Bill Bailey, the renowned comedian and Strictly Come Dancing winner, recently shared a heartwarming anecdote about rescuing a caged owl from a restaurant in China. The 59-year-old entertainer detailed this incident in his new memoir titled “My Animals, And Other Animals”, which delves into his encounters with various creatures throughout his life.
During a family trip to Guangdong province in China, Bailey encountered an owl confined in a cage at a restaurant. Uncertain of the bird’s fate, Bailey and his family felt compelled to intervene. He recounted on BBC Breakfast how they decided to purchase the owl from the restaurant to set it free. They negotiated with the restaurant staff, acquired the owl, and transported it in a taxi to a nearby forest for its release.
Seeking guidance, Bailey even consulted with an owl expert from London Zoo while in China. Eventually, they found a suitable spot in the forest and liberated the owl, a female Eurasian eagle-owl with captivating features. The heartening moment of watching the owl soar away left Bailey and his family with a lasting sense of fulfilment.
In his memoir, Bailey disclosed that the owl cost them 400 yuan, equivalent to just over £40 today. Describing the Eurasian eagle-owl as one of the largest and most visually striking owl species globally, Bailey’s compassionate act resonated with wildlife enthusiasts and animal lovers alike.
Notably, Bailey made headlines in 2020 when he became the oldest celebrity to claim the Strictly Come Dancing glitterball trophy at the age of 55, dancing alongside Oti Mabuse. Post his dancing triumph, Bailey expanded his television presence through hosting shows like ‘Extraordinary Portraits’ on the BBC and ‘Bill Bailey’s Master Crafters: The Next Generation’ on Sky Arts.
Apart from his television ventures, Bailey is also an accomplished author with previous works including ‘Bill Bailey’s Remarkable Guide To British Birds’ and ‘Bill Bailey’s Remarkable Guide To Happiness’. His dedication to wildlife and conservation shines through both his personal actions and creative endeavours, inspiring others to appreciate and protect the natural world.