Watch The Vanishing Prairie

The Vanishing Prairie is a 1954 American documentary film that takes a deep dive into the vast grasslands of the American Great Plains. The film is narrated by Winston Hibler, who guides the viewer through the different habitats and wildlife of the region. The movie opens with stunning vistas of the plains, showcasing its vast beauty and serenity. The narration starts by highlighting the need to preserve and conserve this untamed landscape, which is facing the threat of human intervention and development.

Throughout the film, Hibler introduces the viewer to the various inhabitants of the plains, including the coyote, pronghorn, prairie dog, badger, rattlesnake, and eagle. The film presents an in-depth look at their daily lives and their role in maintaining the ecological balance of the prairie.

The Vanishing Prairie also sheds light on the migratory patterns of various species, such as the Sandhill crane, who travels thousands of miles every year, in search of food and shelter. The film showcases the beauty and grace of these animals as they navigate through the vast plains.

The documentary also gives a glimpse into the challenges that these animals face on the prairie. For instance, the coyote, often considered a pest due to its threat to domestic animals, is actually an essential part of the ecosystem. The film captures a pack of coyotes as they hunt and survive in a hostile environment.

The Vanishing Prairie is also an eye-opening documentary that highlights the disastrous impact that humans have on the environment. The film shows how the exploitation of the natural resources of the prairie results in ecological imbalance, leading to the disappearance of many species.

The documentary encourages a need for conservation and preservation of the ecological system of the Great Plains. It also highlights the importance of preserving the cultural heritage of the native communities that have lived in harmony with nature for generations.

The film's cinematography is phenomenal, offering sweeping shots of undulating golden grasslands, rushing rivers, and expansive skies. The Vanishing Prairie also features some breathtaking time-lapse photography, showcasing the changing seasons of the plains.

The documentary is an insightful and humbling experience for the viewer, showcasing the beauty of the natural world and the importance of preserving it. The impact of the film was significant in American conservation, raising awareness of the need to preserve the natural resources of the country. It even won the Academy Awards for Best Documentary in 1954.

Overall, The Vanishing Prairie is a thought-provoking film that remains relevant even 70 years after its release. Its message of conservation and preservation of natural resources is as important now as it was then. The film is a must-watch for anyone interested in environmental conservation or wanting a peek into the stunning beauty of the Great Plains.

The Vanishing Prairie is a 1954 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 11 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.2.