Xploration Weird but True Season 1 Episode 6 Animal Headgear
- October 15, 2016
Xploration Weird but True season 1 episode 6 explores the bizarre world of animal headgear. Hosts Charlie and Kirby delve into the fascinating and sometimes strange ways that animals adorn themselves for various reasons. From the impressive antlers of a moose to the colorful plumage of a peacock, each animal has its own unique way of impressing potential mates, defending itself from predators, and communicating with others.
The episode begins with a look at some of the most iconic examples of animal headgear, including the horns of a bull and the tusks of an elephant. Charlie and Kirby explain how these structures are formed and what purposes they serve in the animal kingdom. They also compare these impressive appendages to some of the more unusual examples of animal headgear that they will be exploring throughout the episode.
Next, the hosts take us to the African savannah, where they meet a gazelle with impressively long horns. They explain how these horns are used by males to attract females and to battle for dominance within the herd. They also introduce us to some other African animals with unique head adornments, including the giraffe and the impala.
Moving on from Africa, Charlie and Kirby take us to the rainforest, where they encounter a variety of animals with interesting headgear. They meet a male bird of paradise, known for its intricate and colorful head feathers, which it uses to attract females during mating season. They also encounter several species of monkey with elaborate head crests and tufts, used for both communication and as a means of intimidating rivals.
The episode also features an in-depth look at the impressive antlers of the moose. Charlie and Kirby explain how these structures are formed and how they are shed and regrown each year. They also explore the many ways that moose use their antlers, including for fighting off predators and for attracting mates.
Another fascinating example of animal headgear is the proboscis of the elephant seal. Charlie and Kirby take us to a beach in California where we can watch these massive creatures battling for dominance on the sand. They explain how the large, inflatable noses of male elephant seals are used as a display of strength and dominance during mating season.
The episode wraps up with a look at some of the more surprising examples of animal headgear, including the nose-horn of the rhinoceros, the snail’s “eye stalks,” and the horned lizard’s fringed head. Charlie and Kirby explain how each of these structures is adapted to fit its unique purpose in the animal’s environment.
Overall, Xploration Weird but True season 1 episode 6 is a fascinating look at the many different ways that animals have evolved to protect, impress, and communicate with each other through their unique headgear. The hosts do an excellent job of explaining the science behind each of these structures while showcasing the beauty and diversity of the animal kingdom.
