Jack Hanna's Wild Countdown Season 3 Episode 6 At Home On the Range

In this episode of Jack Hanna's Wild Countdown, titled "At Home On the Range," the host takes viewers on a journey through some of the most fascinating wildlife that inhabit the vast and diverse ranges of North America. The episode showcases the remarkable adaptations that animals such as buffalo, prairie dogs, coyotes, and elk have made to survive in their challenging habitats.

The episode begins by exploring the incredible story of the American Bison, the largest land animal in North America. Jack takes viewers to the open plains of South Dakota, where herds of buffalo roam freely. He explains how, centuries ago, these majestic mammals once numbered in the millions, but they were hunted almost to extinction. Today, thanks to conservation efforts, their numbers have rebounded to about 500,000, scattered across various national parks and protected lands. As he observes the bison grazing and socializing with their young, Jack emphasizes the importance of preserving these iconic creatures for future generations.

The episode then shifts focus to the small but mighty prairie dog, a burrowing rodent that is vital to the grassland ecosystem. Jack points out that these creatures are often misunderstood and vilified, but they play a crucial role in the prairie food chain by aerating the soil and providing food for predators like hawks, coyotes, and even black-footed ferrets. Jack also introduces viewers to a scientist who is studying prairie dog vocalizations and body language to better understand their complex social behaviors.

Next up is the wily coyote, a scavenger that is sometimes seen as a nuisance by farmers and ranchers but is actually a crucial predator in many ecosystems. Jack travels to the mountains of Colorado to watch coyotes hunt for rodents and monitor their interactions with other carnivores such as mountain lions. He explains how the coyote's adaptability and intelligence have helped it survive and thrive in a wide range of habitats, from deserts to cities.

The episode wraps up with a look at the majestic elk, a symbol of the wild West and a popular game animal. Jack visits a herd in Wyoming's Grand Teton National Park, where he observes the impressive antlers and mating rituals of the bulls. He also talks with scientists who are researching the effects of climate change on elk populations and their migration patterns.

Overall, "At Home On the Range" is an engaging and informative episode that showcases the beauty and resilience of North America's wildlife. Jack's enthusiasm and expertise make for an engaging viewing experience that is sure to inspire viewers to appreciate and protect these incredible creatures.