0:00:00 > 0:00:00- 888
0:00:00 > 0:00:02- 888- - 888
0:00:05 > 0:00:09- I'm on a journey that will present - many challenges along the way.
0:00:09 > 0:00:13- A journey across - the largest country in the world...
0:00:13 > 0:00:15- ..which covers 10% of the globe.
0:00:16 > 0:00:18- I'm in Russia.
0:00:18 > 0:00:23- I've already visited western Russia - and climbed the Caucasus.
0:00:24 > 0:00:26- I'm now travelling east...
0:00:26 > 0:00:29- ..towards the wild Ural mountains.
0:00:31 > 0:00:33- 888
0:00:38 > 0:00:40- 888
0:00:47 > 0:00:51- The Urals
0:00:52 > 0:00:55- The never-ending - rivers and forests...
0:00:55 > 0:00:58- ..and the enchanting mountains - of the Urals...
0:00:59 > 0:01:03- ..offer a perfect home to - wolves, wolverines and brown bears.
0:01:05 > 0:01:08- These mountains - separate Europe from Asia.
0:01:08 > 0:01:11- They offer a paradise - to hundreds of elks.
0:01:11 > 0:01:14- I can't wait to find out more - about the place.
0:01:24 > 0:01:27- Eurasia is one of the biggest - land masses in the world.
0:01:27 > 0:01:30- It has an ancient history...
0:01:30 > 0:01:33- ..which stretches back - over 250 million years.
0:01:33 > 0:01:36- Today, the boundary - between Europe and Asia...
0:01:36 > 0:01:39- ..is one of Europe's - largest wildlife areas...
0:01:39 > 0:01:43- ..with forests - stretching over 1,200 miles.
0:01:43 > 0:01:47- Little wonder that - it's a hotbed of wildlife activity.
0:01:55 > 0:01:59- I still have a few more miles - to travel before reaching...
0:01:59 > 0:02:01- ..the middle of the bush.
0:02:02 > 0:02:06- I'm travelling once again, - after flying from Moscow to Ufa.
0:02:06 > 0:02:11- It takes another seven hours - on the road to reach the Urals.
0:02:11 > 0:02:14- This is very different - to the Caucasus.
0:02:14 > 0:02:20- There's more water, there are - more trees, there's more greenery.
0:02:20 > 0:02:22- I'm here in the summer.
0:02:23 > 0:02:26- In winter, - a carpet of snow covers the land.
0:02:26 > 0:02:31- That makes it very difficult - for animals to find their food.
0:02:48 > 0:02:49- Through the thick snow...
0:02:50 > 0:02:56- ..these elks start their journey - to new lands and search for food.
0:02:56 > 0:03:01- Eating birch branches on the way - gives them the strength...
0:03:01 > 0:03:04- ..to complete their long journey.
0:03:04 > 0:03:09- With temperatures plummeting - to minus 30 degrees Celsius...
0:03:10 > 0:03:12- ..it's a terribly difficult journey.
0:03:12 > 0:03:14- DISTANT POPPING NOISES
0:03:17 > 0:03:21- The cold causes the trees - to literally explode.
0:03:22 > 0:03:25- This causes an incredible symphony - in the forest.
0:03:32 > 0:03:35- The elks bicker more and more - in the cold weather.
0:03:35 > 0:03:39- Our wildlife camera crew - have spent weeks filming them.
0:03:40 > 0:03:43- They have seen the elks - inflicting pain on each other...
0:03:44 > 0:03:46- ..with their sharp hooves.
0:04:00 > 0:04:06- Food is scarce, and the land - has already been grazed.
0:04:27 > 0:04:29- The elks have competition.
0:04:29 > 0:04:33- This brown bear is also hungry - and eyes the elks.
0:04:36 > 0:04:38- The elks have spotted the bear.
0:04:39 > 0:04:42- They can use their long legs - to flee through the snow.
0:04:59 > 0:05:04- The elks are left alone - to proceed on their long journey.
0:05:04 > 0:05:08- By now, over a dozen elks - have started their annual journey...
0:05:09 > 0:05:11- ..to the highlands - to search for food.
0:05:36 > 0:05:40- The bear has little hope - of catching them.
0:05:40 > 0:05:45- Walking through the thick snow - is too difficult for its heavy legs.
0:05:45 > 0:05:47- Before long, it will rest.
0:05:48 > 0:05:52- It searches for somewhere - to hibernate for the winter.
