Ep 11. Sahara: Life on the Edge

In Wildest: Africa season 1 episode 11, titled "Sahara: Life on the Edge," viewers are taken on a journey through the harsh and unforgiving environment of the Sahara desert. The episode focuses on the remarkable resilience of the animals that call this arid landscape home, enduring extreme temperatures and droughts.

Throughout the episode, viewers will witness the daily struggles of various creatures such as the Saharan gazelle, the gerbil, the deathstalker scorpion, and the dromedary camel. Each one of these species has adapted to the harsh realities of Sahara, finding ways to survive in a place where so little can grow and the scorching sun never seems to relent.

As the episode unfolds, viewers will learn about the tactics these animals use to endure the inhospitable conditions of the Sahara. For instance, the Saharan gazelle, also known as the dorcas gazelle, has the ability to go without water for extended periods by consuming only moisture from the plants it feeds on. The gerbil, a small rodent that typically lives in underground burrows, has also adapted to the desert by creating complex networks of tunnels to escape predators and regulate its body temperature.

The deathstalker scorpion, on the other hand, has developed an impressive immune system that allows it to protect itself against the harsh environment and thrive on both water and scarce food sources. And then there's the iconic dromedary camel, which is known for its ability to store large amounts of water in its hump, allowing it to travel for days without drinking. All of these animals have managed to survive in the Sahara through their unique and resourceful adaptations.

As viewers observe these animals going about their daily lives, they will also be introduced to the other challenges they face. For example, they must constantly deal with the ever-shifting dunes in the desert, where the sand can reach a temperature of 149°F, which can be deadly to even the most adapted species. Desertification, a problem caused by human activity, is also highlighted in the episode. With increasing desertification, the Sahara is expanding, further threatening the already vulnerable animals who inhabit it.

In addition to the harsh natural conditions, the episode also introduces viewers to the hunters and artisans who have lived in the Sahara for generations. These groups have adapted to the Sahara in human ways, using hunting and farming techniques that have sustained them for centuries. The episode provides viewers with an insight into how these people survive in the midst of such an unforgiving environment, and how their lives are intertwined with the wildlife that they share the Sahara with.

Overall, "Sahara: Life on the Edge" is an insightful and inspiring episode that showcases the strength and resilience of the many species that call the Sahara home. It is a testament to the power of adaptation in the face of difficult circumstances, and shows how life can find a way even in the harshest of environments. Whether it's the camels trekking across the dunes, or the gerbils burrowing beneath them, this episode shows that life in the Sahara is thriving, even against the odds.