Ep 1. What Are Animals Saying?

NOVA Wonders season 1 episode 1, titled "What Are Animals Saying?" explores the fascinating world of animal communication. From chirping birds to howling wolves, animals use a variety of sounds and behavior to send messages to each other.

The show starts by introducing the concept of animal communication and explains how it serves many purposes, such as mate selection, warning of danger, and attracting prey. The episode then dives deeper into the different types of communication: chemical, visual, and auditory.

First, the science behind chemical communication is explained, and viewers get to witness how animals produce and detect pheromones. For example, male elephants emit scents to attract potential mates from afar, while bees use pheromones to locate their queen in a crowded beehive.

The episode then moves on to visual communication and shows how animals use their body language to convey messages. For example, prairie dogs have different calls that warn others about predators according to the type of predator they spot, while octopuses change their skin color and texture depending on their mood.

Finally, the show explores auditory communication and how animals use sounds to communicate with each other. From the barks of dogs to the songs of whales, the episode uncovers some of the most interesting and mysterious sounds our animal friends produce. The show also examines how some animals, like bats and dolphins, use echolocation to navigate and communicate in their environment.

Throughout the episode, viewers get to witness some of the most cutting-edge research being conducted in the field of animal communication, including the latest technology being used to decode and interpret animal sounds and how scientists use DNA to track how animals communicate.

The show also examines how humans are affecting animal communication, whether through urbanization, climate change, or hunting. With interviews from leading experts in the field, the episode offers a comprehensive overview of the fascinating world of animal communication, providing viewers with a newfound appreciation for the way animals speak to each other.

Overall, NOVA Wonders season 1 episode 1 is a captivating exploration of how animals communicate. With its stunning visuals, cutting-edge science, and expert interviews, the episode offers a unique glimpse into the complex language of the animal kingdom.