Ep 9. Wolverine King

Expedition Wild season 1 episode 9, titled "Wolverine King," follows wildlife biologist Casey Anderson as he embarks on a journey to uncover the secrets of the notoriously elusive wolverine.

The episode begins with Anderson describing the wolverine as "the toughest animal in North America." Known for their ferocity, intelligence, and agility, wolverines are expert survivalists who thrive in some of the harshest conditions on earth. Anderson is determined to learn more about these resilient creatures, but tracking them down is no easy feat.

With the help of his trusty sidekick Brutus - a 900-pound grizzly bear - Anderson sets out into the rugged wilderness of Montana's Glacier National Park. Their mission is to locate a wolverine den and observe the mother wolverine and her kits in their natural habitat.

As Anderson and Brutus trek through the snowy terrain, they encounter a number of other animals, including elk, bighorn sheep, and even a pack of wolves. Although these creatures are no match for Brutus, they serve as a reminder of the challenges that wolverines face in the wild.

Eventually, Anderson and Brutus come across a wolverine den nestled in a rocky crevice. They approach cautiously, hoping to observe the mother wolverine and her kits without disturbing them. As they watch from a safe distance, they witness the mother wolverine emerge from the den and go on a hunt for food.

Anderson is amazed by the wolverine's incredible hunting skills. Despite their small size, wolverines are expert predators who can take down animals much larger than themselves. Anderson notes that wolverines possess an incredible strength-to-weight ratio, allowing them to carry prey that is several times their own size.

As the episode progresses, Anderson continues to observe the wolverine family from a safe distance. He notes that the mother wolverine is fiercely protective of her young, and will stop at nothing to defend them from predators.

Anderson also observes the wolverines' behavior in different seasons. He notes that in the winter, when food is scarce, wolverines resort to scavenging and stealing from other animals. In the summer, by contrast, they are able to hunt for themselves and store food for the winter ahead.

Throughout the episode, Anderson shares fascinating facts about wolverine biology and behavior. He notes that wolverines are incredibly adaptable creatures, able to survive in a wide range of habitats and conditions. He also explains that wolverines are one of the most important indicators of a healthy ecosystem. Because they are at the top of the food chain, their presence indicates a thriving population of other animals, from prey species to predators.

By the end of the episode, Anderson and Brutus have gathered a wealth of knowledge about wolverines and their unique place in the natural world. They depart Glacier National Park with a newfound appreciation for these tough and resilient creatures, and a renewed commitment to protecting them and their habitat.