Radioactive Wolves

Narrated by newsman Harry Smith, this PBS Nature documentary examines the current state of wildlife near the Chernobyl nuclear power plant in present-day Ukraine, where a meltdown in 1986 became the worst accident of the atomic age, leading to the creation of an “exclusion zone” of 1,100 square miles and the permanent removal of all humans. Narration overlays archival and contemporary footage to inform viewers that radiation in the area is 50 times the normal level and fallout has accumulated in the soil and trees; but researchers are being allowed back for limited periods, and they've found that, surprisingly, the wildlife seems to have been affected very little. Wolves, at the top of the predator chain, now share space with colonies of bison, beaver—even wild horses—along with other mammals, birds, and fish. Are wolf populations increasing, and has their behavior changed? To find the answers, scientists examine tracks and try to capture and tag some animals (a difficult task since their fur remains radioactive), ultimately discovering that the packs seem to be thriving after being hunted to near extinction for years, although their numbers aren't as great as previously thought. Written and directed by Klaus Feichtenberger, the production has an eerie quality, as it shows a world of deserted buildings and vast landscapes where once were bustling communities, farms, and businesses. Offering a fascinating look at a unique environment, this is highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (S. Rees)