Ep 16. Wildlife Crime-Fighters

In the 16th episode of the seventh season of Jack Hanna's Wild Countdown, viewers are taken on a journey through the world of wildlife crime-fighters. With poaching and illegal wildlife trade being major issues in our world today, the episode sheds light on the heroic efforts of those who work to protect endangered animals from such crimes.

The episode begins with a focus on the African elephant, which is one of the most poached animals in the world. Viewers learn about the work of rangers who put their lives on the line to protect these animals from armed poachers. Jack Hanna meets with a ranger who discusses the challenges of their job and the tactics they use to thwart poaching attempts. The ranger even shares a close call he had with a poacher and how he was able to apprehend him before he could harm any elephants.

Next, the show reveals the efforts of organizations that work to combat illegal wildlife trade. Jack Hanna talks with a representative from one such organization who explains how they work to bust wildlife traffickers and bring them to justice. The organization's representative emphasizes the importance of education and awareness-raising when it comes to deterring people from participating in the illegal wildlife trade. Viewers are also introduced to a team of sniffer dogs that are trained to sniff out various animal products, which can help in stopping illegal wildlife trade.

Moving on, the episode showcases the work of wildlife rehabilitation centers that take in animals that have been affected by poaching or illegal trade. Jack Hanna visits one such center where he meets a group of orangutans that were rescued from the illegal pet trade and are now being rehabilitated with the hope of being released back into the wild. The episode gives a glimpse into the efforts made by the staff to provide the orangutans with a comfortable environment and the training they need to survive in the wild.

The episode then takes a turn towards the illegal shark trade, highlighting how a particular type of shark is subjected to brutal and illegal finning practices. Viewers learn about the work of marine biologists who are working to save this endangered shark species. Jack Hanna interviews a marine biologist who explains how they track the movement of sharks and collect necessary data to help protect them. Viewers also learn about the efforts of a team of marine biologists who are working to create a shark sanctuary in the waters surrounding a heavily-trafficked city.

Next, the show takes a journey to Australia where they discuss the illegal trade of reptile skins, which is threatening a number of species of reptiles. The episode talks about the work of rangers and law enforcement officers who are working to bring wildlife traffickers to justice. Viewers are introduced to a ranger who explains how they track the trade and bust wildlife traffickers.

Finally, the episode ends with a message of hope and a call to action. Viewers are encouraged to support organizations that work to combat illegal wildlife trade and protect endangered animals. Jack Hanna emphasizes the importance of education and awareness-raising and encourages viewers to spread the word about the importance of protecting our world's wildlife.

Overall, the "Wildlife Crime-Fighters" episode of Jack Hanna's Wild Countdown sheds light on the heroic efforts of those working to protect endangered animals from poaching and illegal trade. The episode provides viewers with a glimpse into the difficulties and challenges encountered by law enforcement officers, rangers, and marine biologists while also highlighting the positive impact they are making. The show encourages viewers to get involved in any way they can and makes a powerful case for the importance of protecting our world's wildlife.