Wes Mannion facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Wes Mannion
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Mannion in 2005
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| Born | 1970 (age 54–55) Australia
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| Occupation | former Director of Australia Zoo |
| Spouse(s) |
Jodie Chapman
(m. 2004–2012) |
| Children | 1 |
Wesley Gene Mannion (born in September 1970) is an Australian TV personality. Many people know him from the show The Crocodile Hunter, where he was Steve Irwin's close friend and often appeared with him. Wes also used to be the director of Australia Zoo.
Contents
Growing Up and Loving Animals
Wes Mannion's love for reptiles started when he was young. His family lived in Malaysia because his father was in the Royal Australian Air Force. Wes spent time exploring the jungles around his home. This is where he first became fascinated with snakes, lizards, and other reptiles.
In 1976, Wes and his family moved back to Australia. They settled on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland in 1985. His passion for reptiles continued to grow. When he was 14, Wes visited the Queensland Reptile and Fauna Park for the first time. This park is now famous as Australia Zoo.
Meeting Steve Irwin
Wes Mannion and Steve Irwin met in the mid-1980s. Wes and his parents were visiting Australia Zoo. Wes quickly became good friends with the Irwin family. They thought of him like a younger brother. Wes started volunteering at the zoo for several months. Later, he was offered a paid job as an animal keeper. He and Steve worked together, learning how to care for reptiles and other animals. They even started catching and moving wild crocodiles safely.
Working at Australia Zoo
Wes Mannion began working full-time at Australia Zoo in 1988. He worked closely with Steve Irwin. This helped him learn a lot about caring for wildlife. By 1992, Wes was promoted to head reptile keeper and curator. He wanted to learn even more, so he left the zoo for a short time. He traveled overseas to gain experience from other animal and vet facilities.
When Wes returned to Australia Zoo in 1995, he became the manager. In 2001, he was promoted again to director. His ex-wife, Jodie Chapman, also worked at the zoo.
On The Crocodile Hunter Show
As Steve Irwin's show The Crocodile Hunter became very popular, Wes often appeared on it. He was like Steve's right-hand man and co-host. This usually happened when Steve's wife, Terri Irwin, couldn't be there. When Wes wasn't on camera, he worked behind the scenes. He made sure the camera crew was safe from the animals.
A Close Call with a Crocodile
In 2001, Wes Mannion had a serious incident at the zoo. A large Australian saltwater crocodile named Graham bit him on the thigh. Steve Irwin reacted very quickly. He used a wooden "safety stick" to control the crocodile. These sticks are kept in all crocodile enclosures for safety. Steve's quick actions allowed Wes to get away from the crocodile.
See also
In Spanish: Wes Mannion para niños
