This month, winter descends on northern Tibet, bringing with it exceptionally harsh conditions. I’m Jim Metzner, and this is the Pulse of the Planet, presented by the American Museum of Natural History.
Despite the severe weather, this region of Tibet is home to a community of large hoofed animals. Dr. George Schaller of the Wildlife Conservation Society has been working here for the past ten years. He tells us what it’s like in the region in November.
“The area looks barren. The grass is yellow. There are no trees. The wind howls. It is ten below zero, so it’s very uncomfortable to work there, but it’s also exciting. The species that intrigues me the most is the Tibetan Antelope. It is a magnificent animal with two foot long horns that rise from its head, a black face and a gray to white coat. November is the mating season and the males dash about running full speed, even at that high elevation and they give roars to attract attention to themselves by the females that wander around casually. And, just to watch this wildlife, even if the weather is miserable, is one of the great experiences for field biologists.”
“The winds just scream across the plains. When it’s already zero or ten below or fifteen below and to have that wind pounding your clothes, pounding your body, after a few hours being outdoors, you feel like you’ve been in a boxing match or something.”
We’ll hear more about northern Tibet in future programs. Pulse of the Planet is presented by the American Museum of Natural History. I’m Jim Metzner.