Ep 5. Mystery of the Squirmy Wormy

The Wild Kratts team sets out on yet another adventure in season 1 episode 5, entitled "Mystery of the Squirmy Wormy." In this installment, brothers Martin and Chris Kratt delve into the world of earthworms as they attempt to discover just why these squirmy creatures are so important to the planet.

The episode begins with Chris and Martin having a picnic in the woods when they are approached by a friendly, young park ranger named Erin. She asks them if they know anything about earthworms and the ways in which they can benefit the ecosystem. The Kratt brothers admit they don't, but they're eager to learn. It turns out that earthworms are essential to the soil, helping to break down dead plant material and aerate the ground. They also leave behind worm castings, which are rich in nutrients and can help plants grow.

After this brief introduction to earthworms, Chris and Martin suit up in their creature power suits and venture underground to get a closer look at these soil-dwelling creatures. They start by meeting a family of friendly earthworms who show them around their underground home. The Kratt brothers are stunned to find out that earthworms are actually more complex creatures than they thought, with intuitive responses to their environment and an ability to read chemical signals.

Through further exploration, the Kratt brothers come across some other creatures that live in the soil, including a mole and a baby garter snake. They learn that these animals, along with the earthworms, play a crucial role in keeping the soil healthy and full of nutrients.

While Chris and Martin are conducting their research underground, their team back up on the surface is getting antsy. Aviva, Koki, and Jimmy Z. are all worried about the Kratt brothers and want to know what's going on down there. They decide it's time to investigate and take matters into their own hands by venturing into the soil themselves.

Meanwhile, back in the trenches, Martin and Chris discover that not all worms are created equal. They encounter a group of invasive worms who are causing havoc in the soil. The Kratt brothers work together to find a solution to these pesky creatures before they cause any more damage.

In the end, the team reunites on the surface and reflects on all they've learned about earthworms. The Kratt brothers realize that earthworms are true superheroes of the soil, playing a vital role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem. They wrap up their adventure by reminding the audience that with a little knowledge and respect for the natural world, we can all work together to protect the creatures and habitats that make up our planet.

"Mystery of the Squirmy Wormy" is a fascinating glimpse into the world of earthworms, teaching viewers about the crucial role they play in maintaining a healthy ecosystem. With engaging characters, fun adventures, and plenty of educational content, Wild Kratts season 1 episode 5 is a must-see for anyone interested in the natural world.