Ep 4. H is for Hawk: A New Chapter

H is for Hawk: A New Chapter is an episode of the popular nature documentary series, Nature. This episode explores the relationship between a woman named Helen Macdonald and her Hawk named Mabel. The story is set in the beautiful countryside of England and follows Macdonald as she trains Mabel to fly free and hunt in the wild.

The episode begins with Macdonald reflecting on the loss of her father and how it led her to become interested in training a hawk. She shares how she came across T.H. White's book, "The Goshawk," which served as a guide for her in the training process. Macdonald talks about her experiences in training Mabel and explains the various methods she used to train her. She also discusses the challenges she faced while training Mabel, such as her initial refusal to eat or fly away.

The show provides an in-depth look at the techniques used in training a bird of prey, and what drives Macdonald to continue her work with Mabel. We see Macdonald taking Mabel out for hunting trips, and it's fascinating to witness how they communicate with each other. The episode also touches upon the history of falconry and how it was developed as a sport.

Macdonald's love for Mabel is evident throughout the episode. She talks about how the hawk has changed her life and has helped her through difficult times. We get a glimpse of their relationship and how they spend time together. It's clear that Macdonald feels a deep connection with Mabel and values her presence in her life.

Apart from the personal story, the episode provides a deep insight into the life of a hawk. We learn about the anatomy and behavior of hawks, including how they hunt and survive in the wild. Mabel's hunting instincts are put to the test when she chases after prey in the open fields. We see how she quickly adapts to her surroundings and learns to catch food on her own.

In the end, the episode shows how Macdonald's perspective on life has changed due to her work with Mabel. She shares how the hawk has taught her to be patient, humble, and present in the moment. The show documents the transformation that Macdonald has gone through and how Mabel has become an integral part of her life.

Overall, H is for Hawk: A New Chapter is a heartwarming episode that celebrates the bond between humans and animals. It is an inspiring story of hope, perseverance, and the power of nature to heal. Whether you're an animal lover or not, this episode will leave you feeling uplifted and renewed.