Oh, baby!

We ended our film trip with a bang! The crew and I spent our last day in Malaysia at the Kuala Gandah Elephant Conservation Centre. This baby Asia elephant wished me a safe trip home by planting a big kiss on my lips! Can't wait until these shows air in the Spring so INTO THE WILD viewers can see all the amazing things we did.

In the jungle

The crew and I arrived in Malaysia on October 21st to film episodes for Jack Hanna's Into the Wild. When we arrived at our hotel, the Pacific Sutera, we were greeted by Murut dancers (decendents of headhunters!)

On Friday we saw orangutans in the wild for the first time ever with the help of our guide and Red Ape Encounters researcher Mincho! It was truly an incredible experience. The Columbus Zoo proudly supports their work in the Hutan forest. After seeing the orangutans in the wild we visited a rehab center in Borneo called Sepilok. The orangutans come into the facilty and go through a 3 step process before eventually (when they are ready) being released INTO THE WILD. Suzi, Julie and I absolutely fell in love with the babies!

The Columbus Zoo is going "Into the Wild"

Earlier this month I announced that the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is the new sponsor of my TV show, Jack Hanna's Into the Wild. (Click here to check out the Columbus Dispatch article) The crew and I will be filming at the Zoo on a regular basis, and let me tell you - it really feels great to bring the show "home" to Columbus.

We are in the process of preparing for the premiere of season 3. Stay tuned for an updated station list. Get ready to tune in and go Into the Wild!

Click on the video below to get a preview of the show's new opening!

Montana adventures

I have definitely been blessed to travel all over the world, but this filming trip for “Into the Wild” has allowed me to explore different aspects of one of my favorite states – Montana. My family, the crew, and I have trekked all over – seeing everything from animal sanctuaries to Glacier National Park. The animals have been absolutely wonderful, but the people who care for them are truly something special. The different organizations we visited are really making a difference in the animal world.

The Elk Sanctuary was amazing - over 500 acres and 20 mature bucks!

We filmed at the Rolling Dog Sanctuary - 30 blind dogs and 11 blind horses are currently thriving there, living happy lives. Rolling Dog takes in animals with birth defects or those that have suffered abuse – several of the animals are not only blind, but missing their eyes all together. Suzi and I feel in love with the sanctuary's welcoming committee - Trooper, a black lab with a neurological disorder.


My good friend Larry Wilson showed us around Charlotte Edkin's Animal Adoption Center. Larry introduced us to some of their wonderful animals. Let me tell you – it was hard to leave these puppies behind!

Beautiful Rwanda

Rwanda’s an absolutely beautiful place - in its people, its wildlife, and its landscape.

During our most recent trip, my family and I were able to be a part of the Ubumwe Community Center's dedication. This community center is sponsored by the Columbus Zoo's Partners In Conservation who works to empower local residents.

We also trekked to see the endangered mountain gorillas. These magnificent creatures have a presence that commands respect - each time I see them is just as special as the first.

We ended our journey on a very high note - at the annual Gorilla Naming Ceremony. My good friends, the von Trapp Children, sang the most beautiful rendition of the Rwandan National Anthem that I have ever heard!

Suzi and I already miss our dear Rwandan friends! We are already looking forward to our next visit!

Goat Palace

Growing up, goats were my first pets, and I still love taking care of them today. I thought you might enjoy this photo of my goats' new jungle gym!

WACKY, WILD, & WEIRD!

I'm really excited about my latest book that was released in the beginning of June.

Do you know what animal can lick its own ears or which animal smells like popcorn? To find out check out - Jungle Jack's Wackiest, Wildest, Weirdest Animals of the World.

You'll learn some wacky facts, read wild stories, and see weird photos of from my many travels around the world. Watch out for piranhas, lions, anacondas, and naked mole rats -- and whatever you don't, don't eat the puffer fish! Click here to check it out!

Also included with the book is a bloopers episode from Jack Hanna's Into The Wild. Be ready to laugh out loud!