10 Surprising Facts About Animal Wranglers
Animal wranglers play a crucial role in the film and television industry, working behind the scenes to ensure the safe and humane treatment of animals on set. From training and handling to caring and providing for the animals, their work is essential to bringing the magic of movies and TV to life. But how much do we really know about these dedicated professionals? Here are 10 surprising facts about animal wranglers that might just change the way you think about this fascinating profession.
The Origins of Animal Wrangling
Animal wrangling has its roots in the early days of Hollywood, when filmmakers first began to feature animals in their productions. In those days, wranglers were often hired to capture and train wild animals for use on set. Today, the profession has evolved to prioritize animal welfare and safety, with many wranglers specializing in specific species or types of productions.
Animal Wranglers Are Highly Trained Professionals
Contrary to what you might think, animal wranglers are not just animal lovers who happen to work on film sets. In reality, they are highly trained professionals who have spent years honing their skills and learning about animal behavior, psychology, and welfare. Many wranglers hold degrees in biology, zoology, or related fields, and may have worked in zoos, wildlife sanctuaries, or other animal-related industries before transitioning to film and television.
The Job Requires a Lot of Physical Labor
Animal wrangling is not a desk job. Wranglers often work long hours on their feet, lifting, carrying, and restraining animals as needed. They may also be required to work in challenging environments, such as outdoors in extreme weather conditions or on location in remote areas. Whether it's building enclosures, transporting animals, or simply keeping up with a rambunctious cast of animal actors, the job requires a lot of physical stamina and endurance.
Animal Wranglers Work Closely with Trainers and Handlers
While animal wranglers are responsible for the overall care and well-being of animals on set, they often work closely with trainers and handlers who specialize in specific types of animals or behaviors. For example, a wrangler might work with a dog trainer to teach a canine actor to perform a specific trick or behavior, or with a horse handler to ensure the safe and humane treatment of equine actors.
The Humane Treatment of Animals Is Paramount
Animal wranglers take their responsibility to ensure the humane treatment of animals on set very seriously. This means providing animals with safe and comfortable enclosures, nutritious food and clean water, and protecting them from stress, injury, or harm. Wranglers also work closely with production staff to ensure that animals are not subjected to unnecessary stress or risk during filming.
Animal Wranglers Are Also Responsible for Animal Safety
In addition to ensuring the humane treatment of animals, wranglers are also responsible for animal safety on set. This includes identifying potential hazards, such as loose wires or toxic substances, and taking steps to mitigate risks and prevent accidents. Whether it's securing animals in their enclosures or providing emergency care in the event of an accident, wranglers are always on the lookout for potential dangers and taking steps to protect their animal charges.
The Job Can Be Emotionally Demanding
Animal wrangling can be an emotionally demanding job, particularly when working with animals that have been rescued from abusive or neglectful situations. Wranglers may form strong bonds with the animals in their care, and it can be difficult to say goodbye when filming is complete and the animals are rehomed or returned to their owners. Additionally, wranglers may be exposed to traumatic or disturbing situations, such as animal cruelty or neglect, which can take a toll on their mental health and well-being.
Animal Wranglers Are Also Responsible for Animal Housing and Transportation
In addition to their responsibilities on set, animal wranglers are also responsible for providing suitable housing and transportation for the animals in their care. This can include building and maintaining enclosures, transporting animals to and from filming locations, and ensuring that animals receive proper care and attention during downtime.
Animal Wranglers Work on a Wide Range of Productions
Animal wranglers work on a wide range of productions, from feature films and television shows to commercials and live events. Whether it's a big-budget blockbuster or a low-budget indie film, wranglers play a crucial role in bringing the magic of movies and TV to life. Some wranglers may specialize in specific types of productions, such as wildlife documentaries or animal-centric films, while others may work on a variety of projects and genres.
The Job Offers a Sense of Satisfaction and Fulfillment
Despite the challenges and demands of the job, many animal wranglers report a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment from their work. Whether it's seeing an animal perform a complex behavior on camera or simply knowing that they are making a positive impact on the lives of animals, wranglers often find their work to be highly rewarding and enjoyable.
Gallery of Animal Wranglers
What is an animal wrangler?
+An animal wrangler is a professional responsible for the care and handling of animals on film and television sets.
What kind of training do animal wranglers receive?
+Animal wranglers typically receive specialized training in animal behavior, psychology, and welfare, and may hold degrees in biology, zoology, or related fields.
What is the most challenging part of being an animal wrangler?
+Animal wranglers often report that the most challenging part of their job is ensuring the humane treatment and safety of animals on set, while also meeting the demands of film and television production.