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Meet the team

Passionate minds driving conservation forward

At Kanana Conservation, our strength lies in the passion, expertise, and dedication of our team. Every individual brings a unique perspective and set of skills to the table, working hand-in-hand to protect biodiversity, empower communities, and drive impactful conservation initiatives. Together, we are committed to creating a sustainable future for nature and humanity.

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Joel Correa

Joel Correa is a dedicated wildlife conservation biologist with extensive field experience across diverse ecosystems. His research focuses on primate behavioral ecology, human-wildlife interactions, Birds, Fishes, Herpetofauna and entomology. He has worked on species ranging from Lion-tailed macaques in the Agumbe Ghats to Snow Leopards in the Himalayas, contributing valuable insights to conservation science.

With expertise in ecological sampling, GIS mapping and community-based conservation, Joel integrates scientific research with real-world action. He has conducted training workshops for forest officials, led wildlife awareness campaigns, and actively works towards mitigating human-wildlife conflict.

As a member of the IUCN SSC Primate Specialist Group – Section on Human-Primate Interactions, Joel brings a research-driven approach to primate conservation. His work is published in peer-reviewed journals, and he continues to advocate for evidence-based conservation strategies in the Western Ghats and beyond.

Akshar

Akshar is a passionate and driven wildlife conservation biologist with a keen interest in species distribution, niche overlap, behavioral ecology, and human-wildlife interactions. His research explores how human activities shape the ecological niches and connectivity of wildlife, using advanced analytical tools to inform meaningful conservation strategies.

With hands-on experience across diverse landscapes in India, Akshar has worked on species distribution modeling, landscape connectivity, and field-based conservation initiatives. From tracking sloth bear populations in the Eastern and Western Ghats to assessing carnivore corridors in the Brahmaputra landscape, his work blends rigorous scientific research with on-ground conservation action.

Beyond research, Akshar enjoys collaborating with field teams, mentoring students, and engaging local communities in conservation. He has conducted training sessions for forest officials, led outreach campaigns on human-wildlife conflict, and contributed to citizen science initiatives. He believes in conservation that is inclusive one that balances ecological integrity with the well-being of local communities.

When he’s not in the field, you’ll find him cooking South Indian food, playing chess, or daydreaming about seeing every vertebrate species in its natural habitat.

Pavan Chikkanarayanaswamy

Pavan is a highly motivated researcher in the field of ecology with nearly six years of extensive experience. His research interests encompass conservation biology, landscape ecology, and the human dimensions of wildlife. Currently, he is a doctoral researcher at the University of Turku, where he is studying “Anthropogenic Impacts on Finnish Wildlife”.

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The future of our planet depends on the actions we take today. Be a part of the movement to protect and restore our environment. Together, we can build a world where nature and people thrive in harmony. Stay connected with us for updates on our latest projects, conservation successes, and ways you can make a difference.

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OUR MISSION

At Kanana Wildlife Conservation, our mission is to protect the biodiversity of the Western Ghats through scientific research, conservation action, and community engagement. We use innovative technologies to study wildlife behavior, species interactions, and habitat dynamics, especially in human-impacted areas. Our initiatives focus on protecting endangered species and restoring critical ecosystems like Myristica swamps and rainforests. By involving local communities through education and awareness, we promote coexistence between people and wildlife. We believe true conservation happens when science and society work together to create lasting impact, ensuring that both nature and humanity can thrive for generations to come.

OUR APPROACH

We work to conserve the diverse life forms of the Western Ghats, including endangered and endemic species of birds, primates, amphibians, reptiles, insects, and plants, ensuring the protection of their natural habitats.

We use advanced technologies to study species interactions, develop ecological models, and assess habitat dynamics and the impacts of climate change. Additionally, molecular research aids in understanding genetic diversity, population health, and conservation priorities for threatened species.

We believe conservation thrives when people are part of the solution. Kanana actively involves citizen scientists, students, researchers, and local communities in hands-on conservation initiatives and educational programs.