0:03 Ferocious wildfires consume millions of
0:06 hectares of land. Relentless droughts
0:08 choke the
0:10 rivers. Yet amid this unforgiving
0:13 landscape, some of the most bizarre and
0:16 formidable predators fight for survival
0:18 every
0:20 second.
0:22 Australia, a land where nature has
0:25 forged the world's most fearsome
0:28 hunters. Where the largest reptile lies
0:30 motionless beneath the river's surface,
0:33 waiting for the perfect moment to
0:34 strike. Where silent serpents glide
0:37 through the grass, carrying the most
0:39 potent venom on Earth. But they are not
0:42 the true rulers of this harsh continent.
0:45 Before we dive into the even more
0:47 formidable creatures that call this
0:49 place home, let us know where you're
0:51 from in the comments.
1:25 Welcome to wild Australia, the continent
1:29 of the strangest predators.
1:32 [Music]
1:39 The sun burns red over the eucalyptus
1:41 forests where wildfires still smolder
1:44 beneath layers of ash. Heat rises from
1:47 the cracked earth while in the distance
1:49 a lone dingo silently watches its prey.
1:53 It is Australia's dominant land predator
1:56 now. But that was not always the case.
2:05 [Music]
2:09 30,000 years ago, the marsupial lion
2:12 terrorized this continent. A fearsome
2:15 pouched predator with an incredible bite
2:17 force. But it has long since vanished.
2:20 Now, this unforgiving land is witnessing
2:23 a new wave of extinctions. In just three
2:26 centuries, over 100 endemic species have
2:30 disappeared.
2:32 Forests are shrinking. Wildfires rage
2:35 with greater intensity. And invasive
2:37 species are disrupting the delicate
2:39 balance of
2:47 nature. Feral cats move like shadows,
2:51 hunting tiny bilbees with razor sharp
2:53 claws.
2:58 Red foxes brought from Europe stalk the
3:01 legendary night parrot. A species
3:03 already teetering on the edge of
3:09 existence. A world where outsiders
3:11 replace the natives. Where nature is
3:14 reshaped by human
3:17 hands. Yet even amid destruction,
3:20 Australia's native creatures fight
3:22 relentlessly to survive. Unlike other
3:25 continents where apex predators like
3:28 tigers and bears rule through sheer
3:30 power, Australia has taken a different
3:32 evolutionary path. Here, survival
3:35 belongs to those who rely on strategy
3:38 and adaptation rather than brute
3:49 strength.
4:09 Heat.
4:14 Heat.
4:15 [Music]
4:30 [Music]
4:34 Here every species is uniquely designed
4:37 to thrive in a world of extremes. There
4:40 is no need for giant beasts. This land
4:43 remains a stage for some of the
4:44 strangest and most formidable predators
4:47 on
4:53 Earth. Australia, a vast and solitary
4:57 continent, stretches across the open
4:59 ocean isolated from the rest of the
5:02 world for millions of years. Covering an
5:05 area of 7.68 68 million km. Australia is
5:10 the smallest continent on Earth. Yet, it
5:13 is also the sixth largest country by
5:15 land area. Its coastline extends over
5:19 35,877 km, embracing towering cliffs,
5:23 sprawling coral reefs, and vast
5:26 wetlands. Offshore, Australia's
5:29 exclusive economic zone spans
5:31 8.148 million square kilm, reaching into
5:35 the deep waters of the Indian and
5:37 Pacific
5:43 oceans. From above, Australia unfolds
5:46 into three distinct geographical
5:49 regions. To the west lies a vast plateau
5:52 of ancient rock formations where the sun
5:55 bakes the earth to over 40° C in the
5:58 height of
6:01 summer. At the continent's center
6:04 stretches a low-lying arid expanse
6:06 dominated by endless deserts where
6:08 towering sand dunes ripple like frozen
6:11 waves. To the east, the great dividing
6:14 range runs along the coastline, giving
6:16 rise to lush tropical rainforests, cool
6:19 highlands, and winding rivers that weave
6:22 their way toward the
6:26 ocean. Millions of years ago, Australia
6:29 was not the isolated land mass it is
6:32 today. In the distant past, it was once
6:34 part of Rodinia, an ancient superc
6:37 continent that formed around 1.1 billion
6:40 years ago. As Rodinia broke apart,
6:43 tectonic plates drifted, collided, and
6:46 merged once more. Eventually, they
6:49 formed Gonduana, a vast land mass that
6:52 connected Antarctica, South America,
6:55 Africa, India, Madagascar, and
6:58 Australia.
7:12 The terrain of this continent was
7:14 reshaped until around 4,600 years ago.
7:18 The last volcanoes on the eastern
7:20 mainland were still active. And even
7:22 today, on distant islands such as Herd
7:25 and Macdonald, molten lava continues to
7:27 flow silently beneath the ocean
7:31 floor. Australia's geological system
7:34 reflects its history spanning billions
7:36 of years. Its continental crust was
7:39 formed through three major tectonic
7:42 cycles from the ancient cratons in the
7:44 west to the younger mountain ranges in
7:46 the
7:50 east. The oldest rocks in Western
7:52 Australia date back more than 3.7
7:55 billion years lying undisturbed beneath
7:58 the fiery red terrain of the
8:00 Pilburraton.
8:03 Farther south in Jack Hills, the oldest
8:06 zirkan crystals on Earth have been
8:08 discovered, dating back 4.4 billion
8:11 years, nearly as old as the planet
8:13 itself. These ancient rocks are remnants
8:16 from Earth's earliest days when the
8:18 planet was newly formed and covered by
8:20 primordial oceans.
8:23 [Music]
8:34 This isolation has given rise to one of
8:36 the most unique ecosystems in the world.
8:39 More than 87% of mammals, 93% of
8:43 reptiles, 94% of amphibians, and 45% of
8:47 birds on this continent are endemic
8:50 species.
8:55 These creatures have evolved to survive
8:57 in an unforgiving environment where
8:59 water is scarce, temperatures fluctuate
9:02 drastically, and food sources are not
9:04 always abundant.
9:13 [Music]
9:14 [Applause]
9:18 [Music]
9:29 In the vast grasslands and savylvanas
9:31 stretching under the relentless sun, the
9:34 cracked earth waits for unpredictable
9:36 rains. Herds of marsupials migrate in
9:39 search of water. Scorching winds carry
9:42 the red dust of the continent. This is a
9:45 world in constant motion. Summer here is
9:48 unforgiving. Daytime temperatures can
9:50 soar to 45° C, and the ground becomes so
9:54 hot it can sear footprints into the
9:57 [Music]
10:02 sand. Annual rainfall averages between
10:05 250 to 500 mm, but it is unevenly
10:09 distributed. Some regions may endure
10:12 months without a single drop of rain.
