Ep 11. Leave It to Beavers

In season 32 episode 11 of Nature, titled Leave It to Beavers, viewers are taken on a journey into the world of beavers and their impact on both the environment and human society. The episode opens with stunning shots of beavers in their natural habitat, showcasing their impressive engineering skills and the vital role they play in maintaining healthy ecosystems.

But it quickly becomes clear that beavers also have a complex and sometimes contentious relationship with humans. Some people view them as pests, wreaking havoc on property and infrastructure, while others see them as important allies in conservation efforts.

Throughout the episode, we see examples of both perspectives. In one segment, a family living on a river in Washington state has to contend with beavers damming up their culvert and threatening their property. They hire a trapper to remove the beavers, but soon realize they miss the presence of the charismatic animals and decide to try a less drastic approach to managing the situation.

Meanwhile, in Massachusetts, a biologist and a group of volunteers are actively working to reintroduce beavers to an area where they had been previously eradicated. They hope that the beavers' dam-building skills will help restore the natural hydrology of the landscape and create habitat for other animals.

As the episode progresses, we learn more about the fascinating biology and behavior of beavers. We see how they communicate with each other, how they store food for the winter, and how their dams create complex wetland ecosystems that support a variety of plant and animal life. Along the way, we also meet a diverse cast of characters who have dedicated their lives to studying, protecting, or living alongside beavers.

The cinematography throughout the episode is breathtaking, capturing everything from intimate close-ups of beavers grooming each other to sweeping aerial shots of vast wetland areas. The music is also a highlight, with a hauntingly beautiful score that perfectly complements the mood and tone of each scene.

Overall, Leave It to Beavers is a fascinating and thought-provoking exploration of the remarkable world of beavers. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast or just someone who appreciates a good nature documentary, it's definitely worth a watch.