Ep 10. Arctic Hunters of Norway

What on Earth? season 12 episode 10 takes a look at the Arctic hunters of Norway. With a population of over 2,500 polar bears, Norway's Svalbard Islands are one of the most dangerous places on Earth. The episode showcases how this frozen archipelago is home to species that can only survive in such harsh environments, including Arctic foxes, walruses, and reindeer.

The episode features breathtaking aerial footage as the team follows the trail of polar bears across the coastal tundra, highlighting how these predators depend on hunting seals for their survival. The team also explores the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, an important facility that stores seeds from around the world, with the aim of preserving global crop diversity in the face of climate change, natural disasters, and other threats.

Additionally, the team investigates how the frozen waters of Svalbard are home to some of the richest fishing grounds in the world, with catches of cod and other fish vital to the diet of both humans and wildlife. The episode shows how the fishing industry has developed in the area and the challenges faced by those who make their living from the sea, including the impact of climate change and unpredictable weather patterns.

Finally, the episode discusses how the Svalbard Islands are at the forefront of research into the effects of climate change on our planet. The episode takes a look at the international scientific community that has made the islands their base for studying everything from the Northern Lights to the changing Arctic sea ice. The team delves into how some of the world's leading scientists work to understand how Arctic environments are changing and what this means for our planet.

Overall, What on Earth? season 12 episode 10 provides a fascinating insight into one of the harshest, most unforgiving environments on the planet. The episode showcases the natural wonders of Svalbard and the remarkable human activities that take place there all year round. The team highlights how survival in such a unique environment is a constant struggle that requires adaptations and ingenuity, all the while being at the mercy of the weather and changing ecosystems.