I grew up with a TV program called The Nature of Things, which airs once a week and features host David Suzuki, a famous Canadian environmentalist. The premise of the show is nature, and science, and how humans live with and affect the natural world. As a science show, it is informative and interesting, as a kids program it is fun. All-round, it’s a great show for the whole family to sit down and watch together, as my family did when I was a child.
Check out my article on David Suzuki!
Recently a friend from back home sent me an email to let me know that my hometown would be featured on an upcoming episode of The Nature of Things. I checked the website of CBC and found to my surprise that you can watch recent episodes online! So I waited until the particular episode had aired, and then I watched it on the CBC website. This episode is about raccoons and includes a section filmed in my hometown, Nanaimo. Many students ask me about my hometown and the scenery and environment in my hometown and in Canada in general. The footage in this episode is really nice, and I highly recommend watching it.
The Nature of Things: Raccoon Nation
My hometown is featured around the 12 minute mark, shot on a small island which is a provincial park. Check out those clever raccoons opening seashells and zippers on tents! Another nice surprise came at the 24 minute mark, when the show jumped to Kyoto and talked about the raccoon problem in Japan, in particular with regards to old wooden temple and shrine buildings. I had no idea that raccoons were such a problem here in Japan!
Wikipedia Article on David Suzuki
Long story short, it’s a great program and I think everyone would enjoy it. Also a great way to practice your English between classes. I know all the students at my school in Otsu will check this out just to see footage of my hometown. How about you? Interested in raccoons? Wanna watch some Canadian TV? Just wanna practice your English? Whatever your reason, ENJOY!
Edward, SSE Otsu
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