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Narrator: North of the
himalayas stretches of land
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00:00:07,550 --> 00:00:10,009
Rarely glimpsed by
the outside world,
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00:00:16,708 --> 00:00:18,475
The tibetan plateau.
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00:00:20,253 --> 00:00:23,272
The highest and largest
plateau on earth.
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00:00:25,142 --> 00:00:29,028
No other habitat offers such
a cruel mix of thin air,
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00:00:30,722 --> 00:00:35,075
Impossible terrain,
and punishing weather.
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00:00:35,152 --> 00:00:37,486
(wind howling)
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00:00:37,562 --> 00:00:40,956
The brutal conditions
push animals to the brink.
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00:00:44,754 --> 00:00:47,079
(hail pattering)
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00:00:47,089 --> 00:00:49,039
(wind howls)
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00:00:49,116 --> 00:00:50,999
This is the story
of the creatures
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00:00:51,076 --> 00:00:53,886
That strive to raise
their families here.
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00:00:57,007 --> 00:01:00,434
To give birth to new
life, against the odds.
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00:01:03,421 --> 00:01:05,773
(chiru squeaks)
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00:01:11,614 --> 00:01:16,325
Only the toughest can survive,
in this land of extremes,
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00:01:24,151 --> 00:01:26,585
Here on the roof of the world.
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(wolf howling)
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A call as piercing as the cold.
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00:01:46,131 --> 00:01:49,099
An alpha male, staking his claim
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00:01:49,176 --> 00:01:51,985
To one of the most testing
habitats on the planet.
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00:01:54,848 --> 00:01:57,366
Tibetan wolves are
incredibly rare
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00:01:59,519 --> 00:02:03,122
But this landscape doesn't
lend itself to abundance.
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00:02:05,150 --> 00:02:09,119
Now, in the grip of winter,
it's more hostile than ever.
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00:02:09,196 --> 00:02:10,912
(dramatic orchestral music)
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00:02:10,989 --> 00:02:14,124
The tibetan plateau is a
land at once spectacular
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00:02:14,201 --> 00:02:18,003
And unforgiving, a
desolate wilderness bigger
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00:02:18,013 --> 00:02:20,347
Than alaska and texas combined.
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00:02:39,776 --> 00:02:43,120
The average elevation is
close to three miles high.
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00:02:45,232 --> 00:02:48,417
There's only half as much
oxygen as at sea level.
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00:02:50,546 --> 00:02:53,121
Specially adapted
to the thin air,
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00:02:53,198 --> 00:02:55,799
The wolf carries an
extra strong heart.
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00:02:59,129 --> 00:03:02,806
And he'll need plenty of
heart, because food is scarce.
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00:03:05,469 --> 00:03:09,346
Despite his thick fur, the
bitter cold saps his energy.
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00:03:09,422 --> 00:03:10,722
(suspenseful music)
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00:03:10,733 --> 00:03:12,357
He must find meat.
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00:03:16,221 --> 00:03:20,157
This is what he's
looking for, blue sheep.
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00:03:24,229 --> 00:03:26,830
Not easy to pin down
in this vastness.
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00:03:36,759 --> 00:03:37,749
He can't do it alone.
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00:03:37,760 --> 00:03:39,509
(wolf pants)
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00:03:45,917 --> 00:03:47,142
But he's got help.
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00:03:55,468 --> 00:03:57,819
(wind howls)
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00:04:07,364 --> 00:04:09,039
The pack must work together.
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00:04:28,385 --> 00:04:30,143
They pick up the sheep's trail.
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00:04:32,964 --> 00:04:35,482
Now, their targets are in sight.
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00:04:41,490 --> 00:04:42,739
The hunt is on.
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00:04:48,855 --> 00:04:51,498
The herd makes a dash
for steeper terrain,
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00:04:51,575 --> 00:04:53,375
Where the wolves can't follow.
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00:04:55,028 --> 00:04:57,337
But one of the pack
outflanks them,
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00:04:57,414 --> 00:04:59,423
Driving them away
from the rocks.
50
00:05:11,044 --> 00:05:12,728
(wolf whines)
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00:05:17,050 --> 00:05:21,820
Their team work has paid off.
(wolves growling)
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00:05:26,777 --> 00:05:28,493
(hooves stomping)
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00:05:31,540 --> 00:05:34,541
A kill this size will
buy them a few days.
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00:05:35,786 --> 00:05:38,337
(wolves growl)
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00:05:40,073 --> 00:05:42,924
But they must find
more prey soon.
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00:05:50,133 --> 00:05:53,676
From the top of the food
chain to the bottom.
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00:05:53,753 --> 00:05:56,396
(light gentle music)
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00:05:56,473 --> 00:05:57,898
(pika squeaks)
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00:05:57,974 --> 00:06:00,776
Pika, close cousins to rabbits.
