On March 16, 2025, NBC's groundbreaking nature series "The Americas" aired its much-anticipated sixth episode titled "The Gulf Coast." Narrated by the beloved Tom Hanks, this captivating episode brings viewers closer to the stunning wildlife and natural beauty of one of America's most diverse landscapes.
Stretching approximately 1,200 miles from the sun-kissed shores of Florida to the sprawling wetlands of Texas, the Gulf Coast is home to myriad species and vibrant ecosystems. It is within this rich setting where audiences will encounter fascinating creatures such as the endangered Louisiana black bear, majestic Florida manatees, and elusive ocelots who find refuge amid Texas' thornscrub.
The episode is part of the ambitious ten-part series, which took over five years to develop and was filmed during 180 expeditions, exploring the breathtaking grandeur of North and South America. This immense work was produced by Emmy and BAFTA Award-winning wildlife producer Mike Gunton, who has previously worked on landmark projects like "Planet Earth".
"The Gulf Coast" presents viewers with intimate glimpses of wildlife behavior rarely captured on film. For example, the narrative reveals how Florida manatees seek refuge from the winter chill, migrating to freshwater springs, such as Crystal River, to take advantage of warmer waters. Meanwhile, audiences will learn about the incredible adaptations of black bears residing in Louisiana's Atchafalaya Swamp, where they navigate through the marshland and sleep high up in the safety of oak trees with their cubs.
"A male burrowing owl may look fierce, but he's only 9 inches tall," Hanks shares, underlining the delicate balance of life found within the Gulf Coast. The episode carefully focuses on the breeding and mating habits of varied species, including the fascinating courtship rituals of these small yet captivating owls.
The Everglades, one of the highlights of the Gulf Coast region and commonly referred to as the "River of Grass," is examined closely this episode. This vast expanse of lush wetlands spans roughly 2 million acres and serves as home for over 360 species of birds, including the pink-tinted spoonbills and apple snail kites, predatory birds specific to the waters of the Everglades.
Water flows slower here than one might expect—about 2 feet per hour—creating unique habitats for both wildlife and plant life. The mixture of freshwater from Lake Okeechobee and seawater along the coast creates the perfect conditions for thriving mangroves, which are considered among the most significant ecosystems worldwide.
The production team utilized cutting-edge technology to document these remarkable interactions between species and their habitats. From tracking the movements of black bears to capturing the rare courting displays of ocelots, every moment showcases the beauties and fragilities of nature.
Hanks notes the importance of conservation efforts during the series, highlighting the rebound of the Louisiana black bear population from as low as 150 bears to approximately 1,200 today due to concerted preservation strategies and habitat management. This surge exemplifies the potential for recovery when communities come together to protect their ecosystems.
"The Gulf Coast" also emphasizes the interrelationships of species relying on each other for survival—baby alligators, for example, often hitch rides on their mothers' backs, which help regulate their temperatures and offers safety from predators. This sentiment resonates throughout the episode, as it inspires viewers to appreciate the interconnectedness of life.
Finally, the series urges audiences to engage with the pressing issues facing these ecosystems, inspiring viewers to take part in conservation initiatives aimed at protecting vulnerable species. It serves as both entertainment and education, igniting the collective responsibility to nurture the natural world around us.
With Hanks' compelling narration and the beautifully crafted visuals alongside Hans Zimmer's evocative score, "The Americas" is more than just entertainment; it is also a call to action. This episode presents the Gulf Coast not only as a place of remarkable beauty but also as one deserving of our respect and protection.
Fans can catch "The Gulf Coast" episode on NBC tonight, or stream it the next day on Peacock. The exhibit of wildlife from the Gulf Coast region will surely leave viewers captivated and inspired to reflect on the importance of conservation.