10:14 Others experience sudden downpours,
10:17 transforming barren plains into fertile
10:19 landscapes within days. The soil here is
10:22 nutrient poor and struggles to retain
10:25 moisture. Plants have adapted by
10:27 developing deep roots to access water
10:29 from lower soil layers or evolving small
10:32 leaves to minimize water loss.
10:35 [Music]
10:46 Amid this harsh landscape in
10:48 southeastern Australia, towering
10:50 eucalyptus trees reach skyward against
10:52 the deep blue expanse. These forests
10:56 stretch from Victoria and New South
10:58 Wales to Tasmania, covering nearly 77%
11:01 of the continent's total forested area.
11:08 Winding trails cut through the forest,
11:10 offering a gateway to the world of
11:12 eucalyptus forests. Long hiking tours
11:15 take visitors beneath the cool shade of
11:18 the canopy, where bird song fills the
11:20 air, wildlife tracks weave through the
11:22 undergrowth, and nature's grandeur
11:25 unfolds at every turn. Some trails lead
11:28 to hidden waterfalls deep within the
11:30 forest where cool streams cascade down
11:33 from the highlands, forming crystalclear
11:36 pools. These are ideal resting spots to
11:39 observe the rich biodiversity. From
11:42 brightly colored birds to reptiles
11:44 concealed beneath fallen
11:52 leaves. In the shade of the towering
11:54 eucalyptus trees, the howl of a dingo
11:57 echoes through the stillness. Other pack
12:00 members respond with shorter calls,
12:03 confirming their locations before the
12:05 hunt
12:06 begins.
12:08 Over 8,300 years ago, the ancestors of
12:12 the dingo followed humans migrating from
12:15 Asia to this
12:24 land. But unlike other domestic dogs,
12:27 the dingo was never fully tamed. It
12:30 became a wild predator, developing its
12:32 own survival instincts and rising to the
12:35 top of Australia's food
12:38 chain. As strategic hunters, dingoes
12:41 work together to take down larger prey.
12:44 They use coordinated tactics to trap
12:46 their target, cutting off all escape
12:48 routes.
13:13 In livestock regions, dingoes are not
13:15 seen as nature's guardians, but as a
13:18 threat. To protect cattle and sheep, the
13:20 dingo fence was built in the late 19th
13:23 century, stretching over 5,600 km,
13:27 making it the longest fence in the
13:29 world. This barrier cut off dingoes from
13:32 vast eastern lands, altering ecosystems
13:34 on both sides. Some dingo packs have
13:38 survived and adapted by hunting smaller
13:40 prey, expanding their territories,
13:42 learning to evade traps, and finding
13:45 food more efficiently. Some individuals
13:48 have even learned to leap over lower
13:50 sections of the fence or dig through
13:52 gaps, continuing their journey as the
13:55 continent's apex predator. If dingoes
13:58 are not native to Australia, do you
14:00 think they should still be protected as
14:02 part of the ecosystem?
14:07 In spring, as the first rains awaken the
14:10 forests after the dry season, the
14:12 eucalyptus forests become the stage for
14:15 nature's most breathtaking
14:24 performances. The wedge-tailed eagle,
14:27 Australia's largest eagle, circles high
14:29 above, using its razor sharp vision to
14:32 scan the ground below.
14:39 With eyesight capable of spotting prey
14:42 from over 1 kilometer away, it tracks
14:44 the movements of walabes, rabbits, and
14:47 young kangaroos that have strayed from
14:49 their groups. Within seconds, a
14:52 high-speed dive begins. Its powerful
14:55 talons locking onto prey with a grip
14:58 strong enough to secure it upon
15:03 landing. When facing larger prey such as
15:06 adult kangaroos, these eagles do not
15:09 hunt alone. A pair of wedge-tailed
15:12 eagles will coordinate their attack. One
15:15 pursues and drives the target toward the
15:17 other, where a precisely timed strike
15:19 ends the chase. Their success rate in
15:22 open grasslands reaches
15:24 67%, an impressive figure in the world
15:27 of predators.
15:29 [Music]
15:40 Off the coast of Queensland near
15:42 Townsville, Magnetic Island rises from
15:44 the sea like an ecological paradise.
15:48 Covered in ancient granite formations,
15:50 this island is part of the tropical dry
15:52 forests of northeastern Australia. Here,
15:56 pristine eucalyptus woodlands blend
15:58 seamlessly with untouched coastlines,
16:01 creating a unique habitat where wildlife
16:04 has perfectly adapted to the harsh
16:07 climate. Trails like Fort's Walk lead
16:10 visitors through dense eucalyptus
16:12 forests, climbing up rugged cliffs to
16:14 panoramic views over the vast coral sea.
16:17 Horseshoe Bay, Radical Bay, and Florence
16:20 Bay are standout destinations.
16:23 These are places where visitors can
16:25 immerse themselves in crystal clearar
16:27 waters, snorkel among coral reefs, or
16:30 simply relax in the tranquil embrace of
16:34 [Music]
16:38 nature. The eucalyptus trees on the
16:41 island are more than just part of the
16:43 landscape. They are the lifeline for one
16:45 of Australia's last wild koala
16:48 populations.
16:49 [Music]
16:52 High among the branches, nestled within
16:55 the deep green canopy, koalas cling to
16:58 tree trunks, slowly nibbling on
17:00 eucalyptus leaves, a diet rich in fiber
17:03 but low in
17:06 nutrients. Magnetic Island is home to
17:08 one of the last remaining wild koala
17:10 populations in
17:13 [Music]
17:17 Australia. Over 30 million years ago,
17:20 the common ancestor of koalas and
17:22 wombats appeared on the Australian
17:25 continent. As eucalyptus forests spread
17:28 across the eastern regions, this
17:30 marsupial evolved to thrive on a
17:32 uniquely specialized diet. Eucalyptus
17:36 leaves, which are nearly indigestible to
17:38 most animals, became the primary food
17:40 source for koalas. Their digestive
17:43 system developed an enlarged seeum
17:46 filled with bacteria that helped break
17:48 down toxic compounds in the
17:50 [Music]
17:53 leaves. Gradually, this tree dwelling
17:56 marsupial adapted to life high in the
17:58 canopy, avoiding ground predators and
18:01 leading an isolated existence among the
18:03 treetops.
18:05 Today, koalas are primarily found along
18:08 eastern and southeastern Australia from
18:10 Queensland to Victoria, but their
18:12 numbers are declining
18:14 [Music]
18:16 rapidly. According to the Australian
18:19 Koala Foundation, the national koala
18:21 population was estimated to be between
18:24 32,000 and 58,000 in 2021, a significant
18:29 drop from over 80,000 in 2018.