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00:06:03,647 --> 00:06:06,281
(pika sniffing)
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00:06:07,468 --> 00:06:11,069
They too are focused on food.
(pika squeaking)
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00:06:11,080 --> 00:06:14,581
Even in winter, under
the blanket of snow,
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00:06:14,658 --> 00:06:16,458
There's still grass to be found,
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00:06:19,237 --> 00:06:20,829
If you're willing to dig for it.
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00:06:20,905 --> 00:06:22,589
(pika pattering)
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00:06:25,669 --> 00:06:27,719
They outnumber all the
other mammals here.
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00:06:30,507 --> 00:06:32,891
And they're on every
predator's menu.
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00:06:36,921 --> 00:06:40,440
The whole ecosystem rests on
these little, furry shoulders.
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00:06:46,857 --> 00:06:48,615
Luckily they have a safe room.
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00:06:51,695 --> 00:06:54,454
Each family has its own
burrow, with a suite
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00:06:54,531 --> 00:06:57,082
Of separate chambers,
and multiple entrances,
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00:07:01,154 --> 00:07:04,464
A refuge from
danger, and the cold.
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00:07:04,541 --> 00:07:06,749
(hooves pounding)
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00:07:06,826 --> 00:07:08,877
Suddenly, a disturbance.
(dramatic rhythmic music)
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00:07:08,953 --> 00:07:11,555
(yaks grunting)
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00:07:17,670 --> 00:07:21,857
Yak, a hardy himalayan
descendant of the wild ox.
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00:07:34,163 --> 00:07:37,289
They're on the move,
driven by their herders.
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00:07:39,334 --> 00:07:42,002
They can live well
above 16,000 feet,
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00:07:42,987 --> 00:07:45,714
Higher than almost any
other domestic animal.
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00:07:50,537 --> 00:07:53,505
(yaks grunting)
right now, they're thirsty.
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00:07:53,515 --> 00:07:55,849
(wistful music)
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00:07:59,170 --> 00:08:02,981
But in winter, this is one of
the driest places on earth.
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00:08:04,175 --> 00:08:06,776
(yaks grunting)
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00:08:07,921 --> 00:08:11,531
Water remains locked
in snow and ice.
85
00:08:11,608 --> 00:08:13,158
Rivers freeze over.
86
00:08:15,871 --> 00:08:18,446
But the yak have a
key to break the lock.
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00:08:18,523 --> 00:08:21,124
(yaks grunting)
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00:08:22,118 --> 00:08:25,170
First, they need to
brave the frozen crust.
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00:08:26,623 --> 00:08:30,592
Daunting, when you weigh
half as much as a small car.
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00:08:34,247 --> 00:08:36,431
(light perky music)
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00:08:50,597 --> 00:08:53,064
(ice cracking)
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00:08:53,075 --> 00:08:55,367
They're not exactly
figure skaters.
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00:09:15,288 --> 00:09:17,097
Now that they've
found their feet,
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00:09:17,173 --> 00:09:18,431
They're ready for a drink.
95
00:09:23,772 --> 00:09:26,356
(ice cracking)
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00:09:28,518 --> 00:09:30,652
(yaks huffing)
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00:09:32,005 --> 00:09:35,574
Their warm breath melts
the surface just enough.
98
00:09:45,985 --> 00:09:48,795
They won't need to drink
again for a couple of days.
99
00:09:53,543 --> 00:09:58,471
(water burbling)
(yaks grunting)
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00:09:59,382 --> 00:10:02,884
For thousands of years, yak
have given tibetan people
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Everything from meat and milk
to clothing and transport.
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00:10:08,132 --> 00:10:11,651
Without them, human life
on the plateau might
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Not have been possible.
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00:10:12,988 --> 00:10:15,322
(dramatic music)
105
00:10:23,665 --> 00:10:25,990
It's April.
(light joyful music)
106
00:10:26,001 --> 00:10:29,994
Winter finally begins to
loosen its grip on the land.
107
00:10:30,005 --> 00:10:32,756
(water burbling)
108
00:10:47,547 --> 00:10:51,232
But up in the peaks,
snow still lingers.
109
00:10:54,029 --> 00:10:57,989
For the wolves, life isn't
about to get any easier.
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00:10:59,201 --> 00:11:02,035
The alpha female is pregnant.
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00:11:02,112 --> 00:11:06,831
With new mouths to feed, the
pack will have to up its game.
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(light joyful music)
113
00:11:11,621 --> 00:11:15,548
Spring on the tibetan plateau
ushers in warmer days,
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(wolf pups yipping)
and new arrivals.
