Ep 5. Grasslands

Grasslands make up a third of the earth's land surface and are home to some of the most extraordinary wildlife spectacles on earth. In this episode, viewers will be transported to some of the most majestic grasslands across the world, witnessing the resilience of wildlife in the face of constantly changing landscapes and increasingly unpredictable weather patterns.

The episode opens with breath-taking aerial shots of the African savannah, where large herds of elephants and buffalos graze and lions wait in ambush. The camera captures both the drama and the beauty of the savannah as a storm approaches, bringing with it much-needed rain. The story then moves to the plains of South America, where huge herds of vicuñas and guanacos roam in search of fresh vegetation. Here we witness their remarkable ability to survive in some of the harshest and driest environments on the planet.

From South America, the episode takes viewers to the vast grasslands of North America, where a unique relationship between bison and prairie dogs is revealed. The prairie dog is often considered a pest, but in fact, they play an essential role in maintaining healthy grasslands. By constantly burrowing underground, they help to aerate the soil, giving it room to breathe, and preventing it from becoming compacted. The bison also play a crucial role in the survival of the prairie dog. They graze on the long grass, creating open areas which are essential for the prairie dog to see and hear predators approaching. Their alliance is a remarkable example of how nature works in synergy to maintain balance.

The episode then moves to the grasslands of Europe, where the life of a grasshopper becomes the focal point. Grasshoppers are the staple diet of many predators in these grasslands, from birds of prey to snakes. By following the life cycle of one individual grasshopper, the camera captures the interdependence of life in the grasslands. The story then moves to the plains of Asia, where the camera exposes a unique relationship between wild horses and tulips. During the springtime, this area is transformed into a sea of red tulips. The wild horses that roam here have found a way to incorporate this into their diet, feeding not only on the grass but also on the flowers.

The final segment of the episode is set in the grasslands of Australia, where a family of kangaroos provides a glimpse into the social lives of these iconic marsupials. The camera captures their unique method of locomotion as they graze on the patchy grass, hopping effortlessly across the uneven terrain. It is a remarkable example of how nature adapts to physical challenges.

In conclusion, episode 5 of Planet Earth II provides a unique insight into the diverse wildlife that inhabits the world's grasslands. From the African savannah to the plains of Asia and the grasslands of Australia, this episode captures moments of drama and beauty that will leave viewers in awe of the resilience of wildlife in the face of adversity. The cinematography is stunning, capturing the true essence of these vast and complex ecosystems. Whether you are a nature enthusiast or just a curious viewer, this episode will leave you with a deeper appreciation of the complexity and richness of life on our planet.