TODAY show joke sparks outrage as controversial video triggers backlash
- Replies 31
A recent broadcast has stirred a wave of concern and anger in a country famous for its unique wildlife and love of nature.
Viewers were left dismayed after a television segment featured footage of an animal being harassed by a much larger one.
The laughter from presenters added to the outrage felt by animal lovers and experts alike.
The incident, which took place in Melbourne, was described by the Sydney-based TODAY team as 'the most Australian thing,' with the native marsupial being called 'very menacing.'
But the situation was far from a laughing matter for those closer to the event, particularly in the southeast suburb of Rowville.
The kangaroo, known affectionately as Nigel by the local community, has been missing since the encounter, raising fears for his safety and well-being.
Sue Johnson, a local shelter operator, expressed her dismay at the show's clip handling, stating, 'It was upsetting the way TODAY handled it.
When something like this happens, and they think it’s funny, but it’s not on.'
She, along with many others, is worried that Nigel may now be suffering from myopathy, a stress-induced disease in marsupials that can lead to a prolonged and painful death.
The TODAY Show's segment has drawn criticism not only for its insensitivity but also for its lack of awareness regarding the potential dangers of such encounters.
Both the kangaroo and the dog are at risk in these situations.
Large kangaroos, in particular, possess the strength and weaponry—sharp claws and powerful legs—to inflict serious harm or even kill a dog if they feel threatened.
Professor Euan Ritchie, a wildlife ecology expert from Deakin University, described the video as 'distressing,' highlighting the risks to the dog, the kangaroo, and even bystanders or drivers who might be near a panicked kangaroo.
'Really, the whole situation is quite worrying and problematic and certainly nothing to make a joke about,' he said.
The response to the clip on social media was swift and critical, with many viewers expressing their disappointment and anger at the show's tone.
Comments ranged from concerns for the welfare of both the kangaroo and the dog to questions about why the dog wasn't on a leash.
Mick McIntyre, a kangaroo expert and documentary maker, emphasised the need for 'common sense' in communities fortunate enough to have wildlife, urging residents to keep dogs on leashes and give wild kangaroos space.
'When you see a wild kangaroo, give it space; do not harass it,' he said.
'The TV commentary made much hilarity. But imagine if that dog had been injured by the kangaroo, their commentary [could] have changed very quickly, blaming the kangaroo.
The kangaroo is our national icon and deserves our care and respect.'
Alyssa Wormald, founder of the Victorian Kangaroo Association, called for Australians to move away from finding humour in animals being attacked, labelling the story as 'desperately sad.'
The TODAY show declined to comment on the community response to its segment.
Still, the incident has reignited the conversation about how Australians interact with and perceive their native wildlife.
At the Seniors Discount Club, we understand the importance of preserving Australia's unique environment and the creatures that call it home.
Have you had an experience with wildlife that has changed your perspective? Do you think Australian media should take more responsibility in how it portrays interactions with native wildlife? Let us know in the comments below.
Viewers were left dismayed after a television segment featured footage of an animal being harassed by a much larger one.
The laughter from presenters added to the outrage felt by animal lovers and experts alike.
The incident, which took place in Melbourne, was described by the Sydney-based TODAY team as 'the most Australian thing,' with the native marsupial being called 'very menacing.'
But the situation was far from a laughing matter for those closer to the event, particularly in the southeast suburb of Rowville.
The kangaroo, known affectionately as Nigel by the local community, has been missing since the encounter, raising fears for his safety and well-being.
A video featuring a kangaroo and a dog was aired on the TODAY show, drawing criticism from wildlife advocates and animal lovers. Credit: Facebook
Sue Johnson, a local shelter operator, expressed her dismay at the show's clip handling, stating, 'It was upsetting the way TODAY handled it.
When something like this happens, and they think it’s funny, but it’s not on.'
She, along with many others, is worried that Nigel may now be suffering from myopathy, a stress-induced disease in marsupials that can lead to a prolonged and painful death.
The TODAY Show's segment has drawn criticism not only for its insensitivity but also for its lack of awareness regarding the potential dangers of such encounters.
Both the kangaroo and the dog are at risk in these situations.
Large kangaroos, in particular, possess the strength and weaponry—sharp claws and powerful legs—to inflict serious harm or even kill a dog if they feel threatened.
Professor Euan Ritchie, a wildlife ecology expert from Deakin University, described the video as 'distressing,' highlighting the risks to the dog, the kangaroo, and even bystanders or drivers who might be near a panicked kangaroo.
'Really, the whole situation is quite worrying and problematic and certainly nothing to make a joke about,' he said.
The response to the clip on social media was swift and critical, with many viewers expressing their disappointment and anger at the show's tone.
Comments ranged from concerns for the welfare of both the kangaroo and the dog to questions about why the dog wasn't on a leash.
Mick McIntyre, a kangaroo expert and documentary maker, emphasised the need for 'common sense' in communities fortunate enough to have wildlife, urging residents to keep dogs on leashes and give wild kangaroos space.
'When you see a wild kangaroo, give it space; do not harass it,' he said.
'The TV commentary made much hilarity. But imagine if that dog had been injured by the kangaroo, their commentary [could] have changed very quickly, blaming the kangaroo.
The kangaroo is our national icon and deserves our care and respect.'
Alyssa Wormald, founder of the Victorian Kangaroo Association, called for Australians to move away from finding humour in animals being attacked, labelling the story as 'desperately sad.'
Still, the incident has reignited the conversation about how Australians interact with and perceive their native wildlife.
As we continue to share our spaces with these remarkable creatures, we must do so with respect and care, ensuring their safety and ours.At the Seniors Discount Club, we understand the importance of preserving Australia's unique environment and the creatures that call it home.
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