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Animal Airport was a British television show that aired on Animal Planet from 2012 to 2013. The series followed the daily operations of the Animal Reception Centre at London Heathrow Airport, one of the largest and busiest airports in the world, as they dealt with the challenge of caring for animals arriving from all over the globe.

Mark Halliley, a renowned British naturalist and wildlife enthusiast, served as the show's narrator, providing viewers with insights into the animals, their journeys and the work of those that work tirelessly to ensure the safe arrival of these precious cargo.

The show gave viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the airport's animal handling facilities, starting from the first point of entry where animals arrive after their sometimes-lengthy journeys from all over the world. The Animal Reception Centre at London Heathrow is staffed by highly trained veterinarians and animal handlers who are experts in the care of animals, no matter the species.

The centre plays a vital role in ensuring the welfare of animals that pass through the airport. They are responsible for veterinary checks and any necessary clearing of animals brought into the country. Furthermore, the centre also acts as a quarantine facility for a range of animal species, which must be housed in a controlled environment before they can be transported onwards to their final destination.

The show had various interesting stories, compelling both for animal lovers and airport enthusiasts. The series featured various challenges that arise during the handling of these animals at the airport. A particular episode showed the careful handling of a baby orangutan, which arrived at the airport after having been kept as a pet for the first few months of its life. The centre staff treated the orangutan carefully, helping to ease him into his new environment, and providing it with the care and attention it needed to adjust to a new life among other primates.

Another story followed the arrival of some exotic animals, including two rare American alligators, which had to undergo extensive veterinary checks to confirm they were fit for travel. The show demonstrated how the team of professionals at the centre fought to ensure the safe transfer of these animals, including ensuring that the two alligators remained controlled during their transport.

The show also featured the role of customs and excise, who partnered with the staff at the Animal Reception Centre to help detect and prevent the smuggling of illegal animals. They highlight the dangers of bringing unsanctioned species into the country, which can threaten public health and wildlife alike.

Throughout the series, Mark Halliley provided a knowledgeable insight into the animals being cared for at the airport, as well as the work of the animal centre staff. His engaging narration, combined with footage of these beautiful creatures, provides viewers with a fascinating insight into the world of animal transport, from the viewpoint of the Heathrow facility.

In summary, Animal Airport was a captivating series that offered viewers a unique insight into the world of animal handling at London Heathrow Airport. With its high production quality and captivating stories, it was an engaging and enlightening depiction of the work these facilities do to ensure the safe and humane treatment of all animals under their care. Despite the fact that the show only ran for two seasons, it cemented its place as one of the best travel-based animal shows created to date.

Animal Airport is a series that ran for 3 seasons (52 episodes) between May 22, 2000 and on ANIMAL PLANET