Original subtitles

>>> and now, natgeo wild presents, "yellowstone live." >> a cougar making sure no one

presents, "yellowstone live." >> a cougar making sure no one comes near his latest hill.

>> a cougar making sure no one comes near his latest hill. Mom cubs having a grand old

comes near his latest hill. Mom cubs having a grand old time.

Mom cubs having a grand old time. And this is the basin like

time. And this is the basin like you've never seen it before.

And this is the basin like you've never seen it before. And this is

you've never seen it before. And this is ♪♪

and this is ♪♪ >>> and welcome back to another

♪♪ >>> and welcome back to another night of wild life action and

>>> and welcome back to another night of wild life action and raw, natural beauty.

Night of wild life action and raw, natural beauty. We are bringing you the greater

raw, natural beauty. We are bringing you the greater yellow stone ecosystem here in a

we are bringing you the greater yellow stone ecosystem here in a way that national graphic can.

Yellow stone ecosystem here in a way that national graphic can. Joining me is my good friend

way that national graphic can. Joining me is my good friend chris.

Joining me is my good friend chris. How you?

Chris. How you? >> things are going well.

How you? >> things are going well. We had a brilliant week so far.

>> things are going well. We had a brilliant week so far. We are in a fantastic part of

we had a brilliant week so far. We are in a fantastic part of the world when it comes to wild

we are in a fantastic part of the world when it comes to wild life.

The world when it comes to wild life. And wolf pups.

Life. And wolf pups. It's been fantastic.

And wolf pups. It's been fantastic. Tonight we want to focus on

it's been fantastic. Tonight we want to focus on predator/prey relationships.

Tonight we want to focus on predator/prey relationships. And sometimes they can be

predator/prey relationships. And sometimes they can be surprising.

And sometimes they can be surprising. >> let's get to it.

Surprising. >> let's get to it. This is footage we got in just

>> let's get to it. This is footage we got in just today.

This is footage we got in just today. Shot earlier this morning with

today. Shot earlier this morning with the long range thermal camera.

Shot earlier this morning with the long range thermal camera. A wolf in the valley.

The long range thermal camera. A wolf in the valley. Remarkable stuff.

A wolf in the valley. Remarkable stuff. >> remember, this is a heat

remarkable stuff. >> remember, this is a heat signature we're looking at here.

>> remember, this is a heat signature we're looking at here. That is why you can see the

signature we're looking at here. That is why you can see the eyes.

That is why you can see the eyes. It's swimming across either a

eyes. It's swimming across either a lake or a river, towards this

it's swimming across either a lake or a river, towards this little group of ducklings in the

lake or a river, towards this little group of ducklings in the marsh here.

Little group of ducklings in the marsh here. You may be interested, it's on

marsh here. You may be interested, it's on its own.

You may be interested, it's on its own. It's not punting in a puck.

Its own. It's not punting in a puck. Anything he can pick up onist

it's not punting in a puck. Anything he can pick up onist own, a duckling s a healthy

anything he can pick up onist own, a duckling s a healthy snack.

Own, a duckling s a healthy snack. I think it's using its nose.

Snack. I think it's using its nose. I think it's following the trail

I think it's using its nose. I think it's following the trail of ducklings through that marsh.

I think it's following the trail of ducklings through that marsh. >> let's listen to the splash.

Of ducklings through that marsh. >> let's listen to the splash. >> oh.

>> let's listen to the splash. >> oh. The top of the screen, to you

>> oh. The top of the screen, to you did see it?

The top of the screen, to you did see it? >> yes.

Did see it? >> yes. >> those are the ducklings and

>> yes. >> those are the ducklings and now it's on this part of the

>> those are the ducklings and now it's on this part of the show.

Now it's on this part of the show. >> it seems to be chasing

show. >> it seems to be chasing something.

>> it seems to be chasing something. >> yeah, sometimes the adults

something. >> yeah, sometimes the adults pretend to have a broken wing

>> yeah, sometimes the adults pretend to have a broken wing and therefore they appear as a

pretend to have a broken wing and therefore they appear as a target for an animal like a

and therefore they appear as a target for an animal like a wolf.

Target for an animal like a wolf. Ha is a means of luring the

wolf. Ha is a means of luring the predator away from the fragile

ha is a means of luring the predator away from the fragile are ducklings.

Predator away from the fragile are ducklings. There is the adult there

are ducklings. There is the adult there flapping on the surface.

There is the adult there flapping on the surface. She takes take.

Flapping on the surface. She takes take. What a superb way to start the

she takes take. What a superb way to start the show.

What a superb way to start the show. >> and the other direction.

Show. >> and the other direction. Predator and prey.

>> and the other direction. Predator and prey. Score one for the prey at least

predator and prey. Score one for the prey at least for now.

Score one for the prey at least for now. And the head had quarters,

for now. And the head had quarters, inside this 100-year-old barn

and the head had quarters, inside this 100-year-old barn here where we are monitoring

inside this 100-year-old barn here where we are monitoring cameras stationed all over the

here where we are monitoring cameras stationed all over the greater yellow stone ecosystem.

Cameras stationed all over the greater yellow stone ecosystem. We are live from yellow stone's

greater yellow stone ecosystem. We are live from yellow stone's national park's and the die son

we are live from yellow stone's national park's and the die son preparing to rut.

National park's and the die son preparing to rut. We are keeping an eye on an

preparing to rut. We are keeping an eye on an eagle the nest in swan valley as

we are keeping an eye on an eagle the nest in swan valley as well.

Eagle the nest in swan valley as well. And the elk are doing elk

well. And the elk are doing elk things.

And the elk are doing elk things. And rewre in the prairie

things. And rewre in the prairie reserve.

And rewre in the prairie reserve. Not to wor we, we will be back

reserve. Not to wor we, we will be back with that beaver mother and her

not to wor we, we will be back with that beaver mother and her tits in forest.

With that beaver mother and her tits in forest. It can go off just prior to ai

tits in forest. It can go off just prior to ai we will see if she speeds things

it can go off just prior to ai we will see if she speeds things up and see if we can send you

we will see if she speeds things up and see if we can send you off tonight with a little ole

up and see if we can send you off tonight with a little ole faithful.

Off tonight with a little ole faithful. Let's go live now to lamar

faithful. Let's go live now to lamar valley and bob pool.

Let's go live now to lamar valley and bob pool. >> standing by.

Valley and bob pool. >> standing by. >> it's an absolutely gorgeous

>> standing by. >> it's an absolutely gorgeous evening tis evening.

>> it's an absolutely gorgeous evening tis evening. We've got literally thousands of

evening tis evening. We've got literally thousands of bison.

We've got literally thousands of bison. In fact, I have to keep moving

bison. In fact, I have to keep moving my camera, because they keep

in fact, I have to keep moving my camera, because they keep getting too close.

My camera, because they keep getting too close. But it's a lot of fun being out

getting too close. But it's a lot of fun being out with them.

But it's a lot of fun being out with them. They are just literally spread

with them. They are just literally spread out throughout the valley, and

they are just literally spread out throughout the valley, and with safety in numbers like

out throughout the valley, and with safety in numbers like that, they really -- nothing can

with safety in numbers like that, they really -- nothing can sneak up on them too quickly.

That, they really -- nothing can sneak up on them too quickly. If you're a solitary animal,

sneak up on them too quickly. If you're a solitary animal, it's a totally different story.

If you're a solitary animal, it's a totally different story. This is a really nice situation.

It's a totally different story. This is a really nice situation. There's a bear over there.

This is a really nice situation. There's a bear over there. I thought it was a grizzly bear,

there's a bear over there. I thought it was a grizzly bear, but it's not.

I thought it was a grizzly bear, but it's not. Doesn't have that big hump on

but it's not. Doesn't have that big hump on the back of his neck.

Doesn't have that big hump on the back of his neck. It's a cinnamon-colored black

the back of his neck. It's a cinnamon-colored black bear.

It's a cinnamon-colored black bear. And it's funny, because I'm

bear. And it's funny, because I'm looking at him and he's looking

and it's funny, because I'm looking at him and he's looking at me.

Looking at him and he's looking at me. Bears have similar senses to our

at me. Bears have similar senses to our own in terms of their vision and

bears have similar senses to our own in terms of their vision and their hearing.

Own in terms of their vision and their hearing. But their nose, they can smell

their hearing. But their nose, they can smell really, really well.

But their nose, they can smell really, really well. And my sense is sort of wafting

really, really well. And my sense is sort of wafting around the forest right now.

And my sense is sort of wafting around the forest right now. And doesn't get a clear sense

around the forest right now. And doesn't get a clear sense from the just -- trying to get

and doesn't get a clear sense from the just -- trying to get it.

From the just -- trying to get it. You can see the way he's using

it. You can see the way he's using his nose right now.

You can see the way he's using his nose right now. He's not afraid of me, and he's

his nose right now. He's not afraid of me, and he's not in any way aggressive.

He's not afraid of me, and he's not in any way aggressive. If he was aggressive, he would

not in any way aggressive. If he was aggressive, he would sort of flatten his ears back

if he was aggressive, he would sort of flatten his ears back and sort of maybe get low to the

sort of flatten his ears back and sort of maybe get low to the ground and become visibly

and sort of maybe get low to the ground and become visibly threatening.

Ground and become visibly threatening. Or he would run away, and he's

threatening. Or he would run away, and he's not doing either one of those.

Or he would run away, and he's not doing either one of those. It's just a nice situation.

Not doing either one of those. It's just a nice situation. This is kind of the sort of

it's just a nice situation. This is kind of the sort of behavior that's fun to film,

this is kind of the sort of behavior that's fun to film, because you don't want to

behavior that's fun to film, because you don't want to interfere with their behavior.

Because you don't want to interfere with their behavior. But you want to see the way that

interfere with their behavior. But you want to see the way that they work.

But you want to see the way that they work. And how their eyes, ears and

they work. And how their eyes, ears and sense of smell and everything

and how their eyes, ears and sense of smell and everything sort of in some ways relates to

sense of smell and everything sort of in some ways relates to our own.

Sort of in some ways relates to our own. >> you're right about the senses

our own. >> you're right about the senses there, josh.

>> you're right about the senses there, josh. The hearing is probably twice as

there, josh. The hearing is probably twice as good as ours.

The hearing is probably twice as good as ours. But the scent is much, much

good as ours. But the scent is much, much better.

But the scent is much, much better. Their nasal mucosaa, surfaces

better. Their nasal mucosaa, surfaces inside the nose, is 100 times

their nasal mucosaa, surfaces inside the nose, is 100 times greater than ours.

Inside the nose, is 100 times greater than ours. So they live in a completely

greater than ours. So they live in a completely different world.

So they live in a completely different world. Eyesight, hearing, twice as

different world. Eyesight, hearing, twice as good.

Eyesight, hearing, twice as good. But their smell, way, way, way

good. But their smell, way, way, way better.

But their smell, way, way, way better. >> they smell you long way

better. >> they smell you long way before you see them.

>> they smell you long way before you see them. For any animals, this is the

before you see them. For any animals, this is the season for raising their young

for any animals, this is the season for raising their young ones.

Season for raising their young ones. The bottom of the food chain do

ones. The bottom of the food chain do have to work extra hard to

the bottom of the food chain do have to work extra hard to protect their young.

Have to work extra hard to protect their young. But actually, it's no picnic for

protect their young. But actually, it's no picnic for predators, either.

But actually, it's no picnic for predators, either. ♪♪

predators, either. ♪♪ >> right now, yellowstone's apex

♪♪ >> right now, yellowstone's apex predators are on the move.

>> right now, yellowstone's apex predators are on the move. And with them, some hungry new

predators are on the move. And with them, some hungry new additions.

And with them, some hungry new additions. But these young hunters are

additions. But these young hunters are small and vulnerable.

