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These are the user uploaded subtitles that are being translated: 1 00:00:00,567 --> 00:00:02,002 (BIRDS CHIRPING) 2 00:00:08,108 --> 00:00:10,277 NARRATOR: In the middle of Southern Africa, 3 00:00:10,277 --> 00:00:13,780 there's a vast uncharted sea of golden grassland. 4 00:00:18,318 --> 00:00:19,753 (WILDEBEEST GRUNTING) 5 00:00:20,287 --> 00:00:24,091 NARRATOR: Remote and wild, it was once home to huge herds 6 00:00:24,091 --> 00:00:25,626 grazing the savannah. 7 00:00:28,662 --> 00:00:32,332 And predators lurking, waiting to take their pick. 8 00:00:33,467 --> 00:00:34,768 (BIRD SQUAWKING) 9 00:00:37,237 --> 00:00:39,539 But 30 years of civil war 10 00:00:39,539 --> 00:00:42,175 decimated the abundant wildlife. 11 00:00:58,659 --> 00:01:03,196 Now peace has returned to this damaged yet beautiful Eden. 12 00:01:07,167 --> 00:01:08,769 (ZEBRAS CALLING) 13 00:01:11,638 --> 00:01:14,641 NARRATOR: An extraordinary band of conservationists 14 00:01:14,641 --> 00:01:17,477 is trying to restore these grasslands 15 00:01:17,477 --> 00:01:19,046 to their former glory. 16 00:01:19,613 --> 00:01:20,781 (LOW GROWL) 17 00:01:29,589 --> 00:01:31,591 (THEME MUSIC PLAYING) 18 00:01:48,375 --> 00:01:52,145 NARRATOR: For over 100 years, Zambia's Liuwa Plain 19 00:01:52,145 --> 00:01:54,514 was preserved by the Lozi people 20 00:01:54,514 --> 00:01:56,450 as a royal hunting ground. 21 00:01:58,285 --> 00:01:59,753 Now a national park, 22 00:02:00,120 --> 00:02:03,390 it is one of the oldest wildlife reserves in Africa. 23 00:02:06,593 --> 00:02:11,365 Its grasslands stretch for over 1,400 square miles 24 00:02:11,631 --> 00:02:14,668 in the old kingdom of Barotseland that straddles 25 00:02:14,668 --> 00:02:18,405 the remote northwest frontier of Zambia and Angola. 26 00:02:27,581 --> 00:02:31,184 Historically, lions were the rulers of these plains. 27 00:02:34,488 --> 00:02:36,189 But not any more. 28 00:02:36,556 --> 00:02:38,392 Almost 30 years of civil war 29 00:02:38,392 --> 00:02:40,494 in neighboring Angola changed that. 30 00:02:43,096 --> 00:02:44,464 The effects of the war, 31 00:02:44,464 --> 00:02:47,567 which began after independence in 1975, 32 00:02:47,768 --> 00:02:49,803 spilled over into Zambia, 33 00:02:50,370 --> 00:02:52,739 and Liuwa's lions paid a high price. 34 00:02:54,641 --> 00:02:58,311 They were shot and their prey killed for meat. 35 00:02:58,612 --> 00:03:00,247 (GRUNTING) 36 00:03:02,816 --> 00:03:07,054 NARRATOR: In the end, just one solitary lioness survived. 37 00:03:08,789 --> 00:03:12,192 Liuwa's ecosystem teetered on the edge. 38 00:03:14,394 --> 00:03:16,630 (GRUNTING) 39 00:03:18,532 --> 00:03:22,135 NARRATOR: Given time, nature can usually heal itself. 40 00:03:27,174 --> 00:03:28,809 But replacing the missing pieces 41 00:03:28,809 --> 00:03:33,280 of the ecological jigsaw often requires human intervention. 42 00:03:36,650 --> 00:03:39,052 (ENGINE REVVING) 43 00:03:49,629 --> 00:03:53,300 NARRATOR: Understanding what's going on in an ecosystem this huge 44 00:03:53,300 --> 00:03:55,068 is the first challenge. 45 00:04:01,541 --> 00:04:04,611 The solution is to concentrate on the apex predators. 46 00:04:09,749 --> 00:04:13,286 In Liuwa, that now means the hyena. 47 00:04:13,653 --> 00:04:15,255 (HYENAS LAUGHING) 48 00:04:17,157 --> 00:04:20,427 NARRATOR: Normally, hyenas and lions are mortal enemies, 49 00:04:20,427 --> 00:04:21,695 competing for prey. 50 00:04:23,497 --> 00:04:27,067 But here the absence of lions has allowed the hyenas 51 00:04:27,067 --> 00:04:29,136 to be the heavyweight champions of hunting. 52 00:04:30,604 --> 00:04:32,005 (HYENAS LAUGHING) 53 00:04:35,242 --> 00:04:38,445 NARRATOR: If the food chain's top carnivores are doing well, 54 00:04:38,445 --> 00:04:41,548 it normally means all the animals are recovering. 55 00:04:42,782 --> 00:04:45,185 So the Zambian Carnivore Program 56 00:04:45,185 --> 00:04:47,654 closely monitors the apex predators 57 00:04:47,654 --> 00:04:50,457 to check on the health of the whole ecosystem. 58 00:04:52,492 --> 00:04:54,027 (BIRDS CHIRPING) 59 00:04:55,162 --> 00:04:58,398 NARRATOR: It's 6:00 a.m. A new day. 60 00:04:59,533 --> 00:05:03,203 The scientists' first task is to find the predators. 61 00:05:04,804 --> 00:05:07,340 It requires a head for heights. 62 00:05:15,682 --> 00:05:17,984 Large carnivores are elusive 63 00:05:18,251 --> 00:05:21,054 and range over thousands of square miles 64 00:05:21,288 --> 00:05:24,457 so researchers track them using radio collars. 65 00:05:24,457 --> 00:05:25,759 (SENSOR BEEPING) 66 00:05:29,663 --> 00:05:31,665 NARRATOR: From the top of the radio tower, 67 00:05:31,665 --> 00:05:34,467 it's possible to pick up the signal from any collar 68 00:05:34,467 --> 00:05:36,169 within four miles. 69 00:05:41,174 --> 00:05:44,744 For the last seven years, the Zambian Carnivore Program 70 00:05:44,744 --> 00:05:47,847 has been studying hundreds of individual predators 71 00:05:47,847 --> 00:05:50,417 and detailing their impact on their prey, 72 00:05:51,084 --> 00:05:53,520 making this one of the most comprehensive studies 73 00:05:53,520 --> 00:05:55,755 of predation ever undertaken. 74 00:05:57,424 --> 00:05:59,492 (WIND WHOOSHING) 75 00:06:00,794 --> 00:06:03,663 NARRATOR: Having got a rough fix on a hyena from the radio tower, 76 00:06:04,197 --> 00:06:07,334 senior researcher Daan Smit heads out. 77 00:06:10,737 --> 00:06:13,273 This is a vast land with no roads 78 00:06:13,473 --> 00:06:15,242 and few landmarks. 79 00:06:18,612 --> 00:06:20,547 It's parched and empty. 80 00:06:21,181 --> 00:06:24,484 There's a drought and food is in short supply. 