Comedian and Strictly champion Bill Bailey recently shared a heartwarming story of rescuing an owl from a restaurant in China and setting it free in a forest. This incident is detailed in his new memoir titled “My Animals, And Other Animals,” which focuses on the animals he has encountered throughout his life.
During a trip to Guangdong province in China, Bailey came across an owl being kept in a cage at a restaurant. Uncertain of the owl’s fate, Bailey and his family decided to intervene. They purchased the owl from the establishment, had it packed in a box, and then released it into a nearby forest.
After seeking advice from an owl expert at London Zoo, the decision was made to set the owl free in a suitable environment. Bailey described the moment of releasing the owl as truly wonderful, watching it spread its wings and fly away. The owl was identified as a female Eurasian eagle-owl, and Bailey paid approximately £40 for its freedom.
Eurasian eagle-owls are known for their large size and striking appearance, with pumpkin orange eyes and feathery ear tufts. Bailey’s act of compassion towards the owl reflects his deep connection with animals, as depicted in his memoir and previous works such as “Bill Bailey’s Remarkable Guide To British Birds.”
In addition to his love for animals, Bailey made headlines in 2020 by becoming the oldest celebrity to win the Strictly Come Dancing competition at the age of 55, alongside his dance partner Oti Mabuse. Since then, he has ventured into presenting television shows like the BBC’s Extraordinary Portraits and the Sky Arts series Bill Bailey’s Master Crafters: The Next Generation.
Bill Bailey’s endeavours not only entertain audiences but also inspire compassion and respect for the natural world, embodying the harmonious connection between humans and animals.