But these young hunters are small and vulnerable. Wolf pups are born blind and

small and vulnerable. Wolf pups are born blind and deaf.

Wolf pups are born blind and deaf. And are completely reliant on

deaf. And are completely reliant on their pack.

And are completely reliant on their pack. Black bear cubs learn to climb

their pack. Black bear cubs learn to climb trees to escape danger.

Black bear cubs learn to climb trees to escape danger. Still, only 50% survive their

trees to escape danger. Still, only 50% survive their first year.

Still, only 50% survive their first year. Their grizzly cub cousins weigh

first year. Their grizzly cub cousins weigh only a pound when they're born,

their grizzly cub cousins weigh only a pound when they're born, and depend on mom for up to

only a pound when they're born, and depend on mom for up to three years.

And depend on mom for up to three years. These little ones still have a

three years. These little ones still have a long way to go before they

these little ones still have a long way to go before they become yellowstone's top

long way to go before they become yellowstone's top predators.

Become yellowstone's top predators. Well, one way these little guys

predators. Well, one way these little guys learn the ropes, if you will, is

well, one way these little guys learn the ropes, if you will, is perhaps this, a little play time

learn the ropes, if you will, is perhaps this, a little play time with mom, dad and uncle and

perhaps this, a little play time with mom, dad and uncle and aunts.

With mom, dad and uncle and aunts. Well, some people say that play

aunts. Well, some people say that play has no obvious adaptive

well, some people say that play has no obvious adaptive function.

Has no obvious adaptive function. You know, that it's a

function. You know, that it's a recreational leisure thing, not

you know, that it's a recreational leisure thing, not directly related to any

recreational leisure thing, not directly related to any increased chance of survival.

Directly related to any increased chance of survival. What about beavers, though,

increased chance of survival. What about beavers, though, chris?

What about beavers, though, chris? >> yeah, but I could argue what

chris? >> yeah, but I could argue what they're doing is establishing a

>> yeah, but I could argue what they're doing is establishing a dominant hierarchy here.

They're doing is establishing a dominant hierarchy here. So when the female comes back

dominant hierarchy here. So when the female comes back in, the strongest and fittest

so when the female comes back in, the strongest and fittest one gets the best.

In, the strongest and fittest one gets the best. >> but also, aren't they just

one gets the best. >> but also, aren't they just curious, working off a little

>> but also, aren't they just curious, working off a little extra energy, having a little

curious, working off a little extra energy, having a little fun, maybe relaxing?

Extra energy, having a little fun, maybe relaxing? >> can animals have fun?

Fun, maybe relaxing? >> can animals have fun? Do they have the scope for that?

>> can animals have fun? Do they have the scope for that? They live on a knife-edge all of

do they have the scope for that? They live on a knife-edge all of the time.

They live on a knife-edge all of the time. So fun for them, it's got to be

the time. So fun for them, it's got to be a purpose, learning about future

so fun for them, it's got to be a purpose, learning about future hunting, foraging ability, maybe

a purpose, learning about future hunting, foraging ability, maybe establishing rights and wrongs

hunting, foraging ability, maybe establishing rights and wrongs in sexual behavior, too.

Establishing rights and wrongs in sexual behavior, too. Look at these.

In sexual behavior, too. Look at these. American badger.

Look at these. American badger. You see, there was some tumble.

American badger. You see, there was some tumble. But if the female was there with

you see, there was some tumble. But if the female was there with food, the strongest one would be

but if the female was there with food, the strongest one would be the first on it and would get

food, the strongest one would be the first on it and would get the meal.

The first on it and would get the meal. And that would give it an

the meal. And that would give it an immediate advantage.

And that would give it an immediate advantage. >> okay.

Immediate advantage. >> okay. But they look like they're also

>> okay. But they look like they're also enjoying themselves.

But they look like they're also enjoying themselves. They realize, perhaps, that

enjoying themselves. They realize, perhaps, that someone anthropomorphizing them.

They realize, perhaps, that someone anthropomorphizing them. But it is -- these behaviors can

someone anthropomorphizing them. But it is -- these behaviors can be awfully playful.

But it is -- these behaviors can be awfully playful. And while this -- look at these

be awfully playful. And while this -- look at these wolf pups.

And while this -- look at these wolf pups. Again, from the eight-mile pack

wolf pups. Again, from the eight-mile pack we've been spending the last few

again, from the eight-mile pack we've been spending the last few nights with them, and they sure

we've been spending the last few nights with them, and they sure seem like they're --

nights with them, and they sure seem like they're -- >> I can't agree, josh.

Seem like they're -- >> I can't agree, josh. Sometimes enjoyment can actually

>> I can't agree, josh. Sometimes enjoyment can actually be an advantage.

Sometimes enjoyment can actually be an advantage. We know that play, for instance,

be an advantage. We know that play, for instance, will reduce stress.

We know that play, for instance, will reduce stress. >> okay.

Will reduce stress. >> okay. >> and if you reduce stress,

>> okay. >> and if you reduce stress, then you are more healthy.

>> and if you reduce stress, then you are more healthy. Both mentally and physically.

Then you are more healthy. Both mentally and physically. So play, I'm sure, has a

both mentally and physically. So play, I'm sure, has a function.

So play, I'm sure, has a function. But that's what I think it does

function. But that's what I think it does have.

But that's what I think it does have. It's always got a function.

Have. It's always got a function. >> I feel that's the closest I'm

it's always got a function. >> I feel that's the closest I'm ever going to get had I am to

>> I feel that's the closest I'm ever going to get had I am to humanity here.

Ever going to get had I am to humanity here. So I'll take it, chris.

Humanity here. So I'll take it, chris. Once again, our wildlife

so I'll take it, chris. Once again, our wildlife correspondent jenna wolfe is

once again, our wildlife correspondent jenna wolfe is exploring the american prairie

correspondent jenna wolfe is exploring the american prairie reserve in northeastern montana,

exploring the american prairie reserve in northeastern montana, where scientists are working to

reserve in northeastern montana, where scientists are working to protect one of the prairie's

where scientists are working to protect one of the prairie's most, frankly, adorable

protect one of the prairie's most, frankly, adorable creatures.

Most, frankly, adorable creatures. Jenna, to you live now.

Creatures. Jenna, to you live now. How is it going.

Jenna, to you live now. How is it going. >> josh, thanks.

How is it going. >> josh, thanks. Things have finally dried up out

>> josh, thanks. Things have finally dried up out here, drying up so dr. David

things have finally dried up out here, drying up so dr. David johnson and I can go out in

here, drying up so dr. David johnson and I can go out in search of burrowing owls.

Johnson and I can go out in search of burrowing owls. Tell us about the burrowing owl.

Search of burrowing owls. Tell us about the burrowing owl. >> there are 257 species.

Tell us about the burrowing owl. >> there are 257 species. Of owls in the world.

>> there are 257 species. Of owls in the world. Burrowing nest exclusively

of owls in the world. Burrowing nest exclusively underground.

Burrowing nest exclusively underground. >> and why this area?

Underground. >> and why this area? This seems to be peppered with

>> and why this area? This seems to be peppered with burrowing owls.

This seems to be peppered with burrowing owls. Why is this a good area?

Burrowing owls. Why is this a good area? >> american prairie reserve and

why is this a good area? >> american prairie reserve and other open grass lands are

>> american prairie reserve and other open grass lands are critically important to the owl.

Other open grass lands are critically important to the owl. And here tere are thousands of

critically important to the owl. And here tere are thousands of prairie dogs and the owls use

and here tere are thousands of prairie dogs and the owls use the unused portions of those

prairie dogs and the owls use the unused portions of those prairie dog burrows.

The unused portions of those prairie dog burrows. >> sure, piggyback off the work

prairie dog burrows. >> sure, piggyback off the work someone else did.

>> sure, piggyback off the work someone else did. You set a trap here, looking for

someone else did. You set a trap here, looking for a burrowing owl.

You set a trap here, looking for a burrowing owl. Do you want to take a look

a burrowing owl. Do you want to take a look inside and see what we've got?

Do you want to take a look inside and see what we've got? >> yes, let's take a look.

Inside and see what we've got? >> yes, let's take a look. >> all right.

>> yes, let's take a look. >> all right. Yes, we have -- we caught

>> all right. Yes, we have -- we caught someone.

Yes, we have -- we caught someone. Yep.

Someone. Yep. And if you look in there.

Yep. And if you look in there. >> oh, there.

And if you look in there. >> oh, there. >> you'll see the white

>> oh, there. >> you'll see the white chinstrap.

>> you'll see the white chinstrap. >> what does that mean?

Chinstrap. >> what does that mean? >> it's a male.

>> what does that mean? >> it's a male. >> that means it's a male.

>> it's a male. >> that means it's a male. And you have a really good way

>> that means it's a male. And you have a really good way of catching male burrowing owls.

And you have a really good way of catching male burrowing owls. Uniquely, you came up with

of catching male burrowing owls. Uniquely, you came up with alone.

Uniquely, you came up with alone. >> yes.

Alone. >> yes. When I realized just how

>> yes. When I realized just how fundamentally important these

when I realized just how fundamentally important these burrows are to these males and

fundamentally important these burrows are to these males and females, but mostly the males, I

burrows are to these males and females, but mostly the males, I realized that if I was to put in

females, but mostly the males, I realized that if I was to put in an mp3 player and folding

realized that if I was to put in an mp3 player and folding speaker inside the tunnel, and I

an mp3 player and folding speaker inside the tunnel, and I specifically have picked the

speaker inside the tunnel, and I specifically have picked the playback and recoed the call

specifically have picked the playback and recoed the call of an underweight 2-year-old

playback and recoed the call of an underweight 2-year-old single male.

Of an underweight 2-year-old single male. >> a real one you caught.

Single male. >> a real one you caught. >> yes.

>> a real one you caught. >> yes. >> a underweight what?

>> yes. >> a underweight what? >> because I want to see a husky

>> a underweight what? >> because I want to see a husky weak ling.

>> because I want to see a husky weak ling. >> so a burrowing male owl will

weak ling. >> so a burrowing male owl will go around and say, hey, I can go

>> so a burrowing male owl will go around and say, hey, I can go in there and take that guy.

Go around and say, hey, I can go in there and take that guy. >> that's right.

In there and take that guy. >> that's right. I want you out of there.

>> that's right. I want you out of there. >> well, you know what, we are

I want you out of there. >> well, you know what, we are going to take this male.

>> well, you know what, we are going to take this male. >> yes.

Going to take this male. >> yes. >> burrowing owl out of here and

>> yes. >> burrowing owl out of here and get a closer look.

>> burrowing owl out of here and get a closer look. Josh, we'll send it back to you.

Get a closer look. Josh, we'll send it back to you. >> all right, jenna, we'll be

josh, we'll send it back to you. >> all right, jenna, we'll be back with you.

>> all right, jenna, we'll be back with you. Phenomenal stuff out there.

Back with you. Phenomenal stuff out there. >>> prairie dog burrows actually

phenomenal stuff out there. >>> prairie dog burrows actually are a great place to hide from

>>> prairie dog burrows actually are a great place to hide from predators.

Are a great place to hide from predators. But perhaps the most ingenious

predators. But perhaps the most ingenious piece of defensive engineering

but perhaps the most ingenious piece of defensive engineering is the beaver lodge, which is

piece of defensive engineering is the beaver lodge, which is great, because it lets us go to

is the beaver lodge, which is great, because it lets us go to our beaver family now live

great, because it lets us go to our beaver family now live inside that lodge, out doing

our beaver family now live inside that lodge, out doing beaver things.

Inside that lodge, out doing beaver things. >> we know we've got the full

beaver things. >> we know we've got the full kit, quite active at the moment

>> we know we've got the full kit, quite active at the moment and not in there.

Kit, quite active at the moment and not in there. They have been moving in and out

and not in there. They have been moving in and out of the lodge into different

they have been moving in and out of the lodge into different chambers.