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00:11:21,038 --> 00:11:23,306
(light happy music)
116
00:11:26,895 --> 00:11:30,563
Four excited pups,
eager to explore.
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00:11:42,819 --> 00:11:43,985
They've been hidden in the den
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00:11:44,061 --> 00:11:46,454
For the first three
weeks of their lives.
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00:11:53,237 --> 00:11:54,912
For the next couple of months,
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00:11:54,923 --> 00:11:57,915
She and the alpha male
will share duties,
121
00:11:57,926 --> 00:12:00,427
Taking it in turns
to protect the pups,
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00:12:00,503 --> 00:12:02,178
And to hunt for food.
123
00:12:10,296 --> 00:12:13,940
Snow is a curious contrast to
the warm confines of the den.
124
00:12:14,017 --> 00:12:16,317
(light gentle music)
125
00:12:23,526 --> 00:12:26,661
They tentatively embrace
the freedom to play.
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00:12:28,314 --> 00:12:29,447
(wolf pups yipping)
127
00:12:29,458 --> 00:12:31,416
But they won't stray
too far from home.
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00:12:33,820 --> 00:12:36,788
This rough and tumble helps
the pups develop strength
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00:12:36,798 --> 00:12:40,592
And coordination, skills
that are vital for hunting.
130
00:12:43,713 --> 00:12:45,805
It won't be long before
they're big enough
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00:12:45,882 --> 00:12:47,807
To target the resident pika.
132
00:13:00,179 --> 00:13:02,822
While the alpha female
stays with the pups,
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00:13:02,899 --> 00:13:05,441
The rest of the
pack has work to do.
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00:13:05,518 --> 00:13:08,286
(bird squawking )
135
00:13:09,222 --> 00:13:11,823
Resources out here are few.
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00:13:11,833 --> 00:13:15,627
Holding on to good territory
is the only way to survive.
137
00:13:18,155 --> 00:13:20,748
Scent marking
establishes boundaries,
138
00:13:20,825 --> 00:13:25,169
Sending a clear signal to
rivals that this turf is taken.
139
00:13:25,180 --> 00:13:27,514
(enchanting orchestral music)
140
00:13:30,501 --> 00:13:33,478
In may, food becomes a
little more plentiful.
141
00:13:35,265 --> 00:13:37,807
It's lambing season
for the blue sheep.
142
00:13:37,884 --> 00:13:40,685
(hooves stomping)
143
00:13:40,695 --> 00:13:43,863
Stocky front legs help
them scale the peaks,
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00:13:43,940 --> 00:13:46,241
(hooves stomping)
145
00:13:48,895 --> 00:13:51,913
A much needed refuge
from the wolves.
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00:14:06,370 --> 00:14:07,887
The new lambs must quickly learn
147
00:14:07,964 --> 00:14:10,181
To navigate the
perilous terrain.
148
00:14:18,591 --> 00:14:22,318
The sheep are beautifully
adapted to this vertical world.
149
00:14:25,723 --> 00:14:29,033
Despite their name, they have
more in common with goats.
150
00:14:32,822 --> 00:14:35,740
Their hooves are split, so
they can grip the rock face.
151
00:14:35,750 --> 00:14:38,418
(slow triumphant music)
152
00:14:38,494 --> 00:14:42,005
Soft rubbery soles act
like climbing shoes.
153
00:14:49,172 --> 00:14:51,806
They almost seem
to defy gravity.
154
00:14:57,964 --> 00:15:00,607
The wolves could never
pursue them up here.
155
00:15:06,806 --> 00:15:09,073
(ominous orchestral music)
156
00:15:11,602 --> 00:15:16,539
But there's another enemy, one
more at home among the crags.
157
00:15:20,152 --> 00:15:21,377
A snow leopard.
158
00:15:22,522 --> 00:15:25,632
She relies on stealth
and camouflage,
159
00:15:25,708 --> 00:15:28,801
Waiting for her prey to
move close enough to ambush.
160
00:15:30,213 --> 00:15:32,513
(hooves stomping)
161
00:15:35,793 --> 00:15:37,769
Yet the sheep stay out of reach.
162
00:15:39,889 --> 00:15:41,940
Today, she'll go hungry.
163
00:15:48,180 --> 00:15:50,398
(water burbling)
164
00:15:50,474 --> 00:15:53,952
Just like the wolves, she
must defend her territory.
165
00:15:57,165 --> 00:15:59,832
Unlike the wolves,
she works alone.
166
00:16:03,413 --> 00:16:05,121
Scent glands around her whiskers
167
00:16:05,197 --> 00:16:07,757
And chin spread her
signature smell,
168
00:16:08,659 --> 00:16:13,137
And leave a potent message
for other leopards, keep out.
