Ep 5. Grasslands

Grasslands, the 5th episode of Planet Earth season 2, delves deep into the ecosystem that covers a quarter of our planet's land. Spanning from the African savannas to the American prairies, this episode takes us on a journey through the world's most productive and diverse landscape. The grasslands offer a habitat to some of the world's most alluring and captivating creatures, many of whom are unique to this habitat.

The episode commences by introducing us to the charismatic Meerkats from the Kalahari Desert in Africa and their quest for survival in the arid region. We get to witness their rigorous hunt for prey, as well as their incredible ability to collaborate with one another in order to survive.

As the episode progresses, we are taken to the African savannas, where we are introduced to the mighty elephants and their migration across the vast grasslands. We witness the challenges that they face, including lack of water and food, as they embark on their journey.

Apart from the larger animals, we also get an insight into the lives of the more diminutive creatures that inhabit these vast spaces. One such creature is the fascinating dung beetle, who plays a critical role in maintaining the ecosystem of the savannah by recycling animal waste. We get to see the lengths they go to, to ensure that they find the perfect piece of dung for their mate.

Another incredible phenomenon that this episode explores is the annual wildebeest migration that takes place on the African plains. Millions of wildebeests and other animals migrate across the vast grasslands in one of nature's most awe-inspiring spectacles. We get to witness the hardships they endure, including the challenges of crossing the vast Mara River, where they have to outrun crocodiles.

The episode also ventures into the American prairies, where we get to meet the wise and intriguing bison. We discover their unique role in maintaining the grasslands' ecosystem and how their grazing patterns affect the composition of the soil and availability of food for other animals. We are reminded of the consequences of human interference in the prairies, which almost led to the bison's extinction.

Grasslands also sheds light on the unique relationship between birds and the grasslands. We are introduced to the resplendent Greater sage-grouse, whose mating dance is one of the most captivating sights in the prairies. We also get to meet the sharp-tailed grouse, whose elaborate courtship is awe-inspiring.

As the episode draws to a close, we are reminded of the critical role that the grasslands play in the world's ecology. The grasslands are not only critical for supporting diverse plant and animal life, but they also aid in mitigating climate change. The episode highlights the dangers that this fragile ecosystem is facing, including human activities such as agriculture and urbanization.

Overall, Grasslands is an incredibly informative and captivating episode that offers an insight into one of our planet's most diverse ecosystems. The episode is shot beautifully, with breath-taking landscapes and stunning close-ups of the creatures that inhabit the grasslands. The landscapes leave one in awe of the beauty of the natural world and its inhabitants. This episode is a must-watch for anyone who is interested in the natural world and its workings.