Ep 6. Urals

The show Wild Russia takes audiences on a journey through the vast and varied landscape of Russia, from the frozen tundra of Siberia to the lush forests of the Caucasus Mountains. In season 1 episode 6, titled Urals, viewers are transported to the eponymous mountain range that separates Europe from Asia.

The episode begins with a breathtaking aerial view of the Urals, a range that stretches over 1,500 miles and encompasses diverse ecosystems ranging from taiga forests to arid deserts. The narrator explains that the Urals have been a source of precious metals, minerals and gems for centuries, making them a site of great importance and interest to humans.

The first segment of the episode takes us to the southern part of the Urals, where we meet a group of Bashkir people, an indigenous Turkic ethnic group that has lived in the region for centuries. We learn about their traditional way of life, including their occupation as beekeepers, and the narrator explains how the Bashkir have managed to preserve their cultural identity despite centuries of colonization and migration.

The next segment takes us to the northern part of the Urals, where we meet a group of reindeer herders who rely on these animals for their livelihood. The harsh, snowy climate of the region means that the herders must move their herds frequently in search of food, and we witness the challenges they face as they navigate the treacherous terrain of the mountains with their reindeer in tow.

As the episode progresses, we are introduced to the many species of wildlife that call the Urals home. We meet a group of wild boars, one of the most common and adaptable animals in the region, as well as the elusive lynx, a solitary predator that is rarely seen by humans. We also learn about the thriving bird population of the Urals, including the majestic golden eagle, one of the largest birds of prey in the world.

The final segment of the episode takes us to a remote mining town in the Urals, where we witness the impact of human activities on the environment. We learn about the history of mining in the region, which dates back to the 17th century, and the narrator explains how the extraction of resources has transformed the landscape of the Urals. We also see how the people who live and work in the town have adapted to the harsh conditions, including extreme temperatures and long periods of darkness during the winter months.

Overall, Wild Russia season 1 episode 6 provides a fascinating glimpse into the natural and cultural riches of the Urals. From the traditional way of life of the Bashkir to the stunning wildlife that inhabits the region, this episode highlights the diversity and beauty of this little-known part of the world. It also raises important questions about the impact of human activities on the environment and the need to balance economic development with preservation of natural resources.