TechKnow Season 3 Episode 5 Journey to the Jungle

In this episode of TechKnow, titled "Journey to the Jungle," the team explores the latest advancements in conservation technology as they travel deep into the jungles of Southeast Asia. The episode is hosted by Marita Davison, a science journalist and television personality.

The team first visits a Buddhist temple in northern Thailand where a group of monks have taken on the task of conserving a local species of turtle. They've built a sanctuary for the turtles and are using technology to monitor their behavior and movements. One of the monks shows the TechKnow team a device that he's created which uses sensors to detect when a turtle has left its pond and alerts the monk so that he can go and investigate.

Next, the team heads to a wildlife sanctuary where they meet with a team of researchers who are using drones to monitor the behavior of orangutans in the wild. The orangutans are under threat due to deforestation and the researchers are hoping to gain a better understanding of their habits so that they can better protect them. The drone footage that the team captures is truly breathtaking, showing the orangutans swinging through the trees and interacting with each other.

The team also meets with a team of scientists who are using DNA sequencing to identify different species of animals. In the lab, the team discusses the challenges of sequencing DNA from animals in the wild, many of which are difficult to locate and capture. The researchers explain how they've developed methods for collecting DNA samples from fecal matter, skin flakes, and even saliva left behind by animals.

Finally, the team heads out into the jungle with a group of conservationists who are working to protect one of the world's most elusive and endangered species: the Sumatran rhino. They travel deep into the jungle and set up camp, using motion-activated cameras to monitor the rhinos and their behavior. The team discusses the challenges of tracking and protecting animals this rare, including dealing with poaching and habitat loss.

Overall, "Journey to the Jungle" offers a fascinating look at the intersection of technology and conservation, as well as a glimpse into the incredible biodiversity of Southeast Asia. The TechKnow team does an excellent job of highlighting the innovative technologies and approaches that are being used to protect endangered species, and their enthusiasm for the subject matter is infectious. Fans of the show and those interested in science and conservation are sure to find this episode a rewarding and informative watch.