Crikey! It's the Irwins Season 4 Episode 1 Robert's Great Gator Challenge

Robert's Great Gator Challenge is the premiere episode of the fourth season of Crikey! It's the Irwins. The episode begins with Robert Irwin, son of the late Steve Irwin, announcing that he wants to try something new and exciting. He states that he has always had a fascination with alligators and wants to take on a challenge that his dad would be proud of. His family is supportive, but also cautious, noting the danger involved in working with such a powerful creature.

Robert heads out on a boat with Wes, one of the Irwin's experienced animal handlers, to scout for alligator nests in hope of catching a young alligator to raise and train. After locating a nest, they approach it carefully, digging through the sand to find a hatchling. Robert is thrilled to finally hold an alligator in his arms. He carefully feeds it and transports it back to the zoo.

The rest of the episode chronicles Robert's journey as he works with the baby alligator, teaching it to trust him and follow commands. The alligator, named Gilly, quickly becomes attached to Robert, even following him around on a leash. Robert struggles to find the right balance between bonding with the alligator and not anthropomorphizing its behavior.

Meanwhile, the Irwins must also deal with a number of other issues in the zoo. They must feed and care for a group of rescued kangaroos and monitor the health of their koalas. They also deal with the arrival of a new hire, an Australian veterinary nurse named Ollie, who they hope will help them in their animal care efforts.

As Robert continues to train Gilly, he faces several challenges. First, Gilly begins to bite and hiss at one of the other handlers, causing concern. Robert must learn to communicate and discipline Gilly effectively without resorting to punishment or aggression. Then, as Gilly grows stronger, Robert must work to strengthen their bond and keep the alligator from becoming too aggressive during feeding times.

The episode concludes with Robert finally completing his ultimate challenge: taking Gilly out into the wild to see how she will fare on her own. The Irwins release the alligator into a nearby creek and watch as she swims away. Robert expresses his overwhelming sense of pride and accomplishment, stating that he feels as though he has fulfilled a lifelong dream.

Overall, this episode of Crikey! It's the Irwins is a thrilling and heartwarming look at the Irwin family's dedication to animal care and conservation. It highlights the bond between humans and animals and the importance of treating these creatures with respect and compassion. The episode showcases the Irwin family's expertise in animal care as well as their willingness to take on new challenges and adventures.