169
00:16:14,424 --> 00:16:16,724
(light happy music)
170
00:16:20,046 --> 00:16:22,471
As may progresses
on the plateau,
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00:16:22,548 --> 00:16:24,682
Pika families are
rapidly expanding.
172
00:16:24,693 --> 00:16:27,527
(pikas pattering)
173
00:16:36,946 --> 00:16:39,539
From now until the end
of summer, this male
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00:16:39,615 --> 00:16:43,126
And his partner will produce
a litter every three weeks.
175
00:16:44,528 --> 00:16:47,964
So he could sire as many
as 18 babies this season,
176
00:16:48,942 --> 00:16:52,301
All relying on this
patch of grass for food.
177
00:16:53,370 --> 00:16:54,712
(pikas sniffing)
(pikas pattering)
178
00:16:54,723 --> 00:16:57,390
(suspenseful music)
179
00:16:57,467 --> 00:16:59,726
His territory is tiny,
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00:16:59,802 --> 00:17:02,145
But he'll defend it
against all comers.
181
00:17:04,899 --> 00:17:08,484
Another male wants the
food this patch provides.
182
00:17:10,721 --> 00:17:13,397
Dad spots the intruder.
183
00:17:13,408 --> 00:17:16,159
(pikas sniffing)
184
00:17:20,156 --> 00:17:22,457
Trespassers won't be tolerated.
185
00:17:27,663 --> 00:17:29,830
(pika squeaking)
186
00:17:29,907 --> 00:17:31,591
But his warning is ignored.
187
00:17:33,428 --> 00:17:36,179
(pikas sniffing)
188
00:17:39,342 --> 00:17:40,767
It's a showdown.
189
00:17:46,182 --> 00:17:48,933
(pika squeaks)
(dramatic music)
190
00:17:48,943 --> 00:17:52,195
He may be small, but he
fights like a heavyweight.
191
00:17:54,949 --> 00:17:57,784
(pikas squealing)
192
00:18:10,322 --> 00:18:13,624
Territory defended, he
can return to feeding.
193
00:18:13,635 --> 00:18:15,126
(pika chomping)
194
00:18:15,136 --> 00:18:17,303
But he must keep
his wits about him.
195
00:18:18,289 --> 00:18:23,142
Others are hungry too.
(ominous music)
196
00:18:25,129 --> 00:18:26,971
A golden eagle soars
(ominous music)
197
00:18:26,981 --> 00:18:28,898
Over the tibetan plateau
198
00:18:31,060 --> 00:18:33,194
With pika in its sights.
199
00:18:42,497 --> 00:18:46,657
The alarm goes out,
(pika squeaking)
200
00:18:46,668 --> 00:18:48,909
(fast dramatic music)
201
00:18:48,986 --> 00:18:50,878
Sending everyone to ground.
202
00:18:56,010 --> 00:18:57,176
But one has strayed
203
00:18:57,253 --> 00:19:00,221
Just a little too far
from his bolthole.
204
00:19:08,857 --> 00:19:11,524
(pika sniffing)
205
00:19:16,197 --> 00:19:18,647
(wondrous music)
with the hunter satisfied,
206
00:19:18,724 --> 00:19:19,866
The coast is now clear.
207
00:19:27,566 --> 00:19:31,294
The rocky peaks stand like
islands in a sea of green.
208
00:19:35,574 --> 00:19:38,834
Thousands of square miles
of grasslands cover an area
209
00:19:38,911 --> 00:19:42,388
Even larger than the great
plains of north america.
210
00:19:44,208 --> 00:19:45,299
This is the stage
211
00:19:45,376 --> 00:19:49,061
For the tibetan plateau's
most epic event.
212
00:19:50,732 --> 00:19:54,892
(water burbling)
(dramatic music)
213
00:19:54,903 --> 00:19:57,028
The chiru antelope migration.
214
00:20:01,317 --> 00:20:03,400
The chiru spend the
winter dispersed
215
00:20:03,411 --> 00:20:05,161
Across the whole plateau.
216
00:20:07,439 --> 00:20:09,657
But in late spring a change
217
00:20:09,733 --> 00:20:12,251
In the weather sets
the females in motion.
218
00:20:19,835 --> 00:20:21,928
(bird squawking)
219
00:20:22,004 --> 00:20:24,588
They abandon the
males, and turn,
220
00:20:24,599 --> 00:20:27,058
As one, toward a shared goal.
221
00:20:29,103 --> 00:20:33,272
Day after day they
March, up to 200 miles,
222
00:20:33,349 --> 00:20:35,233
Across a barren world.
223
00:20:41,807 --> 00:20:45,201
At last, they arrive
at their destination,
224
00:20:54,486 --> 00:20:58,839
The shores of zhuonai lake, in
the far west of the plateau.
