Secrets of Wild Australia Season 1 Episode 2 The Dingo

In Secrets of Wild Australia season 1 episode 2 titled The Dingo, viewers will explore the unique and controversial history of one of Australia's most iconic animals, the dingo. For centuries, dingoes have roamed the Australian landscape, but their origins and impact have been a subject of much debate.

The episode starts with a breathtaking aerial view of the remote Australian outback, where the dingoes are the apex predators. The show then delves into the history of the dingo, taking viewers back to when these wild canines first arrived in Australia. Experts weigh in on their origins, with some believing they came from Southeast Asia about 5,000 years ago, while others believe they were introduced by humans around 3500 years ago. Regardless of their origin, the dingoes have adapted well to the harsh Australian environment, developing unique features such as their characteristic yellowish-brown coat and lean body.

The episode moves on to the current issues associated with the dingo in modern-day Australia. Dingoes have long been a source of controversy due to their interactions with humans and farm animals. They've been blamed for killing livestock and have been aggressively culled in some regions. However, experts such as researchers and conservationists point out that, in fact, dingoes have been shown not to be major killers of farm animals. In fact, they can help protect farmers' livestock from other predators. The controversial topic of "hybridization," where dingoes breed with domestic dogs, allowing their genes to be diluted, is also discussed, with experts weighing in on whether it is a good or bad thing.

The show includes footage of experiments carried out by scientists to better understand the social behavior of dingoes. They comment on how dingoes have a hierarchical pack structure and are very intelligent, capable of complex problem-solving and communication techniques. The show also covers the native species which have evolved with dingoes such as the bilby and the kangaroo, which has a mutually beneficial relationship with dingoes. Experts note that as the number of dingoes decreases, it could have unforeseen consequences on wild species and the ecosystem.

The episode puts the spotlight on an important issue of the intersection between humans and animals in Australia, and helps viewers understand the impacts associated with the history of introducing non-native species to ecosystems. The dingoes, in particular, have been an important part of Australia's landscape for thousands of years, and the episode ends with questions on what we can do to ensure their continued existence in the future.

Overall, Secrets of Wild Australia season 1 episode 2, The Dingo is an informative and thought-provoking exploration of one of Australia's most iconic animals. It raises important questions about their origins, impact, and future, and will leave viewers with a better understanding of the Australian ecosystem.