Ep 6. Strangled

In Animal Armageddon season 1 episode 6, titled Strangled, viewers are taken on a journey through time to explore how various animal species have dealt with sudden, catastrophic events throughout history. The focus of this particular episode is on how animals have survived and adapted in the face of changing atmospheric conditions, such as those caused by volcanic eruptions.

The episode begins by introducing viewers to an ancient species of horse known as the hyracotherium, which roamed the Earth over 50 million years ago during a time when the planet was significantly warmer than it is today. As the Earth's climate began to cool and atmospheric levels of carbon dioxide decreased, the hyracotherium was forced to adapt or die. Some populations evolved into larger, more robust creatures better equipped to withstand the changing climate, while others retreated to warmer regions of the globe in search of food and shelter.

Next, viewers are introduced to a massive volcanic eruption that occurred around 30 million years ago in what is now the American West. This event triggered a rapid cooling period that lasted for millions of years, which had a significant impact on the survival of many animal species. For example, the once-common brontothere, which resembled a large rhinoceros, was unable to adapt its metabolism to the colder temperatures and eventually went extinct.

The episode then fast-forwards to a more recent volcanic eruption that took place in the late 18th century on the island of Iceland. This event, while not as catastrophic as some of the others discussed in the episode, still had a profound impact on the local bird population. Many species, such as puffins and guillemots, were able to adapt by altering their diets to include marine life that had been pushed closer to shore by the volcanic activity. However, other bird species, like razorbills, were not as successful and suffered massive die-offs as a result.

Ultimately, the episode serves as a reminder of how fragile the natural world can be and how even seemingly small changes in our environment can have profound impacts on the survival of various animal species. It also highlights the resilience of certain animals that are able to adapt to these changes and continue to thrive in the face of adversity.

As with other episodes in the series, Strangled is both informative and entertaining, delivering a fascinating look at how various species of animals have dealt with some of the most dramatic changes in the Earth's history. Whether you're a nature lover or simply someone interested in learning more about the world around you, this episode is a must-see.