81 00:06:31,224 --> 00:06:34,127 Most of the great herds of migratory prey 82 00:06:34,127 --> 00:06:35,996 are still way up north, 83 00:06:36,296 --> 00:06:38,498 where there is more water and food. 84 00:06:41,234 --> 00:06:44,304 They will only come south with the rains. 85 00:06:49,376 --> 00:06:52,779 Then, the rivers will rise and flood the plains, 86 00:06:53,246 --> 00:06:57,784 transforming Liuwa into a green land of life and water. 87 00:07:00,220 --> 00:07:02,289 Following the wildlife in the wet season 88 00:07:02,489 --> 00:07:04,591 becomes much more difficult 89 00:07:04,591 --> 00:07:08,128 so the scientists need to gather as much data now as possible. 90 00:07:11,531 --> 00:07:14,401 At ground level, the range of Daan's receiver 91 00:07:14,401 --> 00:07:16,703 shrinks to one mile. 92 00:07:17,570 --> 00:07:19,506 (BEEPING) 93 00:07:19,739 --> 00:07:23,343 NARRATOR: Homing in on the target takes trial and error. 94 00:07:25,512 --> 00:07:27,747 (ENGINE REVVING) 95 00:07:31,251 --> 00:07:34,321 NARRATOR: Every day, the scientists seek out the predators. 96 00:07:41,528 --> 00:07:44,664 Daan takes pictures to identify the hyenas 97 00:07:44,664 --> 00:07:47,567 and he records their position and activity. 98 00:07:48,335 --> 00:07:49,669 (CAMERA SHUTTER CLICKING) 99 00:07:51,137 --> 00:07:54,574 NARRATOR: Liuwa's hyenas are some of the biggest in Africa. 100 00:07:56,109 --> 00:07:58,345 Having spent years in the field with them, 101 00:07:58,345 --> 00:08:00,113 Daan thinks they're misunderstood. 102 00:08:01,281 --> 00:08:05,151 SMIT: Some people look at hyenas, and... 103 00:08:05,151 --> 00:08:07,721 Like they're the... They still steal kills 104 00:08:08,221 --> 00:08:10,290 and they... 105 00:08:10,290 --> 00:08:13,293 They don't look pretty like a lion or a cheetah. 106 00:08:13,560 --> 00:08:16,162 Yeah, hyenas do have a bad reputation 107 00:08:16,162 --> 00:08:18,498 but I think everybody who has... 108 00:08:18,698 --> 00:08:20,700 Who has come to Liuwa 109 00:08:20,700 --> 00:08:22,602 and has seen hyenas here, you will... 110 00:08:23,036 --> 00:08:24,637 Everybody will change their... 111 00:08:24,637 --> 00:08:26,239 their opinion about hyenas. 112 00:08:27,474 --> 00:08:29,743 NARRATOR: While rarely a threat to humans, 113 00:08:29,743 --> 00:08:32,545 hyenas are still dangerous predators 114 00:08:32,545 --> 00:08:36,049 and shouldn't be approached, except by experts. 115 00:08:37,550 --> 00:08:40,053 Daan knows that during the heat of the day 116 00:08:40,053 --> 00:08:42,322 the hyenas aren't in hunting mode. 117 00:08:44,424 --> 00:08:47,026 But later on, when the sun goes down, 118 00:08:47,260 --> 00:08:49,329 it will be a different story. 119 00:08:49,529 --> 00:08:51,164 (BIRDS CHIRPING) 120 00:08:57,237 --> 00:09:00,673 NARRATOR: In the cool of the evening, researcher Teddy Mukula 121 00:09:00,673 --> 00:09:04,644 finds a small group of hyenas emerging from the long grass. 122 00:09:06,146 --> 00:09:09,749 He's been studying Liuwa's hyenas for the last two years. 123 00:09:09,749 --> 00:09:11,551 (HYENAS WHINING) 124 00:09:13,486 --> 00:09:16,089 NARRATOR: They look like they're getting ready to go hunting. 125 00:09:16,623 --> 00:09:18,691 Teddy will attempt to stay with them. 126 00:09:25,198 --> 00:09:27,434 Hyenas are much underrated. 127 00:09:30,036 --> 00:09:31,337 (HYENA LAUGHING) 128 00:09:31,337 --> 00:09:34,441 NARRATOR: Most people think they're mainly scavengers. 129 00:09:36,209 --> 00:09:37,744 But they'd be wrong. 130 00:09:39,579 --> 00:09:42,415 The researchers have found that Liuwa's hyenas 131 00:09:42,415 --> 00:09:44,484 are highly efficient predators 132 00:09:45,218 --> 00:09:48,254 and the Zambian Carnivore Program is working 133 00:09:48,254 --> 00:09:52,325 to understand what impact this has on the other animals here. 134 00:09:55,361 --> 00:09:57,564 Hyenas are so successful, 135 00:09:57,564 --> 00:10:00,400 they're the most common large carnivores in Africa. 136 00:10:03,136 --> 00:10:04,504 (HYENAS WHINING) 137 00:10:07,574 --> 00:10:09,676 NARRATOR: They have complex societies 138 00:10:10,109 --> 00:10:13,046 based on status and female dominance. 139 00:10:14,814 --> 00:10:18,418 MUKULA: Hyenas have a great social interaction. 140 00:10:18,418 --> 00:10:20,386 You know, they have just that 141 00:10:20,687 --> 00:10:23,456 social interaction that is really 142 00:10:24,257 --> 00:10:27,260 unique from other carnivores, and... 143 00:10:27,527 --> 00:10:31,664 Their hierarchy is very, very highly respected. 144 00:10:32,165 --> 00:10:33,566 And, uh... 145 00:10:34,634 --> 00:10:37,370 Everyone knows what their place here... 146 00:10:37,370 --> 00:10:39,172 They know what they're supposed to do. 147 00:10:39,172 --> 00:10:40,807 They know what they're not supposed to do. 148 00:10:42,342 --> 00:10:45,044 And they are just... They... They look out for each other very well, yeah. 149 00:10:47,113 --> 00:10:49,382 NARRATOR: And hyenas are very inquisitive. 150 00:10:49,616 --> 00:10:51,251 (ENGINE STARTING) 151 00:10:53,253 --> 00:10:56,089 NARRATOR: Luckily there are better things to eat than Teddy's tires. 152 00:11:08,401 --> 00:11:12,005 To understand a predator, you have to see it hunt. 153 00:11:18,378 --> 00:11:19,646 (THUNDERING) 154 00:11:22,715 --> 00:11:25,685 NARRATOR: But tracking hyenas at night is a challenge. 155 00:11:25,685 --> 00:11:27,787 (INDISTINCT CHATTERING) 156 00:11:30,590 --> 00:11:33,660 NARRATOR: The hyenas are stalking a herd of wildebeest. 157 00:11:33,660 --> 00:11:35,061 (THUNDER CRACKING) 158 00:11:35,061 --> 00:11:38,831 NARRATOR: An electrical storm, a precursor to the imminent rains, 159 00:11:38,831 --> 00:11:41,167 helps camouflage their approach. 