NOVA Season 9 Episode 19 Animal Impostors

Animal Impostors is the nineteenth and final episode of the ninth season of NOVA, a documentary television series that explores scientific and mathematical concepts, as well as historical narratives. This particular episode delves into the subject of mimicry and deception in the animal kingdom, examining the various strategies that certain species have developed in order to appear as something they are not.

The episode begins with a series of stunning visual sequences, showcasing a number of animals that utilize mimicry as a means of self-preservation. One such creature is the Viceroy butterfly, which bears a striking resemblance to the toxic Monarch butterfly, thereby deterring predators from attacking it. Similarly, some species of moths and caterpillars mimic the appearance of bird droppings as a way to avoid detection.

As the episode progresses, it delves deeper into the science behind mimicry, discussing the various ways in which animals can achieve the feat of appearing to be something else entirely. The show explores the concept of chemical mimicry, wherein an animal emits the same chemicals as its prey in order to lure it closer, as well as the process of visual mimicry, whereby species use their physical appearance to trick potential predators.

Throughout the episode, the NOVA team interviews a number of leading experts in the fields of biology and zoology, gaining fascinating insights into the world of animal mimicry. Viewers will learn about the work of Dr. Robert Full, who has pioneered research into the biomechanics of movement, and how this knowledge can be applied to understanding mimicry in the natural world. The show also speaks with Dr. Simon Robson, whose work studying snake mimicry has led to groundbreaking discoveries about the evolution of visual deception.

Of course, no exploration of mimicry would be complete without examining the strategies used by predators themselves. The episode looks at the incredible hunting techniques of certain species of spiders, which cleverly mimic the appearance of ants in order to get closer to their prey. Additionally, the show discusses the way in which some animals camouflage themselves in order to blend in with their surroundings, rendering themselves all but invisible.

As the episode approaches its conclusion, it circles back to the question of why certain species evolve the ability to mimic. Viewers will be struck by the surprising answer, which suggests that some animals mimic not to avoid being eaten, but rather to attract a mate. The episode showcases a number of examples of this fascinating phenomenon, including certain species of spider that mimic the behavior of female insects in order to lure in a male.

Overall, Animal Impostors is a riveting exploration of the world of mimicry and deception in the natural world. Through stunning visuals and fascinating interviews with experts, the episode gives viewers a glimpse into the clever ways in which certain animals have adapted to their environments. Fans of NOVA and nature documentaries around the world are sure to be captivated by this in-depth look at the ways in which animals play tricks on both predator and prey alike.