Born To Explore Season 4 Episode 5 A Seal's Life
- TV-G
- November 1, 2014
Born To Explore is a travel show that aims to take viewers to the most unique and exotic locations around the world, focusing on culture, wildlife, and adventure. On season 4 episode 5 titled A Seal's Life, viewers are taken on a journey to explore the life of seals in the South Island of New Zealand.
The episode begins with host Richard Wiese traveling to the coastal town of Kaikoura, which is surrounded by a diverse marine ecosystem. Richard meets up with a local guide, Tom, who will be taking him on a tour of the nearby seal colony. Tom explains that the seals in this area are New Zealand fur seals, which are native to the country and are found in abundance in this region.
As Richard and Tom approach the seal colony, they are greeted by dozens of seals basking in the sun on the rocks. Tom explains that the seals here are not afraid of humans, which gives visitors a unique opportunity to observe their behavior up close. Richard and Tom watch as the young seals play and frolic in the water, while the adults keep a watchful eye on their offspring. Tom explains that the colony is vital for the survival of the species, as it provides a safe haven for the seals to breed and raise their young.
Next, Richard is taken on a boat tour to explore the deeper parts of the ocean, where he encounters some of the other creatures that call this area home. He sees dolphins swimming alongside the boat, and is awed by the majestic beauty of these intelligent creatures. The boat also encounters a huge school of fish, which attracts some of the larger predators of the sea - sharks. Richard watches in amazement as a great white shark circles the boat, its massive size and power on full display.
After returning to shore, Richard visits a local research center that is studying the behavior and biology of the seals in the area. He meets up with some of the scientists who explain that they are tracking the movements of individual seals using GPS tags, which allows them to better understand the migratory patterns and behavior of these animals. Richard also learns about the threats facing the seal population, such as pollution and overfishing, which are having a devastating effect on their numbers.
Later in the episode, Richard travels to the rugged coastline of the Westland Tai Poutini National Park, where he encounters a different type of seal - the leopard seal. As Richard observes these fearsome predators from a safe distance, he learns about the impressive hunting strategies they employ to catch their prey. The leopard seals are also a vital part of the ecosystem, as they help to keep the population of other marine life in check.
Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to breathtaking footage of the stunning terrain and wildlife of New Zealand, making it clear why this country is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. A Seal's Life is a fascinating and educational look at the lives of these incredible creatures, highlighting the importance of conserving the natural habitats they rely on for their survival.