Ep 7. Fighters

The Most Extreme takes a look at some of the fiercest fighters in the animal kingdom in its seventh episode of season one. Hosted by correspondent Afi Ekulona, this episode explores the unique fighting tactics and strategies of various animals.

The episode begins with a segment on the praying mantis, which is known for its deadly forelegs. Ekulona explains how the mantis uses its incredible speed and agility to catch prey and fend off predators. The episode also looks at the mantis's martial arts-like movements, which have inspired some forms of human fighting styles.

Next up, the show examines the prowess of the African elephant. This massive creature is known for its strength, and the episode showcases its ability to flip cars and fend off lions. The show discusses the elephant's intelligence and how it uses its trunk to hold objects and deliver powerful blows.

The episode moves to a somewhat smaller animal but one that is no less adept at fighting: the honey badger. This creature, known for its toughness and fearlessness, can fend off animals several times its size. The show notes the honey badger's sharp teeth and claws, which it can use to battle animals and even break into beehives.

The show also looks at the tactics of animals who use more than just brute force in fighting. The chameleon, for instance, is able to change the color of its skin and blend in with its surroundings. This helps it avoid predators and sneak up on prey. The show notes that the chameleon can also shoot its tongue out with incredible speed and accuracy.

Another animal featured in the episode is the cuttlefish. Known for its ability to change its skin texture and color, the cuttlefish is able to blend in with its environment and avoid predators. However, it's also a strong fighter, and the episode showcases the cuttlefish's ability to intimidate predators and even use ink to escape dangerous situations.

The show then focuses on the camel spider, which is native to the deserts of the Middle East. This arachnid is known for its speed and aggression, and the episode details how it uses venom and sharp appendages to take down prey. The show also notes how the camel spider has become something of a cultural icon in the region where it lives.

The final segment of the episode features the leopard, which is known as one of the most powerful hunters in the world. The show notes the leopard's speed, agility, and strength, and also examines the unique way its body is structured for hunting. Viewers learn about the leopard's powerful jaws and muscular legs, which allow it to bring down large prey.

The episode concludes with some fascinating facts and trivia about various animals' fighting abilities. For instance, viewers learn that the cassowary bird, which was not featured in the episode, has a sharp claw that it uses to defend itself against predators. Additionally, the show notes that some animals have evolved unique defense mechanisms, such as the horned lizard, which can shoot blood out of its eyes to ward off predators.

Overall, this episode of The Most Extreme provides a fascinating look at the various ways animals fight and defend themselves in the wild. Through stunning footage and insightful commentary, viewers gain a deeper understanding of the intricate tactics and strategies that make animals some of the most skilled fighters on the planet.