Of the lodge into different chambers. But we have been watching them

chambers. But we have been watching them closely, josh, and we've seen

but we have been watching them closely, josh, and we've seen some extraordinary things, using

closely, josh, and we've seen some extraordinary things, using this tiny camera in infrared,

some extraordinary things, using this tiny camera in infrared, total darkness.

This tiny camera in infrared, total darkness. And here we can see the adult

total darkness. And here we can see the adult female suckling her young here.

And here we can see the adult female suckling her young here. You can almost push aside my

female suckling her young here. You can almost push aside my hard scientific side here, josh

you can almost push aside my hard scientific side here, josh and just love these little

hard scientific side here, josh and just love these little beaver kits.

And just love these little beaver kits. It's a hard time of year for

beaver kits. It's a hard time of year for her.

It's a hard time of year for her. She's out all day, nibbling that

her. She's out all day, nibbling that bark, converting it to milk,

she's out all day, nibbling that bark, converting it to milk, feeding these guys.

Bark, converting it to milk, feeding these guys. It's exhausting.

Feeding these guys. It's exhausting. >> who among us, chris, when the

it's exhausting. >> who among us, chris, when the kids are eating at the end of a

>> who among us, chris, when the kids are eating at the end of a long day, nod off on occasion.

Kids are eating at the end of a long day, nod off on occasion. We'll be back with you so that

long day, nod off on occasion. We'll be back with you so that we can get to cougars, next.

We'll be back with you so that we can get to cougars, next. >>> and we are back with more

we can get to cougars, next. >>> and we are back with more "yellowstone live."

>>> and we are back with more "yellowstone live." look at this remarkable river

"yellowstone live." look at this remarkable river valley in yellowstone national

look at this remarkable river valley in yellowstone national park.

Valley in yellowstone national park. Phenomenal.

Park. Phenomenal. Well, cougar, puma, panther,

phenomenal. Well, cougar, puma, panther, mountain lion, all one and the

well, cougar, puma, panther, mountain lion, all one and the same animal.

Mountain lion, all one and the same animal. But they range across the entire

same animal. But they range across the entire western hemisphere.

But they range across the entire western hemisphere. And so different cultures use

western hemisphere. And so different cultures use different names for them.

And so different cultures use different names for them. Here in the greater yellowstone

different names for them. Here in the greater yellowstone eco system, now is when the

here in the greater yellowstone eco system, now is when the cougar kittens actually start

eco system, now is when the cougar kittens actually start arriving.

Cougar kittens actually start arriving. Take a look.

Arriving. Take a look. [ growling ]

take a look. [ growling ] ♪♪

[ growling ] ♪♪ >> a female cougar can give

♪♪ >> a female cougar can give birth to as many as five

>> a female cougar can give birth to as many as five kittens.

Birth to as many as five kittens. All completely dependent upon

kittens. All completely dependent upon her for up to 18 months.

All completely dependent upon her for up to 18 months. Mother will teach her young.

Her for up to 18 months. Mother will teach her young. To stalk.

Mother will teach her young. To stalk. Pounce.

To stalk. Pounce. [ growling ]

pounce. [ growling ] to chill.

[ growling ] to chill. And to protect what is theirs.

To chill. And to protect what is theirs. [ growling ]

and to protect what is theirs. [ growling ] and there will come a time to go

[ growling ] and there will come a time to go it alone.

And there will come a time to go it alone. But for now, their bond is

it alone. But for now, their bond is everything.

But for now, their bond is everything. >>> we wanted to show you this.

Everything. >>> we wanted to show you this. A cougar caught on a trail cam

>>> we wanted to show you this. A cougar caught on a trail cam just outside the park.

A cougar caught on a trail cam just outside the park. And chris, we've been talking

just outside the park. And chris, we've been talking about the wolves being elusive,

and chris, we've been talking about the wolves being elusive, and they sure are.

About the wolves being elusive, and they sure are. Arguably, though, cougars even

and they sure are. Arguably, though, cougars even more so see this, not one, but

arguably, though, cougars even more so see this, not one, but two checking out that camera.

More so see this, not one, but two checking out that camera. It's just incredible.

Two checking out that camera. It's just incredible. >> yeah, you're absolutely

it's just incredible. >> yeah, you're absolutely right, josh.

>> yeah, you're absolutely right, josh. These anals are extremely

right, josh. These anals are extremely elusive.

These anals are extremely elusive. And that's why, you know,

elusive. And that's why, you know, visitors, scientists, rarely see

and that's why, you know, visitors, scientists, rarely see them while they have been caught

visitors, scientists, rarely see them while they have been caught on the trail camera.

Them while they have been caught on the trail camera. >> and look at the snow again.

On the trail camera. >> and look at the snow again. Summer snowstorms, something to

>> and look at the snow again. Summer snowstorms, something to behold and so is this.

Summer snowstorms, something to behold and so is this. Let's just take a look.

Behold and so is this. Let's just take a look. >> incredible.

Let's just take a look. >> incredible. >> what a view.

>> incredible. >> what a view. We think this is a young male

>> what a view. We think this is a young male and if you look just left, you

we think this is a young male and if you look just left, you can see there --

and if you look just left, you can see there -- [ growling ]

can see there -- [ growling ] >> and you can hear there --

[ growling ] >> and you can hear there -- he's protecting the carcass.

>> and you can hear there -- he's protecting the carcass. Can't see what from.

He's protecting the carcass. Can't see what from. Could be another cougar, bobcat,

can't see what from. Could be another cougar, bobcat, coyote.

Could be another cougar, bobcat, coyote. But having spent days catching

coyote. But having spent days catching that owl and then feasting on

but having spent days catching that owl and then feasting on it, what they like to do is stay

that owl and then feasting on it, what they like to do is stay with it and protect it from

it, what they like to do is stay with it and protect it from other scavengers so they can

with it and protect it from other scavengers so they can continue to eat.

Other scavengers so they can continue to eat. You see the way it's covered in

continue to eat. You see the way it's covered in grass?

You see the way it's covered in grass? >> yeah.

Grass? >> yeah. >> and this really is a great

>> yeah. >> and this really is a great example of learning to protect

>> and this really is a great example of learning to protect that food.

Example of learning to protect that food. It's as important a learned

that food. It's as important a learned behavior as any.

It's as important a learned behavior as any. >> yeah, exactly.

Behavior as any. >> yeah, exactly. And here he's content.

>> yeah, exactly. And here he's content. He's going to eat one day, have

and here he's content. He's going to eat one day, have a meal another day and keep

he's going to eat one day, have a meal another day and keep going for as long as he can

a meal another day and keep going for as long as he can until he gets pushed off maybe

going for as long as he can until he gets pushed off maybe by wolves or a bear.

Until he gets pushed off maybe by wolves or a bear. >> if they are pushed off, well,

by wolves or a bear. >> if they are pushed off, well, I mean, those would be predators

>> if they are pushed off, well, I mean, those would be predators doing so, right, who wouldn't

I mean, those would be predators doing so, right, who wouldn't turn down a free meal, after

doing so, right, who wouldn't turn down a free meal, after all, especially when they see

turn down a free meal, after all, especially when they see one they're happy to scavenge,

all, especially when they see one they're happy to scavenge, isn't that right, chris?

One they're happy to scavenge, isn't that right, chris? >> yeah, so much scavenging

isn't that right, chris? >> yeah, so much scavenging behavior here.

>> yeah, so much scavenging behavior here. >> yeah, we've got a couple

behavior here. >> yeah, we've got a couple wolves here.

>> yeah, we've got a couple wolves here. And, you know, they play an

wolves here. And, you know, they play an incredibly important role in the

and, you know, they play an incredibly important role in the park.

Incredibly important role in the park. Not just feeding themselves, and

park. Not just feeding themselves, and controlling the herbivore

not just feeding themselves, and controlling the herbivore population, but actually feeding

controlling the herbivore population, but actually feeding other animals.

Population, but actually feeding other animals. One of the wolves is left, the

other animals. One of the wolves is left, the dark animal here.

One of the wolves is left, the dark animal here. But look.

Dark animal here. But look. Immediately leaves the carcass,

but look. Immediately leaves the carcass, chasing off a coyote that's got

immediately leaves the carcass, chasing off a coyote that's got the scent of that and wants a

chasing off a coyote that's got the scent of that and wants a piece of the action and a piece

the scent of that and wants a piece of the action and a piece of the meal itself.

Piece of the action and a piece of the meal itself. Eventual the wolf moves away and

of the meal itself. Eventual the wolf moves away and here is the coyote, having some

eventual the wolf moves away and here is the coyote, having some of that food.

Here is the coyote, having some of that food. >> and so this carry in here

of that food. >> and so this carry in here becomes something of a dinner

>> and so this carry in here becomes something of a dinner bell.

Becomes something of a dinner bell. And here come all manner of

bell. And here come all manner of predator.

And here come all manner of predator. >> and here, look, a good chunk

predator. >> and here, look, a good chunk there.

>> and here, look, a good chunk there. So perhaps that was an animal

there. So perhaps that was an animal killed by the wolves.

So perhaps that was an animal killed by the wolves. >> not a bad chunk either.

Killed by the wolves. >> not a bad chunk either. >> look at this.

>> not a bad chunk either. >> look at this. Not just mammals.

>> look at this. Not just mammals. It's birds, too.

Not just mammals. It's birds, too. >> the ravens, not too shabby.

It's birds, too. >> the ravens, not too shabby. >> bald eagle.

>> the ravens, not too shabby. >> bald eagle. In on the carcass.

>> bald eagle. In on the carcass. Again, a scavenging bird.

In on the carcass. Again, a scavenging bird. Valuable and easy source of food

again, a scavenging bird. Valuable and easy source of food for them, once the larger

valuable and easy source of food for them, once the larger animals have moved away.

For them, once the larger animals have moved away. And look, even the grizzly bear

animals have moved away. And look, even the grizzly bear is embarrassed to return to the

and look, even the grizzly bear is embarrassed to return to the cage to have a good nibble at

is embarrassed to return to the cage to have a good nibble at what's left over.

Cage to have a good nibble at what's left over. >> why should he or she be,

what's left over. >> why should he or she be, after all.

>> why should he or she be, after all. We should point out a lot of

after all. We should point out a lot of animals are not just eating

we should point out a lot of animals are not just eating themselves, but taking the food

animals are not just eating themselves, but taking the food back to young.

Themselves, but taking the food back to young. >> exactly.

Back to young. >> exactly. Exactly.

>> exactly. Exactly. And it's not just the big stuff

exactly. And it's not just the big stuff that's eating it.

And it's not just the big stuff that's eating it. You've got to think about all

that's eating it. You've got to think about all the smaller birds, the magpies,

you've got to think about all the smaller birds, the magpies, the song birds and all the

the smaller birds, the magpies, the song birds and all the invertebrates which are eating

the song birds and all the invertebrates which are eating this kerryon too.

Invertebrates which are eating this kerryon too. The coyotes a bit too close to

this kerryon too. The coyotes a bit too close to the bear.

The coyotes a bit too close to the bear. >> oh --

the bear. >> oh -- >> he's got --

>> oh -- >> he's got -- >> got it.

>> he's got -- >> got it. >> wile e. Coyote.

>> got it. >> wile e. Coyote. >> we're giving word -- some

>> wile e. Coyote. >> we're giving word -- some great stuff to see in the lamar

>> we're giving word -- some great stuff to see in the lamar valley.

Great stuff to see in the lamar valley. Let's go there again, inside

valley. Let's go there again, inside yellowstone national park, and

let's go there again, inside yellowstone national park, and live.

Yellowstone national park, and live. And look at this wolf, chris.

Live. And look at this wolf, chris. >> yeah, look at this.

