Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that this wildlife series offers stunning looks at the incredible endurance of a variety of animals who undertake journeys of epic proportions. A veterinarian and his team of experts follow in the animals' footsteps to understand and document their lengthy trips. Mating rituals are mentioned occasionally, and some scenes show animals attacking and eating others. This show offers a multitude of educational opportunities for families, but parents may want to brush up on their knowledge of animal behavior before watching so they can answer kids' questions about what they see.
Families can talk about animal behavior. How do animals of various species learn how to survive? What are some of the dangers that animals face on a regular basis? What defense mechanisms help protect them from predators? Kids, which animals do you most like to learn about? What interests you about them? Parents can also use this show to discuss the importance of nature conservation. How can your family contribute to preservation efforts?
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Emily Ashby
In INCREDIBLE JOURNEYS, veterinarian Steve Leonard follows in the footsteps of animals that embark on lengthy treks through the wild. Using satellite technology to track the wildlife and firsthand research to investigate their actions, he attempts to explain the reasons behind their amazing journeys.
For example, in one episode, Leonard and his team monitored the movements of an elderly polar bear and her cub on the ice-laden Norwegian coast. Although Leonard knew that mother polar bears typically lead their babies on extensive trips shortly after their birth, he never knew why -- or how they managed to survive in the harsh conditions while on the move.
A satellite collar on the mother bear provided a clear map of her journey for four months, and Leonard followed behind to piece together why and how she traveled more than 3,500 miles with a cub in tow. He discovered that her path followed the movement of food sources, including baby seals on the coastline and nesting birds in a particular line of cliffs. He watched as the mother taught her cub essential survival skills like tracking food by smell and breaking through dense ice to locate prey.
Incredible Journeys offers a dramatic look at wildlife in its most natural state. Beautiful videography and fascinating facts combine to make this an enjoyable educational experience for the whole family. That said, parents may find themselves answering some basic questions about animal behavior for young kids during scenes of animals hunting eating prey or discussions of mating rituals.
Fans can also try Caught in the Moment, Wild Kingdom, and March of the Penguins.
Rate It!
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Sexual Content |
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ViolenceSome scenes show animals eating or attacking others. Researchers occasionally carry guns to protect themselves in the wild, but they never show them in use. |
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LanguageOccasional use of "Oh, my god." |
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Social BehaviorThe show offers wonderful educational opportunities and occasionally mentions the issue of wildlife preservation. Respect for nature and animals and nature is central to the subject matter. |
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Commercialism |
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