225
00:21:00,376 --> 00:21:05,012
Each year, in July, around
30,000 chiru congregate here.
226
00:21:06,498 --> 00:21:10,101
Why they choose this
particular place is a mystery.
227
00:21:15,316 --> 00:21:18,726
But a common purpose
draws them together
228
00:21:18,802 --> 00:21:21,487
(birds chirping)
229
00:21:24,659 --> 00:21:26,867
To continue the cycle of life.
230
00:21:27,978 --> 00:21:30,997
(light wondrous music)
231
00:21:31,073 --> 00:21:35,835
In the span of just three weeks,
the whole herd gives birth.
232
00:21:44,536 --> 00:21:45,803
No time for sitting around.
233
00:22:00,052 --> 00:22:01,819
(calf bleats)
234
00:22:03,889 --> 00:22:06,532
(birds chirping)
235
00:22:11,781 --> 00:22:13,873
(calf bleats)
236
00:22:13,949 --> 00:22:16,200
Incredibly, the calves can walk
237
00:22:16,210 --> 00:22:18,627
Within 15 minutes of being born.
238
00:22:31,708 --> 00:22:33,884
And they must
quickly learn to run.
239
00:22:33,895 --> 00:22:36,145
(light upbeat music)
240
00:22:43,053 --> 00:22:45,821
(hooves stomping)
241
00:23:01,113 --> 00:23:03,631
Being fast on their
feet is crucial.
242
00:23:05,151 --> 00:23:09,720
Such a wealth of potential prey
inevitably draws predators.
243
00:23:12,791 --> 00:23:16,427
Another pack of tibetan
wolves, seeking opportunity.
244
00:23:16,437 --> 00:23:18,771
(suspenseful music)
245
00:23:20,182 --> 00:23:21,690
They'll have to act soon.
246
00:23:25,020 --> 00:23:27,446
The chiru will leave
when summer ends.
247
00:23:33,437 --> 00:23:37,030
Each evening the wolves follow
the daily rhythm of the herd.
248
00:23:37,107 --> 00:23:38,791
(birds chirping)
249
00:23:40,035 --> 00:23:42,786
The mothers and their
calves leave the lake
250
00:23:42,797 --> 00:23:44,746
And head for the nearby hills.
251
00:23:44,823 --> 00:23:46,206
(water burbling)
252
00:23:46,283 --> 00:23:49,460
It's not wise to spend
nights exposed in the open.
253
00:23:49,470 --> 00:23:51,804
(dramatic music)
254
00:23:53,123 --> 00:23:56,308
To reach shelter they
must ford the streams
255
00:23:56,385 --> 00:23:58,394
Which pose little obstacle now.
256
00:24:01,983 --> 00:24:04,024
But things are about to change.
257
00:24:07,730 --> 00:24:10,531
The wolves watch, and wait.
258
00:24:15,070 --> 00:24:17,821
As the chiru
prepare to bed down,
259
00:24:17,832 --> 00:24:20,291
Darkness sweeps
across the plateau.
260
00:24:22,694 --> 00:24:26,455
At over 15,000 feet,
even in summer,
261
00:24:26,532 --> 00:24:28,257
Temperatures plunge at night.
262
00:24:32,704 --> 00:24:36,015
At these heights, the
heavens themselves feel
263
00:24:36,091 --> 00:24:38,350
Like they're almost
within reach.
264
00:25:07,072 --> 00:25:09,048
(wolf pups yipping)
265
00:25:09,124 --> 00:25:10,549
(bright enchanting music)
266
00:25:10,668 --> 00:25:14,762
Up at the den, the tibetan
summer is testing the wolves.
267
00:25:19,134 --> 00:25:22,603
The pups are hungry, but their
mother's milk is drying up.
268
00:25:26,216 --> 00:25:29,735
Their father is off with the
rest of the pack, on the hunt.
269
00:25:29,812 --> 00:25:31,862
There's no telling
when he'll be back.
270
00:25:35,601 --> 00:25:38,327
And mom can only hunt
within reach of the den.
271
00:25:41,916 --> 00:25:44,366
She needs to secure a meal.
272
00:25:44,443 --> 00:25:47,127
(bird squawking)
273
00:25:50,407 --> 00:25:54,802
Pika are small, but up
here, every calorie counts.
274
00:25:57,932 --> 00:26:00,683
(pika pattering)
275
00:26:07,942 --> 00:26:09,224
(pika squeaks)
276
00:26:09,301 --> 00:26:12,736
She's too slow, and
returns empty handed.
277
00:26:13,930 --> 00:26:16,198
(suspenseful music)
278
00:26:17,192 --> 00:26:19,493
But another's approach
catches their eye.