And look at this wolf, chris. >> yeah, look at this. So this is, again, a single

>> yeah, look at this. So this is, again, a single animal out on its own.

So this is, again, a single animal out on its own. On the prowl.

Animal out on its own. On the prowl. >> no, don't do anything --

on the prowl. >> no, don't do anything -- >> optimistically looking for

>> no, don't do anything -- >> optimistically looking for whatever it can find.

>> optimistically looking for whatever it can find. The coloring, chris.

Whatever it can find. The coloring, chris. Sub adult?

The coloring, chris. Sub adult? >> could be.

Sub adult? >> could be. I mean, all the wolves here are

>> could be. I mean, all the wolves here are known by the scientists and

I mean, all the wolves here are known by the scientists and watchers.

Known by the scientists and watchers. They're quite carefully

watchers. They're quite carefully documented.

They're quite carefully documented. It's important we understand how

documented. It's important we understand how they're working in the park to

it's important we understand how they're working in the park to balance all of the ecology.

They're working in the park to balance all of the ecology. But in daylight, on a lovely

balance all of the ecology. But in daylight, on a lovely evening like this, josh, a super

but in daylight, on a lovely evening like this, josh, a super predator like a wolf, what a

evening like this, josh, a super predator like a wolf, what a view.

Predator like a wolf, what a view. >> that's remarkable.

View. >> that's remarkable. Again, bob pool, wildlife

>> that's remarkable. Again, bob pool, wildlife cinematographer capturing

again, bob pool, wildlife cinematographer capturing remarkable images.

Cinematographer capturing remarkable images. All right.

Remarkable images. All right. We're going to keep an eye

all right. We're going to keep an eye certainly on lamar valley

we're going to keep an eye certainly on lamar valley tonight.

Certainly on lamar valley tonight. >>> also tonight, we are talking

tonight. >>> also tonight, we are talking about predators and prey again,

>>> also tonight, we are talking about predators and prey again, and really the best ways to find

about predators and prey again, and really the best ways to find predators is to follow, in fact

and really the best ways to find predators is to follow, in fact their prey.

Predators is to follow, in fact their prey. But often they're on the move

their prey. But often they're on the move too.

But often they're on the move too. Yellowstone's grazers migrant

too. Yellowstone's grazers migrant with the seasons, after all, in

yellowstone's grazers migrant with the seasons, after all, in pursuit of greener pastures.

With the seasons, after all, in pursuit of greener pastures. It is a dangerous but necessary

pursuit of greener pastures. It is a dangerous but necessary journey.

It is a dangerous but necessary journey. Take a look.

Journey. Take a look. >> yellowstone is the scene of

take a look. >> yellowstone is the scene of one of america's greatest wild

>> yellowstone is the scene of one of america's greatest wild spectacles.

One of america's greatest wild spectacles. Tens of thousands of elk, mule

spectacles. Tens of thousands of elk, mule deer, prong horn, moose and big

tens of thousands of elk, mule deer, prong horn, moose and big horned sheep.

Deer, prong horn, moose and big horned sheep. Make an epic journey.

Horned sheep. Make an epic journey. From winter lowlands on the

make an epic journey. From winter lowlands on the edges of the greater yellowstone

from winter lowlands on the edges of the greater yellowstone ecosystem to the summer feeding

edges of the greater yellowstone ecosystem to the summer feeding grounds within it.

Ecosystem to the summer feeding grounds within it. For some, it's a journey across

grounds within it. For some, it's a journey across a diverse landscape over 100

for some, it's a journey across a diverse landscape over 100 miles long.

A diverse landscape over 100 miles long. And thousands of feet up.

Miles long. And thousands of feet up. Along paths that have been used

and thousands of feet up. Along paths that have been used for millennia.

Along paths that have been used for millennia. Many of the females are pregnant

for millennia. Many of the females are pregnant or shepherding their young.

Many of the females are pregnant or shepherding their young. And weak from the long, hard

or shepherding their young. And weak from the long, hard winter.

And weak from the long, hard winter. They face steep cliffs, raging

winter. They face steep cliffs, raging rivers, hungry predators.

They face steep cliffs, raging rivers, hungry predators. And there are man made

rivers, hungry predators. And there are man made obstacles, too.

And there are man made obstacles, too. But these great migrations are

obstacles, too. But these great migrations are worth the risks.

But these great migrations are worth the risks. Waiting for them are millions of

worth the risks. Waiting for them are millions of acres of the most fertile, lush

waiting for them are millions of acres of the most fertile, lush pastures in north america.

Acres of the most fertile, lush pastures in north america. >> and that is, after all, why

pastures in north america. >> and that is, after all, why we are here.

>> and that is, after all, why we are here. Up next, grand prismatic spring.

>>> welcome back to "yellowstone live." speaking of yellowstone national

live." speaking of yellowstone national park, we are in lamar valley

speaking of yellowstone national park, we are in lamar valley where our camera is on a super

park, we are in lamar valley where our camera is on a super predator in broad daylight.

Where our camera is on a super predator in broad daylight. An incredible thing to capture.

Predator in broad daylight. An incredible thing to capture. >> just sorting through all of

an incredible thing to capture. >> just sorting through all of the bison, keeping its distance

>> just sorting through all of the bison, keeping its distance so it doesn't cause any trouble.

The bison, keeping its distance so it doesn't cause any trouble. >> again, safety in numbers, as

so it doesn't cause any trouble. >> again, safety in numbers, as we heard.

>> again, safety in numbers, as we heard. And thus far, score another one

we heard. And thus far, score another one for the prey.

And thus far, score another one for the prey. Of all of yellowstone's

for the prey. Of all of yellowstone's hydrothermal features,

of all of yellowstone's hydrothermal features, meanwhile, this is perhaps its

hydrothermal features, meanwhile, this is perhaps its most spectacular.

Meanwhile, this is perhaps its most spectacular. This is brand prismatic spring.

Most spectacular. This is brand prismatic spring. And you get a sense of the

this is brand prismatic spring. And you get a sense of the scale -- those are people on

and you get a sense of the scale -- those are people on that walkway.

Scale -- those are people on that walkway. It's like a giant work of

that walkway. It's like a giant work of impressionist art.

It's like a giant work of impressionist art. Abstract impressionist art,

impressionist art. Abstract impressionist art, simply beautiful.

Abstract impressionist art, simply beautiful. This is off the basin.

Simply beautiful. This is off the basin. And you can see the blue there.

This is off the basin. And you can see the blue there. Refracting from the sky.

And you can see the blue there. Refracting from the sky. And all of the concentric rings

refracting from the sky. And all of the concentric rings of color.

And all of the concentric rings of color. That bacteria, each with a

of color. That bacteria, each with a different pigment.

That bacteria, each with a different pigment. >> we should note as beautiful

different pigment. >> we should note as beautiful as the water is, also

>> we should note as beautiful as the water is, also potentially deadly, as it is

as the water is, also potentially deadly, as it is often at or near boiling.

Potentially deadly, as it is often at or near boiling. >> this is I think --

often at or near boiling. >> this is I think -- >> it's incredible.

>> this is I think -- >> it's incredible. >> yeah.

>> it's incredible. >> yeah. 20-foot-high pile of deposit

>> yeah. 20-foot-high pile of deposit made over years and years.

20-foot-high pile of deposit made over years and years. Alkaline deposit.

Made over years and years. Alkaline deposit. It's extraordinary.

Alkaline deposit. It's extraordinary. >> and frankly, who saw that

it's extraordinary. >> and frankly, who saw that coming?

>> and frankly, who saw that coming? Yellowstone, as evidenced by

coming? Yellowstone, as evidenced by that, is certainly

yellowstone, as evidenced by that, is certainly unpredictable.

That, is certainly unpredictable. In fact, just last September,

unpredictable. In fact, just last September, one of its hot springs erupted

in fact, just last September, one of its hot springs erupted for the first time since 1957.

One of its hot springs erupted for the first time since 1957. It's an event that ranger

for the first time since 1957. It's an event that ranger rebecca roland will never

it's an event that ranger rebecca roland will never forget.

Rebecca roland will never forget. >> this is ear spring.

Forget. >> this is ear spring. Ear spring normally bubbles a

>> this is ear spring. Ear spring normally bubbles a little like this, but one day

ear spring normally bubbles a little like this, but one day last September, I heard over the

little like this, but one day last September, I heard over the radio that something on geyser

last September, I heard over the radio that something on geyser hill was erupting.

Radio that something on geyser hill was erupting. It turned out it was ear spring.

Hill was erupting. It turned out it was ear spring. I got up here and ear spring was

it turned out it was ear spring. I got up here and ear spring was absolutely empty.

I got up here and ear spring was absolutely empty. It put out so much water that it

absolutely empty. It put out so much water that it spit out trash that was up to 70

it put out so much water that it spit out trash that was up to 70 years old.

Spit out trash that was up to 70 years old. All the way under the boardwalk,

years old. All the way under the boardwalk, everything.

All the way under the boardwalk, everything. And I got so -- I have some of

everything. And I got so -- I have some of it right here.

And I got so -- I have some of it right here. So this is an old bear sign,

it right here. So this is an old bear sign, probably from the '70s.

So this is an old bear sign, probably from the '70s. You can see it looks very

probably from the '70s. You can see it looks very ferocious.

You can see it looks very ferocious. We kind of don't do that any

ferocious. We kind of don't do that any more.

We kind of don't do that any more. We've got a can with a crust of

more. We've got a can with a crust of geyser right around it.

We've got a can with a crust of geyser right around it. We've got coins, a kodak

geyser right around it. We've got coins, a kodak wrapper.

We've got coins, a kodak wrapper. Even a women's hair comb.

Wrapper. Even a women's hair comb. One of the most interesting

even a women's hair comb. One of the most interesting things, I think, is this

one of the most interesting things, I think, is this pacifier, preplastic era.

Things, I think, is this pacifier, preplastic era. You can imagine a small child

pacifier, preplastic era. You can imagine a small child coming down and tossing its

you can imagine a small child coming down and tossing its pacifier, maybe even spitting it

coming down and tossing its pacifier, maybe even spitting it out, and it lands in the spring.

Pacifier, maybe even spitting it out, and it lands in the spring. And the parents just don't know

out, and it lands in the spring. And the parents just don't know what to do.

And the parents just don't know what to do. The spring has become sort of a

what to do. The spring has become sort of a time capsule, where we have

the spring has become sort of a time capsule, where we have trash from moments in time over

time capsule, where we have trash from moments in time over 50 years ago.

Trash from moments in time over 50 years ago. Or 60 or 70 years ago.

50 years ago. Or 60 or 70 years ago. I think what made me really

or 60 or 70 years ago. I think what made me really happy was that all of this trash

I think what made me really happy was that all of this trash wasn't modern.

Happy was that all of this trash wasn't modern. >> great point.

Wasn't modern. >> great point. >> it is a great point, josh.

>> great point. >> it is a great point, josh. And while out in the park the

>> it is a great point, josh. And while out in the park the other day, the rangers were

and while out in the park the other day, the rangers were telling me people are still

other day, the rangers were telling me people are still throwing trash into these

telling me people are still throwing trash into these features.

Throwing trash into these features. And the problem is that

features. And the problem is that sometimes even a little coin can

and the problem is that sometimes even a little coin can clog up the plumbing.

Sometimes even a little coin can clog up the plumbing. And jam up the features.

Clog up the plumbing. And jam up the features. So please, whatever happens,

and jam up the features. So please, whatever happens, don't think you can have a wish

so please, whatever happens, don't think you can have a wish by throwing a coin into one of

don't think you can have a wish by throwing a coin into one of these pools.

By throwing a coin into one of these pools. It could spoil it for everyone.

These pools. It could spoil it for everyone. >> I think I speak for all

it could spoil it for everyone. >> I think I speak for all humanity.

>> I think I speak for all humanity. We're better than that, people.