160 00:11:41,167 --> 00:11:43,036 (WILDEBEEST GRUNTING) 161 00:11:45,605 --> 00:11:48,207 NARRATOR: Suddenly, the hyenas give chase. 162 00:11:50,410 --> 00:11:52,178 (WILDEBEEST GRUNTING) 163 00:11:53,813 --> 00:11:56,349 NARRATOR: Running at 35 miles per hour... 164 00:11:56,349 --> 00:11:59,052 (INDISTINCT TALKING) 165 00:12:00,420 --> 00:12:02,322 NARRATOR: It's impossible to keep up. 166 00:12:02,322 --> 00:12:03,489 MUKULA: Yeah. 167 00:12:04,290 --> 00:12:05,558 MUKULA: Yeah. 168 00:12:08,294 --> 00:12:09,696 MUKULA: Ah, (BLEEP). 169 00:12:11,664 --> 00:12:14,033 NARRATOR: Teddy drives with one hand 170 00:12:15,401 --> 00:12:18,104 and tries to keep track of the hyenas with the other. 171 00:12:21,507 --> 00:12:24,477 The hyenas target adult wildebeest, 172 00:12:26,212 --> 00:12:28,681 often picking out the old or the weak, 173 00:12:29,315 --> 00:12:30,783 and chasing them to exhaustion. 174 00:12:32,352 --> 00:12:34,187 (THUNDERING) 175 00:12:35,288 --> 00:12:37,123 (HYENAS LAUGHING)) 176 00:12:40,126 --> 00:12:41,427 NARRATOR: Success. 177 00:12:42,662 --> 00:12:45,098 The hyenas quickly pull the wildebeest to the ground, 178 00:12:45,498 --> 00:12:48,334 devouring their prey as fast as they can. 179 00:12:49,335 --> 00:12:51,137 (WILDEBEEST GRUNTING) 180 00:12:59,779 --> 00:13:04,050 NARRATOR: With their acute hearing, any hyenas within five miles 181 00:13:04,050 --> 00:13:05,451 could hear the commotion 182 00:13:05,451 --> 00:13:07,687 and try to grab a share of the kill. 183 00:13:18,364 --> 00:13:23,202 Observing hyena kills gives a wealth of information on what they eat, 184 00:13:23,736 --> 00:13:27,106 and how this affects both clan and prey. 185 00:13:32,512 --> 00:13:35,381 By putting all this together, Teddy's building up 186 00:13:35,381 --> 00:13:38,618 a detailed picture of the hyenas' role in the ecosystem. 187 00:13:39,752 --> 00:13:41,654 (HYENAS LAUGHING) 188 00:13:45,425 --> 00:13:49,062 NARRATOR: Whereas big cats can leave up to 40% of a carcass, 189 00:13:49,629 --> 00:13:52,398 hyenas eat their way through skin and bone. 190 00:14:01,808 --> 00:14:03,609 In little over an hour, 191 00:14:03,609 --> 00:14:05,611 there will be virtually nothing left. 192 00:14:05,812 --> 00:14:07,547 (THUNDERING) 193 00:14:20,393 --> 00:14:23,596 NARRATOR: With so much to do before the rains finally arrive, 194 00:14:24,197 --> 00:14:27,133 keeping their bikes going is essential. 195 00:14:29,202 --> 00:14:31,704 Teddy is teaching new researcher Shadrach 196 00:14:31,704 --> 00:14:33,506 some field maintenance. 197 00:14:38,444 --> 00:14:40,213 In the middle of nowhere, 198 00:14:40,213 --> 00:14:42,348 you really don't want to break down. 199 00:14:43,216 --> 00:14:44,484 Yeah. 200 00:14:44,484 --> 00:14:46,686 MUKULA: We don't have a mechanic to do this for us. 201 00:14:47,587 --> 00:14:50,490 So what we do is, we learn this ourselves. 202 00:14:50,490 --> 00:14:52,225 We have to do this ourselves. 203 00:14:52,725 --> 00:14:54,160 NARRATOR: The researchers spend 204 00:14:54,160 --> 00:14:58,097 long hours, alone on their bikes in the middle of the plains. 205 00:14:58,631 --> 00:15:02,668 Breakdowns can attract attention of the four-legged variety. 206 00:15:03,369 --> 00:15:05,238 MUKULA: The hyenas are very inquisitive. 207 00:15:05,605 --> 00:15:08,441 Very inquisitive and curious at the same time. 208 00:15:09,308 --> 00:15:11,377 They can come as close as possible. 209 00:15:12,111 --> 00:15:14,547 They would want to sniff your handlebars 210 00:15:14,547 --> 00:15:16,549 while you're still holding them. 211 00:15:16,549 --> 00:15:17,850 And, uh... 212 00:15:17,850 --> 00:15:20,753 Yeah, they've got teeth, you just need to be careful, yeah. 213 00:15:22,722 --> 00:15:25,258 NARRATOR: The spare bikes also need to be checked 214 00:15:25,258 --> 00:15:28,094 because the team is getting reinforcements. 215 00:15:35,201 --> 00:15:36,636 SMIT: So this year, we have 216 00:15:37,203 --> 00:15:38,538 received probably... 217 00:15:39,972 --> 00:15:42,642 NARRATOR: Jassiel M'soka is one of the project's co-founders. 218 00:15:43,543 --> 00:15:47,647 In 2009, he helped set up the Liuwa Research Program. 219 00:15:48,681 --> 00:15:50,616 He's now a senior ecologist 220 00:15:51,083 --> 00:15:53,753 for the Zambian Department of Parks and Wildlife 221 00:15:54,220 --> 00:15:55,555 based in Lusaka. 222 00:15:56,289 --> 00:15:59,559 But he returns to Liuwa regularly to help out. 223 00:15:59,559 --> 00:16:00,626 (INDISTINCT TALKING) 224 00:16:01,160 --> 00:16:02,461 (ENGINE STARTING) 225 00:16:04,096 --> 00:16:06,632 NARRATOR: Jassiel heads out onto the plains to search for predators. 226 00:16:15,141 --> 00:16:16,742 (VULTURES CAWING) 227 00:16:18,144 --> 00:16:21,447 NARRATOR: Circling vultures lead the researchers to a kill. 228 00:16:29,055 --> 00:16:32,358 A hyena is eating what's left of a wildebeest. 229 00:16:35,328 --> 00:16:37,763 With almost no lions to worry about, 230 00:16:37,763 --> 00:16:40,499 Liuwa's hyena numbers are increasing. 231 00:16:41,267 --> 00:16:45,204 They're organized into super clans up to 80 strong. 232 00:16:47,573 --> 00:16:50,009 This female is from North Clan, 233 00:16:50,276 --> 00:16:52,778 one of five hyena families in the study. 234 00:16:54,680 --> 00:16:58,117 She's a long way from home, scavenging a kill. 235 00:16:58,517 --> 00:17:00,186 M'SOKA: This is a hyena that, uh, 236 00:17:00,186 --> 00:17:01,754 we've known from before. 237 00:17:01,754 --> 00:17:06,158 She's been in the study for at least, uh, five years. 238 00:17:08,327 --> 00:17:11,330 It's good to know that... That it's still alive and still in the study. 239 00:17:13,065 --> 00:17:15,601 NARRATOR: Jassiel knows some of the hyenas so well, 240 00:17:15,601 --> 00:17:18,237 he can recognize them by their markings. 