Professor Carl Jones and Wife Paula Senior, A Story of Conservation, Family, and Global Impact

Professor Carl Gwynfe Jones, MBE, is a towering figure in modern conservation biology, credited with saving multiple species from extinction, particularly in Mauritius and the Mascarene Islands. While the world knows Carl Jones for his ecological innovations and wildlife rescues, few are familiar with the personal story behind his success. His wife, Paula Senior, has been a quiet yet essential presence, supporting his extraordinary mission.

This article offers an in-depth look at Professor Carl Jones’ impactful career, his personal life with Paula Senior, and how their family has played a pivotal role in one of the most inspiring conservation success stories of the modern era.

Who is Professor Carl Jones?

Born on June 20, 1954, in Carmarthen, Wales, Carl Jones, now 70 years old, is one of the world’s most respected conservation biologists. A passionate naturalist from a young age, Jones began his wildlife journey by breeding kestrels in his backyard. That early fascination with birds laid the groundwork for what would become a groundbreaking career in ecological restoration.

Carl is best known for his tireless work in saving the Mauritius kestrel, which was reduced to just four individuals in the wild in 1974. Under his leadership, the species rebounded to a population of around 400, marking one of the greatest wildlife recoveries of the past century. His innovative techniques—ranging from captive breeding to ecological replacements—have influenced global conservation methodologies.

Jones has worked in the Mascarene Islands since 1979 and holds multiple leadership roles. He serves as the Chief Scientist at the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust and the Scientific Director of the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation (MWF), where he continues to shape policy and fieldwork that benefits both wildlife and local communities.

Meet Paula Senior: The Woman Behind the Conservationist

Carl Jones’ wife, Paula Senior, has been a steadfast partner in both life and conservation. Though not as publicly recognized as her husband, Paula has played a crucial role in supporting Carl’s demanding career.

Paula, herself deeply invested in environmental stewardship, has worked alongside Carl on several initiatives and has been involved with the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation. Colleagues describe her as patient, empathetic, and dedicated—key traits that have allowed her to navigate the challenges of fieldwork in remote areas.

Together, Carl and Paula have two children. Despite the intense travel and field demands of Carl’s conservation projects, the couple has managed to balance family life while making an extraordinary impact on wildlife recovery worldwide.

A Conservation Power Couple: Shared Mission and Values

The partnership between Carl Jones and Paula Senior is rooted in shared values: a deep love for nature, commitment to saving endangered species, and fostering sustainable ecosystems. Their relationship has withstood the strain of long separations, as Carl often spent years on field assignments in Mauritius and other islands, working to save species such as the pink pigeon, the Mauritius parakeet, and the Rodrigues flying fox.

Paula’s unwavering support has been a key factor in Carl’s ability to fully immerse himself in his work. According to conservation peers, her role extends beyond emotional backing—Paula has actively contributed to several community programs, aiding local education and outreach efforts connected to conservation initiatives.

Carl Jones’ Landmark Achievements

Carl Jones’ conservation career has produced remarkable results:

• Mauritius Kestrel Recovery: From four individuals in 1974 to over 400 today.
• Mauritius Parakeet (Echo Parakeet): Population increased from approximately 10 birds in the 1980s to over 650 by 2015.
• Pink Pigeon Revival: A species once reduced to 10 individuals, now thriving with around 400 birds thanks to coordinated recovery programs.

Jones also pioneered large-scale island restoration efforts in Mauritius and Rodrigues, focusing on removing invasive species and restoring native plant and animal communities. Projects such as the rehabilitation of Round Island are considered landmark ecological restorations.

Honors and Global Recognition

Carl Jones’ dedication has earned him numerous accolades. In 2004, he was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for his services to wildlife conservation. He has also received the prestigious Indianapolis Prize in 2016—often considered the “Nobel Prize” of conservation.

Additionally, he is a recipient of the Ridder of the Golden Ark and the Carolina Medal, which further underscore his global influence on conservation biology.

Personal Life and Family

Despite Carl Jones’ high-profile professional commitments, family remains a central part of his life. Together with Paula Senior, the couple has raised two children, instilling in them the values of environmental responsibility and resilience.

Balancing conservation with family life is no easy feat. Yet, Carl and Paula have managed to foster a supportive family environment while working towards protecting some of the planet’s most vulnerable species. Their story reflects the essence of a true partnership where shared goals meet personal sacrifice.

Carl Jones’ Net Worth and Current Roles

While conservation biology isn’t typically a path to great personal wealth, Carl Jones has achieved financial security through decades of leadership roles, academic positions, and consulting. As of 2025, his estimated net worth is approximately $1 million, largely derived from his work with the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, advisory roles, and global speaking engagements.

Jones continues to serve as Chief Scientist at Durrell and as an honorary professor at the University of East Anglia, where he mentors the next generation of conservationists.

The Legacy Continues

As Carl Jones approaches new milestones in both his personal life and professional career, he and Paula Senior remain dedicated to their shared mission. The couple continues to inspire conservationists worldwide by demonstrating that behind every successful leader is a supportive and equally dedicated partner.