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0:00:20 > 0:00:25- With this landscape behind me, - you'd think I was in Switzerland.
0:00:25 > 0:00:27- I am in Europe - but I'm about to travel...
0:00:28 > 0:00:30- ..across the world's - largest country.
0:00:30 > 0:00:36- For many years, this country was - closed to visitors and local people.
0:00:36 > 0:00:38- It's a country - packed with history...
0:00:39 > 0:00:42- ..superb landscapes - and incredible wildlife.
0:00:42 > 0:00:47- That's the Russia I hope to discover - on this journey - wild Russia.
0:00:53 > 0:00:55- I start my journey in the west...
0:00:55 > 0:01:01- ..an area where snow-covered peaks - disappear into the sky.
0:01:02 > 0:01:04- An area where wild lynxes live.
0:01:07 > 0:01:09- It's home to exotic birds...
0:01:10 > 0:01:14- ..and a breed of bison - that's close to extinction.
0:01:15 > 0:01:18- Welcome to the Caucasus Mountains.
0:01:35 > 0:01:39- The Caucasus Mountains
0:01:41 > 0:01:45- Russia is one of the world's - most interesting countries.
0:01:45 > 0:01:50- It's changed considerably since the - days of the Communist Soviet Union.
0:01:51 > 0:01:54- The landscape - has numerous rich habitats.
0:02:03 > 0:02:07- Over 2,000 miles from Wales, - in south-east Europe...
0:02:07 > 0:02:12- ..on the border with Asia, - you'll find the Caucasus Mountains.
0:02:12 > 0:02:15- With summits - reaching 5,000 metres...
0:02:15 > 0:02:18- ..the Caucasus - are a series of summits...
0:02:19 > 0:02:22- ..between the Caspian Sea - and the Black Sea.
0:02:22 > 0:02:26- I was looking forward to seeing - the mountains for the first time.
0:02:37 > 0:02:40- It's easy to forget - how vast Russia is.
0:02:41 > 0:02:43- I've flown from Moscow - to Krasnodar...
0:02:44 > 0:02:47- ..and then travelled for hours - by car.
0:02:47 > 0:02:50- This is my first glimpse - of the mountains...
0:02:51 > 0:02:53- ..but the journey is far from over.
0:03:01 > 0:03:04- The northern part of the mountains - belongs to Russia.
0:03:04 > 0:03:07- This is the area - of the highest summits.
0:03:07 > 0:03:11- The locals call them - the Greater Caucasus.
0:03:18 > 0:03:22- From the air, you can see - these majestic peaks at their best.
0:03:22 > 0:03:24- This series of summits is so high...
0:03:25 > 0:03:28- ..they seem to be - scraping the clouds...
0:03:28 > 0:03:31- ..with most peaks - covered in snow throughout the year.
0:03:39 > 0:03:42- Under the shadow - of the freezing summits...
0:03:42 > 0:03:45- ..the native Caucasian - creatures live.
0:03:46 > 0:03:50- Here, you'll find the Caucasian tur - which is a type of goat.
0:03:50 > 0:03:55- These creatures thrive - in the highlands of the Caucasus.
0:03:55 > 0:03:59- They can climb - to a height of 4,000ft.
0:03:59 > 0:04:03- Rams can weigh up to 100kgs.
0:04:03 > 0:04:07- Their horns grow - to a length of 75cms...
0:04:08 > 0:04:11- ..a perfect weapon - for the battles that lie ahead.
0:04:53 > 0:04:59- When autumn comes, the rams fight - each other far more aggressively...
0:04:59 > 0:05:05- ..than this... as they compete - for the females turs.
0:05:08 > 0:05:11- In the meantime, the females flee.
0:05:11 > 0:05:16- They have no interest in the - performances of the rams right now.
0:05:19 > 0:05:24- On my way to the mountains, - I walk through the forest...
0:05:24 > 0:05:27- ..which covers - the Caucasian lowlands.
0:05:27 > 0:05:31- I'm joined by our tour guide, - Mikhail Plotnikov...
0:05:31 > 0:05:34- ..who also works as a warden - in the Caucasus.
0:05:38 > 0:05:43- Mikhail tells me what makes - the Caucasian forests so special.
0:05:49 > 0:05:54- He says that the Caucasus - has an abundance of wildlife.
0:05:55 > 0:05:59- It's considered one of the main - bio-diversity sites in the world...
