Ep 14. Viva Puerto Rico

In the 35th season of the beloved documentary series Nature, episode 14 takes viewers on a journey to the stunning tropical island of Puerto Rico. Titled Viva Puerto Rico, this episode seeks to shed light on the island's vibrant natural beauty, unique wildlife, and the efforts of the locals to protect and conserve their beloved home.

Narrated by renowned Puerto Rican actor Benicio Del Toro, the episode opens with a breathtaking aerial shot of the island, showcasing its lush greenery, shimmering beaches, and majestic mountains. The camera then zooms in on some of the island's most iconic inhabitants: the Puerto Rican Parrot, the Coqui frog, and the Leatherback sea turtle. Viewers learn about the critical roles each of these species plays in maintaining the delicate balance of the island's ecosystems, and the challenges they face due to deforestation, pollution, and climate change.

The episode then takes us on a tour of some of Puerto Rico's most treasured natural wonders. We visit the El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the United States Forest System, home to countless species of plants and animals, many of which are found nowhere else on earth. We witness the awe-inspiring power of the island's waterfalls, and follow scientists as they study and protect the habitat of the tiny, but mighty, Coqui frog.

We also venture out to sea, where we meet the dedicated marine biologists who have made it their life's work to protect the Leatherback sea turtle, the world's largest living turtle species, from extinction. The episode showcases the incredible journey these majestic creatures make each year, from their birthplace on the island's beaches to their foraging grounds in the open ocean, and the incredible challenges they face along the way.

Throughout the episode, we hear from a variety of experts, including scientists, activists, and local conservationists, who provide context and insight into the challenges and opportunities facing this unique and beloved island. We learn about the efforts of local communities to protect their natural resources from exploitation and environmental degradation, and how they are working to rebuild and revitalize their communities in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, the devastating storm that rocked the island in 2017.

As the episode draws to a close, we are left with a sense of wonder and appreciation for the natural beauty and resilience of Puerto Rico, and the dedicated people who are working tirelessly to ensure that their beloved island remains a treasure for generations to come. Whether you are an avid nature enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates the wonders of the natural world, Viva Puerto Rico is a must-see episode of Nature that is sure to inspire and educate.