Call of the Wildman

Set in the rugged, untamed terrains of Kentucky, Call of the Wildman, which aired on Animal Planet from 2011 to 2014, is a factual entertainment series that enthralls viewers with engaging wildlife rescues and an endearing, offbeat central character. This show offers an exotic blend of humor, bravery, and nature appreciation, capturing the essence of the wild while drawing attention to wildlife preservation, making it a riveting watch for animal lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

At the heart of Call of the Wildman is Ernie Brown Jr., better known as "The Turtleman." As a rural animal control expert, Brown boasts of an impressive arsenal of self-made tools and a deep, instinctual understanding of wildlife. He is recognized for his unique and effective, albeit unorthodox, methods of capturing and releasing nuisance animals. His trademark bare-handed technique of catching turtles has earned him his nickname and is indicative of the bold and entertaining ethos of the series.

Each episode follows the Turtleman and his crew of assessors, facing unusual and challenging wildlife scenarios. The targets range from risk-laden reptiles like venomous snakes to destructive mammals such as raccoons and skunks, each one presenting a new obstacle to be outmaneuvered. The show journeys through the dense woods and murky waters of Kentucky as The Turtleman uses his hands-and-knees tracking technique to pursue the creatures, resulting in intense chases and thrilling moments of unexpected wildlife encounters.

Call of the Wildman does not just rely on these adrenaline-pumping sequences for its allure. A substantial part of the show's charm resides in Brown's charismatic persona. With his signature yell - "Yiyiyiyi" - high-energy antics, indomitable spirit, and touching affection for the creatures he catches, the Turtleman offers an engaging spectacle that keeps audiences hooked. His colorful vocabulary, toothy grin, and lively interactions with his loyal sidekick Neal James further enliven every episode, offering comic relief and a slice of Southern eccentricity.

Moreover, beneath the high-octane adventure and humor, the series underscores a broader theme of wildlife conservation. Unafraid of getting his hands dirty, the Turtleman goes to exceptional lengths to ensure minimal harm to the animals he captures. The released creatures are placed back into a suitable natural habitat whenever possible, emphasizing the importance of preserving nature and animal life.

The show is also a visual treat, with its footage of Kentucky's breathtaking landscapes. The vivid cinematography and Animal Planet's recognized penchant for high-quality productions augment the show's appeal, bringing the beauty and intensity of Kentucky’s wilderness right to the audience's living room.

Delving into the personal sphere, the series provides a glimpse into the Turtleman's life beyond his wildlife endeavours. It portrays Brown's humble origins and non-materialistic lifestyle, living in a hand-built log cabin without modern conveniences, which serve to endear him further to the audience. His resilience in overcoming adversities, coupled with his unpretentious charm and wisdom, offers viewers life lessons of perseverance, optimism, and respect for nature.

In conclusion, Call of the Wildman offers a unique brand of reality television that successfully creates a charming blend of adventure, humor, and wildlife education. The enigmatic character of the Turtleman, coupled with thrilling wildlife scenarios and stunning cinematography, makes it a standout segment in Animal Planet's lineup. Showcasing the allure of the wild and the spirit of nature conservation through an engaging narrative, the show carves a niche for itself, remaining a favorite among animal enthusiasts, even years after its final season.