Nature Season 22 Episode 3 Kalahari: the Flooded Desert (2)

In the second part of the two-part special, "Kalahari: The Flooded Desert," Nature season 22 episode 3 explores how the severe flooding that transforms the arid Kalahari Desert into a lush oasis affects the diverse animal populations that call it home.

The episode begins by revisiting the deadly floods that took place in 2011 and interviewing locals who witnessed the devastation firsthand. As the floods subside, animals emerge from their hiding places and seek refuge in the surrounding grasslands and trees. Among them are the signature meerkats, who find shelter in burrows on high ground and work together to ensure their survival.

Moving beyond the meerkats, the episode highlights how different species adapt to the changing conditions. For example, the ground squirrels that are usually solitary and territorial come together in colonies to share resources during the lean times. Giraffes, normally at a disadvantage in the shorter grasses during the dry season, can now access foliage from taller trees as water levels rise.

However, the migration of wildebeest and zebras is the most dramatic response to the flooding. The herds are not only in search of water and food but also to reproduce in a safe environment away from predators. The trek takes them over long distances and across unpredictable terrain, and they must navigate through both the dangers of the floodwaters and the predators waiting on the banks.

While some animals thrive during the floods, others struggle to adapt to the new landscape. For instance, the dominant bird species, the ostriches, find themselves facing fiercer competition for the scarce food sources and struggle to maintain their usual dominance. On the other hand, predators such as lions and hyenas take full advantage of the flooding and the hunting opportunities it brings.

Throughout the episode, the narration and filming capture the stark contrast between the desolate desert and the vibrant greenery brought about by the floods. The camera work highlights the animals' behaviors, their strategies for survival, and the stunning beauty of the landscape.

While the show focuses heavily on the wildlife, it also touches on the impact of climate change and human activity on the Kalahari's ecosystem. The persistence of the floods and the unpredictable nature of their occurrence are linked to climate change, and the increasing human population in the area brings conflicting interests and puts pressure on the animals' habitats.

Overall, "Kalahari: The Flooded Desert (2)" is an engaging and informative episode that showcases the beauty and the complexity of the Kalahari ecosystem. It highlights how the animals' ability to adapt to floods proves their resilience, but also underscores the urgency of addressing the environmental challenges that threaten their survival.