I’M A Celebrity bosses are using a special TAPE to prevent insects escaping from trials and causing an environmental crisis.
Last year the ITV show was criticised by campaigners, such as BBC TV host Chris Packham, and the police were even called after reports that ‘non-invasive’ species had managed to leave the site into the wild.
The use of the tape will be bad news for the celebrities, however, as it will mean that any coffin or container they are put in will be more airtight meaning more time spent with the bugs.
Producers will have a ‘bug warden’ on set at all times when the series’ famous Bushtucker Trials and challenges take place to monitor the critters.
It will be their role to make sure all insects are collected – with bosses again using controlled release zones and grate systems like they did last year.
It’s thought the wardens will even be seen on screen. A source said: “ITV bosses take their environmental responsibilities very seriously and they’re doing a lot of the things they did last year again with the grates and specific areas where bugs are handled and monitored.
“But the tape will make sure that fewer, if any, bugs even get the chance to escape. And with a bug warden watching on closely then hopefully it’ll all be plain sailing. Producers are keen for everyone to see the lengths they’re going to – so do expect to see a warden pop up on camera now and then.”
The strict measures come after an insect charity accused the show of “illegally” bringing invasive species of animals to Gwrych Castle, in Abergele, Wales, last year.
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As the usual exotic animals and insects that have become a mainstay of the show were in short supply in the British Isles, the programme makers instead brought in the creepy crawlies required.
These included varieties of spiders, maggots, crayfish and cockroaches, none of which were native to the area. The use of these live creatures resulted in numerous complaints and a police investigation, after which the police issued “suitable advice” on the potential release of non-native species, which is an offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.
A spokesman for the programme insisted last year that all insects used were “non-invasive species”.
