Ep 6. Saving Africa's Giants with Yao Ming

In this episode of Animal Planet Presents, we follow former NBA star Yao Ming on his journey to help save Africa's giants. Ming is an ambassador for the conservation organization WildAid, which focuses on ending the illegal wildlife trade and protecting endangered species.

Ming's first stop is Kenya, where he visits the Ol Pejeta Conservancy to meet Sudan, the last male northern white rhinoceros on the planet. Sudan is protected by armed guards 24/7 due to the high demand for rhino horn on the black market. Ming learns about the conservancy's efforts to save the species through in vitro fertilization and surrogacy, and also meets a survivor of a rhino poaching attack.

Next, Ming travels to Tanzania to visit the Serengeti Elephant Project, which studies elephant behavior and the impact of human activity on their habitat. He meets with renowned elephant behavior expert Dr. Joyce Poole, who has been studying the species for over 40 years. Ming also learns about the devastating effects of elephant poaching for their ivory tusks, which has caused a significant decline in elephant populations.

Ming's final destination is South Africa, where he witnesses the problem of lion bone trade. Despite the international ban on the lion bone trade, South Africa is still a major exporter due to legal loopholes. Lions are bred in captivity and then killed for their bones, which are used in traditional Chinese medicine. Ming meets with activists trying to end the trade and also learns about the impact of habitat loss on lion populations.

Throughout the episode, Ming emphasizes the importance of conservation education and community involvement in protecting Africa's giants. He also speaks about the cultural differences that contribute to the demand for wildlife products and the need for a global effort to end the illegal trade.

Overall, Saving Africa's Giants with Yao Ming sheds light on the urgent need to protect endangered species and the complex challenges facing conservation efforts. The episode highlights the work of dedicated individuals and organizations and provides hope for the future of Africa's iconic animals.