From the misty shores of Scotland’s remote wilderness to the glowing screens of millions, Hamza Yassin has emerged as the undisputed king of British nature television. At 35, this Sudanese-British wildlife cameraman and presenter has captivated audiences with his unyielding passion for the natural world, earning the moniker “The Man Who Whispered to Otters at 3 A.M.” through his extraordinary dedication to filming elusive creatures under the cover of night. Yassin’s journey from humble beginnings to stardom is a tale of perseverance, blending raw adventure with heartfelt storytelling that has redefined wildlife programming in the UK.

Born on February 22, 1990, in Sudan, Yassin moved to the UK at age eight, settling in the Scottish Highlands where his love for nature took root. Initially training as a zoologist and ornithologist, he honed his skills as a wildlife cameraman, often enduring grueling conditions to capture rare footage. Living out of his car for nine months early in his career, Yassin whispered to otters at ungodly hours, patiently waiting in hides to document their playful behaviors without disturbance. These intimate encounters, where he mimics animal sounds to build trust, have become legendary, showcasing his unique ability to connect with wildlife on a profound level.

Yassin’s breakthrough came with his role as “Ranger Hamza” on CBeebies’ “Let’s Go for a Walk,” where his infectious enthusiasm introduced young viewers to the wonders of nature. But it was his victory on “Strictly Come Dancing” in 2022 that catapulted him into the mainstream, dazzling with his footwork while never straying from his roots. Post-win, he authored books like “Be a Birder,” encouraging urban dwellers to embrace birdwatching. His television presence exploded with series such as “Animal Park” and “Scotland’s Wildlife,” but 2025 marked his coronation with “Hamza’s Hidden Wild Isles.” This BBC production, filmed over a year across the British Isles, unveils secret ecosystems—from autumnal forests in Lancashire to coastal havens teeming with otters and seals.

In the series, Yassin treks through untamed landscapes, revealing hidden gems like bioluminescent plankton beaches and ancient woodlands alive with rare birds. His narration, infused with personal anecdotes, emphasizes conservation amid climate challenges, urging viewers to protect Britain’s biodiversity. Episodes highlight his 3 a.m. vigils, where soft whispers coax otters into view, blending science with poetic wonder. Critics hail it as a fresh take on nature docs, succeeding icons like David Attenborough by infusing youthful energy and cultural diversity.

Off-screen, Yassin advocates for mental health benefits of nature immersion, drawing from his own experiences battling isolation in remote shoots. Residing in a tiny Scottish village with a population of 120, he hangs his pajamas in forests to acclimate animals to his scent, embodying a gentle, respectful approach to wildlife filming. As Christmas Day 2025 dawns, Yassin’s rise inspires a new generation, proving that whispering to otters at dawn can lead to reigning over Britain’s airwaves. His story reminds us: in a fast-paced world, slowing down to listen to nature’s whispers yields timeless rewards.