18:33 Climate change, wildfires, and habitat
18:36 loss due to urbanization have greatly
18:38 reduced their traditional
18:40 habitats. On the mainland, deforestation
18:43 for agriculture and infrastructure has
18:46 fragmented their forests, isolating
18:48 koalas in small, scattered woodlands and
18:51 cutting off their natural movement
18:56 corridors. Koalas play a vital role in
18:59 the eucalyptus forests. By feeding on
19:01 the leaves, they help regulate tree
19:04 growth and support the natural
19:05 regeneration of the forest. However,
19:08 with their numbers dwindling, the entire
19:11 ecosystem faces concerning changes. A
19:14 decline in koala populations could
19:16 disrupt the food chain, affecting the
19:19 growth of both plants and animals that
19:21 rely on the same habitat. On Magnetic
19:24 Island, conservation programs are
19:26 underway to protect the remaining koala
19:28 population. Green corridors have been
19:31 established, allowing koalas to move
19:33 safely away from roads and urban areas.
19:37 Wildlife rescue groups actively treat
19:39 injured koalas, particularly those
19:41 affected by wildfires or diseases such
19:44 as chlamydia, a common infection that
19:47 can cause infertility, and reduce
19:49 reproductive rates. Additionally,
19:52 community education programs are raising
19:54 awareness about the importance of
19:56 protecting this iconic species.
20:00 [Music]
20:05 Back on the mainland, the western
20:07 grasslands stretch from the coast of
20:09 Western Australia deep into the
20:11 interior. Unlike the lush, temperate
20:14 grasslands, this region holds a raw,
20:16 untamed beauty, where ecosystems have
20:19 adapted to semi-arid conditions and
20:22 prolonged droughts under their own
20:24 unique set of rules. Along the winding
20:27 trails, visitors can walk through a
20:29 landscape of low-lying grasses and hardy
20:32 [Music]
20:35 shrubs. Here, wildlife observation areas
20:38 offer the perfect vantage point to
20:40 witness a wedge-tailed eagle soaring
20:42 overhead or a walabe bounding across the
20:45 open
20:50 fields. Amid the untouched wilderness,
20:53 the parent lies still in the shade of
20:56 sunscched rocks, blending seamlessly
20:58 with the sandy
21:01 terrain. This is the largest lizard on
21:04 the continent, reaching up to 2.5 m in
21:07 length and weighing around 20 kg. During
21:11 the harsh summer months when ground
21:13 temperatures soar beyond 50° C, the
21:16 parent seeks refuge in deep burrows to
21:19 escape the intense
21:21 [Music]
21:23 heat. These burrows not only help
21:26 regulate their body temperature, but
21:28 also serve as safe havens from airborne
21:31 predators such as raptors scanning the
21:33 land from above.
21:37 The parent is one of the apex predators
21:40 of these vast grasslands. When an
21:42 unsuspecting rabbit or bilbye crosses
21:44 its path, the hunt is over in an
21:47 instant. It can reach speeds of 40
21:50 kmh, fast enough to chase down small
21:53 prey or escape from threats. Its mild
21:56 venom is powerful enough to weaken its
21:58 prey before delivering the final blow.
22:03 [Music]
22:12 The hot inland winds sweep across the
22:15 vast grasslands of the Gulf Savannah,
22:17 stretching from Northern Queensland to
22:20 Australia's Northern Territory. This
22:22 land, once part of a massive coral reef
22:25 over 400 million years ago, is now one
22:28 of the continent's most pristine savas.
22:31 The dry earth, low-lying grasses, and
22:34 scattered shrubs form a distinctive
22:36 semi-arid
22:40 ecosystem. And imagine you're walking in
22:42 a rainforest and suddenly a creature
22:45 almost 2 m tall stands before you. What
22:48 is it? The answer is kangaroo, the
22:51 iconic animal of Australia.
22:57 They are the only group of mammals in
22:59 the world that use hopping as their
23:01 primary form of
23:03 movement. Over 20 million years ago, the
23:06 ancestors of kangaroos lived in dense
23:08 forests. But as Australia's climate
23:11 became drier, forests gave way to
23:14 grasslands and
23:17 savas. Kangaroos evolved to adapt to
23:20 this new terrain. Instead of walking on
23:22 all fours like other marsupials, they
23:25 developed powerful hind legs and a long
23:27 tail for balance, allowing them to move
23:30 by hopping. This is a more
23:32 energyefficient method compared to
23:34 running across arid
23:36 [Music]
23:40 landscapes. Three major kangaroo species
23:43 share the Gulf savannah. The eastern
23:45 grey kangaroo is the most common. Agile
23:48 and lightweight, they live in large
23:50 groups and are most active at dawn and
23:52 dusk, avoiding the heat of the
23:57 day. The western gray kangaroo is
23:59 slightly smaller, has a darker brown
24:02 coat, and is more commonly found in open
24:07 woodlands. Meanwhile, the red kangaroo,
24:10 the largest species in the macropod
24:12 family, has a distinctive reddish coat
24:14 in adult males. The largest individuals
24:18 can stand 1.8 m tall, weigh up to 90 kg,
24:22 and reach speeds of 56 km per hour,
24:26 covering up to 9 m in a single
24:29 [Music]
24:33 leap. Adult male kangaroos frequently
24:36 engage in battles to establish dominance
24:38 and mating rights. These fights
24:41 typically begin with punches using their
24:43 forlims, but as tensions rise, they jump
24:46 up and use their hind legs to deliver
24:48 powerful kicks to their opponent's
24:50 stomach. These intense kickboxing jewels
24:54 determine the strongest male, who then
24:56 leads the group and passes on his
24:58 superior genes to the next generation.
25:05 Female kangaroos have a unique
25:07 reproductive ability, allowing them to
25:09 maintain stable populations even in
25:11 changing
25:12 environments. They can be continuously
25:15 pregnant while raising three offspring
25:17 at different stages of development. An
25:20 embryo can pause its growth and resume
25:22 development only when conditions become
25:25 favorable. Meanwhile, the youngest
25:28 offspring, Peanut, remains inside the
25:30 mother's pouch, nursing and developing
25:33 gradually. The older Joey has left the
25:36 pouch, but still depends on its mother's
25:38 milk until it becomes fully independent.
25:41 If environmental conditions become too
25:43 harsh, the mother may stop supporting
25:45 Peanut to focus her energy on Joey,
25:48 ensuring that at least one offspring
25:50 survives. Kangaroos have large,
25:53 sensitive ears that rotate in multiple
25:56 directions, detecting sounds from all
25:58 around and helping them sense danger
26:01 early. When a dingo appears in the
26:03 distance, the kangaroo immediately perks
26:06 up its ears, assessing the situation. If
26:09 chased, it accelerates and leaps
26:11 forward, leaving its predator behind
26:13 with speed and quick directional
26:15 changes. When cornered, kangaroos use a
26:18 powerful defense tactic. They stand
26:20 upright, lean on their strong tail, and
26:23 deliver a devastating kick with their
26:24 hind legs, strong enough to break
26:31 [Music]
26:37 bones. Beneath the Earth's surface,
26:40 another world exists. As rainwater seeps
26:43 through limestone layers, it reacts with
26:46 carbon dioxide in the air, forming a
26:48 mild acid that gradually dissolves the
26:51 rock, expanding cracks and creating
26:53 underground
26:56 caves. Under the dim glow of torches,
26:59 massive stelactites hang from the cave
27:02 ceilings. Meanwhile, stellagmites rise
27:05 from the cave floor, shaping a mystical
27:08 landscape where the passage of time is
27:10 recorded in layers of
27:14 sediment. The limestone cave systems of
27:17 the grasslands and savas are ideal
27:20 destinations for nature and geology
27:22 enthusiasts.
