Horizon Season 2011 Episode 8 Predators in Your Backyard

In the season 2011 episode 8 of the popular science documentary series Horizon, titled "Predators in Your Backyard," we delve into the world of urban predators and the surprising ways they adapt to life in the city. The episode explores how animals such as coyotes, foxes, raccoons, and even mountain lions are thriving in urban environments, and how their presence is challenging our conventional understanding of wildlife and human coexistence.

The episode begins by exploring how urban expansion has affected the habitats of wild animals, and how they have been forced to adapt to survive in increasingly crowded and developed areas. We meet experts who explain how some species have learned to adapt by changing their diet, behavior, and even their vocalizations to communicate with one another in noisy environments. One particularly remarkable case study involves a tribe of red foxes that have developed a unique hunting strategy, targeting squirrels that live in high-rise buildings by scaling the sides of skyscrapers in search of their prey.

The episode also examines the growing presence of coyotes in urban areas, and how their ability to adapt to urban environments is leading to conflicts with humans and pets. We learn about the efforts of scientists and conservationists to understand the behavior of these animals, and how they are working to mitigate their impact on urban dwellers. The episode also explores how the presence of these predators is leading to a renewed appreciation of nature in urban environments, and how some city-dwellers are learning to coexist with wild animals.

Throughout the episode, we also hear from urban residents who have encountered wild animals in unexpected places. From raccoons rummaging through trash cans in New York City to mountain lions being spotted in the hills above Los Angeles, these encounters serve as a reminder of the interconnectedness between the human and animal worlds, and the importance of understanding and respecting the natural world in which we live.

Overall, "Predators in Your Backyard" offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of urban predators, and the challenges and opportunities they present for our society. By exploring the ways in which these animals are adapting to changing environments, the episode highlights the resilience and adaptability of the natural world, and the importance of finding sustainable ways for humans and animals to coexist.