241 00:17:29,282 --> 00:17:31,350 At about 150 pounds, 242 00:17:31,350 --> 00:17:34,120 this female is bigger than the approaching male 243 00:17:34,120 --> 00:17:35,621 and she outranks him. 244 00:17:42,228 --> 00:17:45,331 The male will have to make do with the leftovers. 245 00:17:59,211 --> 00:18:01,013 (HYENAS LAUGHING) 246 00:18:01,747 --> 00:18:04,750 NARRATOR: Jassiel and Shadrach want to take a closer look 247 00:18:04,750 --> 00:18:06,585 at the remains of the kill. 248 00:18:07,186 --> 00:18:11,123 The hyenas here are wary of people and back off. 249 00:18:18,331 --> 00:18:20,566 They collect samples to gather data. 250 00:18:27,206 --> 00:18:30,376 There's not much left, but teeth and hair samples 251 00:18:30,376 --> 00:18:33,279 will reveal the wildebeest's age and condition. 252 00:18:36,148 --> 00:18:37,650 This carcass is one of hundreds 253 00:18:37,650 --> 00:18:39,418 the researchers will study. 254 00:18:39,785 --> 00:18:42,421 Each provides clues to the intricate dynamics 255 00:18:42,421 --> 00:18:43,723 of the ecosystem. 256 00:18:48,594 --> 00:18:51,163 (CAR ENGINE STARTING) 257 00:18:54,333 --> 00:18:57,803 To be ranging so far into another clan's territory, 258 00:18:57,803 --> 00:19:00,239 the North Clan must be struggling. 259 00:19:01,340 --> 00:19:02,775 To find out why, 260 00:19:02,775 --> 00:19:05,578 Jassiel wants to take a look at the clan's den. 261 00:19:24,196 --> 00:19:27,366 Hyenas rear their cubs in underground dens. 262 00:19:28,634 --> 00:19:31,370 The area around the den is communal 263 00:19:31,370 --> 00:19:34,974 and at twilight, it's the centre of the clan's social life. 264 00:19:38,377 --> 00:19:41,614 But the hunting adults of the North Clan are out, 265 00:19:41,614 --> 00:19:44,250 still searching far and wide for food. 266 00:19:46,419 --> 00:19:47,787 All the cubs can do 267 00:19:47,787 --> 00:19:50,322 is wait at the relative safety of the den. 268 00:19:53,125 --> 00:19:56,529 With the drought caused by El Nino, this is a tough year. 269 00:19:58,831 --> 00:20:00,633 The researchers have already discovered 270 00:20:00,633 --> 00:20:02,435 the drought's first victims. 271 00:20:06,072 --> 00:20:11,077 A neighboring den abandoned with seven cubs dead inside. 272 00:20:20,319 --> 00:20:21,854 When times are tough, 273 00:20:21,854 --> 00:20:24,623 the mothers don't always make it back to the den 274 00:20:24,623 --> 00:20:26,358 to feed their cubs. 275 00:20:27,893 --> 00:20:31,597 If the North Clan adults don't return in the next couple of days, 276 00:20:32,198 --> 00:20:34,100 these cubs will die. 277 00:20:35,534 --> 00:20:37,470 (CAR ENGINE STARTING) 278 00:20:38,170 --> 00:20:40,372 The researchers head back to camp 279 00:20:40,372 --> 00:20:42,374 to record the day's findings. 280 00:20:55,855 --> 00:20:57,523 It's 7:00 a.m. 281 00:20:58,424 --> 00:21:01,127 Project leader Matt Becker is out surveying 282 00:21:01,127 --> 00:21:03,129 the grasslands' eastern sector. 283 00:21:04,697 --> 00:21:07,433 Seven years ago, Matt helped Jassiel 284 00:21:07,433 --> 00:21:10,002 set up the Carnivore Research Program. 285 00:21:15,274 --> 00:21:17,343 He spots an old friend. 286 00:21:24,383 --> 00:21:28,521 She's Lady, the world famous last lioness of Liuwa. 287 00:21:30,623 --> 00:21:35,094 Potentially as old as 16, she's ancient for a lion 288 00:21:35,094 --> 00:21:37,229 but she's in remarkably good shape. 289 00:21:39,131 --> 00:21:40,599 For nearly a decade, 290 00:21:40,599 --> 00:21:43,435 she lived all alone on these vast plains. 291 00:21:48,140 --> 00:21:49,808 (LIONS GROWLING) 292 00:21:50,276 --> 00:21:53,312 NARRATOR: Lions are the only truly social cats. 293 00:21:55,114 --> 00:21:57,683 Lionesses typically live together, 294 00:21:57,683 --> 00:22:00,319 raising cubs and sharing kills. 295 00:22:08,227 --> 00:22:10,596 In the absence of any other lions, 296 00:22:10,596 --> 00:22:12,631 Lady became so lonely 297 00:22:12,631 --> 00:22:15,367 that she started going into the Liuwa field camp. 298 00:22:16,635 --> 00:22:19,371 MATT BECKER: It was quite common to have her come in to camp and just 299 00:22:19,638 --> 00:22:21,340 be hanging out at camp. 300 00:22:21,340 --> 00:22:24,276 At a level that you wouldn't typically be comfortable with 301 00:22:24,276 --> 00:22:26,612 or, um, wouldn't be wise for... 302 00:22:27,146 --> 00:22:30,115 To have a lion in that close a vicinity. 303 00:22:30,683 --> 00:22:33,652 But she's just accustomed to that. She, uh, 304 00:22:33,652 --> 00:22:37,256 has never, um, endangered anyone. 305 00:22:37,623 --> 00:22:42,228 NARRATOR: Out of respect, the lioness became known as Lady Liuwa. 306 00:22:43,329 --> 00:22:46,865 You can't not find her remarkable. 307 00:22:46,865 --> 00:22:48,300 And, uh... 308 00:22:48,300 --> 00:22:51,303 And that doesn't have anything to do with 309 00:22:51,537 --> 00:22:54,273 science or research or conservation or anything. 310 00:22:54,273 --> 00:22:56,308 It's just a remarkable animal. 311 00:23:10,689 --> 00:23:12,524 NARRATOR: Liuwa is being protected 312 00:23:12,524 --> 00:23:15,728 and restored by the African Parks Network. 313 00:23:20,666 --> 00:23:24,370 To cure Lady's loneliness, in 2009, 314 00:23:24,370 --> 00:23:27,106 African Parks introduced two males. 315 00:23:27,640 --> 00:23:30,109 But Lady failed to conceive 316 00:23:30,109 --> 00:23:33,212 so Matt's team worked with African Parks 317 00:23:33,212 --> 00:23:35,481 to introduce a new lioness. 