Life Below Zero Season 20 Episode 2 Break Up Time is Wake Up Time

As the days get shorter and the temperatures continue to drop, it's clear that break up time is upon the residents of Alaska's unforgiving terrain. In the second episode of Life Below Zero's 20th season, appropriately named "Break Up Time is Wake Up Time," we get a glimpse of what it takes to survive during this critical time of year.

Sue Aikens, who runs the Kavik River Camp 500 miles from civilization, must prepare for the possibility of being completely cut off from anyone or anything if the river ice floods. She's getting her snowmachine equipped for the journey ahead and stocking up on supplies before starting the days-long trip back to civilization. Everything in this remote region of Alaska depends on the ice: If it comes dangerously early or late, people can be stranded, and supplies can run low. Meanwhile, the shroud of cold and ice triggers something primeval in the animal kingdom, stirring things up for residents.

Next, we see how Ricko DeWilde is preparing for the break up as he continues to live off the land. He's out on a hunt to find enough meat for his family and faces challenges as the predators are also trying to find food during this time. The pressure to be successful is intense since the meat he obtains will have to last for months. "Hunting in this area means knowing your prey well, following their paths, and adapting to their habits," he explains. From the beavers in the waterways to the caribou in the inland, Ricko must keep a watchful eye and stay stealthy if he wants to bring in enough food for his family.

The final scene follows the menacing duo, Andy and Kate, as they work on their new property in the Brooks Range. Andy is working on setting up a new wood stove in the cabin as Kate is checking the traps. It's impressive to see how they coordinate work effectively. They are making use of the daylight and trying to gather as much firewood as possible to stay warm during the cold winter months. The tundra and taiga regions around the Brooks Range come alive during break up time, and it's an excellent opportunity for them to find suitable timber without moving too far from the cabin.

Overall, the second episode of Life Below Zero season 20 highlights the need for resilience and adaptability in Alaska's most unforgiving regions. As the temperatures plummet and access to resources becomes challenging, the residents are forced to dig deep and work harder to stay alive. From sourcing food to setting up a new wood stove or making a trip to civilization, there is always something to do to stay ahead of the harsh environment. Tune into "Break Up Time is Wake Up Time" and marvel at the resilience of those who live in the forgotten corners of the world.