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The World On The Wing
在翅膀上看地球
1.
It's a universal dream to fly like a bird. Tosoar on wings into the Heavens. But it's nothing compared to the reality. Thisis our planet seen as never before- A bird's eye view.
人人都夢想能像鳥一樣翱翔天際, 振翅高飛,衝上雲霄, 但想像絕對比不上現實, 以嶄新的角度來看地球-鳥瞰世界
Theirs is a journey that covers the world, filledwith astonishing natural events - extreme challenges, and hard won rewards. Thisis the world on the wing.
這是個遍及全球的精彩旅程, 充滿驚人的自然現象-極端的挑戰, 辛苦得來的回報. 這是在飛行中看到的世界.
詞彙的深度學習：
1. fly: speed, accelerate, dash, hasten
2. soar: rise，ascend，climb
3.compare: contrast
4.compare: compare to, compare with
2.
Our story begins at the southern tip ofAfrica. A bird's eye view of Cape Town's Table mountain, gives no hint ofwhat's stirring in the seas far offshore.
故事始於非洲南端, 鳥瞰下的開普敦-桌山, 看不清遠海上陣陣騷動的端倪.
Beneath the waves a great gathering isoccurring. Its innermost secrets are known by a bird- the Cape Gannet.
海浪之下隱藏著一個龐大集會, 但有一種鳥類深知箇中奧秘-南非鰹鳥.
An intelligent and curious creature that worksas part of a team. Small groups spread out across the ocean, looking forclues that might lead them to the great event.
聰明又富好奇心的集體捕食鳥類, 幾批非洲鰹鳥在海面分散飛行, 尋找能引領它們參與盛會的線索.
They keep their eye on humpback whales asthey seek the same reward, but dolphins make even better allies. The twocreatures work together. The gannets are the dolphin's eyes in the sky, fromtheir high vantage point, the gannets can see what the dolphins can't.
它們緊盯著目標相同的座頭鯨, 不過, 海豚是更好的盟友, 這兩種生物合作無間, 鰹鳥是海豚在天空上的耳目, 從高空的有利位置, 鰹鳥能看到海豚看不到的事.
One finally spots what they're looking for.He dives, a signal to all his followers that they've finally arrived, 20 metresdown they reach their target- The Great Sardine Run.
一隻鰹鳥終於有發現了,它俯衝入水, 向同類顯示,它們終於到了,它們於20米深處找到目標-沙丁魚大長徵
The biggest fish migration in the world. Butat this depth the sardines are quite a challenge. He comes up with nothing. Butguiding the dolphins here is about to pay off. They attack from below, breakingup the shoals and driving them to the surface. Now the sardines are much easierto catch.
世上最大型的魚類遷徙, 但要在這深處捉沙丁魚可是個挑戰, 它空手而還. 不過, 帶領海豚前來將獲得回報, 它們從水裡發動攻擊, 分散魚群, 把魚群趕上水面, 這樣, 就較容易捉到沙丁魚了.
But the commotion also attracts bronzewhaler sharks. At every dive, the birds now dice with death. And some hunterscould swallow a dozen gannets in just one gulp.
不過, 陣陣騷動亦引來短尾真鯊, 鰹鳥每次下潛都要冒上生命危險, 有些捕食者能一口吃掉十多隻鰹鳥.
Fortunately, Bryde whales are only here forthe sardines. The victors return to Bird Island-the biggest Cape gannet colonyin the world. It's their extraordinary knowledge of ocean life, that allows65,000 pairs to thrive here.
幸好,布氏鯨只為沙丁魚而來. 勝利者凱旋迴島, 開普敦的鰹鳥聚集地是全世界最大的, 對海洋居民充分的了解, 讓六萬五千對鰹鳥在這裡繁榮昌盛.
詞彙的深度學習：
5. Hint:intimate insinuate
6. stir:stimulate arouse rouse
7. stir: moving affecting emotional touchingstirring heart-warming
8. far:distant
9. Wave: ripple roller breaker
10. Gather:round up assemble congregate
11. occur: happen, take place
12. secret:confidential underground undercover
13. secrete: hide bury conceal stash
14: intelligent:Bright brilliant intellectual
15. curious:strange
16. look for:search hunt seek
17. Event: happening incident occasionoccurrence
18. ally: Partnerassociate collaborator
19. ally: acquaintance buddy pal
20. Guide: lead conduct steer
21: attack: strike
22. attack: storm, beat up
23. attack: blame fault scold criticize
24. attack: Invade occupy overrun march into
25. break up: scatter disperse dispel
26. Break:destroy knock down ruin
27. break: Holiday leave vacation
28. Break: burst crush crack split
29. Break: tea break, rest, breather, respite
30. catch:seize arrest capture trap
31. Attract: charm appeal
32. swallow:Eat wolf chew
33. swallow: drink down knock back
34. gulp: sipguzzle swig
35. extraordinary:out of the ordinary, remarkable
36. extraordinary: exceptional distinctive
37. thrive:prosper flourish bloom
3.