318 00:23:38,517 --> 00:23:42,021 They called her Sepo, the local word for hope, 319 00:23:42,254 --> 00:23:44,857 as she'd hopefully kick-start a new generation 320 00:23:44,857 --> 00:23:46,692 while learning from Lady. 321 00:23:51,463 --> 00:23:56,135 In 2013, in the thick undergrowth by the camp, 322 00:23:56,135 --> 00:23:58,304 Sepo had three cubs. 323 00:24:00,572 --> 00:24:03,442 With Lady's help, she safeguarded them 324 00:24:03,442 --> 00:24:07,146 from the hyenas and now there's a glimmer of hope 325 00:24:07,146 --> 00:24:10,349 that lions might be returning to the grasslands. 326 00:24:17,823 --> 00:24:19,558 BECKER: Lady Liuwa's story 327 00:24:20,159 --> 00:24:22,394 is... Is very emblematic of the story 328 00:24:22,394 --> 00:24:24,163 of Liuwa Plain in general. 329 00:24:24,163 --> 00:24:25,798 Uh, something that, um... 330 00:24:25,798 --> 00:24:27,633 Sort of renewal and recovery. 331 00:24:27,633 --> 00:24:31,437 Uh, we now have in the twilight years of her life 332 00:24:31,437 --> 00:24:32,471 a, uh... 333 00:24:32,471 --> 00:24:36,275 The first pride, um, in over a decade in Liuwa. 334 00:24:36,275 --> 00:24:38,310 And you can see them interacting with her. 335 00:24:38,310 --> 00:24:39,545 Even though they're not hers, 336 00:24:39,545 --> 00:24:42,114 she is obviously the matriarch of this pride. 337 00:24:42,481 --> 00:24:44,817 She's a special lion, and it's... 338 00:24:44,817 --> 00:24:48,420 She really symbolizes what Liuwa Plain is about. 339 00:24:51,724 --> 00:24:53,759 NARRATOR: Being so few in number, 340 00:24:53,759 --> 00:24:58,163 the new pride needs intensive levels of care and monitoring. 341 00:25:01,033 --> 00:25:02,301 There's a problem. 342 00:25:03,035 --> 00:25:04,737 There are only three lions. 343 00:25:07,139 --> 00:25:10,476 Lady, Sepo and one of the juveniles. 344 00:25:13,178 --> 00:25:14,980 Two youngsters are missing. 345 00:25:15,247 --> 00:25:17,149 (ENGINE STARTING) 346 00:25:30,195 --> 00:25:32,331 They're not wearing radio collars 347 00:25:32,331 --> 00:25:34,099 and they could be anywhere. 348 00:25:35,634 --> 00:25:38,270 All the researchers will have to keep their eyes peeled 349 00:25:38,504 --> 00:25:40,105 for the missing lions. 350 00:25:49,448 --> 00:25:51,817 Back at camp, Jassiel heads out again 351 00:25:51,817 --> 00:25:54,219 to see if any hyenas from the North Clan 352 00:25:54,486 --> 00:25:56,121 have returned to the den. 353 00:25:56,688 --> 00:25:58,257 (ENGINE REVVING) 354 00:26:05,197 --> 00:26:08,634 Hyenas can easily range 30 miles a night 355 00:26:08,634 --> 00:26:10,269 looking for food. 356 00:26:15,374 --> 00:26:19,077 If they made a kill, they should have returned by dawn. 357 00:26:38,263 --> 00:26:39,398 (ENGINE TURNS OFF) 358 00:26:47,840 --> 00:26:50,108 NARRATOR: The females are back. 359 00:26:52,144 --> 00:26:55,547 At long last, the cubs can suckle again. 360 00:27:03,655 --> 00:27:05,591 The cubs owe their survival 361 00:27:05,591 --> 00:27:07,626 to the richness of their mother's milk. 362 00:27:13,198 --> 00:27:15,667 Hyena milk has some of the highest levels 363 00:27:15,667 --> 00:27:19,137 of protein and fat of any terrestrial mammal. 364 00:27:27,246 --> 00:27:29,114 (CUBS WHINING) 365 00:27:33,452 --> 00:27:37,055 NARRATOR: Each female only nurses her own cubs. 366 00:27:39,124 --> 00:27:40,726 This high-ranking female 367 00:27:40,726 --> 00:27:42,761 is one of the leaders of the clan. 368 00:27:44,062 --> 00:27:47,466 She gets the pick of the food and produces richer milk. 369 00:27:49,768 --> 00:27:52,104 Her two cubs will grow faster and bigger 370 00:27:52,104 --> 00:27:54,273 than the other cubs in the clan. 371 00:27:55,374 --> 00:27:58,777 One day, they'll try to take their turn to be the boss. 372 00:28:04,550 --> 00:28:06,351 (HYENA WHINING) 373 00:28:06,585 --> 00:28:10,255 NARRATOR: Social interactions teach the cubs the clan's hierarchy. 374 00:28:12,424 --> 00:28:14,192 (HYENAS WHINING) 375 00:28:18,564 --> 00:28:21,233 NARRATOR: Only high ranking males and juveniles 376 00:28:21,233 --> 00:28:23,468 are allowed anywhere near. 377 00:28:24,469 --> 00:28:26,138 (HYENA WHINING) 378 00:28:30,475 --> 00:28:34,079 NARRATOR: All other lowly males have to keep their distance. 379 00:28:40,652 --> 00:28:43,722 Jassiel photographs each individual 380 00:28:43,722 --> 00:28:45,324 so the study can keep track 381 00:28:45,324 --> 00:28:47,659 of the changing fortunes in the clan. 382 00:28:47,659 --> 00:28:49,428 (ENGINE REVVING) 383 00:29:08,280 --> 00:29:11,617 NARRATOR: Back at base, Jassiel reviews his data. 384 00:29:12,618 --> 00:29:14,720 (CLICKING) 385 00:29:17,255 --> 00:29:21,193 NARRATOR: First, he needs to identify the hyenas from his photos. 386 00:29:24,262 --> 00:29:27,499 Their spots are as individual as a human fingerprint. 387 00:29:33,705 --> 00:29:37,542 But the study has over 300 hyenas in its database, 388 00:29:39,177 --> 00:29:41,446 so it requires an eye for detail. 389 00:29:45,550 --> 00:29:47,319 M'SOKA: This looks like this could be the one. 390 00:29:50,088 --> 00:29:53,592 Uh, this is Liuwa hyena 474. 391 00:29:53,592 --> 00:29:55,193 Her nickname is "Bridget". 392 00:29:56,795 --> 00:30:00,732 The sex says here it's male, but... 393 00:30:02,501 --> 00:30:05,437 It's got a female name, and yet it's... 394 00:30:05,437 --> 00:30:07,205 (LAUGHING) A male. 395 00:30:07,205 --> 00:30:09,241 So that tells you a lot about sexing hyenas. 396 00:30:14,279 --> 00:30:16,314 (HYENAS LAUGHING) 397 00:30:16,715 --> 00:30:19,518 NARRATOR: Females lead hyena society, 398 00:30:19,518 --> 00:30:22,421 and it's very difficult to tell the sexes apart. 399 00:30:25,290 --> 00:30:27,392 The females have external genitalia 400 00:30:27,392 --> 00:30:30,328 that appears to be almost identical to the males'. 401 00:30:31,163 --> 00:30:32,631 Hence the confusion. 402 00:30:34,700 --> 00:30:36,435 (WHINING) 403 00:30:37,302 --> 00:30:39,504 NARRATOR: Having identified his hyenas, 404 00:30:39,504 --> 00:30:42,074 Jassiel can update the records. 