0:05:54 > 0:05:57- The northern lands of the Urals...
0:05:57 > 0:06:03- ..are made up of desolate land, - swamps and pine forests.
0:06:03 > 0:06:08- It will be spring soon and the - layers of thick snow will melt.
0:06:15 > 0:06:20- The first sign of spring is the - black grouse's courtship display.
0:06:20 > 0:06:22- The male circles the female...
0:06:23 > 0:06:28- ..trying to make an impression - with its unique clucking sound.
0:06:34 > 0:06:38- Often, - dozens of males circle the hen...
0:06:38 > 0:06:41- ..but today, - this cockerel has very few rivals.
0:06:42 > 0:06:46- However, there is another enemy - on the horizon...
0:06:46 > 0:06:50- ..one which is far more dangerous - - a wolverine.
0:06:52 > 0:06:55- The wolverine - loves to feast on birds.
0:06:56 > 0:07:00- Fortunately, the hen notices - the predator just in time.
0:07:02 > 0:07:05- The wolverine - will have to feast elsewhere.
0:07:07 > 0:07:10- The wolverine only weighs 20kgs...
0:07:10 > 0:07:14- ..but it's the largest member - of the stoat family.
0:07:14 > 0:07:19- It's a powerful creature - with large paws and sharp teeth.
0:07:23 > 0:07:25- The forest deer - are well aware of this.
0:07:26 > 0:07:28- They are often hunted by wolverines.
0:07:30 > 0:07:33- The deer are safe this time.
0:07:40 > 0:07:46- I'm in a warden's truck on my way - to the Shul'gan-Tash nature reserve.
0:07:46 > 0:07:49- After a seven-hour journey...
0:07:50 > 0:07:52- ..both of us are glad - to reach our destination.
0:07:53 > 0:07:55- This is Bashkortostan.
0:07:55 > 0:07:58- The elks have now returned - to the lowlands...
0:07:58 > 0:08:02- ..and the brown bear - has awoken from its hibernation.
0:08:05 > 0:08:09- The simplicity of life here - strikes me immediately.
0:08:09 > 0:08:13- The people are self-sufficient...
0:08:13 > 0:08:17- ..since they live in such - a rural location far from anywhere.
0:08:32 > 0:08:36- Every time I go away, people think - I stay in five-star hotels.
0:08:37 > 0:08:40- That's not the case. - I'll be staying in this hut tonight.
0:08:41 > 0:08:44- My toilet is a hole in the ground - over there.
0:08:45 > 0:08:47- The big advantage - is being able to stay...
0:08:48 > 0:08:50- ..in the heart - of the nature reserve.
0:08:50 > 0:08:56- I'm looking forward to a good - night's sleep after a long journey.
0:08:56 > 0:08:59- I'll then be setting off - to roam on the Ural mountains.
0:09:00 > 0:09:01- .
0:09:09 > 0:09:09- 888
0:09:09 > 0:09:11- 888- - 888
0:09:21 > 0:09:25- In the morning mist, - after a peaceful night's sleep...
0:09:25 > 0:09:28- ..I have my first taste - of the Ural mountains.
0:09:29 > 0:09:34- I'm in awe of all the wild flowers - and colourful creatures around me.
0:09:35 > 0:09:40- In the middle of summer, - when there's very little rain...
0:09:40 > 0:09:43- ..even I could cross - the Belaya river behind me.
0:09:43 > 0:09:46- It's one of the park's - primary rivers.
0:09:46 > 0:09:49- In early spring, - when the mountain snow melts...
0:09:49 > 0:09:51- ..the current is so strong...
0:09:51 > 0:09:55- ..the park's largest animals - have difficulty crossing it.
0:10:03 > 0:10:07- At this time of year, the elks - travel down to the lowlands...
0:10:07 > 0:10:09- ..where they're sure to find food.
0:10:10 > 0:10:15- To reach the lowlands, they travel - for days under difficult conditions.
0:10:15 > 0:10:18- This is the last river - this elk will have to cross...
0:10:18 > 0:10:23- ..before reaching its journey's end - to rest a while over the summer.
0:10:26 > 0:10:30- The river is more of a threat - than it was before.
0:10:30 > 0:10:33- The water is deep and the current - is dangerously strong.
0:10:34 > 0:10:37- This elk appears to be - holding its ground...
0:10:37 > 0:10:40- ..but every year, many elks drown.
