Ep 1. Cuba: The Accidental Eden

Cuba: The Accidental Eden is a mesmerizing episode of the long-running nature documentary series “Nature” that takes viewers on a journey through the lush, vibrant landscape of Cuba, showcasing its wide variety of unique and often endangered species.

The episode begins by highlighting the surprising fact that, due to its decades-long isolation from the United States and the many modern technologies that come with it, Cuba has essentially become a haven for plant and animal life. Unable to keep up with modern farming and industrial practices, nature has been able to flourish in Cuba in ways that it has been unable to do in other parts of the world.

Over the course of the episode, viewers are taken on a tour of some of Cuba's most spectacular natural wonders, including the Zapata Swamp, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. There, we meet a cast of fascinating creatures that make their home in the swamp - from adorable Cuban crocodiles, to gorgeous flamingos, to some of the most unique bird species in the world.

We're also introduced to Cuba's coral reefs, which the episode points out are some of the healthiest in the world due to the country's lack of industry and pollution. The stunning underwater footage of neon-colored fish and vibrant coral formations is truly breathtaking.

Throughout the episode, we also get glimpses of the human impact on Cuba's environment, from poachers taking endangered species to sell on the black market, to farmers clearing land for crops. But despite these threats, Cuba remains a magical and beautiful place, filled with life and wonder.

Overall, Cuba: The Accidental Eden is a masterfully produced documentary that will have viewers entranced from start to finish. The episode is filled with stunning visuals that will transport you to a place you may never have imagined, and the insights into Cuba's unique ecosystem will leave you both fascinated and enlightened. Whether you're a longtime fan of nature documentaries or just looking for a captivating way to spend an hour, this episode of “Nature” is definitely not to be missed.