Watch Europe's New Wild

Europe's New Wild is a six-part television series that was first aired on PBS in 2021. The show explores the new and unexpected wild habitats that have emerged across Europe, showcasing the incredible diversity of wildlife and nature across the continent. Through stunning cinematography and intimate storytelling, Europe's New Wild uncovers the ecological and social stories that are hidden within these vibrant landscapes, giving viewers a fascinating glimpse into the changing nature of Europe's wildest spaces.

The series is hosted by conservation biologist Dr. M. Sanjayan, who takes audiences on a journey through a range of different habitats that have emerged across Europe. From the rocky wastes of the Pyrenees to the lush marshes of Romania, Dr. Sanjayan explores the different ways that nature has returned to these once-abandoned landscapes. He interviews both scientists and locals, learning about the often-surprising ways that this new wilderness is impacting people's lives.

Each episode of Europe's New Wild focuses on a particular habitat or type of wildlife, and many of the stories are told through individual animal protagonists. The first episode, for example, follows a pack of wolves as they journey across the rugged terrain of the Italian Apennines, while the second episode takes viewers on a tour of the new forests that are encroaching on abandoned farmland across Europe. Other episodes explore the stunning diversity of marine life that has returned to Europe's coasts, the hundreds of species of birds that now flock to abandoned buildings, and the myriad ways that different animals interact and compete in these new wildernesses.

One of the key themes of Europe's New Wild is the role that human activity plays in shaping these new habitats. Many of the landscapes that Dr. Sanjayan explores have emerged as a direct result of human abandonment, whether it be rural farming communities that have been left behind, or industrial wastelands that are now being reclaimed by nature. At the same time, however, the series acknowledges the ways that human activity continues to shape and affect these environments. The final episode, for instance, looks at the efforts that are being made to successfully reintroduce wild horses into the the wetlands of Belarus, a project that has involved an enormous effort of human coordination and resources.

Another key theme of the show is the importance of protecting these new wildernesses. While they have emerged in part because of human activity, the new habitats and ecosystems that have taken root across Europe are incredibly fragile, and often face a range of pressing threats. From climate change to conservation struggles, the series underlines the importance of continuing to support and protect these vital habitats, so that they can continue to thrive and support the incredible diversity of life that has emerged within them.

Overall, Europe's New Wild is a fascinating and visually stunning series that offers an intimate glimpse into the changing nature of Europe's wildest spaces. Through its focus on individual animals and habitats, the show brings to life the incredible richness and complexity of these environments, while never losing sight of the larger ecological and social issues at play. Whether you're a nature lover, a conservation enthusiast, or simply someone who wants to learn more about the incredible world around us, Europe's New Wild is a must-watch series that is sure to fascinate and inspire.

Europe's New Wild is a series that ran for 1 seasons (5 episodes) between February 3, 2021 and on PBS