Ep 6. Cities

Planet Earth II is a breathtaking nature documentary series that explores diverse habitats around the world, from the highest mountains to the deepest oceans. In season 1 episode 6, titled "Cities," the focus shifts to urban environments and how wildlife has adapted to life in the concrete jungle.

Cities are home to more than half the world's population, and this episode shows us how animals have learned to thrive in these man-made environments. From peregrine falcons hunting pigeons in New York City to monkeys raiding kitchens in Jaipur, India, the footage is both surprising and enlightening.

One of the most fascinating sections of the episode explores how cities can create "heat islands," areas where temperatures are significantly higher than the surrounding countryside. We see how this affects animal behavior, as birds change their song patterns to adapt to the noise and heat, while animals like bats and raccoons seek out cooler places to rest during the day.

Another highlight of the episode is the story of urban leopards in Mumbai, India. These big cats have learned to hunt stray dogs and pigs in the city's crowded streets, often at night when the traffic dies down. The filmmakers capture some incredible footage of a leopard stalking a dog near a busy intersection, demonstrating the incredible adaptability of wildlife.

Of course, with humans dominating the landscape in cities, there are also many challenges for animals to overcome. Pollution, traffic, and habitat destruction all pose serious threats to wildlife in urban areas. The episode showcases conservation efforts around the world, including green roofs and gardens that provide much-needed habitat in the heart of the city.

One particularly poignant segment shows us how animals are affected by our waste. We see birds using cigarette butts to line their nests, and monkeys learning to crack open discarded shells from cashew nuts. It's a sobering reminder of the impact that our trash has on the natural world.

Throughout the episode, Sir David Attenborough provides his signature narration, guiding us through the stories of these urban animals with his trademark wit and wisdom. His passion for the natural world is infectious, urging us to appreciate the often-overlooked wildlife living right alongside us in our cities.

Overall, "Cities" is a compelling and eye-opening episode of Planet Earth II. It challenges our assumptions about what it means to be "wildlife" and shows us how animals have learned to adapt and even thrive in the face of urbanization. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in the complex relationship between humans and the natural world.