Ep 1. Outback Deserts

Wildest Places is an exhilarating nature documentary series that delves into some of the most remote and untouched locations on the planet. Within each episode, viewers are taken on an unforgettable journey as they explore the beauty, wonder, and mystery of different ecosystems around the world. In the first episode of the series, titled "Outback Deserts", viewers are introduced to the harsh and unforgiving landscape of the Australian Outback, one of the driest and most arid regions on earth.

The episode begins with breathtaking aerial shots of the outback, showcasing its vast expanses of red dirt and towering rock formations. As the camera zooms in closer to the ground, we see that life in this harsh environment is anything but easy. Hosted by the knowledgeable and enthusiastic Chris Packham, the show introduces us to a diverse range of plants and animals that have adapted to survive in this extreme environment.

One of the first creatures we encounter is the perentie, a large and powerful lizard that is capable of taking down prey larger than itself. The perentie is an apex predator in the outback, and its powerful jaws and sharp claws make it a fearsome sight to behold. Chris explains how the perentie has evolved over time to survive in this harsh environment, relying on its excellent vision and powerful sense of smell to detect prey over long distances.

Continuing our exploration, we meet another impressive creature that calls the outback home - the red kangaroo. As the largest marsupial in the world, the kangaroo has developed a range of unique adaptations that allow it to thrive in the arid environment. From its powerful legs that allow it to cover long distances in search of food and water, to its strong tail that serves as a fifth limb for balance and support, the kangaroo is a fascinating animal to watch in action.

As the episode progresses, viewers are introduced to a range of other species that have adapted to life in the outback, including the spinifex hopping mouse, the mulga snake, and the black-flanked rock wallaby. We learn about how each of these creatures has developed unique strategies for survival, from hiding in burrows to staying active at night when temperatures are cooler.

But it's not just animals that have learned to thrive in the outback - there is also a diverse range of plants that have adapted to the harsh and arid conditions. We learn about the spinifex grass, a hardy plant with roots that can stretch up to 30m in search of water, and the desert oak, a tree that can live for over 200 years and is capable of storing thousands of litres of water in its trunk.

Throughout the episode, Chris Packham provides fascinating insights into the different adaptations that allow species to survive in this challenging environment. He also discusses the importance of conservation efforts in preserving these delicate ecosystems and the need for responsible tourism that minimizes the impact on the environment.

Overall, "Outback Deserts" is a riveting start to the first season of Wildest Places. The stunning visuals, expert commentary, and captivating stories of survival in one of the harshest environments on earth are sure to leave viewers on the edge of their seats, eager to explore more of the world's wildest places.