Move over Robert Irwin, because there’s a new khaki clad hero capturing hearts across the nation after trading the dusty coal mines for the outback life.
Wildlife photographer, Mitchell Burns from Far North Queensland spends his days searching for the perfect shot.
The 32-year-old has built quite the fanbase over the years, racking up millions of views on his social media pages for his spectacular photography, nature knowledge and … biceps.
Yes, you read that correctly.
The nature-lover has followers who have even likened Burns to the iconic Robert Irwin — a compliment he’s too humble to accept.
“Yeah, it’s been brought up a few times, but the Irwin family are in a league of their own and I’m certainly not trying to be them,” Burns told news.com.au.
“I’m just a regular bloke who cares about wildlife.”
However, he does admit they share one major thing in common.
“If there’s one similarity, it’s probably the passion!” he added. “They have an incredible passion for Australia’s wildlife, and I have that same dedication to showcasing Australia’s wild places, landscapes and animals through photography.”
Burns wasn’t always a photographer, despite his love for it, having spent a decade working in the coal mining industry prior.
But the pull towards the career path was a no-brainer for him having been raised rurally.
“I grew up in the country, so seeing snakes, lizards and other wildlife was just part of everyday life,” he told us.
“These days I use my platform to share the wildlife encounters and rescues that happen while I’m out on the road.”
The nature-lover, who’s grown his community over the years, stays incredibly modest despite his army of eager fans.
“People follow me for all sorts of reasons. My Instagram has never just been about landscape photography or wildlife,” he said.
“It’s really about sharing who I am, where I’ve come from, and the journey along the way. When I first shared my story about leaving the mines to chase photography full-time, that’s when things really took off.
“I think people connect with someone having a crack at following a dream.”
A quick scroll through the 32-year-old’s comment sections certainly proves it.
“Thank you sir, for not skipping leg days,” an eager fan wrote.
“If Arnold Schwarzenegger and Steve Irwin had a baby,” one teased, while another said: “Tarzan and Jane’s son.”
“I guess I’m moving to Australia,” a third shared.
“I would venture to the bushes of Australia for you only. I’d feel so safe in those arms,” someone lustfully commented.
Others were there purely for the true blue Aussie spirit.
“Not all heroes wear capes. Some wear thongs,” one person poked fun.
But, sad news for his lustful admirers — Burns is officially off the market, regularly hitting the road with his partner, fellow wildlife creative Jessie Stenhouse.
‘Stop and help’
The photographer hopes his platform encourages more people to get involved in helping wildlife in need.
“I think it’s an important message to encourage people to take a few minutes out of their day to stop and help an injured animal if they safely can,” he urged.
“The response is always incredibly positive, which tells me people genuinely care about our wildlife and love seeing those moments.”
A recent video of Burns rescuing an owl from the side of the highway racked up more than eight and a half million views and counting.
“I caught something in the corner of my eye while doing 100 km/h,” he explained.
“So I ran over and picked him up, and he didn’t even flinch. That’s when I knew something wasn’t right.”
Burns and his partner wrapped the owl in a towel and took him straight to the nearest vet, who said the animal had suffered a concussion but had since “bounced back”.
“It wouldn’t have taken much for a passing truck or car to hit him,” he said, hoping to inspire others to stop and help animals when they can.
As for what is next for the viral sensation, Burns says he is just getting started.
“My platform has opened doors I never imagined possible, and I’m excited to share what’s still to come,” he revealed.
“I want to keep telling stories that connect people to Australia’s landscapes, wildlife and the people who call these places home.”