Jeff Corwin Visited Over 100 Countries Introducing TV Viewers to Animals, Now He Wants to Reveal the Beauty in Your Backyard

**Jeff Corwin’s Southern Wild: A New Journey into North Carolina’s Wildlife**

Television audiences are being treated to a fresh perspective on wildlife with the debut of “Jeff Corwin’s Southern Wild,” a new series hosted by the renowned conservationist. Premiering on 3rd October, the show is set to air every weekend morning across ABC stations in the United States. This time, Corwin focuses on the diverse ecosystems and conservation efforts within North Carolina, a state teeming with unique wildlife.

In collaboration with Lees-McRae College, which sits in the picturesque Banner Elk region of North Carolina, Corwin embarks on a journey to uncover the state’s varied animal inhabitants. Renowned for his educational wildlife programmes, Corwin aims to spark interest in local conservation initiatives while celebrating the natural beauty found right in America’s backyard.

While some of his earlier works have taken viewers to remote corners of the globe, Corwin has chosen North Carolina for this series, highlighting the extraordinary nature that lies within the U.S. He believes there’s an abundance of wonder to be found closer to home. “For almost 10 years, I have focused a lot of my TV and documentary work on North America,” he explained. “Coming out of COVID, I wanted to ignite enthusiasm in Americans about the wildlife right around them.”

The series promises to introduce viewers to a variety of fascinating creatures. From bats and bears to sea turtles and alligators, North Carolina’s rich biodiversity is on full display. “North Carolina is an incredible wild place,” Corwin remarked. He expressed excitement about showcasing the blend of southern marshlands, which are home to alligators and sea turtles, alongside the Appalachian Blue Ridge Mountains, featuring unique fauna like hellbenders.

One of the notable aspects of “Southern Wild” is its commitment to conservation. Corwin is particularly keen on raising awareness regarding the plight of red wolves, a species that finds itself perilously close to extinction. “This state will be the linchpin of whether they make it,” he stated, underlining the importance of North Carolina in the future of these wolves.

Additionally, Corwin aims to educate viewers about the challenges facing the once-abundant little brown bat, a species whose population has severely declined due to a fungal disease known as white-nose syndrome. The show will spotlight the efforts from conservationists to protect these vital creatures, which play an essential role in the ecosystem by consuming vast quantities of insects. “One little brown bat can eat 1,400 mosquitoes a night,” Corwin noted, revealing the ecological significance of these often-overlooked animals.

The series also shines a light on a population of little brown bats in North Carolina that appears to have a unique resistance to the disease ravaging other colonies. This could suggest a glimmer of hope and a potential solution in the fight against their declining numbers. The collaboration with Lees-McRae College is instrumental in driving these conservation narratives. The college operates the Dan and Dianne May Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, which aids over 2,000 injured and orphaned animals annually and serves as a training ground for future wildlife professionals.

Corwin’s mission extends beyond just showcasing wildlife; he aims to inspire people to understand and appreciate the animals and the conservationists working hard to protect them. “It’s about telling the stories of the animals, as well as the people on the front lines of saving them,” he explained. He hopes that by highlighting the marvels of North Carolina, viewers will feel a stronger connection to the environment and be motivated to advocate for wildlife protection and conservation efforts in their communities.

In an era where many may feel disconnected from nature, Corwin’s approach seeks to re-establish that bond. “We don’t care as much because we don’t know enough,” he said, emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of local wildlife. “I want to make that introduction, and I can’t think of a better place to connect than North Carolina.”

With “Jeff Corwin’s Southern Wild,” audiences are encouraged to explore the natural wonders that often go unnoticed. As the series unfolds, it promises to be an enlightening journey through North Carolina’s diverse ecosystems, putting a spotlight on the urgent need for conservation in one of America’s most biodiverse states.

The show is expected to resonate with animal lovers and those interested in environmental issues alike, reaffirming the importance of preserving the natural world. As viewers embark on this adventure alongside Corwin, there is hope that they will emerge not only entertained but also empowered to contribute to the preservation of both local and global wildlife.