Ep 3. My Congo

In this episode of Nature, season 35 takes us deep into the heart of Africa to explore the diverse and mysterious ecosystems of the Congo Basin. Home to more than 10,000 species of plants, 1,000 species of birds, and 400 species of mammals, this region is one of the richest and most biodiverse habitats in the world.

Narrated by actor and conservationist Djimon Hounsou, the documentary follows the journey of a team of scientists and conservationists as they travel through the Congo, studying the animals and plants that call it home, and working to protect them from the threats of habitat loss and poaching.

The episode introduces us to a cast of unique and fascinating characters, including the elusive forest elephant, one of the largest land animals in the world, as well as the bonobo, a highly intelligent and social ape that shares 98% of its DNA with humans.

We also meet the dedicated men and women who are working to preserve the Congo's biodiversity, including Congolese ecologist Corneille Ewango, who risked his life to protect the forest from illegal loggers, and American primatologist Terese Hart, who has spent decades studying the behavior of bonobos and working with local communities to promote conservation efforts.

Throughout the episode, we see the incredible beauty and richness of the Congo's forests, rivers, and wetlands, as well as the challenges faced by those who seek to protect them. From the destructive effects of climate change to the illegal trafficking of elephant ivory and bushmeat, the Congo Basin is under threat from a wide range of sources.

Despite these challenges, My Congo offers an inspiring look at the people and animals who call this region home, and the efforts being made to ensure their survival. Through stunning cinematography and intimate portraits of the creatures that inhabit the Congo, the episode invites us to reflect on the importance of conservation and the need to protect our planet's most precious and fragile ecosystems.