-skinned animals, who use both land and water to complete their life cycle, do not attract funds for researchers and institutions to generate serious research. Species presented in this primer are thus through the interest of a few of us devoted, like-minded individuals who believe that these animals are extremely important to the life-support system for the Earth to survive.

This work is a result of the collection of information through an online group on the amphibians and reptiles of Bhutan created to educate the public about these neglected groups of animals. I wish to encourage more individuals to value and conserve these diverse and useful creatures. This book is not intended to replace formal batrachology courses nor is it designed for academic purposes. The goal of this book is to strengthen and facilitate connections between amphibians and the people who have a genuine or even a casual interest about the natural history of these interesting animals. And while this book touches on some academic aspects, it intentionally is more conceptual than statistical. For the average reader, common names have been provided while scientists and researchers must look at this work as something in between the core and the casual science. There are several new country records and a few undescribed and unknown species documented for the country (for further work), otherwise, nothing herein is ecologically or biologically new except for those few which are undescribed and unknown. I also freely admit that I have used all the information made available from all forms of media and from many individual citizen scientists and field foresters. In writing this manuscript, I have consulted numerous experts and sought their advice making the MS more than peer reviewed. But we humans all make mistakes – so, if you notice any, please do let me know. Being an amateur, it is even more susceptible to error. Therefore, I would like to suggest to my readers to view my primer less as a book and more as a resource that has its own style and character.

I did not initially think of writing a book; I thought of writing handouts that people can use and share to spread the word about amphibians being incredibly awesome. As such, you will see some vital facts repeated across the various topics, a combination of formal and casual fundamentals, and possibly other characters that might be considered mistakes in other settings.

I hope that book enthusiasts can take this work for what it is and not find its weaknesses too off-putting. This primer may benefit many interested English-speaking readers but I must confess that the examples and photographs are mostly those from Bhutan, not just to do justice to the title of the book but because I am one of those rare Bhutanese who takes batrachology very seriously. Consequently, the species in this primer are those that I am most familiar with, and as a result, not all the amphibian species occurring in Bhutan are covered. Hopefully, readers in other areas of the world can infer from the context which information may be applicable to their regions. Where an amphibian that is endemic to Bhutan appears as an example, there is likely a species which fills a similar ecological niche in your region, and a nominal amount of research should tell how the lesson might apply to your locality.

I wish to restrict the use of any of this information in any way unethical. So please contact me before doing so. I will almost certainly grant permission, provided you are using this material for educational purposes and public awareness and not for any political or commercial mileage. I have tried to be simple and straightforward, but this book does cover biological subject matter, and occasionally being exposed to unfamiliar scientific terms is a part of learning about the natural world. There is a glossary of herpetological terms available for you to refer to at the end of the book. I sincerely hope you enjoy my work!

Before concluding, I wish to make mention about our only endemic amphibian, the Bhutan Cat-eyed Toad, Scutiger bhutanensis. We have an obligation to investigate this species which was described at the turn of the century by scientists from Europe because we were not confident enough about its exact population or even its distribution. It is time that we take the future of these amphibians seriously and protect them using relevant research, funds and legislations. Otherwise, Bhutan might lose some species even before they have been described. It wasn’t too long ago that the endangered Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus) was extirpated from the Manas River in southern Bhutan. Let’s not allow history to repeat itself and let’s do our best to protect all animals, small or large that live in Bhutan. We must allow their survival so that our future generations may enjoy them as well. Happy reading!

Final Cover edited by the publisher Chimaira Books, Frankfurt aM, Germany. This primer talks about as many as 83 species found in Bhutan.

The Amphibian map of Bhutan

My late wife used to help me catch frogs although she did not like so much!

The cold mountains of the Kingdom are home to a number of flora and fauna including the batrachians.

A toad species from Chukha represents a unique Bhutan species.

Himalayan Toad is the most commonly encountered toad species in Bhutan.

The beautiful torrent frogs are part of the Bhutan Himalayan ecosystem that makes the Kingdom

special. 

The number of undescribed Minervarya species makes Bhutan a special place for further research.

Minervarya cf. orissaensis is my guess, but my colleagues think it otherwise.

This extremely healthy Nanorana is a signal that the Kingdom has a healthy population of amphibians.

A megophryd may be one of the most diverse sub groups in Bhutan.

Amolops species is another most diverse species in Bhutan.

The yet to confirmed Tylototriton cf. verrucosus is the only Salamander of the Kingdom which needs attention in case of local disease to the animals.

These caecilians from Tsirang and Dewathang are definitely undescribed and the Kingdom has a lot to do when it comes to this animal group.