405 00:30:42,507 --> 00:30:45,410 Thus the study builds up a long-term picture 406 00:30:45,410 --> 00:30:47,846 of hyena survival, reproduction, 407 00:30:47,846 --> 00:30:50,115 and their impact on the ecosystem. 408 00:31:02,260 --> 00:31:04,429 The hyenas in the study area 409 00:31:04,429 --> 00:31:06,298 live in five competing clans. 410 00:31:10,368 --> 00:31:12,337 After two years in the field, 411 00:31:12,537 --> 00:31:15,540 Daan is getting a picture of the differences between them. 412 00:31:17,275 --> 00:31:19,211 (REVVING ENGINE) 413 00:31:25,250 --> 00:31:27,219 NARRATOR: By using the radio collars, 414 00:31:27,219 --> 00:31:29,654 and intensively watching the same individuals, 415 00:31:30,322 --> 00:31:32,124 the researchers have been able to see why 416 00:31:32,124 --> 00:31:34,559 the struggling North Clan are having to range 417 00:31:34,559 --> 00:31:36,294 so far for food. 418 00:31:40,398 --> 00:31:41,666 The drought is drying up 419 00:31:41,666 --> 00:31:44,236 their already limited access to water. 420 00:31:44,870 --> 00:31:47,572 And their prey is staying away. 421 00:32:03,488 --> 00:32:06,291 The neighboring hyenas are getting more powerful 422 00:32:06,658 --> 00:32:09,327 and they're squeezing the North Clan's territory. 423 00:32:20,205 --> 00:32:23,542 Some of North Clan headed east, two months ago. 424 00:32:25,343 --> 00:32:27,245 And they haven't returned. 425 00:32:32,217 --> 00:32:34,219 Three are wearing collars, 426 00:32:35,086 --> 00:32:37,389 but their signals are out of range. 427 00:32:44,162 --> 00:32:47,032 To keep track of the remaining members of North Clan, 428 00:32:47,332 --> 00:32:50,735 the scientists need to collar another high ranking female. 429 00:32:53,171 --> 00:32:55,674 (INDISTINCT TALKING) 430 00:33:00,378 --> 00:33:03,215 NARRATOR: Teddy finds their target hyena cooling off. 431 00:33:06,785 --> 00:33:10,555 To collar this wild female, they'll need to dart her. 432 00:33:15,660 --> 00:33:18,997 Daan gets the veterinarian in position for a shot. 433 00:33:23,768 --> 00:33:26,471 Their target is the one standing up. 434 00:33:30,075 --> 00:33:32,377 They circle the hyena first, 435 00:33:32,377 --> 00:33:34,312 so she gets used to their presence. 436 00:33:44,656 --> 00:33:46,658 (SHOT FIRED) 437 00:33:44,656 --> 00:33:46,658 (HYENA WHINING) 438 00:33:46,858 --> 00:33:48,326 NARRATOR: Bullseye. 439 00:33:55,133 --> 00:33:57,702 The drug quickly takes effect. 440 00:34:04,075 --> 00:34:06,611 Project leader Matt isn't far behind. 441 00:34:09,314 --> 00:34:10,615 Copy that, we'll hang back here. 442 00:34:10,615 --> 00:34:12,183 Just let us know when to come in. 443 00:34:12,384 --> 00:34:13,652 (RADIO STATIC) 444 00:34:14,052 --> 00:34:16,421 NARRATOR: While working on the sedated animal, 445 00:34:16,421 --> 00:34:19,090 there's little risk from the rest of the clan. 446 00:34:22,460 --> 00:34:24,629 And there are no lions here. 447 00:34:26,598 --> 00:34:29,234 All attention is focused on getting the job done 448 00:34:29,234 --> 00:34:31,436 as quickly, and with as little discomfort 449 00:34:31,436 --> 00:34:33,305 to the animal as possible. 450 00:34:33,305 --> 00:34:35,440 MAN: (FROM DISTANCE) It's good but just keep an eye on it. 451 00:34:37,309 --> 00:34:39,377 NARRATOR: They cover the hyena's eyes 452 00:34:39,377 --> 00:34:41,746 to protect them from dust and sunlight. 453 00:34:46,685 --> 00:34:49,721 Whilst unconscious, carnivores can't control 454 00:34:49,721 --> 00:34:51,356 their own temperature well. 455 00:34:52,190 --> 00:34:53,625 So the team must carefully monitor 456 00:34:53,625 --> 00:34:57,329 the hyena's vital signs and keep her cool. 457 00:35:01,633 --> 00:35:03,068 MUKULA: It's, uh... 458 00:35:03,335 --> 00:35:07,439 A very big moment of uncertainty, because, uh... 459 00:35:07,439 --> 00:35:10,342 You... You are not guaranteed of the outcome. 460 00:35:11,309 --> 00:35:14,646 NARRATOR: Fitting the collar requires a lot of careful adjustment. 461 00:35:15,547 --> 00:35:18,350 It must allow room for the hyena to grow, 462 00:35:18,350 --> 00:35:21,086 but not be so loose that it might get snagged. 463 00:35:22,554 --> 00:35:24,189 MUKULA: Uh, thread. 464 00:35:26,091 --> 00:35:27,258 NARRATOR: They take full advantage 465 00:35:27,258 --> 00:35:30,228 of the rare chance to check on the hyena's health 466 00:35:30,228 --> 00:35:31,663 and gather more data. 467 00:35:33,431 --> 00:35:36,401 Analysis of the DNA will tell them about 468 00:35:36,401 --> 00:35:38,503 interrelationships in the clan. 469 00:35:42,073 --> 00:35:45,810 Height, length and teeth help age the animal 470 00:35:45,810 --> 00:35:47,779 and provide a profile of this member 471 00:35:47,779 --> 00:35:49,614 of the Liuwa population. 472 00:35:49,614 --> 00:35:51,182 (SHUTTER CLICKING) 473 00:35:52,150 --> 00:35:54,085 NARRATOR: They secure the collar. 474 00:35:55,120 --> 00:35:57,555 (DEVICE BEEPING) 475 00:35:58,656 --> 00:36:00,725 Just gonna back up, just a little bit. 476 00:36:03,094 --> 00:36:06,498 NARRATOR: Dr Banda injects the drug to revive the hyena. 477 00:36:08,366 --> 00:36:12,070 And everyone quietly retreats to allow her a calm recovery. 478 00:36:25,550 --> 00:36:29,154 Fifteen minutes later, the hyena comes round. 