Ep 11. Mammoths of the Ice Age

The NOVA season 22 episode 11 titled "Mammoths of the Ice Age" is an insightful documentary that explores the mysteries surrounding the giant creatures that lived during the last Ice Age. The episode follows a team of scientists, archaeologists, and paleontologists as they delve into the fascinating world of mammoths and their remarkable adaptations to the harsh environment.

The show starts by giving a brief history of mammoths, their evolution from the first mammoths that appeared around 5 million years ago to the last surviving woolly mammoths that disappeared only 4000 years ago. The episode then moves on to explore the rich variety of mammoth species that existed during the ice age, including the Columbian mammoth, the Imperial mammoth, and the Pygmy mammoth.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the show is its focus on the adaptations that mammoths developed to survive in the harsh and ever-changing ice age environment. The scientists reveal how the mammoths' thick skin and shaggy hair allowed them to withstand the cold and wind. They also show how the mammoths' enormous size put them at an advantage over smaller animals and allowed them to carve out a niche in the hostile environment.

The episode also explores the interaction between mammoths and humans during the ice age period. The scientists reveal how humans hunted mammoths for food, and how cave paintings depict both the mammoths and the tools used to hunt them. The show also investigates some of the more mysterious aspects of mammoth extinction, including the possibility of human hunting, climate change, and disease.

One of the highlights of the show is the cutting-edge science and research that is being done on mammoths today. The show introduces viewers to the work of leading researchers who are extracting DNA from mammoth remains, attempting to clone mammoths, and even studying their behavior using computer simulations.

Throughout the episode, NOVA utilizes stunning cinematography to showcase the beautiful ice landscapes where mammoths once roamed. The camerawork is particularly impressive when the scientists investigate different mammoth remains, showcasing all the little details that make each mammoth species unique.

Overall, NOVA season 22 episode 11 is an engaging and informative documentary that explores the world of mammoths and sheds light on some of the mysteries surrounding these majestic creatures. The show uses the latest science and research to paint a fascinating picture of a vanished era and a species that once dominated the ice age landscape.