Wild Britain With Ray Mears Season 2 Episode 5 Skomer Island: Wales
- October 20, 2011
- 22 min
Ray Mears heads to Skomer Island, located on the Pembrokeshire coast in Wales, in search of some of Britain's most elusive wildlife. The island is home to a plethora of wildlife, including puffins, manx shearwaters, seals, rabbits, and more. Mears encounters some of the challenges of island life, including navigating the treacherous waters around the island and dealing with the unpredictable weather.
Mears sets out to explore the rugged landscape of Skomer Island, beginning with the remote and windswept cliffs, where puffins can be found nesting. He observes the behavior of these colorful birds, watching as they fish in the surrounding waters and bring back food for their young. He also explains the importance of Skomer Island as a breeding ground for the manx shearwater, a species of seabird that spends most of its life at sea.
Mears then turns his attention to the island's marine life, donning a wetsuit and venturing into the cold waters to swim with the grey seals that inhabit the area. He observes their behavior underwater, marveling at their graceful movements and playful antics. He also discusses the importance of conservation efforts to protect the seal population, which has been threatened in the past by hunting and pollution.
Moving inland, Mears explores the island's grassy fields and sandy beaches, home to a variety of other wildlife, including rabbits, voles, and shrews. He observes the delicate balance of nature on the island and explains how each species interacts with one another to maintain this balance. He also emphasizes the importance of protecting and conserving these ecosystems, which are essential to the survival of many species.
Throughout the episode, Mears shares his expert knowledge and insights on the wildlife and natural environments of Skomer Island. He provides a comprehensive overview of the island's unique ecosystem and the challenges faced by the wildlife that call it home. With stunning cinematography and expert narration, this episode of Wild Britain with Ray Mears is a captivating and informative exploration of one of Britain's most special and unique landscapes.