A Life-Changing Encounter

On March 3, 2021, while settling back into their Shetland home after a significant personal loss, 57-year-old Billy spotted an emaciated otter cub, later named Molly, hunting crabs near his residence. Billy's instincts kicked in, recognizing that this was no ordinary moment; the young otter's behavior hinted that she was in distress rather than danger. With a local wildlife sanctuary's guidance, Billy began to care for Molly, treating her as a wild animal that needed help but without domesticating her.

Healing Through Nature

The arrival of Molly was a ray of hope for both Billy and Susan, who had recently faced the heartache of losing Billy's parents. The relentless challenges brought on by the coronavirus pandemic added to their stress, but Molly's playful antics became a much-needed distraction. Susan described her initial fear of Molly, having never interacted with wild animals before, but found herself gradually enchanted by the otter’s quirky personality.

A Playful Life Together

Billy's bond with Molly grew, leading him to design a makeshift small croft house for her complete with family photos, while giving her a space to thrive. Their loving connection was soon noticed by wildlife filmmaker Charlie Hamilton-James, who recognized the captivating story and proposed to capture it on film. After some convincing, Billy and Susan embraced the chance for their heartfelt journey to be told on a larger platform.

From Friendship to Film

The documentary premiered at the South by Southwest festival in Texas and quickly gained acclaim, winning awards and nominations in prestigious circles. Billy expressed his disbelief and joy as he watched the final cut, feeling the emotional weight of their experiences.

The Bittersweet Farewell

However, as Molly grew stronger, Billy understood the bittersweet necessity of allowing her to return to her natural life. He gradually reduced her feedings, enabling her to adapt to the wild before the harsh winter arrived. After several weeks of uncertainty, a remarkable event unfolded—Molly returned to her croft house, not alone, but with a little surprise of her own: she had become a mother!

This moment of happiness was a testament to Molly's thriving spirit and fulfillment of her life cycle. Now, Molly and her cub often visit the Mails' garden, reminding them of the compassion and joy they experienced together.

As they reflect on their journey, Billy and Susan emphasize the profound impact Molly had on their lives. The documentary, streaming on Disney+ starting November 14 and airing on National Geographic on November 15, allows audiences everywhere to dive into this heartwarming tale of resilience, love, and the beauty of nature that inspires us all.