Ep 7. Rodents Of Unusual Size

In season 20 episode 7 of Independent Lens, viewers are taken on a journey to the Louisiana bayou to explore the impact of invasive species of rodents known as Nutria on the ecosystem.

The episode, titled "Rodents Of Unusual Size," begins with an introduction to the Nutria, a creature that resembles a overweight beaver but with a rat-like tail, that was first introduced to the bayou region in the 1930s for its fur. However, the Nutria population soon grew out of control, and their voracious appetite for vegetation started to take a toll on the ecosystem.

The Bayou-land is one of the most productive and biologically diverse areas on the planet. The wetland is home to several species of birds, fish, turtles, and other animals. The Mississippi Delta, which feeds into the Gulf of Mexico, borders most of Louisiana. The wetland was both a storm buffer and an oil filter for the rest of the country, making its health critical to the wellbeing of the United States.

As the Nutria population grew, the damage they caused to the vegetation led to the erosion of the marshes, transforming them into open water. This transformation made the wetland more susceptible to hurricanes, storm surges, and other weather events; a threat that is increasingly likely due to climate change.

The Nutria problem was one that the locals recognized, but it was difficult to find a solution, as the animals were such a crucial part of their industry. Today, the locals are teaming up with scientists to find a solution to the problem. The documentary takes a close look at how the communities of Louisiana are cooperating with the US Geological Survey, the Barataria-Terrebonne National Estuary Program, and other organizations to better understand the size and impact of the Nutria problem to the ecosystem.

The experts focus their attention on creating a larger demand for Nutria meat. Louisiana is one of the largest producers of crawfish and shrimp in the United States. The Nutria consumes the marsh grass, which makes up over 70% of their diet, and it now poses a threat to the ecosystem that supports crawfish and shrimp. Louisiana also has a long history of wildlife management, including significant success in restoring the American alligator population. The locals are hoping that Nutria hunting will provide a similar solution, as the Nutria meat is a delicacy in many parts of the world.

The documentary also challenges the audience to think about larger environmental issues. Louisiana is sinking, and the coastline is disappearing rapidly. This wetland is the last line of defense, and we must learn from our mistakes and find ways to protect it. By focusing on the Nutria, the episode encourages the audience to consider the larger impact of human activities on the environment and how cooperation between communities and science can help lessen that impact.

Overall, "Rodents Of Unusual Size" is an eye-opening and thought-provoking documentary that sheds light on a significant environmental issue plaguing the Louisiana bayou. It explores the impact of invasive species on the ecosystem and highlights how cooperation between locals, scientists, and organizations can lead to positive change. Viewers are sure to come away from this episode with a newfound appreciation for the delicate balance of the environment and the importance of protecting it.