National Geographic is set to premiere an enchanting new documentary that explores the extraordinary and unlikely friendship formed between a man and an otter residing in the picturesque Shetland Islands.
In 2021, Billy Mail encountered a distressed otter pup named Molly, who was struggling for survival. Spotting her leap off a pontoon and into the ocean near his home, Mail was intrigued to see how closely he could approach her without scaring her away; however, he quickly discovered that Molly was not inclined to flee from him.
“She was starving and alone,” Mail recounted, expressing his amazement at her lack of fear, which is uncommon behavior for otters typically known for their timidity. “I think it was just desperation. She needed food,” he reflected, understanding the depth of her plight.
Once Molly regained her strength and began to thrive on her own, she continued to visit the Mail household frequently, bringing joy and a sense of wonder into their lives, becoming a true “breath of fresh air” for them.
The heartwarming story of this unconventional friendship is the focal point of the documentary, which captures the day-to-day interactions between Billy Mail and Molly, the otter pup. Renowned wildlife filmmaker Charlie Hamilton James, who had spent considerable time in Shetland while contributing to National Geographic, felt compelled to document this unique relationship upon learning of Molly’s affection for the Mails.
The documentary made its debut in March at the prestigious South by Southwest festival in Texas and has since garnered accolades, including an award at the esteemed Wildscreen festival in Bristol. It is currently nominated for multiple categories at the Critics Choice documentary awards in the United States.
Billy and his wife, Susan, made the move to the Shetland Islands in 2018 after two decades in Aberdeen. While Susan initially harbored some reservations about welcoming Molly into their lives, she eventually found herself utterly captivated by the playful otter, who often found clever ways to charm her and, quite literally, her shopping bags.
“When you turn around and she’s rummaging in your shopping bag, and you open the doors of the car to get something out and you find her sitting in the back, it’s quite endearing,” Susan shared, recalling the delightful antics of their beloved visitor.
The Mails graciously allowed a camera crew to document Molly’s charming escapades in their garden, letting the crew witness firsthand the otter’s enchanting visits. Though typically not an emotional person, Susan was deeply moved upon viewing the final cut of the documentary. “It was nothing short of phenomenal, so very emotional… I cried,” she admitted, underscoring the profound impact of the journey they shared with Molly.
**Interview with Billy Mail, Subject of National Geographic’s “Billy & Molly: An Otter Love Story”**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Billy! Excitement is building for the premiere of your documentary. Can you tell us a bit about the moment you first encountered Molly?
**Billy Mail:** Thank you for having me! The first time I saw Molly was quite surreal. It was 2021, and I spotted her struggling near the pontoon. She was a little otter pup all alone, and it was clear she was in distress. I was curious and slowly approached her, not expecting her to be so unafraid.
**Editor:** That must have been a remarkable experience. You mentioned that her lack of fear was unusual for otters. Why do you think she approached you instead of running away?
**Billy Mail:** I believe it was her desperation. The poor thing was starving and in need of help. In that moment, survival instinct kicked in, and she chose to trust me. It was incredible to see that level of trust from a wild animal, especially one that typically avoids human contact.
**Editor:** Once Molly regained her strength, how did your relationship with her evolve?
**Billy Mail:** It was magical! After I helped her, she would come back often. It was like having a little furry friend who brightened our days. Watching her grow stronger and more independent was a joy, and she truly brought a sense of wonder to our lives—like a breath of fresh air.
**Editor:** Your bond with Molly is truly heartwarming. What message do you hope viewers take away from the documentary?
**Billy Mail:** I hope it reminds people of the beauty of animal connections and the importance of kindness and compassion towards wildlife. Our story is a testament to the unexpected friendships that can blossom when we extend our hands to help those in need.
**Editor:** That is a beautiful message, Billy. We can’t wait to see the documentary and experience your journey with Molly. Thank you for sharing your story with us!
**Billy Mail:** Thank you! I’m excited for everyone to see it and hope they enjoy it as much as we enjoyed living it!
