National Geographic Explorer Season 8 Episode 1 Warlords of Ivory

Warlords of Ivory is the first episode of the eighth season of National Geographic Explorer. This episode is about the illegal trade of elephant tusks, also known as ivory, which has led to the decimation of elephant populations throughout Africa. It explores the complex network of dealers, smugglers, and poachers responsible for the global ivory trade, and the efforts of wildlife conservationists to stop them.

The episode begins in Tanzania, where a team of wildlife rangers investigates the carcass of an elephant killed by poachers for its tusks. The rangers collect evidence and search for any clues that might lead them to the poachers responsible. The camera follows them as they trek through the bush, highlighting the dangerous terrain and the difficult challenges these dedicated rangers face every day.

Next, the episode turns to Kenya, where a group of Chinese traders are caught smuggling ivory out of the country. Journalist Bryan Christy goes undercover to investigate the illegal trade, posing as a buyer interested in acquiring more than a ton of ivory. The cameras capture their interactions with the traders, revealing the high prices and corrupt practices that drive this illegal industry.

The show then shifts to Zambia, where former poacher-turned-conservationist Damian Mander trains a group of rangers to use military tactics to protect endangered elephants. Mander's approach includes the use of drones and other technology to gather intelligence on poaching activities, as well as the recruitment of local communities to help protect the wildlife in their area. The camera captures their efforts as they track down poachers and confront them face to face.

Back in Kenya, the episode shows the devastating consequences of the ivory trade on the elephant population. The camera follows wildlife veterinarians as they treat and try to rehabilitate elephants that have been mutilated by poachers. The images are graphic, but they serve to underscore the brutality and inhumanity of the ivory trade.

The episode also explores the role of China in the ivory trade, where the demand for ivory continues to fuel the black market. The camera follows a group of Chinese tourists visiting Nairobi National Park, where they come face to face with elephants and learn about the importance of conservation efforts. Through their interactions, the episode shows the potential impact that education and awareness-raising can have on reducing the demand for ivory.

Finally, the episode highlights the work of organizations such as the Wildlife Conservation Society and the Elephant Crisis Fund, which are working to protect elephants and other endangered wildlife around the world. Filmmaker and conservationist Dereck Joubert speaks passionately about the importance of preserving biodiversity and the need to take action to combat the illegal trade in ivory.

Overall, Warlords of Ivory is a gripping and powerful exploration of the ivory trade and its devastating impact on African elephants. The episode combines stunning cinematography with hard-hitting journalism to provide a comprehensive look at this complex issue and the tireless efforts of those fighting to protect these magnificent animals. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in conservation, wildlife, and the environment.