479 00:36:31,222 --> 00:36:34,726 She's groggy, but she'll sleep off any after-effects 480 00:36:34,726 --> 00:36:37,228 before joining tonight's hunt. 481 00:36:42,500 --> 00:36:45,470 BECKER: Everyone has a job, everyone does it well, and, uh, 482 00:36:45,470 --> 00:36:47,205 the safety and comfort of the animal 483 00:36:47,205 --> 00:36:49,340 is of the utmost importance, and so... 484 00:36:49,574 --> 00:36:53,178 Um, that is about as smooth as you could ask for. 485 00:36:54,646 --> 00:36:56,748 BECKER: Well done, guys. That was a nice one. 486 00:36:56,748 --> 00:36:58,149 (LAUGHING) 487 00:36:58,149 --> 00:36:59,617 NARRATOR: For the next three years, 488 00:36:59,617 --> 00:37:01,553 the lifespan of the collar, 489 00:37:01,553 --> 00:37:04,622 the researchers will be able to keep track of this hyena 490 00:37:04,622 --> 00:37:06,391 day and night. 491 00:37:07,459 --> 00:37:09,794 They'll follow the fortunes of North Clan 492 00:37:09,794 --> 00:37:12,730 and they'll get a better picture of these hyenas' role 493 00:37:12,730 --> 00:37:14,532 in Liuwa's recovery. 494 00:37:17,168 --> 00:37:19,270 The female lopes off, 495 00:37:19,671 --> 00:37:22,373 unaware that her life will now contribute 496 00:37:22,373 --> 00:37:24,242 to the annals of science. 497 00:37:29,147 --> 00:37:31,549 All the researchers have their eyes peeled 498 00:37:31,549 --> 00:37:34,552 for Lady and Sepo's two missing lion cubs. 499 00:37:38,089 --> 00:37:41,192 Teddy is searching the southern part of the plain. 500 00:37:41,726 --> 00:37:45,029 He knows a spot where the lions sometimes lay up. 501 00:37:47,565 --> 00:37:49,634 He finds a cheetah family. 502 00:37:51,269 --> 00:37:54,372 Their numbers also crashed during the civil war. 503 00:37:58,076 --> 00:38:01,012 This mother is managing to raise four cubs, 504 00:38:01,012 --> 00:38:02,981 a big litter for a cheetah. 505 00:38:03,515 --> 00:38:06,651 It's another sign that the ecosystem is recovering. 506 00:38:12,557 --> 00:38:15,026 There's hyena here. 507 00:38:15,026 --> 00:38:18,229 But, so far, no young lions. 508 00:38:20,665 --> 00:38:24,002 For a man on a motorbike, lions are dangerous. 509 00:38:25,603 --> 00:38:27,372 Teddy will never forget the first time 510 00:38:27,372 --> 00:38:30,408 he was riding his bike, and came across a lion. 511 00:38:32,110 --> 00:38:33,778 MUKULA: When I come here in, 512 00:38:33,778 --> 00:38:36,381 uh, November 2013, 513 00:38:36,381 --> 00:38:38,416 I had run into a male. 514 00:38:39,184 --> 00:38:42,654 And not knowing that my fuel levels in the bike 515 00:38:42,654 --> 00:38:45,990 were actually very low, 516 00:38:46,324 --> 00:38:47,458 I stopped. 517 00:38:48,526 --> 00:38:51,996 Then the lion, you know, became inquisitive. 518 00:38:53,331 --> 00:38:57,335 And I was, like, literally 40, 50 meters away from him. 519 00:38:59,537 --> 00:39:02,140 And I'm like, "Okay, now this is the time to go." 520 00:39:02,707 --> 00:39:05,143 And the moment I wanted to start the bike, 521 00:39:05,143 --> 00:39:09,247 and the bike couldn't start. And I was like, "What?" 522 00:39:11,583 --> 00:39:15,153 Eventually, I remembered and I turned to the reserve tank. 523 00:39:15,153 --> 00:39:17,622 Turned the knob to open up the reserve tank. 524 00:39:17,622 --> 00:39:19,657 And boom, there it was. 525 00:39:20,325 --> 00:39:22,260 And I tell you, my heart was like... 526 00:39:22,260 --> 00:39:24,162 Oh, I was carrying it in my hand. 527 00:39:24,562 --> 00:39:26,664 (ENGINE REVVING) 528 00:39:29,434 --> 00:39:31,502 NARRATOR: Teddy finds the thicket, 529 00:39:31,502 --> 00:39:33,438 and his instincts prove right. 530 00:39:34,339 --> 00:39:36,441 But he doesn't want to get too close. 531 00:39:42,146 --> 00:39:45,183 It's hard to tell how many are in there. 532 00:39:51,589 --> 00:39:54,626 Eventually, he's able to count five. 533 00:39:57,829 --> 00:40:00,365 Papa Mike, Papa Mike for Z City. 534 00:40:00,665 --> 00:40:01,733 (RADIO STATIC) 535 00:40:05,069 --> 00:40:06,437 MAN: (OVER WALKIE-TALKIE) Control, control, control. 536 00:40:06,437 --> 00:40:07,505 (INDISTINCT TALKING) 537 00:40:07,505 --> 00:40:08,606 (RADIO SPEECH) 538 00:40:08,606 --> 00:40:10,341 MUKULA: The lions are back. 539 00:40:12,143 --> 00:40:13,511 NARRATOR: Lady and Sepo 540 00:40:13,511 --> 00:40:15,780 are with all three juveniles. 541 00:40:17,682 --> 00:40:19,550 The pride is reunited. 542 00:40:25,390 --> 00:40:27,392 (ENGINE REVVING) 543 00:40:42,740 --> 00:40:46,311 At base camp, the next morning, the team assembles. 544 00:40:47,445 --> 00:40:49,447 They've got another collar to deploy, 545 00:40:50,682 --> 00:40:53,151 but this involves much higher stakes. 546 00:40:54,385 --> 00:40:56,254 It's Lady Liuwa's. 547 00:40:57,655 --> 00:41:00,091 Lady is a very old lion, 548 00:41:00,091 --> 00:41:03,361 so replacing her collar will be a delicate operation. 549 00:41:04,562 --> 00:41:06,798 BECKER: Because of her role 550 00:41:06,798 --> 00:41:09,834 in the pride, we really need to be able to find her 551 00:41:09,834 --> 00:41:11,135 and follow her. 552 00:41:11,135 --> 00:41:12,737 And make sure she and the pride, 553 00:41:12,737 --> 00:41:14,172 particularly as she ages, 554 00:41:14,372 --> 00:41:16,474 and may not be as adept of a hunter, 555 00:41:16,708 --> 00:41:20,211 may potentially get into some trouble with livestock. 556 00:41:20,211 --> 00:41:21,379 We need to be able to... 557 00:41:21,646 --> 00:41:23,381 To find, follow, 558 00:41:23,381 --> 00:41:26,417 and hopefully, avert any issues. 559 00:41:35,693 --> 00:41:37,261 NARRATOR: They find the lions 560 00:41:37,261 --> 00:41:38,663 sleeping off a kill. 561 00:41:42,233 --> 00:41:43,801 They're used to the vehicle 562 00:41:43,801 --> 00:41:46,804 and Matt's able to get the veterinarian in close. 563 00:41:51,209 --> 00:41:52,410 (SHOT FIRED) 564 00:41:52,677 --> 00:41:54,178 NARRATOR: It's an easy shot. 565 00:42:01,052 --> 00:42:03,254 Lady is the leader of the pride. 566 00:42:03,254 --> 00:42:05,156 (MAN TALKING INDISTINCTLY) 567 00:42:05,790 --> 00:42:07,558 NARRATOR: So when she lies down, 568 00:42:07,558 --> 00:42:10,261 her family initially stays with her, 569 00:42:10,695 --> 00:42:12,397 which isn't ideal. 