“The Living Edens: Kamchatka – Siberia’s Forbidden Wilderness” is a documentary film that takes viewers on a journey to one of the most remote and untouched wildernesses on Earth: the Kamchatka Peninsula in the far east of Russian Siberia. Directed, produced, written and edited by Kim MacQuarrie, the film is an Emmy-winning natural history masterpiece that explores the lives of a family of Grizzly Bears, as they navigate the rugged terrain and diverse wildlife of this Siberian Eden.
One of the most striking aspects of the film is the breathtaking footage of the Kamchatka landscape, with its more than 300 volcanoes, twenty-nine of which are active. The volcanic activity creates a unique and varied terrain, making it a haven for a wide variety of wildlife. Alongside the Grizzly Bears, viewers are treated to sightings of Steller’s Sea Eagles, Snow Sheep, Arctic Foxes and millions of Sockeye Salmon.
The film also takes viewers to the nearby Bering Island, where they can witness the impressive Northern Fur Seals diving to depths of 600 feet and gathering on giant, deafening rookeries. Here, males fight for territories and access to females, creating a fascinating and intense display of animal behavior. Additionally, viewers will also see Tufted Puffins nesting in the millions and Arctic Foxes patrolling the seal rookeries, looking for unwary seal pups.
One of the most striking aspects of the film is the way it captures the sense of remoteness and wildness of the Kamchatka Peninsula. It is a place that is truly like Alaska was one hundred years ago, and it hosts some of the most spectacular wildlife displays on Earth. The film is a must-watch for nature and wildlife enthusiasts, as well as anyone who is interested in exploring the beauty and diversity of our planet.