Planet Earth's endless sense of wonder
Planet Earth II reminds us habitats are dwindling, sometimes disappearing
In an early episode of the BBC’s new season of Planet Earth II we're introduced to a frisky bear with an itchy back. Down from the high wastes for the brief Rockies' summer, the depicted bear can fatten up for the coming winter by as much as 180 kg, or so we’re told. When he isn’t pouring meadow grass down his gullet, said bear finds a well-rooted pine and proceeds to rub his back with slightly frantic, mouth-watering abandon. His back-scratching has another purpose: it functions as a kind of calling-card, telling the female bear world that he’s free for summer fun and games. Should they pass by this particular pine noticeboard, they will sniff the air and know. It’s a lovely scene, shot from alongside and above, and it not only reminds us of those difficult-to-get-at places on our backs, but of animals’ rich and various private lives. The programme makes one feel a bit like Noah: new camera technology and sheer BBC perspicacity have allowed us as viewers to step — as it were — wher...
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