Wild America Season 7 Episode 8 Wild Dogs
- TV-G
- November 10, 2008
- 28 min
In season 7 episode 8 of Wild America, viewers are taken on a thrilling journey to discover more about wild dogs. Hosts Marty Stouffer and friends travel to different locations around the United States to observe and learn about these elusive and fascinating animals.
The episode begins with a visit to Yellowstone National Park, where the team encounters a pack of gray wolves. Marty explains that wolves are one of the most misunderstood animals in North America and are often feared by humans. However, the team observes from a safe distance and learns that these wolves are highly social animals that live in close-knit family groups. Marty also explains that wolves are an important part of the ecosystem, helping to keep the populations of other animals in check.
Next, the team travels to South Africa to observe African wild dogs. Marty explains that these dogs are also highly social animals that live in packs. The team witnesses the wild dogs hunting and learn that they are one of the most successful predators in Africa, with a hunting success rate of around 80%. Marty explains that wild dogs are particularly vulnerable to habitat loss and are listed as an endangered species.
Back in the United States, the team observes a pack of coyotes in the Mojave Desert. They learn that coyotes are highly adaptable animals that can survive in a wide range of environments, from deserts to forests to urban areas. The team also observes the coyotes hunting, scavenging and socializing, and learns that they are an important part of the food chain.
The team then travels to Alaska to observe arctic wolves. These wolves have adapted to the extreme cold and harsh conditions of the Arctic tundra. The team observes the wolves hunting muskoxen and learns that they are highly intelligent animals that work together as a pack to take down their prey. Marty explains that arctic wolves are an important part of the ecosystem in the Arctic and are an integral part of the food chain.
Finally, the team returns to the United States to observe feral dogs. These dogs have reverted to a wild state and are often found in abandoned or rural areas. Marty explains that feral dogs are a result of human influence and are not native to North America. The team observes the feral dogs scavenging for food and interacting with each other, and learns that they can pose a threat to native wildlife and ecosystems.
Throughout the episode, Marty and the team emphasize the importance of respecting and conserving wild dogs and other animals. They stress that these animals play important roles in their respective ecosystems and are an important part of the natural world. By observing and learning about wild dogs, viewers gain a greater appreciation for these amazing animals and the importance of preserving their habitats.