Kenya Wildlife Diaries Season 1 Episode 1 Haven of the Giants
- TVPG
- November 3, 2015
- 50 min
Kenya Wildlife Diaries is a natural history documentary series that takes viewers on an immersive journey through one of Africa's most untouched and diverse wildlife environments - Kenya. The series features awe-inspiring cinematography and breathtaking footage of Kenya's wildlife as we follow conservationists, researchers, and rangers as they work to protect some of the world's most threatened species.
In season 1 episode 1, titled "Haven of the Giants," viewers are introduced to the incredible landscape of the Samburu National Reserve, located in the northern region of Kenya. The reserve spans over 165 square kilometers and is home to a plethora of wildlife, including some of the world's largest mammals.
The episode begins with a stunning bird's eye view of the Samburu landscape dominated by rocky outcrops, volcanic hills and patches of green savannah that stretch out towards the horizon. As the camera pans down, we are introduced to the Samburu tribe, the local people who have lived in the region for generations and who have coexisted with the wildlife for centuries.
We then move on to meet the stars of the episode - the giants of Samburu. First, we encounter the African elephant, the largest land animal on earth. The camera follows a herd of elephants as they navigate through the dry, dusty landscape in search of food and water. We watch as they use their trunks to dig for water at a dry riverbed and as they strip bark from trees to access the nutrients inside.
Next, we meet the reticulated giraffe, a subspecies of giraffe that can only be found in this part of Africa. We learn that the giraffe's pattern of spots is unique to each individual, much like a human fingerprint, and that they use their long necks to reach higher branches for food.
The episode also features a close-up encounter with a group of Grevy's zebras, one of the rarest mammals in Africa with only around 2,000 remaining in the wild. We watch as they graze on the grasses, their black and white stripes blending in with the surrounding landscape.
Throughout the episode, we are introduced to the conservationists who work tirelessly to protect the Samburu ecosystem. We learn about their efforts to combat poaching and protect endangered species, as well as their work with the local community to promote sustainable use of natural resources.
The Samburu National Reserve is not only home to some of the largest land animals on earth but also to a vast array of birdlife, from the tiny firefinch to the majestic martial eagle. Viewers are treated to stunning footage of birds in flight and learn about the important role they play in the Samburu ecosystem.
Finally, the episode ends with a reminder of the fragility of this unique environment and the need to protect it for future generations. Viewers are invited to join the conservation efforts and to play their part in preserving one of Africa's greatest treasures.
Overall, "Haven of the Giants" is a stunning introduction to the Kenya Wildlife Diaries series and a celebration of the incredible wildlife and breathtaking landscapes of Kenya. Through expert storytelling and awe-inspiring cinematography, the episode transports viewers into a world few have experienced, a world that is both fragile and awe-inspiring, and a world that is worth protecting.