The Detectorists

The Detectorists

Set against the serene backdrop of rural Wales, this short documentary follows wildlife ecologist Le

SYNOPSIS

Wildlife ecologist Lee Jenkins from South Wales is on a mission to protect one of the UK’s most elusive and endangered species—the otter. Alongside his trusted German Pointer, Neo, and Cariad, a young pup in training, Lee searches the rivers and wetlands of rural Wales for hidden signs of otter activity. With development threatening their fragile habitats, proving the presence of otters is vital—but spotting them is near impossible. Instead, Lee’s innovative approach relies on scent detection, using his dogs’ powerful noses to guide camera traps and gather evidence. As Cariad begins her journey under Neo’s watchful eye, we follow the team through misty riverbanks and dew-soaked fields, witnessing a rare bond between human, dog, and wild. Told through a dog’s-eye view, this immersive short film is a gentle and moving portrait of dedication, instinct, and the quiet work of conservation taking place at the water’s edge.

ABOUT THE FILMMAKER

Sarah-Jane Walsh – Director Sarah-Jane Walsh is a UK-based Producer/Director with over a decade of experience crafting impactful, character-driven science and natural history films. Her work includes contributions to Emmy- and BAFTA-winning series such as Planet Earth II, Our Planet, and Mammals. With a PhD in marine biology, she brings a perspective that fuses scientific depth with creative vision, telling stories that are both emotionally resonant and intellectually engaging. She gravitates toward human-centred narratives that explore our relationship with the natural world, often amplifying underrepresented voices in conservation. Her debut independent short, The Detectorists (2024), marks a shift toward filmmaking that prioritises narrative strength and emotional impact — using story as a vehicle for connection, reflection, and change. Sarah-Jane is co-founder of the Wildlife Camerawomen Community, a board member of the Wildlife Cinematographer Diversity Fund, and a committed advocate for equity in factual storytelling. Natalie Clements – Director of Photography Natalie Clements is a Cardiff-based wildlife cinematographer with over 15 years of experience in broadcast television. Specialised in capturing the intricate behaviors and conservation stories of the natural world. Her work often documents rewilding projects, tracking endangered species such as cheetahs, African painted dogs, and gorillas from the UK to remote regions of Africa, including Congo, Gabon, South Africa, and Tanzania. Natalie’s cinematography explores the intimate, often unseen connections between animals, landscapes, and the people who protect them. With a background in both factual entertainment and natural history, she brings a unique blend of narrative instinct and visual sensitivity to
The Detectorists