0:10:46 > 0:10:50- It's too good an opportunity to miss - for watching predators.
0:10:50 > 0:10:52- This wolf waits patiently.
0:10:56 > 0:11:02- Nearby, a brown bear - killed a tired elk days earlier.
0:11:02 > 0:11:04- It's returned to its prey.
0:11:09 > 0:11:13- Using its powerful paws, - it roams across the swamp.
0:11:23 > 0:11:25- Bears tend to bury their prey...
0:11:25 > 0:11:29- ..to ensure that ravens - don't steal their treasure.
0:11:34 > 0:11:38- Our camera crew has spent weeks - tracking these animals.
0:11:38 > 0:11:42- We know that the wolf has been - following the bear for some time...
0:11:42 > 0:11:45- ..in the hope of some easy pickings.
0:11:47 > 0:11:50- Slowly, the bear reveals its prey.
0:12:02 > 0:12:04- Finally, - it can enjoy its tasty feast.
0:12:10 > 0:12:14- Watching the bear feasting - is torture for the wolf.
0:12:17 > 0:12:21- It can do nothing but sleep.
0:12:23 > 0:12:26- Silently, - from the other direction...
0:12:26 > 0:12:29- ..a second wolf slopes into view.
0:12:36 > 0:12:40- Two against one - offers some hope for the wolves.
0:12:54 > 0:12:57- However, the plan only acts - to infuriate the bear.
0:12:57 > 0:13:01- The wolves have to retreat at pace.
0:13:09 > 0:13:12- The bear isn't ready - to share its food today.
0:13:19 > 0:13:23- Here, in the Shul'gan-Tash - nature reserve...
0:13:23 > 0:13:27- ..the forests cover 90% - of the nature reserve.
0:13:27 > 0:13:32- Within the forests, - there are rivers, streams and pools.
0:13:44 > 0:13:49- Despite the presence of so much - wildlife in the middle of summer...
0:13:50 > 0:13:53- ..these pools - remain rather colourless.
0:13:53 > 0:13:57- However, at the beginning of spring, - it's a different story.
0:13:57 > 0:14:02- One creature in particular, - the marsh frog...
0:14:02 > 0:14:06- ..brings an incredible bright colour - to these pools.
0:14:13 > 0:14:18- At the end of April, the marsh frogs - are a light blue colour.
0:14:18 > 0:14:21- The male frogs - search eagerly for a mate.
0:14:27 > 0:14:30- It's dangerous for other amphibians - to enter the pool...
0:14:31 > 0:14:33- ..even the wart frog.
0:14:44 > 0:14:48- While the toads mate - in the spring...
0:14:48 > 0:14:50- ..bears mate in the autumn.
0:14:51 > 0:14:54- The male bear has to mate - more than once with the female bear.
0:14:55 > 0:15:01- Only after mating for the first time - does the female start to ovulate.
0:15:22 > 0:15:26- The foetus stays in the same place - until the female hibernates.
0:15:26 > 0:15:33- Once she is asleep, the foetus - plants itself in the womb and grows.
0:15:33 > 0:15:35- After six to twelve weeks...
0:15:35 > 0:15:40- ..a cub is born and stays close - to its mother throughout the winter.
0:15:43 > 0:15:47- This couple will stay together - for a fortnight before separating...
0:15:48 > 0:15:50- ..when the mating cycle - will turn once more.
0:15:51 > 0:15:55- Before that, the Ural forests - can be a very noisy place.
0:16:10 > 0:16:15- Europe's largest primitive forest - can be found in the northern Urals.
0:16:15 > 0:16:18- The Pechora river flows through it.
0:16:18 > 0:16:22- The river's main tributary - is in the Komi Republic...
0:16:22 > 0:16:24- ..high up in the mountains.
0:16:30 > 0:16:33- This is Manpupuner - - the little mountain of Gods.
0:16:35 > 0:16:42- Up to 50 metres high, these columns - of limestone are shrouded in legend.
0:16:42 > 0:16:44- These are The Seven Strong Men.
0:16:46 > 0:16:51- Supposedly, they were the brothers - of a beautiful girl...
0:16:51 > 0:16:53- ..coveted by a cruel, rich man.
0:16:54 > 0:16:56- As he turned violent...
0:16:57 > 0:17:02- ..the girl's beauty escaped into the - mountains with her seven brothers.
0:17:02 > 0:17:06- Here, they fought relentlessly - against their sister's pursuers.