0:05:59 > 0:06:03- ..not only in terms of animals - but also for plants and trees.
0:06:04 > 0:06:06- One of his interests - is studying trees.
0:06:07 > 0:06:09- Deep in the forest there's a tree...
0:06:09 > 0:06:12- ..that's unique to this area - of the world.
0:06:12 > 0:06:14- It's the Caucasian pine tree.
0:06:32 > 0:06:37- With its rough summits, - vast forests and numerous valleys...
0:06:37 > 0:06:43- ..it's no wonder that the Caucasus - has a wealth of wildlife.
0:06:43 > 0:06:46- There are many - different species here...
0:06:47 > 0:06:49- ..thanks to the diverse habitats.
0:06:56 > 0:07:01- Over 6,000 different plants - grow in this part of Russia.
0:07:01 > 0:07:05- Many can only be found - in the Caucasus.
0:07:09 > 0:07:14- All the plants attract - animals of every kind.
0:07:18 > 0:07:22- One animal which grazes in the - shadow of the forest is the hind.
0:07:22 > 0:07:25- The young hind - is only a few weeks old.
0:07:26 > 0:07:30- The spots on its coat - act as camouflage in the forest.
0:07:30 > 0:07:34- It's joined by its mother - as it grazes in the long grass.
0:07:41 > 0:07:42- LYNX CALLS
0:07:43 > 0:07:48- The call of the lynx - is bound to startle the fawn...
0:07:48 > 0:07:52- ..but the lynx won't attack - if the mother is nearby.
0:07:56 > 0:08:00- The lynx usually hunts alone.
0:08:00 > 0:08:04- She prefers to attack young animals - or Caspian red deer.
0:08:10 > 0:08:14- This lynx has no interest - in hunting today.
0:08:14 > 0:08:18- She is on her way - to care for her own kittens...
0:08:18 > 0:08:20- ..who still rely on her milk.
0:08:25 > 0:08:27- Only the mother cares for the young.
0:08:29 > 0:08:33- The kittens are eager - to show their strength.
0:08:33 > 0:08:39- Harmless scuffles train their - muscles for their later lives.
0:08:50 > 0:08:54- They must make sure that they don't - stray too far from their mother.
0:08:54 > 0:08:57- All that playing - makes the cubs hungry...
0:08:57 > 0:09:01- ..so they gorge themselves - on their mother's milk.
0:09:01 > 0:09:06- The mother is more than happy - to rest while feeding the kittens.
0:09:18 > 0:09:22- Some weeks later, - the young hind have grown.
0:09:22 > 0:09:26- Soft horns can be seen - through the long grass.
0:09:32 > 0:09:36- In the forest, the lynx - has caught a substantial supper.
0:09:36 > 0:09:39- The kittens now require meat - in their diet.
0:09:39 > 0:09:42- They grow stronger every day.
0:09:48 > 0:09:54- After feeding, the lynx hide their - prey under leaves and branches.
0:09:54 > 0:09:58- Over the next few days, - they will return to their prey.
0:09:58 > 0:10:01- In one night, - the lynx can eat almost 3kgs.
0:10:09 > 0:10:12- These two make the most - of their feast.
0:10:12 > 0:10:17- At four weeks old, they join - their mother to eat their prey.
0:10:34 > 0:10:37- Soon, they'll venture out - on their own...
0:10:38 > 0:10:42- ..to explore the wonders - of the Caucasus.
0:10:53 > 0:10:57- I'm also heading across - the Caucasus...
0:10:57 > 0:11:01- ..to learn more about - this wonderful area of Russia.
0:11:04 > 0:11:04- .
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0:11:23 > 0:11:25- On my journey across Russia...
0:11:26 > 0:11:30- ..I'm heading deep - into the Caucasus range...
0:11:31 > 0:11:33- ..and the Teberdinskiy - National Park.
0:11:34 > 0:11:37- It's a popular tourist attraction.
0:11:37 > 0:11:42- Russians use the mountains - for skiing and rambling.
0:11:45 > 0:11:47- Once again, Mikhail has joined me.
0:11:47 > 0:11:51- He tells me how the local people - profit from the tourists...
0:11:51 > 0:11:55- ..the mountains attract - by selling all sorts of things...
0:11:55 > 0:11:58- ..from home-made jam - to woollen goods.
0:11:59 > 0:12:04- The snow-capped mountains are - a permanent backdrop to this area.