27:26 Guided cave exploration tours offer the
27:29 chance to step into a world completely
27:31 different from the landscape
27:34 above. Pathways inside the caves lead
27:37 visitors through limestone corridors
27:39 formed over millions of years where
27:41 beams of light filtering through ceiling
27:43 cracks cast shimmering reflections on
27:46 the stelactites.
27:50 Even the smallest sound echoes through
27:53 the vast space, creating an atmosphere
27:55 that is both mysterious and awe
27:58 inspiring. As visitors pass through
28:00 narrow passageways leading to natural
28:03 sink holes, they can fully appreciate
28:05 the grandeur of nature where water and
28:07 stone have sculpted timeless
28:09 masterpieces.
28:13 [Music]
28:28 the hot dry winds carry golden sands
28:31 across the glowing red dunes of the
28:33 Great Victoria Desert, vanishing into
28:35 the endless horizon.
28:37 [Music]
28:39 Covering more than 35% of the continent,
28:42 Australia's desert ecosystem stretches
28:45 from the barren rock fields of the
28:47 Gibson Desert to the vast sand plains of
28:49 the Simpson Desert. But Australia's
28:52 deserts are not lifeless wastelands. On
28:54 the contrary, they are among the
28:56 harshest yet most biologically diverse
28:59 environments on Earth.
29:02 Desert plants have evolved deep root
29:04 systems extending meters into the ground
29:07 to access underground water. Some
29:10 species have transformed their leaves
29:12 into spines, minimizing water loss while
29:15 also deterring herbivores. Animals, too,
29:19 have evolved remarkable adaptations to
29:21 survive in these extreme conditions.
29:25 The Simpson Desert spans an area of
29:28 approximately
29:31 176,500 km. Located between Queensland,
29:35 the Northern Territory, and South
29:37 Australia, it is one of the largest sand
29:40 deserts on the continent. This is one of
29:43 the harshest landscapes where summer
29:45 temperatures can soar up to 50° C and
29:48 annual rainfall is scarce, measuring
29:51 less than 150 mm. The dunes here are
29:55 grand natural sculptures, some
29:57 stretching over 500 km, shaped by the
30:00 wind into parallel ridges that have
30:02 remained for centuries. The color of the
30:05 sand shifts with the sunlight, appearing
30:08 pale gold in the morning and deepening
30:11 to crimson red at sunset. Each dune
30:14 serves as a natural barrier, dividing
30:16 the desert into isolated ecological
30:19 zones where animals hide during the
30:21 scorching daytime heat and only emerge
30:24 when the temperature cools at
30:28 [Music]
30:33 night. The thorny devil with its rough
30:36 spiky skin is a small reptile averaging
30:39 20 cm in length. As it moves across the
30:43 desert, it takes jerky, unpredictable
30:45 steps, mimicking a windb blown leaf,
30:48 making it harder for predators to track
30:50 its true direction. Its sand colored
30:53 skin allows it to blend almost perfectly
30:55 with the dry terrain, minimizing the
30:58 risk of being spotted by
31:00 [Music]
31:02 predators. When threatened, it can
31:04 remain completely still, relying on its
31:07 camouflaged body to trick potential
31:09 attackers. If attacked, the thorny devil
31:12 has a final defense, a false head
31:15 located on the back of its neck. By
31:18 lowering its real head, it hides it
31:21 completely, leaving predators to focus
31:23 on the harmless spiky decoy, increasing
31:26 its chances of
31:29 survival. The sharp spines covering its
31:31 body are not just physical armor against
31:34 predators, but also help reduce water
31:36 loss by limiting direct sun exposure.
31:44 We often think of lions or tigers as the
31:47 most fearsome predators, but in
31:49 Australia, a much smaller creature can
31:51 take you down even faster. If you
31:53 haven't guessed it yet, stay tuned for
31:55 more clues. It's a venomous snake, a
31:58 swift and precise bite. Its venom
32:00 contains a mix of neurotoxins and
32:03 procoagulants, causing paralysis within
32:05 minutes.
32:09 This is the western brown snake, ranked
32:13 among the top 10 most venomous snakes in
32:15 the
32:18 world. However, due to the relatively
32:20 low venom injection per bite, fatalities
32:23 in humans are
32:26 rare. Even so, a single bite can cause
32:29 excruciating pain, nausea, internal
32:32 bleeding, and organ failure if left
32:35 untreated.
32:45 Jagged mountain ranges rise from the
32:47 earth stretching along the eastern edge
32:49 of the continent. Unlike the vast
32:52 deserts or endless grasslands,
32:54 Australia's highlands and rocky regions
32:56 are where stone and forest coexist,
32:59 balancing altitude, climate, and
33:02 ecosystem dynamics. Early morning mist
33:06 veils the peaks. Sheer cliffs stand tall
33:09 and icy rivers carve through deep
33:11 gorges. Each element telling the story
33:13 of a rich yet challenging
33:15 ecosystem. Here climate variations are
33:18 more pronounced than anywhere else. In
33:20 the high altitude regions such as the
33:23 Australian Alps, snow blankets the peaks
33:25 during winter. Meanwhile, in lower
33:28 elevations such as the Grampians or
33:30 Flenders ranges, the land endures
33:33 prolonged droughts. This stark contrast
33:36 creates a diverse landscape of flora and
33:39 fauna where each species must adapt to
33:41 survive.
33:43 [Music]
33:56 Southwest of Ka's Queensland on the
33:59 Atheertton tablelands, thin clouds drift
34:02 lazily across the deep blue sky,
34:04 reflecting on the still waters of Crater
34:07 Lakes. The history of Athetherton is
34:10 written in its rich red bassalt soil,
34:12 one of the most fertile in Australia.
34:15 Formed by the weathering of volcanic
34:17 ash, this region is one of the few
34:20 places in Australia capable of
34:21 sustaining tropical
34:23 rainforests. Towering red cedar, black
34:26 bean, and kari pine trees stand proudly,
34:29 creating a multi-layered ecosystem that
34:32 shelters thousands of animal
34:35 species. Athetherton is not just a
34:37 wildlife haven, but also a perfect
34:39 destination for nature enthusiasts.
