Called the next “Deaf Steve Irwin” by his peers, Brandon Call has always had a love for the outdoors and wildlife. From the time he was very young, Brandon knew he wanted to spend his time exploring the outdoors and educating people about wildlife far and wide.
After graduating last August, Brandon began WILD SAGA as a fun project with friends, and he knows his stuff! Brandon is an ambitious individual who doesn’t let anything hold him back. Stay tuned to see what exciting adventures are in store for Brandon and WILD SAGA.
When did your interest in the outdoors and wildlife begin?
I have been interested in biology/zoology for as long as I can remember.
I loved animals and had my first gecko at 5 years old.
I grew up in the boy scouts which allowed me to spend my time exploring outdoors.
If you could collaborate with anyone in your industry, who would it be and why?
We would like to collaborate with ASL friendly organizations that may help us to spread messages about the wildlife far and wide.
Are you involved in any environmental/conservationist causes or organizations?
I went on several different biological research internships. I tested water samples from the Anacostia river in DC, I researched zooplanktons in Minnesota, and I worked on fire ecology in Florida. As of now, I am volunteering at the local nature center where they take in injured or sick wildlife and rehabilitate then release them whether possible.
I will be leaving the country in June to do a special wildlife research project for six months. (TBA)
How was the process beginning WILD SAGA? When was the moment you knew you wanted to host your own show?
Growing up, I always heard about how I was going to be the next “Deaf Steve Irwin” because I was teaching others about nature and wildlife whenever I could. I graduated last August and I had a lot of free time. I decided to work with a couple of good friends on the WILD SAGA project for fun.
Have you had any close calls with venomous/poisonous animals?
I have worked with several venomous species: Tarantulas, Water Moccasins, Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake, Western Diamondback Rattlesnake, Southern Pacific Rattlesnake, and Northern Pacific Rattlesnakes. I have not had any close calls as I handle venomous animals on guard and with proper methods.
Now, the poisonous animals such as toads and newts are quite safe to handle as long as you do not expose your open wounds or consume them. I have handled many poisonous animals such as California Newts and Cane Toads without any ill consequences as I always wash my hands afterwards.
Do you feel as though the media you use on a daily basis has sufficient captioning? If not, what areas could be improved?
Well, I usually spend most of my time outdoors exploring nature. I do not spend a lot time watching the media but I have seen improvements in access to captioning. I believe it will continue to improve steadily.
What is the most widespread myth or stereotype that the mainstream community has about the Deaf community?
I would say a big myth is that while we are deaf, it does not mean we are limited in our abilities to do anything. We are able to do pretty much anything.
What is your life motto?
Explore to Learn. Learn to Teach. Teach to Explore.
It is currently Deaf History month. What are the biggest hurdles to overcome in Deaf awareness in the next 5-10 years?
I have seen improvements within the last couple of years in Deaf Awareness due to a new deaf celebrity. I think it is time to recognize more working deaf professionals in their fields which may be few and far between.
What historical figure had made an impact in your life and why?
My favorite historical figure is Steve Irwin (The Crocodile Hunter). I have looked up to Irwin since I was a little boy and always watched and learned from his show encouraging people to preserve wildlife and nature. Back then, only few shows had captions and The Crocodile Hunter show did not have one so I decided to write Irwin a letter in 2005. Irwin responded to my letter and added captions to his show which helped me to further develop my passion in wildlife.
Is there anything else that you would like to share with our readers?
Do not be afraid to step up and contribute your skills to help strengthen the ASL community.
Don’t miss out on all the adventures with WILD SAGA with Call!
Follow the adventure here: https://www.facebook.com/wildsagawithcall/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoUIyTOByzmH1a_llDHg24g