Wild Russia

Explore the breathtaking landscapes and the fascinating wildlife that inhabits one of the most enigmatic and diverse regions of our planet in the highly acclaimed documentary series, Wild Russia from Animal Planet. Original air date in 2008, the six-part series unveils the untamed wilderness and the exotic fauna endemic to the world's most expansive country, Russia.

Wild Russia presents the sheer abundance and variety of life in Russia, from the deepest oceans to the highest mountain peaks, the dense forests to the vast deserts, each place brimming with life, often found nowhere else in the world. The series is a perfect blend of panoramic views and close-up shots of wildlife, combining to present mesmerizing storytelling and unmatched visual appeal.

The series begins at the Kamchatka Peninsula, a region of Russia located in the Pacific ocean. This volcanic land teems with wildlife, including massive grizzly bears, foxes, sea otters, and birds of various species. The series vividly captures the adapted traits of these animals to survive in such rugged landscapes. You'll find yourself marvelling at a colony of birds nesting in volcanic cliffs or rooting for a bear cub learning its earliest survival lessons.

From the Pacific, Wild Russia takes you on a journey to the world's deepest and oldest lake, Lake Baikal. Immersed in Siberia's heart, this freshwater lake is home to numerous unique species. The exploration of Lake Baikal is a highlight of the series, with stunning imagery of the frozen lake in winter and its teeming wildlife in spring and summer seasons.

As the series unfolds, viewers are also transported to the Caucasus, a region between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea renowned for its high biodiversity. The viewer gets to witness Caucasian ibexes skillfully navigating treacherous mountainous terrain, and the rare cinematic feat of the elusive Persian Leopards.

Seemingly out of a fantasy novel, Wild Russia next takes its viewers to the magical lands of the Primorye, a region with a unique blend of inhabitants due to its location at the intersection of Siberian, Manchurian and Korean ecosystems. With sightings of the famed Amur Tigers and other elusive wild cats, to timeless interactions between predator and prey, each narrative comes alive in this captivating area.

The journey in Russia's wilderness continues as the series showcases the rich Arctic tundra of Chukotka. The snowy landscapes, the massive walrus colonies, and the unpredictable climate offer an insightful look at the struggles and victories of wildlife adapting to Arctic hardships. Wild Russia beautifully highlights the resilience and the majesty of the creatures that call this forbidding cold desert home.

The concluding part of the series presents the expansive Ural Mountains, their ancient forests, tranquil rivers, and eerie swamps. Wild Russia brilliantly captures birds' mesmerizing flight patterns, the elusive Eurasian lynx's hunting tactics, and the ponderous, stoic movements of the ancient brown bears that are native to this untouched land.

Throughout the series, you are introduced to an incredible variety of wildlife and provided a glimpse into their daily life – their hunting strategies, breeding habits, territorial clashes, and survival instincts. Wild Russia also does a commendable job highlighting the importance of conservation efforts and the dire consequences of climate change and human intrusion on these relatively untouched habitats.

Narrated by Paterson Joseph, Wild Russia features impeccable camera work, outstanding photography, well-informed commentary, coupled with excellent cinematography spanning across the monumental geographic and climatic diversity of Russia. It invites wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and curious viewers alike to embark on an unforgettable adventure, offering intimate, firsthand experience of what life in the colossal landscapes of Russia looks like, far from human reach and influence.

In essence, Wild Russia allows you an unparalleled visual tour that not just educates but also leaves a lasting impression about this fascinating part of the world. Through its intricate storytelling and dynamic cinematography, it expands our understanding and appreciation for nature's diversity, beauty, and resilience.