Ep 3. Invasion of the Killer Whales

In the third episode of season 33 of the show Nature, entitled "Invasion of the Killer Whales," viewers are taken on a journey to witness a remarkable event in the Northwest Pacific, where a new wave of killer whales has arrived to dominate the region. The episode delves into the impact of these transient killer whales on both the environment and resident killer whale populations.

The show takes us along on a breathtaking journey that showcases the beauty of the Northwest Pacific and the awe-inspiring organisms that inhabit its waters. The episode paints a vivid picture of the region's ecosystem that viewers can only experience through the lenses of Nature's cameramen and researchers.

As we dive deeper into the episode, viewers are introduced to the transient killer whales that have been moving through the region. These killer whales, also known as Bigg's killer whales, are a family group that feeds primarily on marine mammals such as sea lions, harbor seals, and porpoises. In recent years, these Bigg's killer whales have been expanding their range and have been sighted more frequently in the Northwest Pacific.

One of the key points explored in the episode is the impact these Bigg's killer whales have had on the resident killer whale populations that call the region home. The resident killer whales, which feed primarily on Chinook salmon, have seen their numbers decline in recent years. The arrival of the Bigg's killer whales has put additional pressure on the environment and the already depleted salmon populations.

While the primary focus of the episode is on the killer whales themselves, viewers are also introduced to the people who study and protect them. Scientists, researchers, and conservationists are all featured in the episode, providing context and insight into the behavior and habits of killer whales and the work being done to protect them.

Viewers will be left in awe of the incredible footage captured in the episode. The cameras take viewers underwater to witness the killer whales hunting their prey and to see the intricate social bonds between individuals within the family groups. This footage coupled with the insightful commentary provides a powerful message about the importance of preserving these majestic creatures and their environment.

Overall, this episode of Nature is a must-watch for anyone interested in marine life, conservation, or simply wants to witness breathtaking footage of nature at its finest. The episode showcases the incredible beauty and complexity of the Northwest Pacific ecosystem and highlights the impact of changes within the environment on the animals that call it home.