34:42 Forest trails like Misty Mountains
34:44 walking tracks lead visitors through
34:46 hidden waterfalls, sheer cliffs, and
34:49 untouched ancient
34:55 forests. One of the most unforgettable
34:58 experiences here is swimming in a crater
35:00 lake where the calm, crystalclear waters
35:04 make you feel as if you are drifting
35:05 through a prehistoric world.
35:08 [Music]
35:12 In the shade of the forest, sounds echo
35:15 from every direction. The bower bird
35:18 with its iridescent feathers and
35:20 intricate courtship rituals dances among
35:23 the branches. Rare tree kangaroos
35:26 adapted to aroreal life gracefully climb
35:30 through the canopy, keeping their
35:32 distance from ground dwelling predators.
35:35 [Music]
35:37 For nocturnal creatures like the lesser
35:39 Suty owl, this forest is a vast
35:42 labyrinth where they silently hunt
35:44 insects hiding in the leaf
35:47 litter. On the forest floor, clear
35:50 streams wind between mosscovered rocks,
35:53 cascading down into gentle waterfalls
35:56 before merging into crater lakes.
36:03 Lake Ekim and Lake Bahin, two of the
36:06 most famous crater lakes in the region,
36:08 were formed by volcanic eruptions tens
36:10 of thousands of years ago. Their emerald
36:13 waters reflecting the sky and dense
36:16 rainforest canopy create a pristine and
36:18 mesmerizing landscape. Native fish such
36:22 as the baramundi glide through the deep
36:25 waters while tropical butterflies
36:27 flutter above, adding vibrant splashes
36:29 of color to the
36:33 ecosystem. For those who wish to
36:35 experience nature in comfort, eco
36:38 retreats like Chambers Wildlife
36:40 Rainforest Lodges offer accommodation
36:42 nestled within the forest. Here, every
36:46 morning begins with the songs of birds
36:48 echoing through the towering trees,
36:50 creating an unparalleled connection with
36:53 [Music]
36:55 [Applause]
36:59 nature. In northern Queensland, towering
37:02 black boulders stack upon one another,
37:05 forming a giant labyrinth of rock
37:07 beneath the vast blue sky. Black
37:10 Mountain, known to indigenous
37:11 Australians as Kolkajaka, stands like a
37:15 natural fortress amid the untamed
37:17 plains. Enormous rounded granite
37:20 formations, some the size of entire
37:22 houses, lay scattered as if chaotically
37:25 tossed by a raging storm.
37:31 Between 259 and 252 million years ago,
37:36 magma from deep within the earth cooled
37:38 and crystallized, forming trathan
37:41 granodorite, a unique type of granite.
37:44 Over millions of years, erosion wore
37:46 away the upper layers, revealing these
37:48 massive pale gray boulders. But when
37:51 exposed to air and moisture, a thin
37:54 layer of blue green algae gradually
37:56 coated their surfaces, transforming
37:58 Black Mountain into a dark and enigmatic
38:01 monolith against the tropical
38:06 landscape. Natural cracks and crevices
38:09 between the rocks have given rise to an
38:11 extensive underground cave system where
38:14 light barely
38:19 penetrates. Within these shadowy depths,
38:21 an isolated ecosystem thrives, almost
38:24 completely cut off from the outside
38:29 world. Rare endemic species found
38:32 nowhere else on Earth, have adapted
38:35 perfectly to the perpetual darkness.
38:38 Among them, the yaka skink stands out.
38:40 One of the rarest lizards in the world,
38:43 restricted to just a six square km range
38:45 around Black Mountain. Despite its
38:48 majestic beauty, Black Mountain is not
38:50 easily explored. Its treacherous terrain
38:53 with deep hidden crevices between the
38:55 scorching hot boulders making navigation
38:58 extremely
38:59 challenging. Those who attempt to
39:01 conquer this mystical place must endure
39:04 rugged paths where the sunbaked black
39:07 stones can reach blistering temperatures
39:09 under Queensland's relentless heat.
39:17 Leaving behind Australia's highlands and
39:19 Rocky Mountains, the sunlight pierces
39:22 through the dense canopy of the tropical
39:25 [Music]
39:28 rainforests. Torrential rains drench the
39:31 fertile soil beneath. The air is thick
39:34 with humidity, heavy with the scent of
39:36 moss and decaying leaves. In the serene
39:39 stillness broken only by the calls of
39:41 birds and the buzzing chorus of insects,
39:44 Australia's rainforests stand as a realm
39:47 of their own, a world unlike any other
39:50 on the
39:52 [Music]
39:56 continent. Spanning
39:58 1,200 km, Daintry is Australia's largest
40:03 tropical rainforest. It is also the
40:05 oldest surviving rainforest on Earth
40:08 with a history dating back over 180
40:10 million years, making it even older than
40:13 the Amazon in South
40:14 [Music]
40:17 America. Although these forests cover
40:20 only a small fraction of the continent,
40:22 they are home to over half of
40:24 Australia's bird species, 60% of its
40:27 butterflies, and 65% of its ferns.
40:31 Inside the rainforest, life thrives in
40:33 every
40:35 [Music]
40:37 corner. Towering trees like the
40:39 Antarctic beach stretch toward the sky,
40:43 having endured dramatic geological
40:45 changes since the Gonduana era. Their
40:48 expansive branches form a thick canopy,
40:51 trapping moisture and maintaining a
40:53 stable climate for the countless plants
40:55 and animals below. More than 2,800 plant
40:59 species have been identified in Daintry,
41:02 including ancient species rarely seen in
41:04 the modern
41:05 world. For the Cuku Yalangji people, the
41:08 rainforest is deeply intertwined with
41:11 spirituality and cultural identity.
41:14 Legends passed down through generations
41:17 tell of the forest's creation and the
41:19 guardian spirits that protect its rivers
41:21 and trees. Today, cultural tours offer a
41:25 unique opportunity to learn from the
41:27 cuckoo yalangji, exploring how they use
41:30 plants for medicine and track wildlife
41:33 through the
41:34 [Music]
41:36 forest. Beneath the crystalclear waters
41:39 of the rainforest, one of the world's
41:41 most bizarre creatures glides
41:43 effortlessly. The platypus, a unique
41:46 evolutionary marvel, stands as one of
41:49 nature's strangest creations.
41:53 Though it is a mammal, the platypus lays
41:56 eggs instead of giving birth to live
41:58 young, a trait found only in the
42:00 monotrems, a group that also includes
42:03 the ashidna. Its body is a fusion of
42:06 multiple species, a duck-like bill,
42:09 webbed feet like an otter, waterproof
42:11 fur, and a venomous spur on the hind
42:14 legs of males. When scientists first
42:17 discovered a platypus specimen in the
42:19 late 18th century, they believed it was
42:21 a hoax. But in reality, the platypus is
42:24 one of the most perfectly adapted
42:26 amphibious
42:28 [Music]
42:31 mammals. If the platypus is one of the
42:34 strangest mammals, then the southern
42:36 casawary is equally a remarkable bird.