0:17:06 > 0:17:09- When the girl - pleaded for a miracle...
0:17:09 > 0:17:12- ..she and her brothers - froze into rocks.
0:17:13 > 0:17:17- The columns are the only - remaining evidence of the legend.
0:17:27 > 0:17:30- Back in the lowlands - of Shul'gan-Tash...
0:17:30 > 0:17:35- ..I'm making my way - through the thick forest.
0:17:40 > 0:17:44- Almost 200 different species of - birds nest in this park.
0:17:44 > 0:17:47- That list includes birds of prey...
0:17:47 > 0:17:51- ..such as the vulture, - the golden eagle and the kestrel.
0:17:51 > 0:17:56- The bird of prey which has adapted - most successfully in its habitat...
0:17:56 > 0:18:00- ..and the one which was named - after the mountains...
0:18:00 > 0:18:02- ..is the Ural owl.
0:18:02 > 0:18:07- It's the same size as a buzzard. - It preys on small mammals and birds.
0:18:07 > 0:18:11- It takes advantage of this - thick forest for nesting...
0:18:11 > 0:18:16- ..but it hunts across the open areas - which are packed with mice.
0:18:23 > 0:18:27- The time has come - to search for prey.
0:18:28 > 0:18:29- Mice aren't on the menu today.
0:18:41 > 0:18:44- The two chicks are hungry.
0:18:47 > 0:18:49- The female owl's responsibility - is to feed the chicks.
0:18:50 > 0:18:54- It's a busy time for her - since the chicks are so greedy.
0:18:54 > 0:18:57- The toad is swallowed - in one mouthful.
0:19:03 > 0:19:07- These are five-week-old chicks. - They will soon leave the nest.
0:19:17 > 0:19:20- The chicks can't fly yet...
0:19:20 > 0:19:25- ..but one has found a way - to climb the tree using its wings.
0:19:34 > 0:19:38- From now on, the chick - will be fed outside the nest...
0:19:38 > 0:19:40- ..if it manages to reach the top.
0:19:52 > 0:19:56- Under the watchful eye - of its mother...
0:19:56 > 0:20:00- ..it must find a better way - to reach its parent.
0:20:02 > 0:20:04- The tree trunk is easy to climb - at the moment.
0:20:05 > 0:20:09- These are the chick's first steps - towards a new chapter in its life.
0:20:14 > 0:20:17- Today has been a huge challenge - for the young owl.
0:20:17 > 0:20:22- Soon, it will go its own way - to explore the Ural forests.
0:20:25 > 0:20:25- .
0:20:32 > 0:20:32- 888
0:20:32 > 0:20:34- 888- - 888
0:20:36 > 0:20:39- I'm travelling across - the Ural mountains in Russia.
0:20:39 > 0:20:43- I'm still in - the Shul'gan-Tash nature reserve.
0:20:43 > 0:20:46- From the wild fields - to the numerous rivers...
0:20:46 > 0:20:49- ..this area is home - to all sorts of creatures.
0:20:53 > 0:20:55- When we think of the mink - in Britain...
0:20:56 > 0:20:59- ..we think - of a destructive, alien creature.
0:20:59 > 0:21:01- It came originally from America.
0:21:02 > 0:21:05- But the Ural mink - is a very different animal.
0:21:05 > 0:21:09- It's a native animal and - an important member of its habitat.
0:21:16 > 0:21:20- The future of the European mink - is under threat.
0:21:20 > 0:21:22- Very few are left.
0:21:22 > 0:21:26- A small group - still lives in the Urals.
0:21:26 > 0:21:30- This European mink - is looking for a safe shelter.
0:21:30 > 0:21:33- She will soon have young of her own.
0:21:33 > 0:21:36- She has to prepare - for this important occasion.
0:21:43 > 0:21:46- High above, a storm is approaching.
0:21:46 > 0:21:51- The site of the Seven Brothers - is transformed...
0:21:51 > 0:21:54- ..into a more dramatic scene.
0:22:21 > 0:22:25- The rain also hampers my journey.
0:22:29 > 0:22:34- One of the greatest problems when - you're filming in the mountains...
0:22:34 > 0:22:36- ..is the changeable weather.
0:22:36 > 0:22:40- It was sunny 15 minutes ago. - Then the clouds gathered overhead.
0:22:40 > 0:22:44- It's raining heavily. - There's thunder and lightning.