Humanity. We're better than that, people. We're better than that.

We're better than that, people. We're better than that. We want to check back in with

we're better than that. We want to check back in with our wildlife correspondent,

we want to check back in with our wildlife correspondent, jenna wolfe, with us live from

our wildlife correspondent, jenna wolfe, with us live from the american prairie reserve in

jenna wolfe, with us live from the american prairie reserve in northeast montana.

The american prairie reserve in northeast montana. Jenna, how is it going up there?

Northeast montana. Jenna, how is it going up there? >> well, josh, this is a first

jenna, how is it going up there? >> well, josh, this is a first for me.

>> well, josh, this is a first for me. This is a beautiful male

for me. This is a beautiful male burrowing owl.

This is a beautiful male burrowing owl. And I'm going to try not to

burrowing owl. And I'm going to try not to stress it out.

And I'm going to try not to stress it out. Does this stress it out?

Stress it out. Does this stress it out? It is staring at me like I've

does this stress it out? It is staring at me like I've done something terrible already.

It is staring at me like I've done something terrible already. >> you're holding it well.

Done something terrible already. >> you're holding it well. We'll just keep it quiet.

>> you're holding it well. We'll just keep it quiet. >> and that's it.

We'll just keep it quiet. >> and that's it. David, normally I think when

>> and that's it. David, normally I think when people think owls, they think,

david, normally I think when people think owls, they think, you know, big pear-shaped,

people think owls, they think, you know, big pear-shaped, unfriendly, beady-eyed owls.

You know, big pear-shaped, unfriendly, beady-eyed owls. But this is a cute thing.

Unfriendly, beady-eyed owls. But this is a cute thing. Tell me about some of the

but this is a cute thing. Tell me about some of the features of the owl.

Tell me about some of the features of the owl. >> the key thing is the eyes,

features of the owl. >> the key thing is the eyes, okay?

>> the key thing is the eyes, okay? Very prominent eyes.

Okay? Very prominent eyes. The strong talons.

Very prominent eyes. The strong talons. >> yeah, those talons are

the strong talons. >> yeah, those talons are strong.

>> yeah, those talons are strong. And what about the wings?

Strong. And what about the wings? >> so I'm going to try to pull

and what about the wings? >> so I'm going to try to pull up the wing here.

>> so I'm going to try to pull up the wing here. >> okay.

Up the wing here. >> okay. What does that tell us?

>> okay. What does that tell us? >> off the top.

What does that tell us? >> off the top. >> okay.

>> off the top. >> okay. Okay, little guy.

>> okay. Okay, little guy. >> the feathers, of course, are

okay, little guy. >> the feathers, of course, are very specialized.

>> the feathers, of course, are very specialized. We can also look at the wing

very specialized. We can also look at the wing here to tell us about age.

We can also look at the wing here to tell us about age. >> oh, wow.

Here to tell us about age. >> oh, wow. >> this is an older male.

>> oh, wow. >> this is an older male. >> it is.

>> this is an older male. >> it is. >> yep.

>> it is. >> yep. >> all right.

>> yep. >> all right. I can tell.

>> all right. I can tell. All right.

I can tell. All right. So we're going to go ahead and

all right. So we're going to go ahead and weigh this guy.

So we're going to go ahead and weigh this guy. I'm going to let you do the

weigh this guy. I'm going to let you do the honors.

I'm going to let you do the honors. >> okay.

Honors. >> okay. If it were me -- taking my shoes

>> okay. If it were me -- taking my shoes off and everything.

If it were me -- taking my shoes off and everything. And while you do that, let's see

off and everything. And while you do that, let's see how much it weighs.

And while you do that, let's see how much it weighs. They're so little.

How much it weighs. They're so little. >> shhh.

They're so little. >> shhh. >> ooh!

>> shhh. >> ooh! Now --

>> ooh! Now -- >> 141 grams.

Now -- >> 141 grams. >> 141 grams.

>> 141 grams. >> 141 grams. That's like a quarter pound.

>> 141 grams. That's like a quarter pound. This is a quarter pound!

That's like a quarter pound. This is a quarter pound! >> yes.

This is a quarter pound! >> yes. >> how much are babies weighing

>> yes. >> how much are babies weighing now?

>> how much are babies weighing now? Because I know you were able to

now? Because I know you were able to weigh some babies last night,

because I know you were able to weigh some babies last night, right?

Weigh some babies last night, right? >> yep.

Right? >> yep. So last night, the ones were

>> yep. So last night, the ones were about 100 grams.

So last night, the ones were about 100 grams. And they were really healthy and

about 100 grams. And they were really healthy and growing fast.

And they were really healthy and growing fast. >> okay.

Growing fast. >> okay. And now burrowing owl

>> okay. And now burrowing owl populations are on the decline.

And now burrowing owl populations are on the decline. How big of a problem is that in

populations are on the decline. How big of a problem is that in this area?

How big of a problem is that in this area? >> it's a very significant

this area? >> it's a very significant problem.

>> it's a very significant problem. Range-wide.

Problem. Range-wide. The range is contracting,

range-wide. The range is contracting, there's more swiss cheese-like

the range is contracting, there's more swiss cheese-like aspects of their distribution.

There's more swiss cheese-like aspects of their distribution. Numbers are going down.

Aspects of their distribution. Numbers are going down. So it's a significant concern.

Numbers are going down. So it's a significant concern. So the places like american

so it's a significant concern. So the places like american prairie reserve are really

so the places like american prairie reserve are really critically important.

Prairie reserve are really critically important. To their long-term surviva

critically important. To their long-term surviva >> it's turned into a lovely

to their long-term surviva >> it's turned into a lovely evening here in tetons.

>> it's turned into a lovely evening here in tetons. And we're watching this lovely

evening here in tetons. And we're watching this lovely herd of elk.

And we're watching this lovely herd of elk. We've got this beautiful -- you

herd of elk. We've got this beautiful -- you can see the white spots on its

we've got this beautiful -- you can see the white spots on its coat.

Can see the white spots on its coat. And they're known by anothr

coat. And they're known by anothr name of rapiti, a native

and they're known by anothr name of rapiti, a native american shawnee term, which

name of rapiti, a native american shawnee term, which refers to the white rump, very

american shawnee term, which refers to the white rump, very apt.

Refers to the white rump, very apt. And from one white rump to one

apt. And from one white rump to one yellow belly.

And from one white rump to one yellow belly. Earlier, I got to spend some

yellow belly. Earlier, I got to spend some time -- very entertaining

earlier, I got to spend some time -- very entertaining characters.

Time -- very entertaining characters. We've got these two very cute

characters. We've got these two very cute young monitor, and they keep

we've got these two very cute young monitor, and they keep going up to mom trying to

young monitor, and they keep going up to mom trying to suckle.

Going up to mom trying to suckle. But she's not having any of it.

Suckle. But she's not having any of it. Keeps pushing her away.

But she's not having any of it. Keeps pushing her away. I think they're a little too big

keeps pushing her away. I think they're a little too big for that now.

I think they're a little too big for that now. There's something very funny

for that now. There's something very funny about the way they popped their

there's something very funny about the way they popped their heads up in the holes of the

about the way they popped their heads up in the holes of the log.

Heads up in the holes of the log. There's something about them

log. There's something about them that's really quite endearing.

There's something about them that's really quite endearing. Really cute little characters.

That's really quite endearing. Really cute little characters. >> endearing, chris, but tonight

really cute little characters. >> endearing, chris, but tonight we're talking about predators

>> endearing, chris, but tonight we're talking about predators and prey.

We're talking about predators and prey. And, boy, they are endearing

and prey. And, boy, they are endearing prey here.

And, boy, they are endearing prey here. >> yeah, they are.

Prey here. >> yeah, they are. Not just the youngsters, but the

>> yeah, they are. Not just the youngsters, but the adults too.

Not just the youngsters, but the adults too. This is a great place for things

adults too. This is a great place for things like golden eagles and other

this is a great place for things like golden eagles and other large raptors.

Like golden eagles and other large raptors. They're just the sort of things

large raptors. They're just the sort of things that will be swooping down and

they're just the sort of things that will be swooping down and taking these if that mother

that will be swooping down and taking these if that mother wasn't quite so vigilant.

Taking these if that mother wasn't quite so vigilant. >> speaking of vigilant mothers,

wasn't quite so vigilant. >> speaking of vigilant mothers, we want to get back to our

>> speaking of vigilant mothers, we want to get back to our favorite mama bear.

We want to get back to our favorite mama bear. We have been spending the last

favorite mama bear. We have been spending the last few nights with them, and this

we have been spending the last few nights with them, and this at the lake.

Few nights with them, and this at the lake. And I would hesitate to call

at the lake. And I would hesitate to call this play.

And I would hesitate to call this play. >> let's not go there again.

This play. >> let's not go there again. >> I shan't.

>> let's not go there again. >> I shan't. >> no, this is interesting,

>> I shan't. >> no, this is interesting, josh.

>> no, this is interesting, josh. She's not that close to them.

Josh. She's not that close to them. They're in open country,

she's not that close to them. They're in open country, vulnerable to other larger male

they're in open country, vulnerable to other larger male bears.

Vulnerable to other larger male bears. Even things like wolves, too.

Bears. Even things like wolves, too. I'm sure she's quite close by.

Even things like wolves, too. I'm sure she's quite close by. And here they are.

I'm sure she's quite close by. And here they are. Keen to catch up.

And here they are. Keen to catch up. And she's moving them all of the

keen to catch up. And she's moving them all of the time.

And she's moving them all of the time. And even through some sort of

time. And even through some sort of quite dangerous areas, crossing

and even through some sort of quite dangerous areas, crossing the road here.

Quite dangerous areas, crossing the road here. To me, this says she's trying to

the road here. To me, this says she's trying to find the best sources of food

to me, this says she's trying to find the best sources of food she can consume, turn into milk

find the best sources of food she can consume, turn into milk ask then suckle them.

She can consume, turn into milk ask then suckle them. >> I know it's also a thought,

ask then suckle them. >> I know it's also a thought, perhaps, that the female bears,

>> I know it's also a thought, perhaps, that the female bears, mama bears, like mini mom, also

perhaps, that the female bears, mama bears, like mini mom, also hug the roads, because male

mama bears, like mini mom, also hug the roads, because male grizzlies won't be there.

Hug the roads, because male grizzlies won't be there. >> there is an advantage there.

Grizzlies won't be there. >> there is an advantage there. No doubt about that.

>> there is an advantage there. No doubt about that. But she's moving off.

No doubt about that. But she's moving off. And this is interesting.

But she's moving off. And this is interesting. Because, look, this young bear

and this is interesting. Because, look, this young bear is munching on a clover.

Because, look, this young bear is munching on a clover. And they're beginning to take

is munching on a clover. And they're beginning to take some solids, which will take the

and they're beginning to take some solids, which will take the burden away from her producing

some solids, which will take the burden away from her producing that milk.

Burden away from her producing that milk. >> if only I could get my

that milk. >> if only I could get my daughters to eat their veggies

>> if only I could get my daughters to eat their veggies like this.

Daughters to eat their veggies like this. Well done.

Like this. Well done. Well done, mom.

Well done. Well done, mom. And little ones.

Well done, mom. And little ones. >> again, look at this.

And little ones. >> again, look at this. She's moving through this

>> again, look at this. She's moving through this geothermal area.

She's moving through this geothermal area. No food there.

Geothermal area. No food there. I think she's on the hunt for

no food there. I think she's on the hunt for better foraging.

I think she's on the hunt for better foraging. No doubt about that.

Better foraging. No doubt about that. >> all right.

No doubt about that. >> all right. Well, up next, we meet some

>> all right. Well, up next, we meet some high-flying hunters.

Well, up next, we meet some high-flying hunters. [ chirping ]

[ >>> welcome back to "yellowstone live."

