Nature Season 7 Episode 6 Nature of Australia: a Portrait of the Island Continent: the Making of the Bush
- November 27, 1988
In this episode of Nature, viewers are taken on a journey through the vast and diverse landscape of Australia, exploring the origins of its iconic bushland. Through stunning visuals and expert commentary, the episode explores the unique geological and ecological forces that have shaped the Australian continent over millions of years, creating a habitat perfectly adapted to surviving the harsh and unforgiving climate.
The episode opens with an aerial view of Australia's expansive coastline, showcasing the country's stunning beauty and highlighting its isolation from the rest of the world. From here, the episode delves into the geological history of the continent, explaining how Australia was once part of the supercontinent Gondwana, before breaking away and drifting towards its current location.
As the episode progresses, viewers are taken on a journey through the different regions of Australia, from the tropical rainforests of Queensland to the arid red deserts of the Northern Territory. Along the way, they meet a variety of native wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, and various species of bird and reptile, all perfectly adapted to surviving in their respective environments.
One of the standout moments of the episode is its exploration of the unique relationship between Australia's wildlife and vegetation. Unlike many other parts of the world, Australia's plants and animals have evolved together over millions of years, leading to a complex web of relationships that are still being studied and understood by scientists today.
Throughout the episode, viewers also learn about the impact of humans on Australia's landscape, both historically and in modern times. From the arrival of the first indigenous Australians over 40,000 years ago, to the devastating impact of European colonization in the 18th and 19th centuries, human activity has played a significant role in shaping Australia's environment.
Ultimately, Nature of Australia: A Portrait of the Island Continent - The Making of the Bush serves as a fascinating exploration of one of the world's most unique and diverse landscapes. Its blend of stunning visuals, expert commentary, and fascinating insights into the complex web of relationships between Australia's wildlife and landscape make it a must-watch for nature lovers and anyone interested in the natural world.