0:22:44 > 0:22:47- There's nothing to do - but sit here...
0:22:47 > 0:22:49- THUNDERCLAP
0:22:49 > 0:22:51- ..and wait for it to pass.
0:22:57 > 0:23:01- We return to our lodging to shelter.
0:23:06 > 0:23:10- The animals are used to being out - in the changeable weather.
0:23:11 > 0:23:15- The shelter provided by the trees - and a warm coat keep the bears warm.
0:23:23 > 0:23:27- The rain clears - as quickly as it arrived.
0:23:28 > 0:23:31- This must be a relief - for the young chick.
0:23:52 > 0:23:54- The mink is about to give birth.
0:23:54 > 0:23:56- The first is born effortlessly...
0:23:57 > 0:24:00- ..as the mink chews - through the umbilical cord.
0:24:10 > 0:24:13- It's tiring work - and more are on the way.
0:24:30 > 0:24:33- More than one young mink - has been born.
0:24:38 > 0:24:40- Hearing a noise outside...
0:24:40 > 0:24:44- ..the mother ensures - her new arrivals are kept safe.
0:24:45 > 0:24:50- Over the next few weeks, she will - have to care for the little ones.
0:24:57 > 0:25:01- Up in the forest, - the two chicks have left their nest.
0:25:01 > 0:25:04- They enjoy the feast - provided by their mother.
0:25:10 > 0:25:13- One chick can eat - up to three meals a day...
0:25:13 > 0:25:16- ..which keeps the mother busy.
0:25:32 > 0:25:34- On the other side of the forest...
0:25:35 > 0:25:38- ..a male elk - has smelt something interesting.
0:25:43 > 0:25:48- A female elk is nearby but she shows - no interest in him at the moment.
0:25:48 > 0:25:53- In the autumn, some months away, - their mating season will begin.
0:26:01 > 0:26:04- Her young calf is thirsty.
0:26:04 > 0:26:08- The calf will suckle - up to eight times a day...
0:26:08 > 0:26:11- ..about a litre - and a half of milk in total.
0:26:26 > 0:26:28- That's enough milk for now.
0:26:28 > 0:26:30- Its mother needs to rest.
0:26:37 > 0:26:41- Eating the nearby branches gives the - mother energy to care for her calf.
0:26:53 > 0:26:56- The male elk - is still showing interest in her...
0:26:57 > 0:27:00- ..but the female - shows more interest in the calf.
0:27:03 > 0:27:06- The mother is busy - cleaning herself...
0:27:06 > 0:27:10- ..while the calf chews some branches - like its mother.
0:27:20 > 0:27:23- The male gives up for the day.
0:27:40 > 0:27:44- Further north, - wild deer can be found.
0:27:44 > 0:27:47- During the summer, - they favour the swamps...
0:27:47 > 0:27:52- ..since the light breeze keeps - the insects and mosquitos away.
0:27:55 > 0:28:00- The wolf has followed the deer in - the hope of catching a young calf.
0:28:08 > 0:28:12- The adults are alert - to the danger and they flee.
0:28:14 > 0:28:19- Determined, the wolf follows them - deep into the forest...
0:28:19 > 0:28:21- ..and the chase continues.
0:28:45 > 0:28:48- Back on the riverbank, - I'm in search of the mink.
0:28:54 > 0:28:58- The mother has moved the little ones - because they're growing.
0:29:12 > 0:29:16- They're five weeks old - and their eyes are open.
0:29:17 > 0:29:21- In addition to their mother's milk, - they also eat some prey.
0:29:21 > 0:29:25- It's a busy time for the mother as - she works hard to feed her family.
0:29:41 > 0:29:44- Using her teeth, - she manages to paralyze a roach.
0:29:45 > 0:29:47- She stores her catch until later.
0:29:55 > 0:29:59- The mink has been hunted for years - for its fur in Russia and Europe.
0:30:00 > 0:30:03- Today, it has a new enemy - - the American mink.
0:30:04 > 0:30:09- Traditionally, the American mink - was bred for the fur market.
0:30:09 > 0:30:13- As some escaped, they destroyed - the population of European minks...
0:30:14 > 0:30:15- ..due to their ferocity.
0:30:19 > 0:30:23- This European mink - is battling to catch more fish...
0:30:23 > 0:30:26- ..but she might have to settle - for just one today.
0:30:41 > 0:30:46- The young minks appreciate - the effort and enjoy their feast.
