Turtle Man

Turtle Man is an entertaining television program brought to you by the Discovery Channel that first aired in 2011. The show, officially dubbed "Call of the Wildman", is an American reality television series that focuses primarily on a real-life superhero, Ernie Brown Jr., more commonly known by his nickname, the "Turtle Man". This unique protagonist is a skilled and gritty wildlife rescuer who hails from Kentucky, loves nature with all his heart, and is determined to save his locality from problematic and nuisance wildlife.

The show is set in Kentucky's lush backwoods, presenting Brown's daily anguishing yet triumphant clashes with the wildlife. Kentucky, incredibly rich in biodiversity, is the perfect backdrop for the adventurous reality show. Turtle Man's clients range from ordinary individuals to landlords, farmers, and business owners who are all hosting unwanted visitors in the form of wildlife wreaking havoc on their properties. The hero-turned-tv-star Ernie Brown Jr. steps into these scenarios to navigate the tricky terrains, while humanely trapping and releasing critters into their proper habitats.

Turtle Man's passion revolves around his unique calling to deal with nuisance species such as snakes, raccoons, skunks, and of course, snapping turtles. His skill stems from a raw and intrinsic talent, learned and practiced since his childhood when he first started capturing snapping turtles in the most primitive way - with his bare hands. What's more, Ernie doesn't employ conventional trapping methods that use baits or tools. Instead, he explores the time-tested, old-school techniques he’s honed over the years, getting up-close and personal with the animals.

The show’s title is drawn from Brown's signature call, a wild, distinctive yell that he lets out after successfully capturing a nuisance animal. Turtle Man's charm is accentuated by his unwavering courage, quick wit, and the war stories he shares about his toothy adversaries. An additional highlight of the series includes the dynamic team of Ernie’s friends, who help him with the removal and relocation of animals. Dubbed ‘The Turtle Team,’ it consists members like Neal James, a jack-of-all-trades with a musical streak, and an innate ability to understand Turtle Man's complex and intuitive animal capture plans.

Turtle Man ensures each episode is filled with a blend of suspense, danger, and humor that keeps the viewers on the edge of their seats. Whether he is shoulder-deep in a murky pond, sticking his head into the dark hollow of a tree, or crawling under a house - every scenario is a testament to Turtle Man's expertise, and his commitment to ensure a peaceful coexistence between humans and wildlife.

The aesthetic and tonality of the show are grounded in rustic, rural charm. Southern cultural elements are beautifully woven into the narrative, providing a refreshing and unusual ambiance that sets "Call of the Wildman" apart from other wildlife rescue shows. Amidst the risks and adventures, the series also captures the soulful bond between Ernie and his dog, Lolly who is often seen providing moral support to the Turtle Man.

While "Call of the Wildman" provides thrilling, captivating entertainment, it also taps into essential environmental themes. The show highlights the importance of balance in nature, humane handling of wild creatures, and raising awareness about the multitude of species living right around us. It tackles the age-old man versus wild conflict in a compassionate, respectful, and above all, highly engaging manner.

The appeal of the show lies in its authenticity. It has a simple plot, focusing on pure, unscripted interaction between man and beast. The curious blend of danger, intrigue, humor, and natural beauty keeps viewers engaged and emotionally invested in the show. Turtle Man’s exploits are guaranteed to keep you entertained, surprised, occasionally horrified, but always curious to see what wild adventure he'll venture on next.

Rightfully, Turtle Man's slogan goes, "Live action!" - The slogan is not just a tagline, but it encapsulates the spirit of the entire show. The man may be eccentric, but his bravery, determination, and love for all creatures big and small make the series a must-watch for reality television and wildlife enthusiasts alike.