279
00:26:24,867 --> 00:26:26,375
Now she sees it too.
280
00:26:35,469 --> 00:26:36,627
(wolf pups yipping)
it's dad.
281
00:26:36,637 --> 00:26:38,971
(light joyful music)
282
00:26:46,296 --> 00:26:48,897
With a take-out meal
for his hungry family.
283
00:26:51,819 --> 00:26:53,644
Carried home in his stomach,
284
00:26:53,654 --> 00:26:56,655
Their whining stimulates
him to serve it up.
285
00:26:56,732 --> 00:27:01,068
(wolf pups chomping)
(wolf pups yapping)
286
00:27:01,144 --> 00:27:03,495
The pups tussle over the feast
287
00:27:03,572 --> 00:27:05,831
And the pushiest
gets the most to eat.
288
00:27:12,531 --> 00:27:17,468
(wolves panting)
(wolves whining)
289
00:27:21,182 --> 00:27:23,840
Hunger dealt with,
it's time to play,
290
00:27:23,851 --> 00:27:26,593
And practice their
hunting skills.
291
00:27:26,670 --> 00:27:29,137
These sessions will eventually
sort the pecking order
292
00:27:29,214 --> 00:27:30,180
Between the pups.
293
00:27:30,191 --> 00:27:32,524
(triumphant music)
294
00:27:47,566 --> 00:27:51,284
All the youngsters that
inhabit the plateau relish the
295
00:27:51,361 --> 00:27:53,545
Relatively warm days of summer.
296
00:27:53,622 --> 00:27:56,423
(hooves stomping)
297
00:27:58,794 --> 00:28:01,169
(pika squeaks)
298
00:28:01,246 --> 00:28:03,472
There's fresh grass
to fatten up on.
299
00:28:10,088 --> 00:28:12,064
And plenty of time to play,
300
00:28:12,141 --> 00:28:13,399
(chiru bleats)
301
00:28:13,475 --> 00:28:15,567
Building strength for
the challenges ahead.
302
00:28:50,938 --> 00:28:53,188
(chiru bleats)
303
00:28:54,516 --> 00:28:56,817
(soft wondrous music)
304
00:29:10,774 --> 00:29:13,909
But the good times
aren't set to last.
305
00:29:13,985 --> 00:29:16,119
(thunder rumbling)
306
00:29:16,130 --> 00:29:19,915
Ominous clouds build
on the horizon.
307
00:29:19,991 --> 00:29:24,928
A weather event on a truly
global scale is bearing down.
308
00:29:28,809 --> 00:29:30,033
Much of the year,
309
00:29:30,035 --> 00:29:34,313
The arid tibetan plateau
sees little rain.
310
00:29:34,389 --> 00:29:37,816
But late July brings
the mighty monsoon.
311
00:29:37,893 --> 00:29:39,209
(dramatic music)
312
00:29:39,211 --> 00:29:42,771
It sweeps north from
india with such force that
313
00:29:42,848 --> 00:29:46,742
Even the towering wall of
the himalayas can't stop it.
314
00:29:54,317 --> 00:29:57,836
It closes in on the
shores of zhuonai lake.
315
00:30:02,510 --> 00:30:06,094
Up here, the monsoon
has a sting in its tail.
316
00:30:07,330 --> 00:30:09,589
(hail pattering)
317
00:30:09,666 --> 00:30:12,300
At almost three miles
above sea level,
318
00:30:12,377 --> 00:30:14,186
The rain falls as ice.
319
00:30:14,263 --> 00:30:16,563
(dramatic music)
320
00:30:18,550 --> 00:30:22,018
Exposed on the open
plains, the chiru rely
321
00:30:22,029 --> 00:30:25,272
On thick outer hairs on their
coats to repel the hail.
322
00:30:25,348 --> 00:30:27,699
(wind howls)
323
00:30:28,928 --> 00:30:31,653
Beneath lies an
insulating layer of soft,
324
00:30:31,730 --> 00:30:34,155
Light underfur
known as shahtoosh.
325
00:30:34,232 --> 00:30:36,708
(somber music)
326
00:30:36,785 --> 00:30:38,368
Prized for this fine wool
327
00:30:38,379 --> 00:30:41,204
Which was woven into
luxurious shawls,
328
00:30:41,215 --> 00:30:43,924
Chiru herds were once
decimated by poaching.
329
00:30:50,707 --> 00:30:53,341
Now, they're protected
and the biggest challenge
330
00:30:53,418 --> 00:30:56,019
They face is the
extreme weather.
331
00:31:06,264 --> 00:31:08,949
(water burbling)
332
00:31:28,262 --> 00:31:31,179
(water spattering)
333
00:31:36,294 --> 00:31:40,022
Finally, the storm clears,
but it's left its mark.
