Ep 19. Blue Whale: Largest Animal On Earth

The episode "Blue Whale: Largest Animal On Earth" from season 1 of World of Discovery takes viewers on a journey to explore one of nature's most fascinating creatures - the blue whale. Hosted by David Suzuki, this episode provides a comprehensive look at the world's largest mammal and the amazing life it leads beneath the ocean's surface.

The episode begins with a breathtaking aerial shot of a blue whale swimming in the open ocean. This sets the tone for the rest of the show, which is filled with stunning footage of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Suzuki explains that blue whales can grow up to 100 feet long and weigh as much as 200 tons, making them larger than any dinosaur that ever lived. Despite their massive size, however, much of the blue whale's life remains a mystery.

Viewers are taken along on a journey to observe these creatures in the wild. We see a team of researchers tracking a pod of blue whales in their boat, attempting to gather as much information as possible about their behavior and physiology. They use underwater microphones to record the calls of the whales, which can be used to identify individuals and track their movements.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the blue whale's biology is its unique vocalizations. In the episode, we hear these haunting calls, which can travel for hundreds of miles through the ocean. These calls are used by the whales to communicate with each other, and researchers have even identified distinct dialects that vary from region to region.

Another intriguing aspect of the blue whale's behavior is its feeding habits. We see footage of a blue whale opening its massive jaws and engulfing a school of small fish in one gulp. But how do they sustain a diet that requires so much energy? It turns out that blue whales are able to consume enormous amounts of krill, tiny shrimp-like organisms that live in massive swarms in the ocean. The episode explains how blue whales use a unique method of feeding called "lunge feeding," in which they swim through these swarms with their mouths open, taking in as much krill as possible in a single gulp.

As the episode progresses, we learn more about the challenges facing blue whales in the modern world. Large-scale commercial whaling in the 20th century decimated their populations, and while hunting them has since been banned, other factors such as ocean pollution and climate change continue to threaten their survival. The show highlights efforts by conservationists to protect these animals and their habitats, including measures such as marine sanctuaries and restrictions on shipping lanes.

Overall, "Blue Whale: Largest Animal On Earth" offers a captivating look at one of nature's most awe-inspiring creatures. With stunning footage, informative narration, and a strong message of conservation, this episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the wonders of the natural world.