Award-Winning Documentary Chronicles Orphaned Otter Molly's Enduring Bond with Rescuer Billy Mail

Shetland, Scotland – An orphaned otter named Molly, rescued in 2021, continues to demonstrate a remarkable and enduring bond with her rescuer, Billy Mail, a connection highlighted in a recent viral tweet by "Science girl." The tweet, which garnered significant attention, stated, > "An orphaned otter released as an adult still recognises and reunites with its rescuer every time he sees him." This unique relationship has since become the subject of an acclaimed documentary, "Billy and Molly: An Otter Love Story."

The extraordinary friendship began on March 3, 2021, when Billy Mail discovered an emaciated otter cub near his home in Shetland. The cub, later named Molly, was observed cracking crabs, but her unusual tameness suggested she was an orphan, likely after a local female otter had died. Billy and his wife, Susan Mail, decided to nurture the young animal back to health, providing care while adhering to advice from a local wildlife sanctuary to avoid full domestication.

After months of dedicated care, Molly gradually learned to fend for herself in the wild. Billy made the conscious decision to reduce feeding, allowing Molly to develop her natural hunting instincts before the harsh winter. Despite her return to the wild, Molly's visits to the Mail's garden became a regular occurrence, a testament to the strong bond forged during her rehabilitation.

The enduring connection deepened when Molly returned with her own cub, showcasing the success of her re-integration into the wild while maintaining her unique relationship with her human family. This heartwarming story captivated filmmaker Charlie Hamilton-James, who transformed their unlikely friendship into the documentary "Billy and Molly: An Otter Love Story." The film premiered at South by Southwest and has since earned critical recognition, including an award at Bristol's Wildscreen Festival and nominations for the American Critics Choice Documentary Awards.

The documentary, now streaming on Disney+ and airing on National Geographic, offers a poignant look at interspecies connection and the impact of human compassion on wildlife. The Mails' experience with Molly underscores the potential for profound bonds between humans and rehabilitated wild animals, inspiring audiences globally with their remarkable tale of rescue, release, and lasting friendship.