Written by John Edward Betancourt THE AMERICAS -- “The Andes” Episode 107 -- Pictured: Running the length of South America, the Andes mountain range is one of the longest in the world and reaches altitudes of up to almost 7000 meters. -- (Photo by: Kendra Ivelic Astorga / BBC Studios)
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Seven of ‘The Americas’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
When we think of the mountains, very specific imagery and thoughts come to mind. That of giant, rocky, snow-capped peaks and lush trees and biomes that are pretty easy to distinguish. Because in our travels, we’ve seen a lot of mountain ranges that go from forest to rock quickly, and that also prompts us to think upon specific wildlife that lives in those places, and how the higher we go, the scarer life gets. Because there does come a point where oxygen is of concern. But what’s fascinating about those images and thoughts, is that they are only… somewhat correct. For while there are mountain ranges that resemble that, there are some, that harbor so much more. Take for instance, the long and winding Andes Mountain range. For this massive range, one that basically serves as the spine of South America, is more than those visuals, as evidenced by the next episode of The Americas on NBC. For ‘The Andes’ showcased every peak of this mountain range and that allowed for us to learn… that closer to the equator, these rocky peaks are teeming with lush jungle-like foliage and so much life. For instance, there are bears that live in this part of the range, that actually manage to scale the sharp cliffs. For this is their home and this is where they thrive, and they are not alone in these mountains. For there are also amazing varietals of birds that live here and compete with one another for a mate, making this part of the Andes akin to the most bustling biomes on our planet. Not to mention, in the segments we often think are devoid of life, there are species that have figured out how to handle the harshest of conditions. After all, there are frogs in the higher points of the Andes, that set out on an important quest to find a mate when the seasons are right, and to any other species of frog, this would be a perilous and costly quest. For where they live, the temperatures swing hard and fast. To the point where there is a deep freeze nightly that should cost them their lives. But these hearty little frogs can freeze and resurrect to keep their species going and they’re not alone in finding ways to adapt to the harshness of this range. Since there are also precious little ducks that harbor feathers that can handle just about any temperature, allowing for them to move about ugly environments with ease. Plus, even in the worst possible conditions in the Andes, where desolation and silence should be the norm, there are still animals making their way about to find a meal and thrive. For there are lizards in the salt flats that know how to eat and garner hydration through the unique flies that feed off of the salty brine that exists in what should be a wasteland, and even at the highest reaches, life finds a way. Since the pink flamingos we know and love, live in this part of the range as well. Since the unique lakes that are far from prying eyes sustain them and give them everything they need. Because life on Earth, is just resilient and hearty, and it simply adapts. Because it’s drive is strong and seeing how it is has found a way in some of the harshest mountains possible, made for one stunning tale. Because in addition to those amazing stories, we were also treated to some breathtaking visuals. The kind that showcased volcanoes in this place, and hauntingly gorgeous spots that we might never see without the help of shows like this. One that continues to offer up an amazing journey through a region of the world that is long overdue for this kind of examination, and it will be interesting to see what other visuals and stories await us, as we inch toward the end of this magnificent adventure through the Americas. Until next time. Watch ‘The Americas’
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