Wednesday, June 19, 2013

News
Bird TLC Makes Appearance on a National Reality Show
Alaska has become the subject of a growing number of reality shows
By Lauren Maxwell
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ANCHORAGE - Alaska has become the subject of a growing number of reality shows, including one that is shot in Anchorage right now. “Wild About Animals” is a syndicated show that has been around for almost 20 years. On Monday a crew from the show was shooting at the Bird Treatment and Learning Center in Anchorage.

The show is filming a half hour episode that will air later this year. Bird TLC is one of four organizations that will be featured in the segment on Alaskan animals. The crew also plans to visit the Alaska SeaLife Center in Seward, The Musk Ox Farm in Palmer and meet up with a killer whale researcher in Seward.

Monday’s shoot included close-ups with eagles, owls and other birds that are part of TLC’s rehabilitation programs. Producer Jason Evans said the uniquely Alaskan experience should translate well to a national audience.

“When you are here and you see these birds it’s just really impressive, especially here in person,” said Evans. “We just hope to capture that and transfer that to our viewing audience.”

Heather Merewood, Bird TLC’s executive director said the non-profit is thrilled to be getting the exposure, hoping it could lead to more support for the organization that often struggles financially.

“This is a national show,” said Merewood. “So it’s great to get the word out there about Bird TLC and what we do.”

What viewers will get to see on the show are plenty of close-ups and even some routine maintenance that will likely seem exotic to most people.

Tourism officials are happy to share whatever Alaska has to offer with people outside and said the result could be more visitors to the state. The Alaska episode of "Wild About Animals" is set to air late this year or early next year.