0:30:55 > 0:30:59- Further downstream, - the wolverine hides his pantry.
0:30:59 > 0:31:02- Today, it is halfway - through a deer carcass.
0:31:02 > 0:31:06- A Siberian magpie - has discovered the deer...
0:31:06 > 0:31:08- ..and feasts on the carcass.
0:31:09 > 0:31:11- The wolverine looks worried.
0:31:11 > 0:31:16- The last thing it wants is a family - of birds stealing its catch...
0:31:16 > 0:31:18- ..but the magpie refuses to leave.
0:31:36 > 0:31:40- The wolverine decides - it's no longer a problem.
0:31:40 > 0:31:43- It uses its sharp teeth - to break the bones.
0:31:58 > 0:32:03- The mink keeps busy by hunting - for food and raising her young.
0:32:03 > 0:32:06- While suckling, - one of the little ones escapes.
0:32:16 > 0:32:19- Venturing outside - without its mother...
0:32:19 > 0:32:22- ..could be a costly mistake - for the little one.
0:32:23 > 0:32:27- The mink licks the bellies of her - little ones to help their digestion.
0:32:38 > 0:32:41- Suddenly, - she realizes one is missing.
0:32:42 > 0:32:44- It appears that another one - has escaped...
0:32:45 > 0:32:47- ..since only three remain...
0:32:47 > 0:32:52- ..but the mother is probably - moving her young to a bigger home...
0:32:52 > 0:32:56- ..and the others - are meant to follow her, one by one.
0:32:58 > 0:33:02- Before long, they'll reach - their new home on the riverbank.
0:33:21 > 0:33:22- .
0:33:29 > 0:33:29- 888
0:33:29 > 0:33:31- 888- - 888
0:33:35 > 0:33:38- From the air, it's possible - to see the Belaya river...
0:33:38 > 0:33:42- ..winding its way through - Shul'gan-Tash nature reserve.
0:33:42 > 0:33:45- The reserve was established in 1986.
0:33:46 > 0:33:49- It covers an area - of 200 square kilometres.
0:33:49 > 0:33:54- It's relatively small when compared - to other nature reserves in Russia.
0:33:54 > 0:33:58- A lot of work is being done - to safeguard Shul'gan-Tash's future.
0:34:05 > 0:34:11- Back on the road, I'm on my way to - meet the nature reserve's director.
0:34:11 > 0:34:13- I love the fields of wild flowers.
0:34:13 > 0:34:17- I want to know if Russians - appreciate the natural world...
0:34:18 > 0:34:22- ..which surrounds them - and see the need to safeguard it.
0:34:34 > 0:34:39- Mikhail Kosarev tells me how - people's attitudes have improved...
0:34:39 > 0:34:43- ..towards nature and - the nature reserve in recent years.
0:34:44 > 0:34:46- There is still room for improvement.
0:34:46 > 0:34:49- More needs to be done - to raise people's awareness.
0:34:49 > 0:34:53- Hunters remain a threat - to the nature reserve's wildlife.
0:35:02 > 0:35:06- There is another reason why - the Shul'gan-Tash nature reserve...
0:35:06 > 0:35:08- ..is so important to Russia.
0:35:09 > 0:35:12- The forests provide a home - for a very rare creature.
0:35:12 > 0:35:17- I'm on my way to meet two brothers - who keep an old tradition alive.
0:35:18 > 0:35:22- More importantly, - they work with the nature reserve...
0:35:22 > 0:35:26- ..to safeguard the future - of a particular type of bee.
0:35:31 > 0:35:35- The tradition of bee-keeping was at - its strongest in the 18th century.
0:35:35 > 0:35:40- By the 20th century, - the tradition almost disappeared...
0:35:40 > 0:35:42- ..because of farming - and deforestation.
0:35:43 > 0:35:46- As a result, - the Burzyan bee is very unique.
0:35:46 > 0:35:51- The Shul'gan-Tash nature reserve is - the only area where it can be found.
0:35:53 > 0:35:54- Shall I carry this?
0:35:54 > 0:35:56- Shall I carry this?- - Yes.
0:35:56 > 0:35:58- Do we go up to the woods?
0:36:02 > 0:36:05- Where there are open areas - in the forest...
0:36:05 > 0:36:07- ..the fields are covered - with flowers.
0:36:08 > 0:36:11- I recognize some - - the hay rattle and the woundwort.
0:36:11 > 0:36:14- They attract millions of bees.
