IN a shocking encounter with electric eels, Deadly 60’s Steve Backshall was blown clear out of the water and flat on his back.
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He was trying to catch a crocodile at night, obviously.
The host of BBC Earth’s Deadly 60 Downunder, Backshall and his creepy crawlies are headed to Tamworth.
But, deadly doesn’t necessarily mean dangerous, he said.
“Despite what the media might have you believe, wild animals very rarely hurt human beings,” he said.
Backshall got into the world of deadly animals on his own wildlife program in the 1990s that later sold to National Geographic.
It’s then he was hired as an adventurer in residence.
The deadliest animal he’s ever come into contact with is surprisingly a dragonfly.
“I’d have to say some of the large dragonflies, the fastest flying insects have the ability to see in a whole different world of speed to us,” he said.
“It’s vital when you’re working with animals that you’re not frightened, animals sense fear and react negatively to it.
“That’s true if you’re working with dogs or horses just as much as big cats and whales.”
Rarely scared himself, the closest he’s been to a deadly encounter was diving in the Okavango Delta when he came face to face with a hippo on the bottom of a murky pool.
In Australia it’s not surprising he finds himself compared quite often to Steve Irwin.
It’s a comparison he finds incredibly complimentary.
“Steve did more for the appreciation of reptiles than any other person in history,” he said.
Backshall’s show is as much about the science of deadly as it is entertainment.
“There will be audience participation, a chance to ask me questions, stunts, tricks and some of the most astounding animals there in front of you,” he said.
“There’s no question that folk in the country have more knowledge of wildlife than city folk.
“And yes, they’re generally more aware of the realities of animals.
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“Australia generally though is the best country in the world to tour with a wildlife show, because Aussies tend to love animals.”
Steve Backshall’s Deadly 60 Downunder show is coming to the Tamworth Regional Entertainment Centre on Tuesday January 15.
Madeline Link
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