42:40 Standing up to 1.8 8 m tall and weighing
42:43 around 60 kg. It is Australia's largest
42:46 flightless bird. A direct descendant of
42:49 ancient birds that once roamed the earth
42:52 alongside dinosaurs. Its most
42:54 distinctive feature is the helmet-like
42:56 cask, a bony crest protruding from the
42:59 top of its head. This cask plays a
43:02 crucial role in regulating body
43:04 temperature, helping the casawary
43:06 dissipate heat as it moves through the
43:08 hot, humid rainforests.
43:10 Due to its massive size, the southern
43:13 casawaryi has no real natural predators.
43:16 A single kick from its powerful legs can
43:18 cause severe injuries. With a strike
43:21 force of up to 600 kg, its kicks are
43:24 strong enough to break bones and
43:26 incapacitate any
43:29 threat. Its middle toe is armed with a
43:32 12 cm long razor-sharp claw, making it a
43:36 formidable weapon when cornered.
43:38 However, rather than seeking conflict,
43:41 casawaries prefer to avoid confrontation
43:44 using the dense undergrowth to disappear
43:46 into the forest. The breeding behavior
43:48 of the southern casawary is particularly
43:51 unusual. After laying 3 to five eggs,
43:54 the female leaves, abandoning the
43:56 incubation and rearing duties to the
43:59 male.
44:00 [Music]
44:02 For 50 days, the male casawary
44:05 diligently keeps the eggs warm using its
44:08 body, rarely leaving the nest and barely
44:10 eating. Once the chicks hatch, the male
44:13 continues to protect them for 9 months,
44:16 teaching them survival skills and how to
44:18 forage for food in the rainforest. When
44:21 they reach independence, the young
44:23 casawaries embark on a solitary journey
44:25 through the tropical ecosystem.
44:29 [Music]
44:32 As an omnivore with a diet dominated by
44:35 fruit, the casawaryi consumes over 150
44:38 different plant species, ranging from
44:40 soft, easily digestible fruits to large,
44:43 thick-skinned varieties that most
44:45 animals cannot process. Seeds are
44:48 swallowed whole, passing through its
44:50 digestive system before being dispersed
44:52 through its droppings, helping to
44:54 repopulate the forest with new plant
44:56 life. Some tree species rely entirely on
44:59 the casawary to disperse their seeds,
45:02 making it a crucial gardener in the
45:04 tropical
45:10 ecosystem. Despite being an icon of the
45:13 daintry tropical rainforest, southern
45:15 casawary populations are in steep
45:18 decline. Deforestation and urban
45:20 expansion have significantly reduced
45:22 their habitat, placing the species under
45:25 increasing pressure. Additionally, many
45:28 individuals fall victim to vehicle
45:30 collisions while attempting to cross
45:31 roads, while others fall prey to illegal
45:35 hunting. Currently, the southern
45:37 casawary is classified as endangered
45:40 with fewer than 2,500 individuals left
45:43 in the wild.
45:56 Slowmoving clouds drift across the deep
45:59 blue sky, casting a misty veil over the
46:02 rolling mountains of the border ranges,
46:04 where the tropical rainforests of
46:05 southeastern Queensland extend to the
46:08 New South Wales border.
46:12 This rainforest is not only an
46:14 ecological treasure but also a
46:15 geological relic holding the marks of
46:18 millions of years of earthshaping
46:20 events. Around 20 million years ago, a
46:23 massive volcanic eruption reshaped the
46:25 landscape, leaving behind a rugged
46:28 terrain of sheer cliffs and deep basins
46:30 where underground streams still weave
46:32 through layers of earth.
46:46 Winding forest trails offer an immersive
46:49 ecoourism experience, allowing visitors
46:51 to connect with nature's untouched
46:53 rhythms.
46:56 The Maria boardwalk leads through dense
46:58 rainforest where ancient Antarctic beach
47:01 trees stand tall alongside primitive
47:04 ferns that date back to the dinosaur
47:10 era. Some of these trees have endured
47:13 for over 2,000 years, acting as silent
47:17 witnesses to the time of the superc
47:19 contininent Gonduana when Australia was
47:21 still connected to South America and
47:23 Antarctica.
47:25 In the higher elevations, viewpoints
47:27 like Best of All Lookout reveal
47:29 breathtaking panoramic views of the
47:32 valleys below, where rainforests merge
47:34 with grasslands and natural
47:47 lakes. Dawn casts a misty veil over the
47:50 dense canopy of Queensland's border
47:53 rainforests. The calls of birds echo,
47:56 blending with the steady hum of insects
47:58 filling the forest with the morning
48:00 chorus of life. Through this scene, a
48:03 tall, powerful figure strides across the
48:05 soft earth, the emu. It is Australia's
48:09 largest running bird, reaching 1.9 m in
48:12 height and weighing between 40 and 50
48:15 kg. As the breeding season arrives in
48:18 the later months of the year, female
48:20 emus seek out mates.
48:23 [Music]
48:26 Like the southern casawaryi, male emus
48:29 take on the primary responsibility for
48:31 the next generation. For 8 weeks, the
48:34 male remains on the nest, shielding the
48:36 eggs from predators and environmental
48:38 threats. During this time, it does not
48:41 eat, surviving only on dew collected
48:44 from leaves to maintain energy.
48:49 When the chicks hatch, they emerge as
48:51 tiny striped fledglings covered in brown
48:54 and black down. They stay close to their
48:57 father, learning how to forage for food
48:59 and avoid the dangers lurking in the
49:01 forest shadows. The emu's diet is highly
49:05 varied, consisting of seeds, fruits,
49:08 young leaves, and small insects.
49:12 Its powerful digestive system allows it
49:15 to process a wide range of plant matter,
49:18 enabling it to thrive in humid forests
49:20 as well as dry
49:22 grasslands. Beyond being just a forager,
49:25 the emu plays a vital role in the
49:27 ecosystem by dispersing seeds through
49:29 its droppings, allowing many plant
49:32 species to spread and flourish. Its long
49:35 strides carry seeds far beyond their
49:37 original location, contributing to the
49:39 biodiversity and regeneration of the
49:42 tropical
49:44 [Music]
49:50 rainforest. Not just a land of dry
49:52 deserts, vast grasslands, and dense
49:55 forests, Australia is also home to
49:57 expansive wetlands stretching to the
50:00 horizon. The wetlands of Australia are
50:03 among the continent's most vital
50:05 ecosystems. Here, water is never static,
50:09 shifting with the seasons rising and
50:11 retreating, creating a dynamic cycle
50:14 that supports thousands of species
50:16 dependent on its eb and flow.