0:36:14 > 0:36:18- The locals are well aware of this - and take full advantage.
0:36:23 > 0:36:27- I ask the brothers how their - interest in bee-keeping began...
0:36:27 > 0:36:30- ..and where exactly - they learnt the skill.
0:36:37 > 0:36:42- The eldest brother tells me how his - father and grandfather taught him.
0:36:43 > 0:36:46- The interest has continued - in the family.
0:36:48 > 0:36:52- He says that people weren't the - only ones who like collecting honey.
0:36:52 > 0:36:54- Bears also collect it.
0:37:09 > 0:37:11- The bears can be a problem.
0:37:11 > 0:37:14- There is a system in place - to safeguard the bees.
0:37:14 > 0:37:16- Very few bears visit the area...
0:37:17 > 0:37:20- ..since the forest - is too close to the road.
0:37:20 > 0:37:22- Tell him - he's a braver man than I am!
0:37:32 > 0:37:35- The brothers show me - how they collect the bees...
0:37:35 > 0:37:38- ..but I didn't expect - such a physical method.
0:37:44 > 0:37:49- The fire is supposed - to stop the bees stinging.
0:37:49 > 0:37:53- The smoke gives the impression - of fire in the forest...
0:37:53 > 0:37:58- ..so the bees don't feel - under threat from animals or humans.
0:37:59 > 0:38:01- As a result, - they are less likely to sting.
0:38:01 > 0:38:04- I'm glad I'm not the one - taking the risk.
0:38:11 > 0:38:16- The Burzyan bee is different - to a common bee in two ways.
0:38:16 > 0:38:21- As well as being darker, it can - also withstand cold temperatures.
0:38:21 > 0:38:24- It's renowned for its tasty honey.
0:38:25 > 0:38:28- In Moscow, - a kilogram of this golden honey...
0:38:28 > 0:38:30- ..can sell for over 200.
0:38:31 > 0:38:34- I hope it doesn't cost me as much.
0:38:51 > 0:38:53- Spasiba.
0:38:53 > 0:38:55- Really wild honey.
0:38:58 > 0:38:59- Mmm.
0:39:00 > 0:39:03- That's very, very good. Very good.
0:39:05 > 0:39:07- That's lovely.
0:39:07 > 0:39:12- It's the first time I've eaten honey - straight from a wild beehive.
0:39:12 > 0:39:13- Wonderful.
0:39:21 > 0:39:25- I love seeing old traditions - like this being kept alive.
0:39:25 > 0:39:29- I'm even happier with a bellyful - of honey...
0:39:29 > 0:39:32- ..just like a brown bear.
0:39:39 > 0:39:43- This brown bear - is searching for honey.
0:39:43 > 0:39:46- It's ready to mark its territory.
0:39:46 > 0:39:50- By rubbing against the tree, - its fur sticks to the trunk...
0:39:50 > 0:39:54- ..letting others know - that this is its territory.
0:40:09 > 0:40:13- The bear is too heavy - to climb the tree...
0:40:13 > 0:40:18- ..but the promise of golden honey - is too much of a temptation for it.
0:40:33 > 0:40:36- Nearby, a female bear and her cub - are also tempted.
0:40:37 > 0:40:41- Stepping in to the bear's territory - is a brave move...
0:40:42 > 0:40:45- ..but the cub - can easily climb the tree.
0:40:45 > 0:40:49- The female hopes this will act - as insurance for her.
0:40:49 > 0:40:53- The cub must ensure that the nest, - which weighs 200kgs...
0:40:54 > 0:40:56- ..doesn't fall on its head.
0:41:03 > 0:41:05- With the promise of honey...
0:41:05 > 0:41:09- ..more bears have gathered below.
0:41:09 > 0:41:12- They hope the young cub's work - will bear fruit.
0:41:32 > 0:41:36- Skilfully, the cub uses its - sharp teeth to release the beehive.
0:41:44 > 0:41:46- The bees aren't happy.
0:41:47 > 0:41:49- The bears have to be careful.
0:41:50 > 0:41:52- The smell of the honey - is too much for them...
0:41:53 > 0:41:54- ..and the threat of being stung...
0:41:55 > 0:41:57- ..is worth the risk.
0:41:57 > 0:42:00- The battle begins - - who can eat the most.
0:42:11 > 0:42:15- The cub released the beehive...
0:42:15 > 0:42:18- ..but it will be the last one - to sample the honey.
