Ep 10. What Males Will Do

What Males Will Do is the tenth episode of the 26th season of the popular PBS show, Nature. This episode explores the surprising ways that male animals will go to find a mate and ensure the survival of their species.

The episode begins by focusing on the Australian lyrebird, one of the animal kingdom's most talented singers. The male lyrebird's intricate calls are capable of mimicking everything from other bird songs and mammal sounds to chainsaws and car alarms. Scientists believe this is a way for male lyrebirds to attract mates and establish their territory.

Next, the episode takes us to the Arctic, where male harp seals engage in violent battles for the chance to mate with females. The sight of hundreds of males bashing their heads together to establish dominance is both mesmerizing and brutal.

Moving to Africa, the show explores the elaborate dances and displays of male birds-of-paradise. These birds have evolved some of the most complex and beautiful courtship rituals in the animal world. Their colorful displays and intricate dances are designed to attract the attention of females, who are highly selective about their mates.

Back in North America, we learn about the dramatic hunting displays of male humpback whales. These majestic creatures engage in elaborate vocalizations and acrobatic displays, such as breaching, to attract females and deter rivals.

The episode also introduces viewers to the world of courtship gifts, such as the elaborate nuptial gifts created by male satin bowerbirds and the stunning silk-wrapped cocoons built by male caddisflies. These gifts serve as a way for males to demonstrate their fitness and desirability to potential mates.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to stunning footage of these animals in their natural habitats, as well as insights from biologists who study their behavior. We learn about the crucial role that males play in the survival of their species and the lengths they will go to pass on their genes.

Finally, the episode ends on a hopeful note, highlighting the conservation efforts that are helping to protect these remarkable species and preserve the diversity of life on our planet.

Overall, What Males Will Do is an insightful and captivating look at the fascinating behaviors of male animals in the pursuit of love and reproduction. It offers a glimpse into the complexity and beauty of the natural world and the important role that every species plays in the web of life.