334
00:31:42,776 --> 00:31:46,227
(water burbling)
335
00:31:46,304 --> 00:31:49,907
The monsoon has turned the
river into a raging torrent.
336
00:31:54,270 --> 00:31:56,947
Yet the herd still needs
to cross each evening
337
00:31:56,957 --> 00:31:59,333
To reach the shelter
of the hills.
338
00:32:08,543 --> 00:32:10,719
Not easy on little legs.
339
00:32:12,714 --> 00:32:15,015
(dramatic music)
340
00:32:16,218 --> 00:32:18,810
Many of the calves are
just two weeks old.
341
00:32:44,654 --> 00:32:47,330
Experienced mothers
act as a barrier,
342
00:32:47,341 --> 00:32:50,175
Blocking their calves from
being swept downstream.
343
00:32:59,019 --> 00:33:02,312
Falling behind can
have dire consequences.
344
00:33:13,058 --> 00:33:15,742
The force of the water
is too much for some.
345
00:33:28,882 --> 00:33:31,133
Others struggle on.
346
00:33:35,872 --> 00:33:37,639
The effort is exhausting.
347
00:33:45,399 --> 00:33:46,231
But worth it.
348
00:33:50,053 --> 00:33:53,947
The youngsters have overcome
their first big challenge.
349
00:34:01,823 --> 00:34:03,990
Driven by the need for shelter,
350
00:34:04,067 --> 00:34:06,752
The females push their
young to the limit,
351
00:34:06,828 --> 00:34:11,798
Leading them up into the
hills, away from hungry eyes.
352
00:34:12,151 --> 00:34:16,377
(thunder rumbles)
(wind roars)
353
00:34:16,454 --> 00:34:19,931
Tibet's summer monsoon
hasn't yet run its course.
354
00:34:21,009 --> 00:34:23,676
The clouds, still
heavy with moisture,
355
00:34:23,753 --> 00:34:25,929
Head for the surrounding peaks.
356
00:34:25,939 --> 00:34:28,273
(suspenseful music)
357
00:34:32,780 --> 00:34:37,616
In an instant, it's winter.
(wind howls)
358
00:34:49,204 --> 00:34:51,746
Up here, summer
temperatures can plummet
359
00:34:51,823 --> 00:34:53,924
By 40 degrees in a day.
360
00:34:58,972 --> 00:35:01,714
(wolf pup howling)
361
00:35:01,791 --> 00:35:04,184
Bad news for one of the pups.
362
00:35:07,889 --> 00:35:11,733
Caught out by the storm, he's
disoriented in the white out.
363
00:35:14,729 --> 00:35:15,895
If he doesn't find his way back
364
00:35:15,972 --> 00:35:19,116
To the safety of his
family, he'll die.
365
00:35:24,022 --> 00:35:26,164
His distress calls pierce
through the blizzard.
366
00:35:26,241 --> 00:35:29,659
(wolf pup howling)
(suspenseful music)
367
00:35:29,670 --> 00:35:31,753
The alpha male heads
out into the storm.
368
00:35:47,545 --> 00:35:52,482
The pup is weakening fast.
(wolf pup howls)
369
00:36:08,041 --> 00:36:09,958
But his scent trail lingers.
370
00:36:12,454 --> 00:36:14,629
(triumphant music)
he's got him.
371
00:36:20,462 --> 00:36:24,181
Father leads the way home,
to the warmth of the den.
372
00:36:32,307 --> 00:36:35,984
There'll be time enough for
adventures when he's older.
373
00:36:44,244 --> 00:36:47,495
(gently chiming bells)
374
00:36:49,107 --> 00:36:51,374
(light gentle music)
375
00:36:55,088 --> 00:36:56,588
The monsoon blows over.
376
00:37:09,344 --> 00:37:12,011
And the familiar shades
of summer return.
377
00:37:12,088 --> 00:37:14,731
(birds chirping)
378
00:37:19,929 --> 00:37:23,398
(birds squawking)
379
00:37:23,474 --> 00:37:26,693
As morning breaks, the
chiru head down to feed
380
00:37:26,769 --> 00:37:28,578
On the shores of zhuonai lake.
381
00:37:35,153 --> 00:37:38,505
This time, wolves
shadow the herd.
382
00:37:41,492 --> 00:37:44,636
Soon this abundance
of prey will be gone,
383
00:37:44,713 --> 00:37:47,138
As the chiru head back to
their wintering grounds.
384
00:37:47,215 --> 00:37:49,516
(suspenseful music)
385
00:37:50,835 --> 00:37:53,979
The wolves' window of
opportunity is closing.
386
00:38:12,523 --> 00:38:14,791
(dramatic music)
387
00:38:16,911 --> 00:38:17,919
They make their move.
