Watch The Wild Things

The Wild Things is a captivating collection of short documentary films produced by Great Big Story that portrays the lives of people who have unexpectedly found themselves living amongst exotic creatures. The show explores the fascinating world of animal enthusiasts who have dedicated their lives to caring for and sharing their homes with wild animals.

Each episode of The Wild Things introduces audiences to a new and unique individual or family who has opened their doors to creatures that most people would consider unmanageable. From kangaroos living in suburban American homes to lions roaming free in South African gardens, the series showcases the unpredictable and at times, dangerous nature of living with wild animals.

In one episode, viewers meet Trisha and Shannon, two sisters who run a wild animal rescue centre in Oregon. The sisters have been caring for injured or abandoned animals for over 20 years and have successfully rehabilitated and released dozens of animals back into the wild. Their sanctuary is home to everything from squirrels and birds of prey to bobcats and mountain lions.

Another episode introduces viewers to Jackie and Colleen, a couple from California who have created a home for a variety of wild animals that need special care. They have lions, tigers, and panthers in their home, and Jackie wakes up every morning to feed and care for them. The couple's passion for these animals is evident, and they work tirelessly to ensure their safety and wellbeing.

One of the most heartwarming episodes showcases the story of Shaun and his wife Kaycee, who have rescued and adopted over 300 kangaroos over the past two decades. The couple shares their home with dozens of kangaroos who lounge in their living room and play in their backyard. Their mission is to educate people about the unique needs and behaviour of these animals and to promote wildlife conservation.

The Wild Things is not just a series about animal lovers – it is also a story about the challenges and risks that come with living with wild animals. In one episode, viewers are introduced to a man named Mike who lives with a fully grown lion named Bonedigger. Mike hand-raised Bonedigger when he was a cub and the two are inseparable. However, owning a lion can be dangerous, and Mike is constantly vigilant to ensure that Bonedigger and his other big cat companions are not a danger to himself or unsuspecting visitors.

The show also explores the legal and ethical issues surrounding keeping large and exotic pets. Many of the individuals the show profiles run their own personal animal sanctuaries, but some pet owners are not as responsible. In an episode about a man who owns a tiger, the show explores the controversy surrounding exotic pets in the United States and the often-perilous consequences to both humans and animals.

The Wild Things is a visually stunning series with incredible footage of animals usually only seen in zoos or wildlife rescues. The filmmakers have captured amazing moments of intimacy and connection between the animals and their human caregivers. Combined with music that ranges from emotional ballads to upbeat rhythms, the series is both entertaining and informative.

In its exploration of the world of exotic pet owners, The Wild Things offers a captivating insight into the lives of people who have dedicated themselves to caring for and protecting wild animals. The episodes highlight the joy and fulfilment of living with these extraordinary creatures, but also the risks and challenges that come with the responsibility. The show is a must-watch for anyone with a fascination for the animal world and a desire to learn more about our relationship with other species.