Otters are cherished for their charming faces and playful behavior, yet their naturally shy demeanor makes close encounters with them quite uncommon. This is why the unique connection between a man named Billy Mail and a wild otter on Scotland’s Shetland Islands has touched so many people. Their remarkable story is now the focus of an award-winning documentary created by Jeff Wilson, an Emmy and BAFTA-winning producer.
More info: National Geographic
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How It All Began
Billy Mail, 57, and his wife Susan returned to the Shetland Islands, where Billy had spent his childhood. Shortly after their move, Billy went through a difficult period—he lost both of his parents and had to navigate the struggles brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, in March 2021, everything took a turn.
One day, Billy spotted a baby otter swimming near his home. Intrigued, he decided to leave some fish out for the young creature, though something seemed out of the ordinary. While wild otters typically avoid humans, this one, who would later be named Molly, showed no fear and didn’t flee.
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“She looked me directly in the eye and then continued eating,” Billy recalled. He eventually discovered that Molly had been orphaned after her mother was killed in a road accident.
Nursing Molly Back to Health
With approval from a nearby wildlife sanctuary, Billy and Susan started providing food for Molly and aiding her in rebuilding her strength. The otter soon became an important part of their daily lives. Even their rescue dog, Jade, formed a special bond with Molly.
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“She provided the perfect distraction during a very challenging time,” Billy explained. Although Susan was at first apprehensive about taking care of a wild animal, the experience brought tremendous happiness to both of them.
As Molly grew, her playful nature became more apparent. She would trail behind Billy while he worked outdoors and could even recognize the voices of the couple.
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Letting Molly Go Back to Nature
Although they shared a strong bond, Billy and Susan understood that Molly was meant to live in the wild. As winter drew near, Billy stopped providing food to encourage her to hunt independently. Over time, Molly’s visits became less regular until they finally stopped completely.
The couple felt concerned for Molly’s well-being throughout the harsh winter. However, in 2022, she came back—and this time, she wasn’t by herself.
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“She returned, healthy and thriving, and she was expecting!” Billy recalled. Molly had found her own family but hadn’t forgotten the couple who had cared for her. Now, Molly and her young ones sometimes visit Billy and Susan’s garden.
“It was incredible to witness her complete the full circle of her life,” Billy reflected.
A Story That Touched the World
Wildlife filmmaker Charlie Hamilton James heard about the unique connection between Billy and Molly and instantly recognized it as a story worth sharing. The documentary that followed took more than a year to produce. It has already won an award at the Bristol Wildscreen Festival and is currently nominated for the prestigious Critics Choice Documentary Award in the United States.
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Image credits: National Geographic
Billy and Susan are deeply honored to have their story shared globally. For them, assisting Molly was about more than just rescuing a wild creature—it became a path of healing and hope.
This heartwarming story of the bond between a man and an otter highlights the wonder of nature and the strength of compassion.
