Ep 5. Loudmouths

The Most Extreme season 4 episode 5, titled "Loudmouths," takes a closer look at some of the most vocal animals on the planet. From birds to primates, this episode explores the different ways in which animals communicate with each other through various vocalizations.

The episode starts off with a segment on the howler monkey, known for their incredibly loud vocalizations that can be heard from miles away. Viewers are taken on a journey through the dense foliage of the rainforest to observe these fascinating creatures up close. The show explains how howler monkeys use their powerful vocal cords to mark their territory and communicate with their troop. They also demonstrate how the male howler monkey's roar can be used to intimidate rivals and attract potential mates.

The next segment focuses on the singing abilities of the lyrebird. Found in the rainforests of Australia, these birds are known for their impressive mimicry skills and can imitate everything from car alarms to chainsaws. The show explores the science behind the lyrebird's vocal abilities and highlights the lengths it goes to in order to attract a mate during breeding season.

Moving on from birds to mammals, the show features the elephant, which can communicate with other elephants through infrasonic sound waves that humans cannot hear. The episode explains how elephants use these vocalizations to communicate over long distances and how they help keep the herd safe from predators.

Next, the show shifts its focus to the ocean and the humpback whale. Viewers are treated to breathtaking footage of these majestic creatures as they breach and sing in the deep blue sea. The show explains how humpback whales use their songs to communicate with each other during migration and breeding seasons. It also explores the latest research on these songs and how they evolve over time.

Back on land, the show features the lion as its next subject. Known for their powerful roars, lion vocalizations are used to communicate over long distances and to warn potential rivals of their presence. Through up-close and personal footage of lions in the wild, the episode gives viewers a sense of the power and intensity of these carnivores' vocalizations.

The final segment of the episode takes us to the Arctic tundra to observe the vocalizations of the arctic fox. Unlike the howler monkey's booming roar or the lion's ferocious roar, the arctic fox's vocalizations are subtle and quiet. Using its whimpers, growls, and barks, the arctic fox is able to communicate with other foxes and alert them to potential threats.

Overall, "Loudmouths" is a fascinating and educational episode that showcases the incredible diversity of animal vocalizations. Viewers are treated to stunning footage of animals in their natural habitats and a deeper understanding of how vocalizations play a critical role in communication, mating, and survival.