>>> welcome back to "yellowstone live." this is the valley eagles nest,

live." this is the valley eagles nest, bald eagles nest, and there is

this is the valley eagles nest, bald eagles nest, and there is an adult coming in and dropping

bald eagles nest, and there is an adult coming in and dropping off prey.

An adult coming in and dropping off prey. These youngsters, josh, ten

off prey. These youngsters, josh, ten weeks old, capable of feeding

these youngsters, josh, ten weeks old, capable of feeding themselves.

Weeks old, capable of feeding themselves. Previously she would have torn

themselves. Previously she would have torn those into smaller pieces to

previously she would have torn those into smaller pieces to feed them.

Those into smaller pieces to feed them. Now it's a contest for which of

feed them. Now it's a contest for which of them gets the prey.

Now it's a contest for which of them gets the prey. >> maybe we could have a contest

them gets the prey. >> maybe we could have a contest with our two fine-feathered

>> maybe we could have a contest with our two fine-feathered friends we have here.

With our two fine-feathered friends we have here. This is just a remarkable

friends we have here. This is just a remarkable experience to be a part.

This is just a remarkable experience to be a part. We have two raptors, birds of

experience to be a part. We have two raptors, birds of prey, bald eagle and a golden

we have two raptors, birds of prey, bald eagle and a golden eagle.

Prey, bald eagle and a golden eagle. Both of whom could not be

eagle. Both of whom could not be reintroduced into the wild,

both of whom could not be reintroduced into the wild, chris.

Reintroduced into the wild, chris. >> no.

Chris. >> no. And this is a fantastic

>> no. And this is a fantastic opportunity to look at these

and this is a fantastic opportunity to look at these predators tonight.

Opportunity to look at these predators tonight. Let's start with the bald eagle,

predators tonight. Let's start with the bald eagle, it's got that not bald but white

let's start with the bald eagle, it's got that not bald but white head and enormously powerful

it's got that not bald but white head and enormously powerful build.

Head and enormously powerful build. There a third the length of the

build. There a third the length of the eagle's head.

There a third the length of the eagle's head. A scavenging bird.

Eagle's head. A scavenging bird. It needs a powerful bill.

A scavenging bird. It needs a powerful bill. Contrast with the golden eagle's

it needs a powerful bill. Contrast with the golden eagle's head, golden, hence the name.

Contrast with the golden eagle's head, golden, hence the name. Particularly those feathers on

head, golden, hence the name. Particularly those feathers on the back of the head.

Particularly those feathers on the back of the head. And you'll see it's got a

the back of the head. And you'll see it's got a relatively more smaller bill.

And you'll see it's got a relatively more smaller bill. And for tearing up its prey

relatively more smaller bill. And for tearing up its prey typically rabbits, ground

and for tearing up its prey typically rabbits, ground squirrels, marmot.

Typically rabbits, ground squirrels, marmot. >> I wonder, chris, can they as

squirrels, marmot. >> I wonder, chris, can they as raptors, can they smell fear?

>> I wonder, chris, can they as raptors, can they smell fear? >> their sense of smell is

raptors, can they smell fear? >> their sense of smell is renown not to be terribly good.

>> their sense of smell is renown not to be terribly good. But their eyesight is

renown not to be terribly good. But their eyesight is phenomenal.

But their eyesight is phenomenal. So much better than ours.

Phenomenal. So much better than ours. And they will spot their prey

so much better than ours. And they will spot their prey from a great distance.

And they will spot their prey from a great distance. [ chirping ]

from a great distance. [ chirping ] >> yep.

[ chirping ] >> yep. We should point out, again,

>> yep. We should point out, again, these are rescue birds.

We should point out, again, these are rescue birds. And cooperative ones to be sure.

These are rescue birds. And cooperative ones to be sure. And I want to -- this -- your

and cooperative ones to be sure. And I want to -- this -- your bald eagle was injured.

And I want to -- this -- your bald eagle was injured. But golden eagle, donedo, here,

bald eagle was injured. But golden eagle, donedo, here, was actually kept as a pet

but golden eagle, donedo, here, was actually kept as a pet illegally and obviously that's

was actually kept as a pet illegally and obviously that's something that cannot happen,

illegally and obviously that's something that cannot happen, chris, again.

Something that cannot happen, chris, again. >> not a good idea.

Chris, again. >> not a good idea. >> these are animals you just

>> not a good idea. >> these are animals you just cannot keep.

>> these are animals you just cannot keep. >> they require specialist care

cannot keep. >> they require specialist care and attention, no doubt about

>> they require specialist care and attention, no doubt about that.

And attention, no doubt about that. They don't make great pets at

that. They don't make great pets at all.

They don't make great pets at all. Look at the feet.

All. Look at the feet. These are the killing implements

look at the feet. These are the killing implements here.

These are the killing implements here. Look at the size of the talons

here. Look at the size of the talons on this bald eagle.

Look at the size of the talons on this bald eagle. About 50% of their diet is fish.

On this bald eagle. About 50% of their diet is fish. 30% birds.

About 50% of their diet is fish. 30% birds. But water birds, things like

30% birds. But water birds, things like ducks and geese and coots.

But water birds, things like ducks and geese and coots. Whereas the eagle over there,

ducks and geese and coots. Whereas the eagle over there, slightly smaller feet because of

whereas the eagle over there, slightly smaller feet because of the diet of principally mammals,

slightly smaller feet because of the diet of principally mammals, will take birds too.

The diet of principally mammals, will take birds too. When it comes to size, the bald

will take birds too. When it comes to size, the bald eagle has a bigger wing span.

When it comes to size, the bald eagle has a bigger wing span. I'll see if I can get it to open

eagle has a bigger wing span. I'll see if I can get it to open the wings now.

I'll see if I can get it to open the wings now. Okay, come on.

The wings now. Okay, come on. Let's go.

Okay, come on. Let's go. And that's about eight feet.

Let's go. And that's about eight feet. >> that's right.

And that's about eight feet. >> that's right. Turns out I'm closer than eight

>> that's right. Turns out I'm closer than eight feet.

Turns out I'm closer than eight feet. >> a little bigger, but the

feet. >> a little bigger, but the golden ego owe.

>> a little bigger, but the golden ego owe. >> I do want to say, as we say

golden ego owe. >> I do want to say, as we say goodbye to these two, you'll

>> I do want to say, as we say goodbye to these two, you'll allow me as an american to be

goodbye to these two, you'll allow me as an american to be this close to the national

allow me as an american to be this close to the national symbol is absolutely thrilling.

This close to the national symbol is absolutely thrilling. It's as good as it gets here in

symbol is absolutely thrilling. It's as good as it gets here in the ecosystem.

It's as good as it gets here in the ecosystem. Earlier, though, we want to show

the ecosystem. Earlier, though, we want to show you this.

Earlier, though, we want to show you this. We sent some cameras with

you this. We sent some cameras with scientist michael whitfield from

we sent some cameras with scientist michael whitfield from the northern rockies

scientist michael whitfield from the northern rockies conservation cooperative as he

the northern rockies conservation cooperative as he conducted a health check on a

conservation cooperative as he conducted a health check on a bald eagle nest, and chris, you

conducted a health check on a bald eagle nest, and chris, you see in the nest in this way is

bald eagle nest, and chris, you see in the nest in this way is just -- incredible.

See in the nest in this way is just -- incredible. >> yeah.

Just -- incredible. >> yeah. And you see the young eagle

>> yeah. And you see the young eagle there, already displaying some

and you see the young eagle there, already displaying some aggression.

There, already displaying some aggression. I mean, they've got a powerful

aggression. I mean, they've got a powerful beak.

I mean, they've got a powerful beak. If anyone approaches it, they'll

beak. If anyone approaches it, they'll stick out their tongues.

If anyone approaches it, they'll stick out their tongues. This is valuable scientific

stick out their tongues. This is valuable scientific work, josh.

This is valuable scientific work, josh. They're going to lower the bird

work, josh. They're going to lower the bird down.

They're going to lower the bird down. They're going to put a band on

down. They're going to put a band on to it, just as they were those

they're going to put a band on to it, just as they were those burrowing out so if the animal

to it, just as they were those burrowing out so if the animal is ever picked up dead or

burrowing out so if the animal is ever picked up dead or recovered live anywhere in the

is ever picked up dead or recovered live anywhere in the world, then we will know exactly

recovered live anywhere in the world, then we will know exactly where it came from.

World, then we will know exactly where it came from. And through this better

where it came from. And through this better understanding of the behavior,

and through this better understanding of the behavior, the movement, the ecology of the

understanding of the behavior, the movement, the ecology of the animal, we can affect better

the movement, the ecology of the animal, we can affect better conservation, and certainly

animal, we can affect better conservation, and certainly eagles need that today in the

conservation, and certainly eagles need that today in the modern world.

Eagles need that today in the modern world. >> certainly do.

Modern world. >> certainly do. Eagles like you, gondo.

>> certainly do. Eagles like you, gondo. >> we go now to the plains of

eagles like you, gondo. >> we go now to the plains of lamar valley where bob pool is

>> we go now to the plains of lamar valley where bob pool is standing by.

Lamar valley where bob pool is standing by. >> we are having an absolutely

standing by. >> we are having an absolutely fantastic evening down here in

>> we are having an absolutely fantastic evening down here in the lamar.

Fantastic evening down here in the lamar. Incredible stuff.

The lamar. Incredible stuff. These bison actually just keep

incredible stuff. These bison actually just keep coming towards us and we keep

these bison actually just keep coming towards us and we keep having to move.

Coming towards us and we keep having to move. And you saw the wolves that came

having to move. And you saw the wolves that came down, absolutely amazing.

And you saw the wolves that came down, absolutely amazing. All this action down here

down, absolutely amazing. All this action down here tonight, because the grass is so

all this action down here tonight, because the grass is so incredibly fertile.

Tonight, because the grass is so incredibly fertile. And these bison, you can see,

incredibly fertile. And these bison, you can see, they are just gobbling it up.

And these bison, you can see, they are just gobbling it up. Actually, they're like living

they are just gobbling it up. Actually, they're like living lawn mowers.

Actually, they're like living lawn mowers. You can literally see where they

lawn mowers. You can literally see where they have been by the short grass.

You can literally see where they have been by the short grass. But you know what, they're not

have been by the short grass. But you know what, they're not the only ones out here enjoying

but you know what, they're not the only ones out here enjoying this vegetation.

The only ones out here enjoying this vegetation. >> this is so funny.

This vegetation. >> this is so funny. This cinnamon-colored black bear

>> this is so funny. This cinnamon-colored black bear has just finished gorging

this cinnamon-colored black bear has just finished gorging himself with food.

Has just finished gorging himself with food. And now he's taking a nap.

Himself with food. And now he's taking a nap. And he's sort of legs-up with

and now he's taking a nap. And he's sort of legs-up with his head against a small, small

and he's sort of legs-up with his head against a small, small tree.

His head against a small, small tree. And he's falling asleep and then

tree. And he's falling asleep and then his head falls off the tree.

And he's falling asleep and then his head falls off the tree. And sort of wakes himself up and

his head falls off the tree. And sort of wakes himself up and starts all over again.

And sort of wakes himself up and starts all over again. And just can't get comfortable.

Starts all over again. And just can't get comfortable. This time of year, a bear can

and just can't get comfortable. This time of year, a bear can afford to just sort of chill out

this time of year, a bear can afford to just sort of chill out in the middle of the day like

afford to just sort of chill out in the middle of the day like this.

In the middle of the day like this. It's early summer, but come

this. It's early summer, but come fall, he's going to be feeding

it's early summer, but come fall, he's going to be feeding sort of 20 hours a day to

fall, he's going to be feeding sort of 20 hours a day to prepare himself for winter.

Sort of 20 hours a day to prepare himself for winter. So this is a good month to be a

prepare himself for winter. So this is a good month to be a bear.

