Watch Crimes Against Nature

Crimes Against Nature is a documentary series that first aired on National Geographic Wild in 2008. Over the course of six one-hour episodes, the series explores some of the most egregious crimes committed against wildlife and the natural world around us. From illegal poaching of endangered species to the destruction of habitats and ecosystems, the show shines a light on the many ways in which humans are harming the planet.

Each episode of Crimes Against Nature focuses on a different aspect of this ongoing crisis. The first episode, "Illegal Trade," explores the multi-billion dollar black market for animal parts and products, which drives much of the poaching and trafficking of endangered species around the world. From elephants and rhinos to tigers and pangolins, no species is safe from this illegal trade, which is fueled by demand for everything from ivory and rhino horn to traditional medicines and luxury fashion items.

The second episode, "Pollution," examines the many ways in which human activity is polluting our planet's air, water, and land. From oil spills and toxic waste dumps to air pollution and plastic waste in our oceans, the episode highlights the many ways in which we are poisoning the natural world around us. It also explores some of the efforts being made to combat these issues, from sustainable energy sources to innovative pollution-reduction technologies.

The third episode, "Habitat Destruction," focuses on the devastating impact of human development on natural habitats and ecosystems. From deforestation and urban sprawl to mining and industrial agriculture, human activity is rapidly destroying the places where many species live and thrive. The episode also looks at some of the innovative conservation programs being developed to preserve and restore these habitats, from reforestation efforts to "green roofs" and urban wildlife corridors.

The fourth episode, "Climate Change," explores the many ways in which global warming is affecting our planet, from rising sea levels and extreme weather events to the loss of biodiversity and the spread of diseases. It also looks at some of the ways in which individuals and communities are adapting to these changes, from renewable energy technologies to sea walls and sustainable farming practices.

The fifth episode, "Wildlife Trade," focuses specifically on the illegal trade in exotic pets and wildlife, which is a major driver of species decline and extinction. From smuggling rare songbirds and reptiles for the pet trade to capturing primates and big cats for circuses and zoos, the episode examines the many dangers and ethical issues surrounding the trade in live animals. It also highlights some of the rescue and rehabilitation programs working to protect and care for animals confiscated from these illegal operations.

The final episode, "Illegal Fishing," takes a closer look at the impact of overfishing and illegal fishing practices on our oceans and the creatures that live there. From destructive trawling methods to poaching and illegal harvesting of endangered species like sharks and sea turtles, the episode shows the many ways in which humans are harming our precious marine ecosystems. It also explores some of the sustainable fishing practices being developed to protect these resources for future generations.

Overall, Crimes Against Nature is a powerful and eye-opening series that exposes many of the ways in which human activity is driving the destruction of our planet and the flora and fauna that call it home. Through stunning visuals and in-depth interviews with experts, the show provides a compelling call to action for viewers to do their part in protecting and preserving the natural world around us.