0:42:18 > 0:42:20- This is the order of the forest.
0:43:06 > 0:43:10- The landscape which stretches - across the southern Urals...
0:43:10 > 0:43:14- ..is covered in birch trees, - especially near the swamps.
0:43:14 > 0:43:18- Siberia is located to the east.
0:43:18 > 0:43:20- From the air...
0:43:20 > 0:43:25- ..you can easily see the boundary - between Europe and Asia.
0:43:51 > 0:43:55- Deep in the forest, - I'm heading for the swamps...
0:43:55 > 0:43:59- ..to discover more - about one particular creature.
0:44:00 > 0:44:04- This stream flows straight down - from the mountain.
0:44:04 > 0:44:08- The water is so clean and clear. - It's full of little insects.
0:44:08 > 0:44:10- I'm surrounded by swamps.
0:44:10 > 0:44:13- There are midges, - horseflies and mosquitos.
0:44:13 > 0:44:18- It's not a place for people - but it's the perfect habitat...
0:44:19 > 0:44:21- ..for an unique animal.
0:44:21 > 0:44:23- It's a member of the mole family.
0:44:24 > 0:44:26- It spends most of its life - underwater.
0:44:26 > 0:44:28- It's the Russian Desman.
0:44:28 > 0:44:33- It's so rare, this is the only place - you'll find it in the world.
0:44:42 > 0:44:46- The Russian Desman - is a very strange-looking creature.
0:44:46 > 0:44:49- It lives in a hole - accessible underwater.
0:44:49 > 0:44:54- The fur on its nose is an indication - that it's partially blind.
0:44:54 > 0:44:57- Unlike a mole, - a Desman likes to swim.
0:45:09 > 0:45:13- It's been hunted - almost to the point of extinction.
0:45:13 > 0:45:19- Only 25,000 exist - - all in south-west Russia.
0:45:19 > 0:45:22- Almost 200 live in this area.
0:45:23 > 0:45:26- It eats insects and crabs...
0:45:26 > 0:45:28- ..as well as fish and amphibians.
0:45:29 > 0:45:33- Sometimes, it catches a snail - and uses its two top teeth...
0:45:33 > 0:45:35- ..to crush the shell.
0:45:43 > 0:45:48- Old fossils suggest that Desmans - once lived in Britain.
0:45:48 > 0:45:52- It enjoys wallowing - in the muddy waters of the Urals.
0:46:04 > 0:46:09- The colours of the forest - are so striking when the sun is out.
0:46:09 > 0:46:11- What surprises me - more than anything...
0:46:12 > 0:46:16- ..is the greenery and the different - shades of green I've seen here.
0:46:16 > 0:46:20- Light green, dark green - and everything in between.
0:46:20 > 0:46:24- To see the forest at its best, - you have to visit in autumn.
0:46:52 > 0:46:58- When leaves start to fall, the elks - prepare for their mating season.
0:46:58 > 0:47:03- Before long, the male elks will - fight each other to secure a mate.
0:47:05 > 0:47:09- This young elk has wandered - too close to an older elk.
0:47:10 > 0:47:14- The older elk wants to prove to the - young one who is king of the forest.
0:47:14 > 0:47:16- Elks rarely fight.
0:47:16 > 0:47:19- The performance of the older elk...
0:47:19 > 0:47:22- ..is enough to frighten - the young one away.
0:47:40 > 0:47:45- This journey to the Ural mountains - has been a real eye-opener.
0:47:45 > 0:47:49- I've enjoyed seeing - the size of the forests...
0:47:49 > 0:47:53- ..packed with creatures which - haven't been seen in Britain...
0:47:53 > 0:47:55- ..for over a thousand years.
0:47:55 > 0:47:59- The fields have reminded me - of my childhood...
0:47:59 > 0:48:02- ..walking through fields - covered in flowers...
0:48:02 > 0:48:06- ..butterflies, grasshoppers - and all kinds of insects.
0:48:06 > 0:48:10- It's made me realize - what we've lost back home.
0:48:10 > 0:48:13- What stays with me - more than anything else...
0:48:13 > 0:48:16- ..which is the case - every time in Russia...
0:48:16 > 0:48:19- ..is the immensity of the country.
0:48:19 > 0:48:23- I am very envious of the space - these people have.
0:49:12 > 0:49:15- S4C Subtitles by Simian 04 Cyf
0:49:15 > 0:49:15- .