So this is a good month to be a bear. >> chris, I would kill for five

bear. >> chris, I would kill for five minutes of that sleep.

>> chris, I would kill for five minutes of that sleep. Well-earned.

Minutes of that sleep. Well-earned. Interestingly, though, chris,

well-earned. Interestingly, though, chris, that was a black bear.

Interestingly, though, chris, that was a black bear. However, not black.

That was a black bear. However, not black. >> no.

However, not black. >> no. No.

>> no. No. They come in six different color

no. They come in six different color morphs.

They come in six different color morphs. Most of those east of the great

morphs. Most of those east of the great prairies are black like this.

Most of those east of the great prairies are black like this. >> yeah.

Prairies are black like this. >> yeah. >> the melanin in their hair

>> yeah. >> the melanin in their hair makes the hair tougher, and they

>> the melanin in their hair makes the hair tougher, and they live in bushy countries, so it

makes the hair tougher, and they live in bushy countries, so it keeps their hair, that fur,

live in bushy countries, so it keeps their hair, that fur, really fit.

Keeps their hair, that fur, really fit. But look around here.

Really fit. But look around here. This is a range of the six

but look around here. This is a range of the six colors they come in.

This is a range of the six colors they come in. Cinnamon, be brown and down in

colors they come in. Cinnamon, be brown and down in the corner there, blonde.

Cinnamon, be brown and down in the corner there, blonde. And we think that's because

the corner there, blonde. And we think that's because bears in this part of the world

and we think that's because bears in this part of the world are living in open country and

bears in this part of the world are living in open country and if they were black, they would

are living in open country and if they were black, they would be soaking up all of the

if they were black, they would be soaking up all of the sunshine and overheating.

Be soaking up all of the sunshine and overheating. So the blonde and cinnamon helps

sunshine and overheating. So the blonde and cinnamon helps them thermo regulate better.

So the blonde and cinnamon helps them thermo regulate better. >> interestingly and perhaps

them thermo regulate better. >> interestingly and perhaps blend with the environment.

>> interestingly and perhaps blend with the environment. And what a look overhead we had

blend with the environment. And what a look overhead we had of that yellow-haired black

and what a look overhead we had of that yellow-haired black bear.

Of that yellow-haired black bear. What a look overhead we have

bear. What a look overhead we have here at mama grizzly with two

what a look overhead we have here at mama grizzly with two young ones who look about ready

here at mama grizzly with two young ones who look about ready to go.

Young ones who look about ready to go. >> yeah.

To go. >> yeah. They could be.

>> yeah. They could be. She's obviously done a brilliant

they could be. She's obviously done a brilliant job of looking after them.

She's obviously done a brilliant job of looking after them. What would typically happen is

job of looking after them. What would typically happen is what the male would come in when

what would typically happen is what the male would come in when she comes back into season.

What the male would come in when she comes back into season. And the young would be fearful

she comes back into season. And the young would be fearful of him and move off.

And the young would be fearful of him and move off. She seems to be short-tempered.

Of him and move off. She seems to be short-tempered. Any time they're having a fight,

she seems to be short-tempered. Any time they're having a fight, she is trying to see, you

any time they're having a fight, she is trying to see, you know -- separate them.

She is trying to see, you know -- separate them. Push them apart.

Know -- separate them. Push them apart. Maybe we're rubbing off on

push them apart. Maybe we're rubbing off on one another.

Maybe we're rubbing off on one another. >> you know what I think the

one another. >> you know what I think the thing is, josh, the great thing

>> you know what I think the thing is, josh, the great thing about natural history, zoology,

thing is, josh, the great thing about natural history, zoology, biology, we never have all the

about natural history, zoology, biology, we never have all the answers.

Biology, we never have all the answers. >> she's like, I'm going to turn

answers. >> she's like, I'm going to turn this car around if you don't

>> she's like, I'm going to turn this car around if you don't behave, you two.

This car around if you don't behave, you two. All right.

Behave, you two. All right. Here we go again.

All right. Here we go again. This is your chance now to

here we go again. This is your chance now to decide what animal we will see

this is your chance now to decide what animal we will see next on the program.

Decide what animal we will see next on the program. Will it be a coyote or a pika.

Next on the program. Will it be a coyote or a pika. Again, predator or prey.

Will it be a coyote or a pika. Again, predator or prey. Log on, tweet us @natgeochannel.

Again, predator or prey. Log on, tweet us @natgeochannel. Chris?

Log on, tweet us @natgeochannel. Chris? >>

chris? >> >>> a

>> >>> a >>> and welcome back to

>>> a >>> and welcome back to "yellowstone live."

>>> and welcome back to "yellowstone live." the mountains around here,

"yellowstone live." the mountains around here, snow-capped this time of year

the mountains around here, snow-capped this time of year and we get the occasional summer

snow-capped this time of year and we get the occasional summer snowstorm rolling through, as

and we get the occasional summer snowstorm rolling through, as well.

Snowstorm rolling through, as well. And so we asked and you

well. And so we asked and you answered.

And so we asked and you answered. What did you want to see?

Answered. What did you want to see? Prey carrying the night here,

what did you want to see? Prey carrying the night here, chris.

Prey carrying the night here, chris. Although there was there ever a

chris. Although there was there ever a chance the pika would win?

Although there was there ever a chance the pika would win? >> never going to know whether

chance the pika would win? >> never going to know whether coyotes can catch roadrunners.

>> never going to know whether coyotes can catch roadrunners. I can tell you the pika is a

coyotes can catch roadrunners. I can tell you the pika is a tiny animal that lives on the

I can tell you the pika is a tiny animal that lives on the montana slopes and lives among

tiny animal that lives on the montana slopes and lives among the rubble.

Montana slopes and lives among the rubble. It's principally herbivorous and

the rubble. It's principally herbivorous and it will also take dead birds

it's principally herbivorous and it will also take dead birds down into the burrows where they

it will also take dead birds down into the burrows where they freeze and it will feast on them

down into the burrows where they freeze and it will feast on them throughout the course of the

freeze and it will feast on them throughout the course of the winter.

Throughout the course of the winter. So what we've got here is a

winter. So what we've got here is a zombie mini rabbit at high

so what we've got here is a zombie mini rabbit at high altitude.

Zombie mini rabbit at high altitude. >> eating bird popsicles.

Altitude. >> eating bird popsicles. You know what, you're right,

>> eating bird popsicles. You know what, you're right, that is pretty neat.

You know what, you're right, that is pretty neat. We head back now to the american

that is pretty neat. We head back now to the american prairie reserve where jenna

we head back now to the american prairie reserve where jenna wolfe is standing by, getting

prairie reserve where jenna wolfe is standing by, getting ready to release that burrowing

wolfe is standing by, getting ready to release that burrowing owl out back into the wild,

ready to release that burrowing owl out back into the wild, live.

Owl out back into the wild, live. >> josh, look at this face.

Live. >> josh, look at this face. No, seriously, look at that

>> josh, look at this face. No, seriously, look at that face.

No, seriously, look at that face. It's okay.

Face. It's okay. It's folk okay.

It's okay. It's folk okay. David, it's been in a good mood

it's folk okay. David, it's been in a good mood for 40 years because he gets to

david, it's been in a good mood for 40 years because he gets to work with this guy.

For 40 years because he gets to work with this guy. They're so small and have such

work with this guy. They're so small and have such enormous migrations.

They're so small and have such enormous migrations. Where do they go?

Enormous migrations. Where do they go? >> northern birds are migratory.

Where do they go? >> northern birds are migratory. They all winter in mexico.

>> northern birds are migratory. They all winter in mexico. >> mexico.

They all winter in mexico. >> mexico. >> yes.

>> mexico. >> yes. >> well, you're a fancy

>> yes. >> well, you're a fancy traveler.

>> well, you're a fancy traveler. All right.

Traveler. All right. So do you want to get ready to

all right. So do you want to get ready to go ahead and tag him now?

So do you want to get ready to go ahead and tag him now? Ask we should mention, I'm just

go ahead and tag him now? Ask we should mention, I'm just holding this little burrowing

ask we should mention, I'm just holding this little burrowing owl now.

Holding this little burrowing owl now. It's important to know that the

owl now. It's important to know that the capture does need state and

it's important to know that the capture does need state and federal authorization so do not

capture does need state and federal authorization so do not try this at home.

Federal authorization so do not try this at home. If you do, can you let us know

try this at home. If you do, can you let us know where you are, because we had a

if you do, can you let us know where you are, because we had a hard time finding this guy.

Where you are, because we had a hard time finding this guy. We're going to go ahead and tag

hard time finding this guy. We're going to go ahead and tag him now.

We're going to go ahead and tag him now. Go ahead.

Him now. Go ahead. Why do we tag?

Go ahead. Why do we tag? >> yep.

Why do we tag? >> yep. This band has an individual

>> yep. This band has an individual number on it.

This band has an individual number on it. >> okay.

Number on it. >> okay. >> so it's registered with the

>> okay. >> so it's registered with the usgs so we can track if any

>> so it's registered with the usgs so we can track if any recaptures of this bird, we know

usgs so we can track if any recaptures of this bird, we know about where it went.

Recaptures of this bird, we know about where it went. >> okay.

About where it went. >> okay. >> what happened to it.

>> okay. >> what happened to it. How long it lived.

>> what happened to it. How long it lived. And all kinds of basic ecology

how long it lived. And all kinds of basic ecology aspects.

And all kinds of basic ecology aspects. >> you were flying through

aspects. >> you were flying through there.

>> you were flying through there. How many have you done, david?

There. How many have you done, david? >> getting close to 6,000.

How many have you done, david? >> getting close to 6,000. >> 6,000.

>> getting close to 6,000. >> 6,000. You should get out more.

>> 6,000. You should get out more. No, I'm just kidding.

You should get out more. No, I'm just kidding. Okay.

No, I'm just kidding. Okay. Is it time to set him free?

Okay. Is it time to set him free? >> it is.

Is it time to set him free? >> it is. >> talk me through it, because I

>> it is. >> talk me through it, because I would love to do the honors.

>> talk me through it, because I would love to do the honors. >> okay.

Would love to do the honors. >> okay. Let's go over to the tunnel

>> okay. Let's go over to the tunnel here.

Let's go over to the tunnel here. >> okay, we're going to go --

here. >> okay, we're going to go -- hey, it's almost time!

>> okay, we're going to go -- hey, it's almost time! Oh.

Hey, it's almost time! Oh. Okay.

Oh. Okay. Okay.

Okay. Okay. Whoa.

Okay. Whoa. >> so --

whoa. >> so -- >> yep.

>> so -- >> yep. >> yep.

>> yep. >> yep. Use your right hand.

>> yep. Use your right hand. >> my right hand, I can't tell

use your right hand. >> my right hand, I can't tell which one is which.

>> my right hand, I can't tell which one is which. Yep.

Which one is which. Yep. Say goodbye, everybody.

Yep. Say goodbye, everybody. Here we go.

Say goodbye, everybody. Here we go. >> okay.

Here we go. >> okay. Face-down.

>> okay. Face-down. Put him in head-first.

Face-down. Put him in head-first. >> go in, little guy.

Put him in head-first. >> go in, little guy. >> okay.

>> go in, little guy. >> okay. >> and that's it.

>> okay. >> and that's it. Just like that.

>> and that's it. Just like that. We did it!

Just like that. We did it! David!

We did it! David! 5,999 less than you have done,

david! 5,999 less than you have done, but that was exhilarating.

5,999 less than you have done, but that was exhilarating. Thank you so much.

But that was exhilarating. Thank you so much. That is it from the american

thank you so much. That is it from the american prairie reserve.

That is it from the american prairie reserve. Chris, I'm going to join you

prairie reserve. Chris, I'm going to join you back in studio tomorrow.