0:12:04 > 0:12:07- It must be a pleasure - to wake up every morning...
0:12:07 > 0:12:10- ..and look out - across this landscape.
0:12:10 > 0:12:14- Has the old Communist way of life - left its mark on the area?
0:12:17 > 0:12:20- I've never seen - such a stark contrast...
0:12:20 > 0:12:24- ..between nature's beauty - and man's monstrosities.
0:12:24 > 0:12:29- How could they have built something - so ugly in such a beautiful area?
0:12:31 > 0:12:36- It's heartbreaking to see - the condition of these buildings...
0:12:36 > 0:12:40- ..but these are the type - of concrete buildings...
0:12:41 > 0:12:44- ..which were built in Russia - at one time.
0:12:44 > 0:12:48- The mountains attract tourists - and boost the economy...
0:12:48 > 0:12:51- ..but the buildings - have seen no investment.
0:12:55 > 0:12:58- Mikhail introduces me - to one of the locals.
0:12:58 > 0:13:01- He's lived here since he was born.
0:13:02 > 0:13:07- The fact that the area attracts - tourists is a huge advantage.
0:13:07 > 0:13:11- It provides gainful employment - for local people.
0:13:12 > 0:13:14- He's hopeful about the future.
0:13:15 > 0:13:18- The buildings look inhospitable - and unpleasant to us.
0:13:18 > 0:13:22- To the people who live here...
0:13:22 > 0:13:25- ..they're an integral part - of their lives.
0:13:25 > 0:13:29- I was glad that the local people - were hopeful about the future.
0:13:29 > 0:13:33- They have one of the best views - in Russia.
0:13:37 > 0:13:40- The contrast between the houses...
0:13:40 > 0:13:43- ..and the habitat of the wildlife - is stunning.
0:13:43 > 0:13:47- There are eight nature reserves - in the Caucasus.
0:13:48 > 0:13:53- Here, in Teberdinskiy, the Caucasus' - greatest treasure can be found.
0:13:54 > 0:14:00- Seeing an European bison grazing - on the Caucasus is a rare sight.
0:14:01 > 0:14:05- This was once home - to the Caucasian bison.
0:14:05 > 0:14:08- The story of the bison - is an incredible one.
0:14:08 > 0:14:14- It once faced extinction - but this amazing animal survived.
0:14:17 > 0:14:19- The threat came from hunters.
0:14:19 > 0:14:22- In 1927, only one remained.
0:14:23 > 0:14:28- It was crossed with an - American bison and a lowland bison.
0:14:29 > 0:14:32- It was a successful experiment.
0:14:32 > 0:14:35- For a while, - the number of bison increased.
0:14:36 > 0:14:39- Then, the hunters - became a problem once more...
0:14:39 > 0:14:41- ..at the end - of the Soviet Union era.
0:14:43 > 0:14:48- Today, over 400 wild bison - roam the Caucasus.
0:14:48 > 0:14:52- They show similar characteristics - to the original bison.
0:14:56 > 0:15:00- The European bison enjoy grazing - in the Caucasian forests.
0:15:00 > 0:15:03- They eat leaves and tree branches.
0:15:03 > 0:15:07- Its appearance suggests that - it's a heavy and slow animal...
0:15:07 > 0:15:10- ..but it's a very agile creature.
0:15:14 > 0:15:17- It's hard to believe - that an animal like this...
0:15:18 > 0:15:23- ..used to roam British forests - and other parts of Europe.
0:15:24 > 0:15:27- The success of breeding the bison...
0:15:27 > 0:15:30- ..and watching a herd of them - crossing the mountains...
0:15:30 > 0:15:32- ..is a joy for any naturalist.
0:15:54 > 0:15:59- Another joy for me is finally seeing - the frozen peaks for myself...
0:15:59 > 0:16:02- ..as I climb up to the highlands...
0:16:02 > 0:16:06- ..leaving behind a carpet of pine - trees at the foot of the mountain.
0:16:07 > 0:16:12- After reaching the summit, - I see only white glaciers...
0:16:12 > 0:16:16- ..and stunning peaks - which scrape the clouds.
0:16:21 > 0:16:24- The view from the summit - is incredible.
0:16:24 > 0:16:29- Over 20 peaks form the chain - of the Caucasus Mountains.
0:16:29 > 0:16:33- Some are 5,000 metres - above sea level.
0:16:33 > 0:16:39- Geographically, these mountains - separate Europe and Asia.
