Common Sense Media Review
By Joly Herman
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Nature guides take viewers on fascinating local tours.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
My Wild Backyard
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In MY WILD BACKYARD, the viewers are treated to intimate tours of biologists' and nature photographers' favorite places -- the ones close to their homes. From the Manyoni Reserve in South Africa to Catalina Island near Los Angeles, the guides offer a glimpse of the wildlife and environments they know best. A sea lion curiously bumps her nose against a diver's camera as they swim together in the seaweed off the coast of California. A wildlife photographer in South America captures a mother puma nestled in the tall grass with her playful cubs. A nature photographer spots foxes, herons, and owls in the salty marshes that skirt New York City. In short, there's lots to see if you know where to look.
Is It Any Good?
The hosts' intimate relationships with the places that are explored in this documentary series make it special. In My Wild Backyard, a biologist pops a camouflage-patterned tent in a nature preserve to observe the local bison. Her accent is specific to her region, and her love of "her" land is so sincere that viewers are transported to her native Mexico. And the Southern Californian filmmakers who hop on their boat before dawn to catch a phosphorescent red tide speak in a SoCal drawl that feels confidential. Their relationship to the dolphins and sea lions is made to seem friendly and familiar.
Because of the show's do-it-yourself vibe, kids will get engaged with the featured wildlife and wild places without effort. And parents will enjoy getting the locals' tour of far-flung nature preserves. No offense, Rick Steves, but these locals do know their backyards best.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about finding out about the world around us, as the filmmakers do in My Wild Backyard. Do you have the curiosity and perseverance necessary to observe any wildlife that might live near you?
In one episode, a brave host is approached by a rhino and has to climb a tree to stay safe. What have you done in your life that feels like courage?
Thanks to the hosts of wildlife shows like this one, viewers can learn about regions and animals they would otherwise never get to know. How can media help us feel closer to our diverse planet? Are there other shows or games that make you feel closer to nature?
TV Details
- Premiere date : December 3, 2020
- Network : Max
- Genre : Educational
- Topics : Animals ( Ocean Creatures , Wild Animals ) , STEM
- TV rating :
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
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