Texas Wild was started in 2013 by WT graduate student Jessie Story  and WT professor Dr. Ray Matlack. Texas Wild is an organization dedicated to informing people from all over the state about the vast wildlife such as the many different species of bats, frogs, snakes, mammals and birds in the state of Texas alone.

Story and Dr. Matlack are currently working on filming their 12-part series for Panhandle PBS. They hope for it be finished within the year and to get more of their series on air.

“I want Texas Wild to serve as a resource and gateway for people interested in wildlife,” said Dr. Matlack. “I would like to see a reverse in trends that indicate an increasing disconnect between people and nature.”

At the moment, Story and Dr. Matlack are working on the footage from their visit to Bracken Cave, the largest bat colony in Texas for their series, and Panhandle PBS is currently is showing Texas Wild’s interstitials in between the regular shows and series.

“Last time I met with PBS we were in 250,000 homes just with our interstitials that are airing. 18 minutes of video, and we’ve gotten into 250,000 homes, so I think that’s pretty good,” said Story. “I want the show to be viable, and I want it to reach a lot of people. I love PBS. I love where I’m at.”

“I’ll be satisfied when access to nature is considered an inalienable right for all children, regardless of age,” said Dr. Matlack.

Texas Wild began here at WT and hopes to continue and grow. Photos taken by Story and Dr. Matlack are on display in WTAMU Cornette Library until Feb. 22nd.

“A lot of students come in just to look at the photos,” said Taylor Mayfield, student worker in the library.

For more information or to follow their journey you can go to, www.texaswild.me