0:16:39 > 0:16:46- They stretch for 700 miles from - the Black Sea to the Caspian Sea.
0:16:46 > 0:16:51- Many people don't realize - that Europe's highest peak is here.
0:17:04 > 0:17:09- In reality, - Elbrus is two peaks side-by-side.
0:17:09 > 0:17:15- One reaches a height - of 5,621 metres above sea level.
0:17:17 > 0:17:19- The other, to the west...
0:17:19 > 0:17:22- ..is 5,642 metres.
0:17:23 > 0:17:28- The summits - are permanently covered by snow.
0:17:28 > 0:17:31- They glisten under the sunlight.
0:17:32 > 0:17:38- Here, over 70 glaciers flow - into the rivers and streams below.
0:17:41 > 0:17:46- Lower down, the antelopes dance - eloquently across the glaciers.
0:17:46 > 0:17:49- These creatures - are excellent climbers.
0:17:49 > 0:17:55- They have adapted to survive - on the most hostile terrain.
0:17:55 > 0:18:00- The antelope's lungs - have also adapted to the highlands.
0:18:00 > 0:18:03- They are much larger - than the lungs of common goats.
0:18:03 > 0:18:06- The future of these antelopes - is also threatened.
0:18:07 > 0:18:09- The remaining animals - are retreating...
0:18:10 > 0:18:12- ..to the remotest areas - of the mountains.
0:18:43 > 0:18:47- There are over 2,000 glaciers - across the Caucasus range.
0:18:47 > 0:18:52- Most are in the western - and central Caucasus.
0:18:52 > 0:18:56- The largest lie between - the two summits of Elbrus.
0:18:58 > 0:19:01- The rivers which provide water - for central Asia...
0:19:01 > 0:19:04- ..originate from these glaciers.
0:19:04 > 0:19:07- Global warming - poses a huge threat to this area.
0:19:11 > 0:19:16- The largest glacier is in the - Kabardino-Balkarsky nature reserve.
0:19:16 > 0:19:19- In summer, - it's considerably smaller.
0:19:19 > 0:19:24- In winter, - it stretches for eight miles.
0:19:28 > 0:19:32- This is an alpine scene - with the snow-topped mountains...
0:19:33 > 0:19:39- ..the glaciers and the streams - leading down to the forests.
0:19:39 > 0:19:45- Beyond these mountains, there's - a different and unexpected habitat.
0:20:00 > 0:20:05- These huge summits are too high - even for the clouds.
0:20:05 > 0:20:09- As the clouds are carried - across the highest peaks...
0:20:09 > 0:20:12- ..moisture is released - in the form of rain.
0:20:12 > 0:20:15- The western summits - of the Caucasus...
0:20:15 > 0:20:19- ..is one of the wettest areas - of Europe.
0:20:19 > 0:20:23- To the east, less rainfall - creates a different landscape.
0:20:33 > 0:20:36- This is where - the Caucasian desert begins.
0:21:11 > 0:21:14- This is home to the Griffon vulture.
0:21:14 > 0:21:19- Its huge wingspan measures 260cms.
0:21:19 > 0:21:22- This enormous bird...
0:21:22 > 0:21:26- ..can swallow over 5kgs of food - in one meal.
0:21:31 > 0:21:34- It breeds on the cliff side - and usually only lays one egg.
0:21:35 > 0:21:38- The female stays close - to the nest...
0:21:38 > 0:21:40- ..until the chick leaves.
0:21:40 > 0:21:43- The male's responsibility - is to search for food.
0:21:44 > 0:21:48- The female has plenty to do to - shelter the chick from the hot sun.
0:21:55 > 0:21:59- A viper slithers - along the rocks below.
0:21:59 > 0:22:01- It hasn't seen the nest yet.
0:22:02 > 0:22:04- The chick is safe for now.
0:22:04 > 0:22:08- This is Europe's longest viper.
0:22:09 > 0:22:11- It can grow to a length of 190cms.
0:22:11 > 0:22:15- Its bite is poisonous - but not always fatal.
0:22:23 > 0:22:27- Nearby, the Caucasian agama - has awoken to scorching sun.
0:22:29 > 0:22:33- It's a type of lizard, - a foot in length.
0:22:33 > 0:22:36- It only appears to sunbathe or hunt.
0:22:59 > 0:23:02- Just as in the Sahara...
