Ep 5. Australia Zoo: Old Friends & New
- October 17, 2008
Jack Hanna's Into the Wild season 2 episode 5, "Australia Zoo: Old Friends & New," follows Jack as he visits the Australia Zoo on the Sunshine Coast of Queensland, Australia. This zoo is owned by the late Steve Irwin's family and is home to over 1,200 animals.
Throughout the episode, Jack and his crew are given special access to some of the most popular animals at the zoo, as well as some that are rarely seen by the public. Jack spends time with the zoo's resident koalas, learning about their lifestyle and diet, and getting to hold one for a close-up encounter.
Next, he visits a group of kangaroos and wallabies, getting up close and personal with these iconic Australian animals. He also has the opportunity to hand-feed a group of rainbow lorikeets, which are known for their vibrant plumage and playful personalities.
The episode also features some of the more unusual animals at the zoo, such as the Tasmanian devil and the echidna. Jack learns about the conservation efforts in place to protect these animals, which are both endangered in the wild due to habitat loss and other factors.
Throughout his visit to the Australia Zoo, Jack is joined by the Irwin family, including Steve's wife Terri and their children Bindi and Robert. The family shares stories about Steve's legacy and the importance of continuing his work to protect and conserve wildlife.
The episode also showcases some of the new developments at the zoo, including a new reptile house and an expanded wildlife hospital. Jack learns about the challenges of caring for sick and injured animals and speaks with the zoo's veterinarians about the work they do to keep the animals healthy and happy.
Finally, the episode ends with a special tribute to Steve Irwin, who passed away in 2006. Jack and the Irwin family take a moment to remember Steve's passion for wildlife and his tireless efforts to protect animals around the world. The episode is a heartfelt reminder of the important work being done at the Australia Zoo and the ongoing legacy of Steve Irwin.
