Ep 13. Supreme Survivors
- February 16, 2018
In season 7, episode 13 of Jack Hanna's Wild Countdown, titled "Supreme Survivors," viewers are taken on a journey through the animal kingdom to discover some of the most resilient and enduring species. Jack Hanna, a renowned wildlife expert and zookeeper, shares fascinating facts about various animals and showcases their incredible adaptations for survival in different environments.
The episode begins with a bird that has managed to thrive in one of the harshest environments on Earth: the desert. Viewers are introduced to the roadrunner, a small bird with long legs that can run up to 20 miles per hour. Jack explains how the roadrunner's unique physiology allows it to evade predators and find food in an extreme desert environment where temperatures can soar to over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Next, viewers are taken to the ocean to discover an animal that has evolved to survive in one of the most dangerous environments on Earth: the high seas. Jack introduces the giant squid, a deep-sea creature that can grow up to 43 feet long and has the ability to change color to evade predators. Viewers learn about the giant squid's incredible hunting methods and how it has managed to remain one of the ocean's supreme survivors for millions of years.
Moving on from the ocean, Jack takes viewers to the mountains to showcase a species that has adapted to survive in freezing temperatures and high altitudes. Viewers are introduced to the mountain goat, an animal with sharp hooves that can climb steep cliffs and traverse rocky terrain with ease. Jack explains how the mountain goat's thick fur and specialized digestive system allow it to survive in environments where food is scarce and the weather is unforgiving.
The episode then shifts focus to the rainforest, where viewers will discover a group of animals that have adapted to survive in one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on Earth. Jack introduces the poison dart frog, a small and brightly-colored amphibian that has developed toxin glands as a defense mechanism. Viewers learn how the poison dart frog's bright colors serve as a warning to predators and how the frog's toxic secretions have been used by indigenous tribes for centuries.
Continuing on the theme of survival in the rainforest, viewers are taken to meet another fascinating creature: the sloth. Jack explains how the sloth's slow-moving, tree-dwelling lifestyle has enabled it to survive in an environment with numerous predators. Viewers learn about the sloth's unique adaptations for gripping tree branches and how its slow metabolism helps it conserve energy.
Finally, the episode ends with a visit to the African savannah, where viewers are introduced to the king of the jungle: the lion. Jack explains how lions have managed to survive as apex predators for thousands of years and shares fascinating facts about their social structure and hunting tactics. Viewers will be amazed by the strength and resilience of these incredible animals, which have become the embodiment of survival and strength in the animal kingdom.
Overall, season 7, episode 13 of Jack Hanna's Wild Countdown is a fascinating and educational exploration of some of the most resilient and enduring species on Earth. With Jack's engaging and informative commentary, viewers will gain a newfound appreciation for these incredible creatures and the incredible adaptations that have enabled them to survive and thrive in their environments.