50:22 Kacadoo National Park, Australia's most
50:25 famous wetland, is a prime example of
50:27 the biological diversity of these
50:29 ecosystems. Spanning
50:33 19,84 km, it is larger than some
50:36 countries. During the wet season,
50:38 torrential monsunal rains flood the
50:41 region, filling the east alligator,
50:43 south alligator, west alligator, and
50:45 wildman rivers, transforming the
50:47 landscape into a vast interconnected
50:49 ecosystem teameming with wildlife. As
50:53 the dry season approaches and the waters
50:55 recede, the remaining water holes become
50:58 biodiversity hotspots where hundreds of
51:01 birds, reptiles, and mammals gather to
51:04 compete for precious resources.
51:07 [Music]
51:12 Lotus liies bloom on the calm waters
51:15 surface. Their soft pink petals rising
51:18 from the muddy depths reflecting the
51:20 golden sunlight. Beneath them, thousands
51:24 of insects, amphibians, and freshwater
51:27 fish thrive in the swamps, forming the
51:29 base of the food chain for larger
51:31 predators. On the banks, saltwater
51:34 crocodiles, the largest reptiles on
51:36 Earth, lie motionless, waiting for the
51:39 perfect moment to strike. They have
51:42 roamed these waters for millions of
51:44 years, reigning as apex predators of the
51:46 wetlands.
51:49 [Music]
51:55 Kakadoo is not only a haven for
51:57 reptiles, but also a sanctuary for over
52:00 280 bird
52:02 species. The Jabiru, Australia's largest
52:05 stalk, with its 2 m wingspan, soarses
52:08 over the shallow waters. Magpie geese
52:11 gather in large flocks, their loud calls
52:14 echoing across the flooded plains. At
52:17 sunset, the Brolar, the iconic crane of
52:20 the Northern Territory, begins its
52:22 graceful courtship dance, a mesmerizing
52:26 spectacle in the heart of the
52:29 wild. During the dry season, as water
52:31 levels drop, the majestic waterfalls of
52:34 Jim Jim Falls and Twin Falls reveal
52:37 their towering limestone cliffs carved
52:40 by centuries of relentless water flow.
52:43 The cool plunge pools below offer the
52:46 perfect retreat to unwind after days of
52:49 exploring the untamed
52:54 [Music]
52:57 wilderness. As an isolated continent,
52:59 Australia is home to a rich and diverse
53:02 marine ecosystem with a coastline
53:04 stretching over 34,000 km and an
53:07 exclusive economic zone covering nearly
53:10 8 million km.
53:16 This vast marine territory extends from
53:19 the cold southern waters where the
53:21 southern ocean meets the Tasmanian
53:23 coast. It is home to tens of thousands
53:26 of marine species, many of which are
53:28 found nowhere else on Earth. Powerful
53:31 ocean currents such as the East
53:33 Australian current transport warm
53:35 tropical waters southward, creating a
53:38 migration corridor for a wide range of
53:40 fish, marine mammals, and seabirds. The
53:43 Great Barrier Reef, the largest coral
53:46 reef system on Earth, stretches over
53:48 2,300 km along the Queensland coastline,
53:52 standing as one of the greatest natural
53:54 wonders ever shaped by our planet.
54:02 Covering more than
54:05 344,400 km, this vast ecosystem is home
54:09 to thousands of marine species thriving
54:12 among the vibrant hues of 400 coral
54:15 species in a dazzling array of shapes
54:17 and sizes. Visiting the Great Barrier
54:20 Reef offers unforgettable underwater
54:22 adventures.
54:26 Scuba diving takes explorers into the
54:28 depths of the reef where they can come
54:31 face to face with majestic manta rays
54:33 gliding effortlessly through the
54:35 currents. In the shallower waters,
54:37 snorkeling provides the perfect way to
54:39 drift along and observe colorful fish
54:42 schools weaving through the coral
54:44 gardens. Some areas even allow swimming
54:47 alongside blacktip reef sharks, a small
54:49 and gentle shark species commonly found
54:51 near the reef.
54:54 [Music]
54:58 But beyond the blacktip reef shark, the
55:01 sunlit waters of the great barrier reef
55:03 conceal a wild and intricate world of
55:06 highly skilled
55:07 predators. Lying motionless among the
55:10 coral outcrops, the spotted wobberong is
55:12 a master of camouflage. Its patented
55:15 body mimics the seafloor, making it
55:18 nearly invisible as it ambushes
55:20 unsuspecting prey.
55:25 When a small fish or crustation drifts
55:27 too close, it strikes in an instant,
55:30 opening its jaws wide to swallow its
55:32 victim in a single snap. Can a shark
55:35 really sense the heartbeat of its prey
55:37 from hundreds of meters away? That might
55:40 be true for the great white shark, a
55:42 long-d distanceance predator that
55:44 migrates up to 10,000 km per year. They
55:47 are apex hunters using speed and power
55:51 to take down large prey like seals and
55:54 sizable fish. Yet, despite their
55:57 fearsome reputation, sharks are not
56:00 man-eaters. Most shark attacks on humans
56:03 occur due to mistaken identity as a
56:05 surfer or swimmer may resemble their
56:08 natural prey. Globally, shark related
56:11 fatalities range from 5 to 15 per year.
56:15 Since 2000, the great white shark has
56:18 been confirmed in 18 fatal incidents,
56:21 while the bull shark and tiger shark
56:23 have each been responsible for only one
56:26 recorded fatality. Though often labeled
56:29 as the killers of the ocean, the odds of
56:31 a shark attack are far lower than
56:33 everyday hazards like bee stings or
56:35 lightning
56:40 strikes. During the wet season, from
56:43 October to April, Australian box
56:45 jellyfish appear in greater numbers,
56:47 drifting closer to shore in search of
56:50 small fish and plankton. This is one of
56:52 the most dangerous creatures on the
56:54 planet. The nearly transparent tentacles
56:57 of the Australian box jellyfish can
56:59 extend up to 3 m, forming an invisible
57:03 and deadly web. When they make contact
57:05 with prey, millions of venomous cells in
57:08 the tentacles fire instantly, delivering
57:10 venom. so rapidly that it paralyzes the
57:13 victim almost
57:16 immediately. For humans, even a small
57:19 sting can cause excruciating pain,
57:22 cardiac arrest, and death within minutes
57:24 if not treated
57:28 immediately. The venom from one adult
57:31 jellyfish contains enough toxins to kill
57:33 60 people. Since 2000, at least 10
57:37 fatalities caused by Australian box
57:39 jellyfish have been recorded in
57:41 Australia. When stung, intense pain
57:44 spreads instantly and the skin turns
57:46 purple red with distinct welt-like marks
57:49 along the area of contact. In many
57:52 cases, the venom triggers irkji
57:55 syndrome, a condition of extreme pain
57:57 accompanied by nausea, rapid heart rate,
58:00 and the risk of acute heart failure.