0:23:02 > 0:23:06- ..strong winds create sand dunes - in the Caucasus.
0:23:06 > 0:23:11- Sometimes, the sand dunes - reach a height of 260 metres.
0:23:12 > 0:23:18- The sand dunes create habitats for - some very unique-looking creatures.
0:23:21 > 0:23:24- This long-eared hedgehog - is out early in the morning.
0:23:25 > 0:23:27- Despite being a night creature...
0:23:27 > 0:23:32- ..it takes advantage of the cooler - morning temperatures to hunt.
0:23:32 > 0:23:37- Its ears are 4cms long - and help keep down its temperature.
0:23:41 > 0:23:44- It uses its long legs - to move swiftly.
0:23:45 > 0:23:47- Sometimes, it can travel - for five miles...
0:23:48 > 0:23:50- ..hunting and eating insects - on the way.
0:23:51 > 0:23:57- It can live without water for weeks - in the scorching desert heat.
0:23:59 > 0:24:04- It might look innocent - but it can attack fiercely.
0:24:04 > 0:24:07- Something has caught its attention.
0:24:28 > 0:24:32- Content with life, it burrows - a den for itself underground...
0:24:33 > 0:24:35- ..to avoid the afternoon sun.
0:24:57 > 0:25:01- The toad-headed agama - is normally seen alone.
0:25:01 > 0:25:04- In contrast to other reptiles...
0:25:04 > 0:25:06- ..it only eats insects.
0:25:09 > 0:25:13- Whilst other creatures - are hunting in the morning sun...
0:25:13 > 0:25:15- ..the agama prefers to hide.
0:25:20 > 0:25:22- It disappears skilfully.
0:25:40 > 0:25:40- .
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0:25:54 > 0:25:59- Even though I'm enjoying - roaming across the lowlands...
0:25:59 > 0:26:04- ..the changing landscape higher up - the mountains is more appealing.
0:26:16 > 0:26:19- In the driest area - of the Caucasus...
0:26:19 > 0:26:24- ..these shepherds trudge through - the dust to round up their sheep.
0:26:24 > 0:26:28- It's hard work but just as - their forefathers did years ago...
0:26:28 > 0:26:31- ..the flock must be moved - across the mountains...
0:26:31 > 0:26:33- ..to graze on better land.
0:26:46 > 0:26:49- They spend half the year - living in the mountains.
0:26:49 > 0:26:55- Then, they carry their belongings, - along with the flock...
0:26:55 > 0:26:57- ..all the way down to the lowlands.
0:27:02 > 0:27:05- Down near the foot - of the lower Caucasus...
0:27:06 > 0:27:08- ..my journey continues.
0:27:16 > 0:27:20- I'm eager to meet some of the people - who work on the mountains...
0:27:20 > 0:27:24- ..people who know the local wildlife - better than anyone.
0:27:25 > 0:27:30- Quite literally at the roadside, - Mikhail and I meet a man...
0:27:30 > 0:27:35- ..who's come down from the mountains - at the end of his career.
0:27:35 > 0:27:39- Because of old age, he now looks - after a small herd of dairy cattle.
0:27:40 > 0:27:42- He was born and bred here.
0:27:42 > 0:27:46- I want to know how much wildlife - he's seen during his career.
0:27:49 > 0:27:51- He's eager to describe the times...
0:27:51 > 0:27:54- ..when he used to see - bears, Caucasian turs...
0:27:54 > 0:27:56- ..and wolves in the mountains.
0:27:56 > 0:27:59- He was glad to have a dog - at those times...
0:27:59 > 0:28:03- ..since it helped - keep the wild animals at bay.
0:28:03 > 0:28:06- I ask him if he enjoyed his life - on the mountains.
0:28:07 > 0:28:11- Well, he didn't have a choice, - he replies. That was his life.
0:28:32 > 0:28:36- The Syrian brown bear - can also be found in the Caucasus.
0:28:36 > 0:28:41- It has a multi-coloured coat but is - lighter than the normal brown bear.
0:28:41 > 0:28:46- Traditionally, it roams - from the Caucasus to eastern Russia.
0:28:46 > 0:28:49- Today, its numbers have dwindled.
0:28:49 > 0:28:52- It can only be found - in the Caucasus.
0:28:54 > 0:28:58- It's easy to recognize this type - of bear by its lighter coat.
0:28:58 > 0:29:02- It's also slightly smaller - than the normal brown bear.