570 00:42:13,398 --> 00:42:15,299 As the vehicle slowly approaches, 571 00:42:15,533 --> 00:42:17,068 the lions wander off. 572 00:42:20,772 --> 00:42:23,808 Matt parks the truck to screen Lady and the team 573 00:42:23,808 --> 00:42:25,276 from the rest of the pride. 574 00:42:27,712 --> 00:42:29,714 They keep a close eye on Lady's breathing 575 00:42:29,714 --> 00:42:31,382 and temperature. 576 00:42:34,552 --> 00:42:36,254 Lady's been limping, 577 00:42:36,254 --> 00:42:39,056 so they check her paws for any signs of injury. 578 00:42:41,459 --> 00:42:44,362 Big pads dampen the sound of a lion's approach. 579 00:42:46,197 --> 00:42:49,500 Long hooked claws grip the fleeing prey 580 00:42:49,500 --> 00:42:51,202 and pull it to the ground. 581 00:42:54,572 --> 00:42:56,674 DR BANDA: Hold that. That's good. 582 00:42:56,874 --> 00:42:58,242 Yes, that's good. 583 00:42:58,242 --> 00:42:59,610 Okay, so I'll put the bag here... 584 00:43:00,478 --> 00:43:02,513 NARRATOR: Lions rely on powerful jaws 585 00:43:02,513 --> 00:43:04,081 to bite the throat 586 00:43:04,081 --> 00:43:06,217 and suffocate their victims. 587 00:43:11,055 --> 00:43:14,392 It's a cold morning and it looks like rain. 588 00:43:15,793 --> 00:43:18,696 They have to keep Lady warm and dry. 589 00:43:21,232 --> 00:43:23,100 To support the basic shelter, 590 00:43:23,401 --> 00:43:25,503 a little improvisation is needed. 591 00:43:30,741 --> 00:43:33,511 The vet doesn't want to stress Lady's system 592 00:43:33,511 --> 00:43:35,680 by giving her any more drugs 593 00:43:36,547 --> 00:43:39,116 so they let the sedative wear off naturally. 594 00:43:40,451 --> 00:43:43,488 Matt keeps a close eye on Lady's recovery. 595 00:43:48,860 --> 00:43:51,395 The rest of the pride becomes curious. 596 00:43:54,365 --> 00:43:56,167 They want to come closer, 597 00:43:56,167 --> 00:43:58,536 but they're unsure about the plastic sheet. 598 00:44:00,471 --> 00:44:01,739 (THUDDING) 599 00:44:01,739 --> 00:44:03,040 (GROWLING) 600 00:44:04,308 --> 00:44:06,310 NARRATOR: One cub builds up courage 601 00:44:06,310 --> 00:44:07,578 for a closer look. 602 00:44:10,781 --> 00:44:14,986 The rubber foot on the camera tripod is too tempting. 603 00:44:25,730 --> 00:44:27,999 NARRATOR: The commotion wakes the old lady. 604 00:44:28,432 --> 00:44:30,535 She's not sure where she is. 605 00:44:33,170 --> 00:44:37,174 Matt won't leave her side until she's fully recovered 606 00:44:37,174 --> 00:44:39,143 and reunited with her family. 607 00:44:39,844 --> 00:44:43,214 Without the reversal drugs, it could take hours. 608 00:44:51,856 --> 00:44:55,426 It stops raining and the temperature rises. 609 00:45:00,431 --> 00:45:03,134 Matt gets a ringside seat 610 00:45:03,134 --> 00:45:05,469 as the pride re-joins Lady. 611 00:45:06,604 --> 00:45:09,040 BECKER: You can see just from the way they interact, 612 00:45:09,040 --> 00:45:11,475 uh, Lady is a very important member 613 00:45:11,475 --> 00:45:13,778 of the pride, and, uh... 614 00:45:13,778 --> 00:45:17,081 So it worked out as good as anyone could have hoped. 615 00:45:17,348 --> 00:45:20,117 I think when you look out, and you see the pride, 616 00:45:20,117 --> 00:45:23,287 um, despite all of the issues, um, 617 00:45:23,287 --> 00:45:25,590 it is a great feeling that hopefully 618 00:45:25,590 --> 00:45:28,192 lion recovery is on the right track. 619 00:45:30,227 --> 00:45:34,198 If any lion could live a very exceptionally long 620 00:45:34,198 --> 00:45:36,400 and rich life, I think it would be Lady. 621 00:45:36,601 --> 00:45:39,737 I just... I hope she has many more years and 622 00:45:39,737 --> 00:45:42,073 I know it's... 623 00:45:42,073 --> 00:45:44,108 It's not forever but, uh... 624 00:45:44,308 --> 00:45:47,011 It is hard to imagine Liuwa without Lady. 625 00:46:00,124 --> 00:46:01,525 (THUNDERING) 626 00:46:05,596 --> 00:46:07,765 NARRATOR: The long awaited rains arrive. 627 00:46:07,765 --> 00:46:10,101 (THUNDER CRACKING) 628 00:46:11,202 --> 00:46:12,536 NARRATOR: Quenched at last, 629 00:46:12,536 --> 00:46:14,605 Liuwa blooms into life. 630 00:46:17,575 --> 00:46:19,577 The plains throng with wildebeest, 631 00:46:19,577 --> 00:46:21,512 zebra and their young. 632 00:46:24,248 --> 00:46:26,684 The study has found that wildebeest numbers 633 00:46:26,684 --> 00:46:28,285 have nearly tripled. 634 00:46:30,354 --> 00:46:32,089 Liuwa is now home 635 00:46:32,089 --> 00:46:34,325 to the second largest wildebeest migration 636 00:46:34,325 --> 00:46:35,459 in Africa. 637 00:46:37,495 --> 00:46:39,330 Carnivore heaven. 638 00:46:42,266 --> 00:46:44,769 For the coming months, living will be easier 639 00:46:44,769 --> 00:46:46,537 for the North Clan hyenas. 640 00:46:48,439 --> 00:46:50,374 (WHIMPERING) 641 00:46:51,842 --> 00:46:53,644 NARRATOR: In this time of plenty, 642 00:46:53,644 --> 00:46:55,680 the cheetah family will grow fat. 643 00:46:59,784 --> 00:47:01,719 With the years' collaring finished, 644 00:47:02,119 --> 00:47:05,556 the scientists are now able to follow all the action. 645 00:47:08,125 --> 00:47:10,061 Under their watchful eyes, 646 00:47:10,061 --> 00:47:12,663 one of the great success stories in Africa 647 00:47:12,663 --> 00:47:14,565 will continue to unfold. 648 00:47:16,534 --> 00:47:18,469 The seasons change, 649 00:47:19,303 --> 00:47:21,739 the natural order slowly restores, 650 00:47:23,174 --> 00:47:28,345 and Liuwa National Park returns to its former glory. 651 00:47:30,047 --> 00:47:38,055 ♪♪ 652 00:47:38,055 --> 00:47:46,063 ♪♪ 653 00:47:46,063 --> 00:47:54,071 ♪♪ 53345

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