Ep 1. Tall Blondes

In the first episode of season 21 of Nature, viewers are taken on an adventure to the northern hemisphere to explore the fascinating world of the tallest birds on the planet – the Whooping cranes. Known for their striking white feathers and elegant stature, these birds stand up to 5 feet tall and have a wingspan of more than 7 feet.

The episode titled Tall Blondes showcases the incredible journey of the Whooping cranes as they migrate from their breeding grounds in Wisconsin to their wintering grounds in Florida. This is a round trip of almost 4,000 km that these birds undertake every year, making it one of the longest migrations undertaken by any animal.

The episode is split into two halves – one that studies the Whooping crane chicks during their early months in Wisconsin, and the other that follows the adult cranes on their journey to Florida. In the first half, viewers get to witness the life of Whooping crane chicks from the moment they hatch in summer to the moment they prepare to fly south with their parents in autumn.

It is fascinating to watch these chicks grow and develop under the watchful eyes of their parents and the expert crane handlers at the International Crane Foundation where they are raised in captivity for the first few months of their life. Viewers get to see how these chicks learn to walk, flap their wings, and interact with the world around them as they prepare for their big migration south.

The second half of the episode focuses on the journey of the adult cranes as they leave Wisconsin for their wintering grounds in Florida. The filming crew capture the breathtaking landscape and various challenges that the cranes face on their flight. From safely navigating their way through storms and strong headwinds to finding enough food and water to keep them going, viewers will find themselves completely invested in the survival of these incredible birds.

Throughout the episode, viewers also get an insight into the incredible work being done by scientists and conservationists to keep the Whooping crane population flourishing. The conservation efforts have been successful in doubling the Whooping crane population in recent years, making their recovery one of the most successful species reintroductions in the United States.

Overall, the episode Tall Blondes offers viewers a glimpse into the fascinating life of one of the most iconic birds in the world. From their adorable chicks to their remarkable journey, viewers will be left in awe of the beauty and resilience of these Tall Blondes. The episode leaves you with a deep appreciation for the preciousness of life and the remarkable relationship between a parent and its offspring.