Chris, I'm going to join you back in studio tomorrow. Back to you.

Back in studio tomorrow. Back to you. >> incredible stuff there.

Back to you. >> incredible stuff there. >> quickly, about that baby --

>> incredible stuff there. >> quickly, about that baby -- the baby owl.

>> quickly, about that baby -- the baby owl. Makes a sound like a

the baby owl. Makes a sound like a rattlesnake, so when

makes a sound like a rattlesnake, so when rattlesnakes go in, they leave.

Rattlesnake, so when rattlesnakes go in, they leave. >> good stuff.

Rattlesnakes go in, they leave. >> good stuff. >> score one for the prey.

>> good stuff. >> score one for the prey. >>> tomorrow night, jen is back

>> score one for the prey. >>> tomorrow night, jen is back here at home base.

>>> tomorrow night, jen is back here at home base. I'm going to rove these lush and

here at home base. I'm going to rove these lush and vast grass lands.

I'm going to rove these lush and vast grass lands. Going to be good stuff.

Vast grass lands. Going to be good stuff. So now there are only about 200

going to be good stuff. So now there are only about 200 of them in yellowstone national

so now there are only about 200 of them in yellowstone national park.

Of them in yellowstone national park. And yet they are one of the

park. And yet they are one of the largest mammals here.

And yet they are one of the largest mammals here. We are, of course, talking

largest mammals here. We are, of course, talking moose.

We are, of course, talking moose. >> standing up to seven feet

moose. >> standing up to seven feet tall at the shoulder, and

>> standing up to seven feet tall at the shoulder, and weighing as much as 1,300

tall at the shoulder, and weighing as much as 1,300 pounds, meet the world's largest

weighing as much as 1,300 pounds, meet the world's largest member of the deer family.

Pounds, meet the world's largest member of the deer family. The moose.

Member of the deer family. The moose. With a long, fleshy snout, and a

the moose. With a long, fleshy snout, and a bell, these eating machines need

with a long, fleshy snout, and a bell, these eating machines need to consume over 10,000 calories

bell, these eating machines need to consume over 10,000 calories per day.

To consume over 10,000 calories per day. Now only males are armed with

per day. Now only males are armed with antlers, the largest in the

now only males are armed with antlers, the largest in the animal kingdom.

Antlers, the largest in the animal kingdom. As wide as a man is tall, these

animal kingdom. As wide as a man is tall, these are some serious weapons.

As wide as a man is tall, these are some serious weapons. And they may look slow and

are some serious weapons. And they may look slow and lumbering.

And they may look slow and lumbering. But do not let that fool you.

Lumbering. But do not let that fool you. With a top speed of 40 miles per

but do not let that fool you. With a top speed of 40 miles per hour, the mighty moose can be

with a top speed of 40 miles per hour, the mighty moose can be fast and deadly.

Hour, the mighty moose can be fast and deadly. >> well, deadly indeed.

Fast and deadly. >> well, deadly indeed. In fact, look at this.

>> well, deadly indeed. In fact, look at this. Some home video taken in alaska

in fact, look at this. Some home video taken in alaska recently.

Some home video taken in alaska recently. You are not going to believe it.

Recently. You are not going to believe it. >> get back, get back.

You are not going to believe it. >> get back, get back. >> sounding the horn.

>> get back, get back. >> sounding the horn. Like the moose is in the

>> sounding the horn. Like the moose is in the slightest bit affected.

Like the moose is in the slightest bit affected. >> by the way, where is that guy

slightest bit affected. >> by the way, where is that guy going?

>> by the way, where is that guy going? Does that happen all of the

going? Does that happen all of the time?

Does that happen all of the time? All right, chris.

Time? All right, chris. What are we looking at here?

All right, chris. What are we looking at here? >> we've got some moose antlers

what are we looking at here? >> we've got some moose antlers here, josh.

>> we've got some moose antlers here, josh. These, as you say, are

here, josh. These, as you say, are formidable additions to the

these, as you say, are formidable additions to the body.

Formidable additions to the body. They can weigh up to 40 pounds.

Body. They can weigh up to 40 pounds. >> wow.

They can weigh up to 40 pounds. >> wow. >> and they can be six feet

>> wow. >> and they can be six feet across.

>> and they can be six feet across. Their principle purpose is to

across. Their principle purpose is to display the maturity of the

their principle purpose is to display the maturity of the animal.

Display the maturity of the animal. So, look, you hold yours up like

animal. So, look, you hold yours up like that.

So, look, you hold yours up like that. I've got a more mature moose

that. I've got a more mature moose here.

I've got a more mature moose here. Mine is more -- it's bigger.

Here. Mine is more -- it's bigger. >> yeah.

Mine is more -- it's bigger. >> yeah. >> so if you see me as a moose,

>> yeah. >> so if you see me as a moose, you probably don't get involved.

>> so if you see me as a moose, you probably don't get involved. So the same size.

You probably don't get involved. So the same size. Then as we saw in that video

so the same size. Then as we saw in that video there, basically it is unlocking

then as we saw in that video there, basically it is unlocking and pushing and shoving game.

There, basically it is unlocking and pushing and shoving game. >> all right.

And pushing and shoving game. >> all right. >> never a stabbing or a

>> all right. >> never a stabbing or a slashing.

>> never a stabbing or a slashing. It's all about strength with

slashing. It's all about strength with these things.

It's all about strength with these things. So, you know, these things are

these things. So, you know, these things are so formidable.

So, you know, these things are so formidable. And just remarkable things.

So formidable. And just remarkable things. Why, then, shed these year after

and just remarkable things. Why, then, shed these year after year?

Why, then, shed these year after year? >> well, basically, they need

year? >> well, basically, they need these in the autumn.

>> well, basically, they need these in the autumn. They weigh 40 pounds.

These in the autumn. They weigh 40 pounds. Would you like to carry this

they weigh 40 pounds. Would you like to carry this around on your head throughout

would you like to carry this around on your head throughout the course ofhe winter,

around on your head throughout the course ofhe winter, through that deep snow while

the course ofhe winter, through that deep snow while being hunted by wolves and

through that deep snow while being hunted by wolves and trying to find food?

Being hunted by wolves and trying to find food? >> you make good points, chris.

Trying to find food? >> you make good points, chris. Actually, we'll get rid of them.

>> you make good points, chris. Actually, we'll get rid of them. Bring them back next year.

Actually, we'll get rid of them. Bring them back next year. Speaking of bringing back, let's

bring them back next year. Speaking of bringing back, let's get back to some more wildlife,

speaking of bringing back, let's get back to some more wildlife, shall we?

Get back to some more wildlife, shall we? And chris --

shall we? And chris -- >> this is all-american badgers

and chris -- >> this is all-american badgers again.

>> this is all-american badgers again. And again, keeping with the

again. And again, keeping with the predator and prey, steve.

And again, keeping with the predator and prey, steve. -- Seems to have brought in a

predator and prey, steve. -- Seems to have brought in a ground squirrel.

-- Seems to have brought in a ground squirrel. Keeping with the play theme.

Ground squirrel. Keeping with the play theme. That was the toughest of all of

keeping with the play theme. That was the toughest of all of them, got the squirrel first.

That was the toughest of all of them, got the squirrel first. >> yep, yep.

Them, got the squirrel first. >> yep, yep. >> nice to see these animals,

>> yep, yep. >> nice to see these animals, though.

>> nice to see these animals, though. And here, yeah -- down in the

though. And here, yeah -- down in the right-hand corner, you can see

and here, yeah -- down in the right-hand corner, you can see one of the animals has the

right-hand corner, you can see one of the animals has the squirrel there.

One of the animals has the squirrel there. Typical prey for these animals,

squirrel there. Typical prey for these animals, omnivous.

Typical prey for these animals, omnivous. >> are they looking to share

omnivous. >> are they looking to share that hill?

>> are they looking to share that hill? >> they will try not to.

That hill? >> they will try not to. They will try and feast on it.

>> they will try not to. They will try and feast on it. It will be a one-on-one basis,

they will try and feast on it. It will be a one-on-one basis, basically.

It will be a one-on-one basis, basically. >> not very playful at all.

Basically. >> not very playful at all. But this is -- I mean, our

>> not very playful at all. But this is -- I mean, our viewers have cavities in their

but this is -- I mean, our viewers have cavities in their eyes.

Viewers have cavities in their eyes. >> yeah, fantastic.

Eyes. >> yeah, fantastic. Look at the light.

>> yeah, fantastic. Look at the light. See the spots there?

Look at the light. See the spots there? >> yep.

See the spots there? >> yep. >> just a little bit of

>> yep. >> just a little bit of camouflage.

>> just a little bit of camouflage. They spend a lot of time when

camouflage. They spend a lot of time when they're first born down on the

they spend a lot of time when they're first born down on the ground.

They're first born down on the ground. And they'll lose those spots

ground. And they'll lose those spots after threor four weeks.

And they'll lose those spots after threor four weeks. >> and you might think that's

after threor four weeks. >> and you might think that's going to be referring to a deer.

>> and you might think that's going to be referring to a deer. These are elk.

Going to be referring to a deer. These are elk. >> yeah.

These are elk. >> yeah. These are elk.

>> yeah. These are elk. And the other thing that's

these are elk. And the other thing that's interesting, these young ones

and the other thing that's interesting, these young ones are odorless.

Interesting, these young ones are odorless. Predators can't smell them.

Are odorless. Predators can't smell them. >> I find that hard to believe.

Predators can't smell them. >> I find that hard to believe. But I'll believe this.

>> I find that hard to believe. But I'll believe this. And oh, our cranes.

But I'll believe this. And oh, our cranes. >> yeah.

And oh, our cranes. >> yeah. Sand hill.

>> yeah. Sand hill. Listen to them.

Sand hill. Listen to them. [ crowing ]

listen to them. [ crowing ] >> greeting between them.

[ crowing ] >> greeting between them. >> you know what they're doing,

>> greeting between them. >> you know what they're doing, chris, that's crane for, can we

>> you know what they're doing, chris, that's crane for, can we please see old faithful erupt so

chris, that's crane for, can we please see old faithful erupt so tonight, just for the cranes, we

please see old faithful erupt so tonight, just for the cranes, we are going to bring you the last

tonight, just for the cranes, we are going to bring you the last eruption of old faithful.

Are going to bring you the last eruption of old faithful. Again, it happened just before

eruption of old faithful. Again, it happened just before air.

Again, it happened just before air. We do want to show you what it

air. We do want to show you what it looked and sounded like.

We do want to show you what it looked and sounded like. >>> the onlookers never get sick

looked and sounded like. >>> the onlookers never get sick of it and neither do we.

>>> the onlookers never get sick of it and neither do we. We're coming up on the final

of it and neither do we. We're coming up on the final hour of yellowstone.

We're coming up on the final hour of yellowstone. Jenna wolfe will be here at home

hour of yellowstone. Jenna wolfe will be here at home base can chris.

Jenna wolfe will be here at home base can chris. I'll help rescue a golden eagle

base can chris. I'll help rescue a golden eagle like gonzalo tonight, return to

I'll help rescue a golden eagle like gonzalo tonight, return to the wild.

Like gonzalo tonight, return to the wild. And, of course, our long-range

the wild. And, of course, our long-range thermal camera will keep going

and, of course, our long-range thermal camera will keep going overnight to bring many more

thermal camera will keep going overnight to bring many more amazing spots of yellowstone

overnight to bring many more amazing spots of yellowstone after dark.

Amazing spots of yellowstone after dark. We'll see you here tomorrow

after dark. We'll see you here tomorrow night, again, 9:00 p.M. Eastern

we'll see you here tomorrow night, again, 9:00 p.M. Eastern with more "yellowstone live."

night, again, 9:00 p.M. Eastern with more "yellowstone live." for all of us here, good night.

With more "yellowstone live." for all of us here, good night. Stay wild.