Name is synonymous with wildlife conservation in Karnataka. For over 30 years, he has worked to defend the forests and wildlife of the state. In the 1970s and 1980s, he confronted the poaching and timber mafia in the Nagarahole National Park and virtually eliminated poaching in the core of the park. Because of his uncompromising principles, his family was threatened and his home burnt down.

After voluntarily retiring from the forest service, he continued his conservation crusade along with Wildlife First, an NGO that he heads. His ardent defence of Karnataka's wilds has not gone down well with those profiting from timber and iron ore. Chinnappa has been the victim of a vilification campaign, but false cases and harassment have not affected him.He fights on for the forests and wildlife he loves.