0:29:02 > 0:29:05- Adult bears - can grow to a height of 260cms...
0:29:05 > 0:29:08- ..and weigh 500kgs.
0:29:13 > 0:29:16- These two are searching for food...
0:29:17 > 0:29:19- ..but nothing has tempted them - so far.
0:29:24 > 0:29:28- The Caucasian tur - is glad it can run so quickly...
0:29:28 > 0:29:31- ..and escape from any predator.
0:29:38 > 0:29:40- Despite their best efforts...
0:29:40 > 0:29:44- ..these bears have no chance - of catching them today.
0:29:53 > 0:29:56- Having escaped from the bears, - a group of female turs...
0:29:57 > 0:30:00- ..roam the highlands - searching for food and water.
0:30:00 > 0:30:05- They're also looking for salt - and minerals to stay healthy.
0:30:05 > 0:30:08- They will find these - along the rocky terrain.
0:30:22 > 0:30:25- The lick the rocks to find the salt.
0:30:44 > 0:30:50- I love the different habitats - of the Caucasus.
0:30:50 > 0:30:53- From the mountains - to the fields and rivers...
0:30:54 > 0:30:57- ..and the rock faces - which appear dull at first glance.
0:30:59 > 0:31:03- In the West, we regard Russia - as a cold, desolate country.
0:31:04 > 0:31:06- This is not the case.
0:31:06 > 0:31:11- One aspect that highlights this - more than anything are the birds.
0:31:11 > 0:31:14- This riverbank is very soft - and peppered with holes.
0:31:15 > 0:31:18- These act as nests for bee-eaters.
0:31:18 > 0:31:20- They're rare visitors to Wales...
0:31:21 > 0:31:26- ..but here, wherever the habitat - is suitable, they are very common.
0:31:26 > 0:31:28- When you're this close to them...
0:31:28 > 0:31:33- ..you can see why they're some - of the world's most colourful birds.
0:31:36 > 0:31:40- These beautiful birds - spend their winter in Africa.
0:31:40 > 0:31:43- They've returned here - to nest and mate.
0:31:44 > 0:31:48- They like nesting in the soft rock - along this riverbank.
0:31:52 > 0:31:56- Currently, none of the birds - are interested in mating...
0:31:57 > 0:31:59- ..so the bickering continues.
0:32:03 > 0:32:07- Each year, - bee-eaters choose a new mate.
0:32:07 > 0:32:10- Then, they rear - their chicks together.
0:32:11 > 0:32:15- Before mating, - the pair build a home...
0:32:15 > 0:32:18- ..by digging a long hole - in the riverbank...
0:32:19 > 0:32:23- ..but these beautiful birds don't - always live in harmony together.
0:32:28 > 0:32:31- Bees are the staple diet - of this bird.
0:32:31 > 0:32:36- Catching the bees is an integral - part of the mating ritual.
0:32:38 > 0:32:40- Once a bee has been caught...
0:32:40 > 0:32:45- ..it is pounded against a branch - to remove its poison.
0:32:45 > 0:32:49- This prevents the bird being stung.
0:32:49 > 0:32:53- Once the female has - received the bee from the male...
0:32:53 > 0:32:56- ..the two can become intimate.
0:32:59 > 0:33:02- Soon, they'll start to nest.
0:33:49 > 0:33:51- Back on the road, - I'm still astounded...
0:33:51 > 0:33:53- ..by all the greenery around us.
0:34:10 > 0:34:12- At the foot of the mountains...
0:34:12 > 0:34:16- ..there are miles and miles - of fields covered in wild flowers.
0:34:16 > 0:34:19- Many are familiar to us.
0:34:19 > 0:34:21- The rhododendron...
0:34:23 > 0:34:24- ..and the lily.
0:34:25 > 0:34:30- At home, we plant and nurture - our flowers so carefully.
0:34:30 > 0:34:34- Here, the flowers - grow and blossom naturally.
0:34:49 > 0:34:52- Close to the desert region - of the eastern Caucasus...
0:34:53 > 0:34:57- ..this tortoise eats - as many wild flowers as it can.
0:34:57 > 0:35:01- It needs energy for the work - that lies ahead of it.
0:35:08 > 0:35:12- From the end of February to May, - the tortoises mate.
0:35:12 > 0:35:16- Eager to start breeding, - the male follows the female...
0:35:16 > 0:35:18- ..and circles her.