58:06 [Music]
58:09 However, as a predator, the Australian
58:12 box jellyfish plays a crucial role in
58:15 the Great Barrier Reef ecosystem. They
58:18 help control the population of small
58:20 fish and plankton, maintaining balance
58:22 within the food chain.
58:28 [Music]
58:30 The surface of the southern ocean of
58:32 Australia may appear calm, but beneath
58:34 the waves lies a world teeming with
58:36 color and movement. Cold currents from
58:39 Antarctica carry nutrientrich waters,
58:42 fostering the growth of a vibrant and
58:44 diverse marine
58:47 [Music]
58:52 ecosystem. Amidst the swaying kelp
58:55 forests, a strange yet mesmerizing
58:58 creature drifts effortlessly, nearly
59:00 indistinguishable from the delicate
59:02 strands of seaweed around it. The leafy
59:05 sea dragon, one of the ocean's most
59:07 masterful camouflage artists, moves
59:09 silently and
59:13 unnoticed. Its body is adorned with soft
59:16 leaflike appendages resembling tiny
59:19 fronds sprouting from every part of its
59:21 form.
59:24 When it floats among the underwater
59:26 greenery, it appears as nothing more
59:28 than a wandering piece of drifting
59:30 seaweed. This nearperfect disguise
59:33 allows it to evade predators like reef
59:35 sharks and groupers, which patrol the
59:37 waters in search of
59:38 [Music]
59:43 prey. The leafy sea dragon spends most
59:46 of its time drifting, watching for
59:47 plankton, mice shrimp, and tiny fish
59:50 passing by. When prey comes within
59:53 reach, it uses its long tube-like snout
59:56 to generate a powerful suction,
59:58 instantly inhaling its victim. This
60:01 stealthy hunting technique allows it to
60:04 remain hidden, maintaining its
60:06 camouflage even while feeding.
60:10 [Music]
60:17 The southern ocean sways gently beneath
60:19 the fading light of sunset, reflecting
60:21 the last golden rays of the day. Beneath
60:25 the cold, deep waters, a giant moves
60:28 silently toward the shore.
60:33 The southern right whale, one of the
60:35 largest whales in the ocean, begins its
60:37 annual migration of over 10,000 km,
60:40 traveling from the icy waters of
60:42 Antarctica to the warmer seas off
60:44 Australia's coast. Unlike other whale
60:47 species, it lacks a dorsal fin, an
60:50 evolutionary adaptation that helps it
60:52 conserve energy on long journeys. As it
60:55 migrates, it does not swim rapidly, but
60:58 glides effortlessly with the currents,
61:00 using the gentle movements of its tail
61:02 to maintain a steady
61:07 pace. From June to October, the coastal
61:11 waters of head of the bite and warn
61:13 become gathering grounds for mother
61:15 whales and their newborn calves.
61:18 Newborns measuring about 5.5 m at birth
61:21 depend entirely on their mother's
61:24 fatrich milk to grow. They consume
61:27 hundreds of liters of milk per day,
61:29 rapidly gaining weight to build strength
61:31 against the many dangers that lie ahead.
61:34 This is a season of birth, nurturing,
61:37 and survival. A crucial time for a
61:39 species that once teetered on the brink
61:41 of extinction. Before the 19th century,
61:45 southern Wright whales were heavily
61:46 hunted for their thick blubber and
61:48 highquality oil. The name right whale
61:52 comes from whalers who considered them
61:54 the right whale to hunt. They were slow
61:57 swimmers, floated after death, and
62:00 yielded an enormous amount of oil. As a
62:03 result, their population plummeted to
62:05 critically low levels, nearly vanishing
62:08 from the oceans. In recent decades,
62:11 conservation efforts have helped this
62:13 whale population begin a slow
62:16 recovery. The Australian government has
62:18 implemented strict monitoring programs,
62:21 established marine sanctuaries, and
62:23 enforced stronger regulations to
62:25 minimize human impact. The latest
62:29 national recovery plan released in
62:32 2024 marks an important step toward
62:35 securing the future of this remarkable
62:37 species.
62:40 [Music]
62:52 The hot winds sweep across Australia,
62:55 breathing life into the iconic wildlife
62:58 of this land. Yet, these creatures now
63:01 face unprecedented environmental
63:03 challenges. Every step taken across
63:06 Australia's forests, deserts, and reefs
63:08 leaves a mark. But will that mark be one
63:11 of destruction or
63:19 conservation? Research from Griffith
63:21 University and the University of
63:22 Queensland estimates that 15.6 billion
63:26 Australian dollars per year is needed to
63:28 save 99 priority species. A steep price.
63:33 But what could be more valuable than the
63:34 life of the creatures that bear the
63:36 unique signature of this
63:38 [Music]
63:42 land? The forests still stand. The
63:45 wildlife still fights to survive. But
63:48 time is running out. To protect this
63:51 unique ecosystem, the Australian
63:53 government has launched the threatened
63:55 species action plan, focusing on 110
63:59 priority species.
64:04 In the next decade, at least 30% of land
64:07 and marine areas will be designated for
64:10 conservation, expanding protected
64:12 regions by 50 million
64:18 [Music]
64:27 hectares around
64:29 224.5 million Australian alien has
64:32 already been invested to protect native
64:35 species. But research suggests that at
64:38 least 15.6 billion Australian dollars
64:41 per year is needed to prevent
64:43 extinctions. Conservation efforts go
64:45 beyond habitat protection. They also
64:47 include controlling invasive predators
64:49 like feral cats and red foxes, the
64:52 primary causes of native species
64:54 decline.
64:55 [Music]
64:59 Koala rescue programs and coral reef
65:02 restoration efforts are being
65:04 implemented to ensure the future of
65:06 Australia's
65:10 [Music]
65:12 ecosystems. But this is not enough. This
65:15 extraordinary nature needs the
65:17 collective effort of all. Reduce plastic
65:20 waste, support conservation
65:22 organizations, respect wildlife
65:24 habitats, and spread awareness in your
65:27 community. A small action today can make
65:29 a big difference for the
65:32 [Music]
65:35 future. Have you ever seen any of the
65:38 Australian animals on this list in real
65:40 life? If so, what was your experience
65:43 like? Share your story in the comments
65:45 as it will serve as inspiration and
65:47 motivation for conservation efforts,
65:49 helping to protect rare animals and
65:52 preserve ecosystems for future
65:56 generations. Don't forget to like,
65:58 subscribe, and hit the notification bell
66:01 to continue exploring incredible
66:03 adventures with us.
66:05 [Music]
66:19 Or you can follow the survival journey
66:21 of wild animals from other regions in
66:23 the Antarctica. Survival in the realm of
66:26 giants or wild Congo, the lair of King
66:29 Kong and the deadly predators.
66:32 [Music]
Chrome Extension