In this third episode of Joanna Page’s Wild Life, the actress continues her foray into the occasionally glamorous, frequently messy world of animal rescue. Forget the red carpets and award ceremonies, this time Page finds herself bonding with a magpie sporting a broken leg. Christened “Speedy” by the actress (a moniker perhaps more aspirational than descriptive, given the magpie’s current condition), the bird becomes the latest subject of Page’s nurturing instincts.
Beyond avian ailments, the episode features a particularly vexing case involving a fox cub with a bottle stubbornly affixed to its head. This predicament requires the rescue team’s full ingenuity, providing viewers with a glimpse into the resourcefulness demanded by wildlife rehabilitation. Page also participates in her first urban wildlife release, a moment likely to resonate with city dwellers who rarely witness such events.
As usual, Wild Life doesn’t shy away from the less savory aspects of animal care. This installment features a detailed look at feeding techniques, showing the sometimes unpleasant realities of ensuring rescued animals receive proper nutrition. Page’s hands-on training continues as she attempts to capture birds in an aviary, a task that has previously proved challenging. Let’s just say, feathers might fly.
Tune in to witness Page’s unwavering enthusiasm for wildlife rescue, Wednesday, January 8, at 6:30 PM on BBC Two.