0:35:19 > 0:35:22- He bites and pushes her - before trying to mount her.
0:35:23 > 0:35:28- But the female is determined not - to make things easy for the male.
0:35:56 > 0:36:01- Normally, the male opens his mouth - and shows his tongue during mating.
0:36:02 > 0:36:04- He also makes loud noises.
0:36:04 > 0:36:09- The female remains still and moves - the front part of her body...
0:36:09 > 0:36:12- ..to the rhythm - of her partner's movements.
0:36:13 > 0:36:17- Once is enough to allow the female - to lay several eggs.
0:36:17 > 0:36:19- She's in a hurry to leave...
0:36:19 > 0:36:22- ..with little concern - about her partner's welfare.
0:36:38 > 0:36:41- Across the desert region - of the Caucasus...
0:36:41 > 0:36:44- ..an unique-looking animal grazes.
0:36:51 > 0:36:54- This is the saiga, an antelope - which is easily recognized...
0:36:55 > 0:36:57- ..by its shortness and long nose.
0:37:03 > 0:37:07- At one time, - hundreds of saiga roamed Asia.
0:37:07 > 0:37:11- Today, these creatures - are also in danger of extinction.
0:37:11 > 0:37:15- They are hunted for their horns - and their meat...
0:37:15 > 0:37:18- ..since they have medical value - in Asia.
0:37:20 > 0:37:24- They use their nostrils - to heat cold air in the winter...
0:37:25 > 0:37:28- ..and keep dust out - during the summer.
0:37:28 > 0:37:33- In the spring, they rely on plant - moisture to quench their thirst.
0:37:33 > 0:37:38- It is hoped they they will be left - alone on the Caucasian plains.
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0:38:03 > 0:38:06- The plains in this part - of the Caucasus...
0:38:06 > 0:38:10- ..are a sea of colourful plants - during the summer.
0:38:10 > 0:38:13- It's a perfect camouflage - for small creatures.
0:38:13 > 0:38:16- It also attracts - all kinds of insects.
0:38:17 > 0:38:21- It's heaven - for the long-eared hedgehog...
0:38:21 > 0:38:24- ..which is in a hurry - to find its lunch.
0:38:41 > 0:38:44- It's spotted a centipede.
0:38:47 > 0:38:52- 10cms in length, it's a sumptuous - feast for the little hedgehog.
0:38:53 > 0:38:57- The centipede moves quickly - and the chase is about to begin.
0:38:57 > 0:39:00- Like any wise hunter...
0:39:00 > 0:39:05- ..the hedgehog listens and - watches intently before attacking.
0:39:16 > 0:39:18- All the planning pays off.
0:39:32 > 0:39:37- The agama, - a member of the reptile family...
0:39:37 > 0:39:39- ..watches enviously nearby.
0:39:41 > 0:39:46- The demoiselle crane is here - to lay its eggs and rear its young.
0:39:46 > 0:39:50- This is the smallest member - of the crane family.
0:39:50 > 0:39:53- Normally, - a crane will only lay two eggs.
0:39:53 > 0:39:57- After two months, - the chicks have grown some feathers.
0:39:57 > 0:40:02- This is the only crane - that has feathers at this early age.
0:40:06 > 0:40:10- With temperatures - reaching 40 degrees Celsius...
0:40:10 > 0:40:13- ..the chicks shelter - under the mother's wings.
0:40:29 > 0:40:32- It's also hot in the minibus - as we move on.
0:40:36 > 0:40:41- We have to travel far to reach - our different destinations.
0:40:41 > 0:40:46- How do the locals cope travelling - from one town to the next?
0:40:49 > 0:40:53- Since the Caucasus are so close - to the Europe-Asia border...
0:40:53 > 0:40:57- ..you can meet people from over - 19 different nationalities here.
0:40:57 > 0:41:01- I'm going to meet a man - of Adygean descent.
0:41:01 > 0:41:05- He benefits greatly - from what the mountains can offer.
0:41:22 > 0:41:24- Deep in this thicket - of mountain plants...
0:41:24 > 0:41:28- ..Zamudin Ghuche is looking - for one thing in particular.
0:41:44 > 0:41:47- Carefully, - he studies the giant hogweed.
0:41:47 > 0:41:50- The Caucasus - is its natural habitat...
0:41:50 > 0:41:53- ..but it causes many problems - in our country.
0:41:54 > 0:41:59- It destroys other plants and - causes painful itching to the skin.
