Wildlife Diaries Australia
A world without animals is hardly conceivable, but the natural habitats are shrinking fast, especially in Australia. But there are people who are passionate about their homeland's wildlife and dedicated to active species conservation.
By visiting animal sanctuaries, we portray the remarkable stories of compassion and dedication as well as the active research of scientists fighting against the destruction of natural habitats. We meet koalas, kangaroos, wombats, and even the endangered Tasmanian devils, and follow them through their rescue, rehabilitation, and release into the wild. We get up close and personal with the day-to-day work of animal conservationists who try to give endangered animals a better future.
Pictures:
© Jordan Whitt / Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Center / Tolga Bat Hospital / Tasmanian Devil Unzoo / Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary / David Clode
Episodes
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Of Flying Foxes and Heat Waves
While the Tolga Bat Hospital is looking after endangered flying foxes, researchers are using thermographic cameras to search for flying foxes and koalas. But they can also detect bush and wildfire more quickly.
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Of Sea Turtles and Coral Reefs
The Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Center (CTRC) raises and cares for sick, or injured turtles, while the Schmidt Ocean Institute goes on a diving mission with a high-tech underwater rover. In this way, we learn firsthand about the state of Australia's sensitive marine animals' natural habitat and what needs to be done to ensure their survival.
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Of Wombats and Vaccines
Tasmania's Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary used to be a traditional wildlife park - now it is an innovative and active wildlife sanctuary and home to the famous Tasmanian Devil, to wombats, and many other native species. But unfortunately, "Tassie Devils" are particularly endangered by the Devil Facial Tumor Disease (DFTD). We accompany the team of young, ambitious scientists on their fight against the disease.
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Of Koalas and Drones
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary was opened in 1927 at a time when Koalas were still being killed on a large scale for the fur trade. Today, hardly anything threatens the natural habitats of these animals as much as the desertification of the forests. We let the drones fly and are there when a new tree is planted.
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Of Kangaroos and Conservation
Visiting the fenced nature reserve Arid Recovery in southern Australia, we witness the care of an injured kangaroo and follow researchers at the Hidden Vale Wildlife Centre near Brisbane as they train native animals to detect tracks of threatening predators and then move to safety.
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Of Fairy Penguins and GPS Trackers
Australia's largest fur seal colony is located on Phillip Island. Night after night, a breathtaking spectacle takes place here: At sunset, countless fairy penguins return from their hunt for fish. In the station near the penguin colony, pioneering scientific research is conducted around the cute animals. We learn how dedicated scientists are trying to secure the future of the fairy penguins with the help of GPS trackers.
Facts
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Original TitleWildlife Diaries Australia
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Year2021
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Length6 × 45' (ENG, GER)
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ResolutionHD
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Produced by
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