388
00:38:37,340 --> 00:38:39,566
The adults are too fast.
389
00:38:42,053 --> 00:38:43,903
They must aim younger.
390
00:38:52,372 --> 00:38:54,622
(dramatic music)
391
00:38:59,570 --> 00:39:03,465
Under attack, the chiru
seek safety in numbers.
392
00:39:07,554 --> 00:39:10,805
But not everyone can
keep up with the herd.
393
00:39:16,379 --> 00:39:18,646
(fast climactic music)
394
00:39:19,974 --> 00:39:21,358
A wolf closes in.
395
00:39:26,097 --> 00:39:30,283
It's a strategic move,
separating mother and calf.
396
00:40:10,525 --> 00:40:12,108
(water burbling)
(somber music)
397
00:40:12,119 --> 00:40:14,577
The pack's pursuit
is relentless.
398
00:40:19,626 --> 00:40:21,835
Two more youngsters
are separated.
399
00:40:29,469 --> 00:40:30,468
One's trapped.
400
00:40:32,455 --> 00:40:34,222
And it's fate is sealed.
401
00:40:43,650 --> 00:40:45,984
(triumphant music)
402
00:40:50,306 --> 00:40:53,491
The other calf makes it back
to the safety of the herd.
403
00:40:56,496 --> 00:40:59,280
The wolves have
claimed their prize,
404
00:40:59,357 --> 00:41:01,875
But the chiru herd
remains strong.
405
00:41:12,420 --> 00:41:16,681
High above, in the peaks,
lean times are coming.
406
00:41:22,547 --> 00:41:25,806
Soon, deep snow and
ice will transform
407
00:41:25,883 --> 00:41:27,808
These hunting grounds.
408
00:41:27,885 --> 00:41:30,153
(light happy music)
409
00:41:35,610 --> 00:41:39,370
The snow leopard enjoys her
last feast of the season.
410
00:41:40,690 --> 00:41:43,291
The blue sheep will keep
her going for a while.
411
00:41:50,533 --> 00:41:53,426
The alpha pair have
served their family well.
412
00:41:55,630 --> 00:41:58,297
(wolves whining)
413
00:41:58,374 --> 00:41:59,557
The pack is loyal.
414
00:42:02,211 --> 00:42:03,386
(bird cawing)
415
00:42:03,396 --> 00:42:05,179
And the pups are thriving.
416
00:42:05,256 --> 00:42:08,191
(wolf pups yipping)
417
00:42:12,221 --> 00:42:13,896
(dramatic orchestral music)
418
00:42:13,907 --> 00:42:15,448
Summer is tough enough
419
00:42:16,743 --> 00:42:18,243
But when winter descends,
420
00:42:18,319 --> 00:42:22,029
They'll have to brave the
full force of the elements.
421
00:42:22,106 --> 00:42:23,573
And learn what it really takes
422
00:42:23,583 --> 00:42:26,251
To survive on the
tibetan plateau.
423
00:42:29,572 --> 00:42:33,341
Here, winter comes
early, and hard.
424
00:42:35,428 --> 00:42:37,679
In August, it's time to leave.
425
00:42:41,009 --> 00:42:44,269
Barely a month old, the
chiru youngsters face
426
00:42:44,345 --> 00:42:47,647
An arduous journey back to
their wintering grounds.
427
00:42:51,260 --> 00:42:54,320
With a turn of the
head, the exodus begins.
428
00:42:58,100 --> 00:42:59,701
And the herd falls into step.
429
00:43:01,812 --> 00:43:04,581
(hooves stomping)
430
00:43:06,367 --> 00:43:08,918
In a matter of days,
they'll all be gone.
431
00:43:17,995 --> 00:43:20,046
They arrived as a sisterhood,
432
00:43:20,122 --> 00:43:22,181
But they're leaving as families.
433
00:43:26,671 --> 00:43:30,148
The pika families stay put,
toughing out the winter.
434
00:43:31,376 --> 00:43:34,360
They, at least, can
escape underground.
435
00:43:35,730 --> 00:43:37,046
But the wolves must endure
436
00:43:37,048 --> 00:43:40,116
Whatever the tibetan
plateau throws their way.
437
00:43:42,403 --> 00:43:44,162
These are the hardy few.
438
00:43:45,832 --> 00:43:48,833
The ones who March
boldly into winter.
439
00:43:48,910 --> 00:43:51,410
And those who stand firm.
440
00:43:51,487 --> 00:43:53,954
(wolf pups yipping)
441
00:43:54,031 --> 00:43:57,166
They all fight for survival.
442
00:43:57,177 --> 00:44:02,180
Here on the roof of the world.
(wind howls)
33914
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