0:42:12 > 0:42:17- The giant hogweed is a problem - for the Adygeans, too...
0:42:18 > 0:42:21- ..but they know it's less likely - to cause itching...
0:42:21 > 0:42:22- ..after it's been dried out.
0:42:26 > 0:42:29- It can also be used - to make musical instruments.
0:42:32 > 0:42:36- Just like some of the area's - unique creatures...
0:42:36 > 0:42:41- ..traditional Adygean music - is also in danger of dying out.
0:42:41 > 0:42:45- The population of Adygeans here - is around 100,000.
0:42:45 > 0:42:49- Zamudin tries to keep - one of their traditions alive...
0:42:49 > 0:42:52- ..by making traditional - musical instruments.
0:42:54 > 0:42:56- After collecting the plants...
0:42:56 > 0:43:01- ..Arseni, my translator, - takes me to meet Zamudin.
0:43:01 > 0:43:05- I want to learn more - about the instruments he makes...
0:43:05 > 0:43:09- ..and the traditional music - which is so important to him.
0:43:33 > 0:43:36- He tells me - how he was born and raised here.
0:43:36 > 0:43:42- He learnt the skill of carving - instruments from his forefathers.
0:43:42 > 0:43:47- The music and instruments have been - inspired by the mountains...
0:43:47 > 0:43:50- ..and the surrounding landscape.
0:43:51 > 0:43:56- Over 20 years ago, - very few instruments were available.
0:43:56 > 0:43:59- As he's learnt more - about making instruments...
0:44:00 > 0:44:04- ..he's been able to make - different kinds of instruments.
0:44:04 > 0:44:09- Zamudin has formed a group - who perform in local events.
0:44:09 > 0:44:14- It's important to encourage young - people to join and learn the skill.
0:44:22 > 0:44:25- They're eager to perform for me.
0:44:25 > 0:44:28- Even though - I'm not a musical person...
0:44:29 > 0:44:33- ..I'm impressed by their effort - to keep the tradition alive.
0:44:52 > 0:44:58- Before leaving, I want to be - high up in the mountains once more.
0:44:58 > 0:45:00- After speaking to the locals...
0:45:00 > 0:45:05- ..I know that one of their greatest - worries in winter is avalanches.
0:45:05 > 0:45:09- Over 350 major avalanches - happen every year.
0:45:18 > 0:45:23- Between November and April, - avalanches are a real danger.
0:45:23 > 0:45:26- The weather is changeable in winter.
0:45:26 > 0:45:29- It often changes without warning.
0:45:32 > 0:45:38- The Caucasus are renowned for - the layer of snow on their summits.
0:45:38 > 0:45:42- In some areas, the thickness - is over five metres deep.
0:45:42 > 0:45:47- The snow falls in the Achishko area - in early winter.
0:45:48 > 0:45:52- The thickness of the snow - can be as much as seven metres deep.
0:46:27 > 0:46:33- The avalanche is so powerful, - it clears everything in its path...
0:46:33 > 0:46:37- ..including rocks and trees.
0:46:43 > 0:46:46- Despite being a dangerous event...
0:46:46 > 0:46:50- ..you cannot ignore the drama - caused by this natural occurrence.
0:47:13 > 0:47:18- Here I am again, high up - on the mountains for the final time.
0:47:18 > 0:47:23- It's an opportunity for me to - appreciate everything I've seen...
0:47:23 > 0:47:26- ..in this part of Russia.
0:47:29 > 0:47:31- Before I came out to the Caucasus...
0:47:32 > 0:47:36- ..I was expecting to see a series - of high, desolate mountains...
0:47:36 > 0:47:38- ..with steep cliffs.
0:47:39 > 0:47:43- I've been pleasantly surprised - by the wealth of habitats here...
0:47:43 > 0:47:47- ..from the snow and glaciers - along the streams...
0:47:47 > 0:47:51- ..the coniferous - and deciduous trees...
0:47:51 > 0:47:55- ..all the way down to the - alpine meadows covered in flowers.
0:47:55 > 0:47:58- It's really whetted my appetite.
0:47:58 > 0:48:01- If there's this much wealth here...
0:48:01 > 0:48:05- ..I'm looking forward so much - to exploring the rest of Russia.
0:48:52 > 0:48:55- S4C Subtitles by Simian 04 Cyf.
0:48:55 > 0:48:55- .