Wild Russia (2009)
An in-depth look at Russia's most natural wonders including Siberia, Kamchatka, the Artic, Caucasus, Primorye, and the Urals.
Cast: Christian Brückner, Jason Hildebrandt, Paterson Joseph
Kamchatka
A land of fire and ice, the volcanic peninsula of Kamchatka lies in Russia’s far east. With the land constantly being reworked by eruptions and landslides, this far-flung part of the country is dangerous, but incredibly fertile. Heading right into this magical land, this stunning film follows soaring golden eagles, scavenging wolverines, young red foxes and local brown bears partial to a dip in a natural hot spring.
Primorye
Primorye, a vast 'primordial forest' in the Russian Far East's Usuriya region near the river Amur, the Chinese border, has an extremely rich and varied wildlife. Its greatly varying seasons also attract some migratory species, while great cats like the Siberian tiger cover huge territories. Vast wetlands, marshes and lakes add to its variety.
Arctic
Northernmost Russia, on the Arctic Circle, has extreme seasons, even by Siberian standards. The case of Wrangel island demonstrates its rich wildlife and the animals' ruthless struggle for survival. Many species migrate, like polar bears, some as far as the Berentz sea or even North America.
Siberia
Siberia is vast and covers most of Northern Asia. Encompassing roughly ten percent of our planet's landmass and sparsely populated, its name has become synonymous with the harsh environment, where bitter and relentless cold rules for much of the year.
Urals
The Ural mountain range separates Europe and Asia trough Russia. Its vast forests and marshes harbor great wildlife populations, including some rare of even unique species. Mink is among the nearly extinct natives. Iconic predators include bears and wolves as well as wolverines.
Caucasus
From high snowy peaks to baking deserts, the Caucasus is much more than a simple mountain range. With habitats including forests, alpine meadows and arid salt flats, like the rest of Russia it boasts a dazzling array of wildlife. Home to wild boars, Eurasian lynx, long-eared hedgehogs, bezoar ibex, rare highland European bison and the truly bizarre glass lizard.