Back on the mainland, vultures have anunrivalled knowledge of the creatures that live on the land, these cannyscavengers soar for hours, studying the movements of animals. Their all-seeingeyes watch for clues that might lead them to a meal.
回到大陸上, 兀鷲對各種陸上生物了如指掌, 這些狡猾的食腐動物飛行好幾小時,只為觀察各種動物的動向, 眼觀六路, 留意能找到食物的線索.
Running animals are a good sign, but lionsare even better. But in the high stakes world of the African bush, the watchedalso do the watching. There is an uneasy alliance between vultures and lions, asboth spy on one another to find fresh meat. This time there's nothing, but shewill keep looking.
奔跑的動物是個好徵兆, 看到獅子就更好了. 但在危機四伏的非洲叢林, 被觀察的亦是觀察者. 兀鷲和獅子有著敵友難分的關係, 兩者互相監視,以求找到鮮肉. 這次一無所獲, 但它會繼續留意.
詞彙的深度學習：
38. move: gowalk pass
39. stake: bet pot ante
40. between: among
4.
Her(註：her（she）是帶攝像頭的禿鷲) birds-eye view reveals manysecrets. This S-shaped island is actually alive! It is made upentirely of lesser flamingos. Flamingos may be the most beautiful and gracefulbirds in Africa, but they spend their lives in the most unsavoury of places.
鳥瞰下的景觀揭示不少秘密. 原來這個S形小島是有生命的! 完全由小紅鸛組成. 紅鸛或是非洲最漂亮優雅的鳥類, 但它們住在環境極惡劣的地方.
They wade in toxic soda lakes, the onlylagoons where the algae they eat is found. They filter it from the causticwater with their bills. It not only keeps them alive, pigments in the algaecreate their flamboyant colour. As the amount of algae varies with the seasons,the flamingos are on a continue quest for the perfect lake.
它們走在有毒的鹼湖裡, 因只有這些瀉湖有它們吃的水藻, 用嘴從腐蝕性的水中過濾出水藻. 這水藻不僅讓它們維持生命, 所含色素亦令它們的羽毛耀眼奪目, 因水藻的數量隨季節而變, 它們要不斷找尋水藻充足的湖.
But wherever they go, these delicate birdsfall prey to hunters of every kind. Fish eaglesare their main enemy. These clever and solitary predators, are found over everybody of water south of the Sahara.
但無論去到哪裡, 漂亮紅鸛都成為各類捕食者目標, 魚鷹是它們的天敵, 這些聰明的獨行捕食者, 足跡遍及撒哈拉沙漠以南所有水域.
They eat mainly fish, but here flamingosare easier prey. Fish eagles have become expert at hunting them. The fish eagleis small and highly manoeuvrable, but it still won't be easy.
它們主要捕食魚類, 但在這裡, 紅鸛是較易得手獵物, 魚鷹成了捕食紅鸛的專家, 魚鷹體型細小, 極之靈活, 不過要捉到紅鸛也不容易.
This battle plays out wherever flamingosroam. For now the lakes algal bloom gives them all they could wish for, but allgood things must end, soon they will be gone.
有紅鸛的地方就能看到這種對戰, 目前,鹼湖有大量它們想要的水藻, 不過, 美好時光都會結束, 水藻很快會給吃光.
詞彙的深度學習：
41. alive: living live
42. entire:complete whole full
43. Place:location position spot
44. perfect: complete
45. delicate:weak faint frail
46. delicate: exquisite elegant dainty
47. clever:smart
48. Play: gamesport
49. actual:real true genuine
50. bloom: prosper thrive flourish
51. gone: deadlate lifeless
5.
Vultures never get the chance to stop travelling.Her broadwings ride the air for hours, as she searches forthe dead or done for. Every feather reacts to the tiniest breath of air, adjustingits angle to perfect her flight. She splays her wing-tip feathers to reducedrag.And uses her tail to steer.
兀鷲似乎永不停歇, 寬大羽翼可讓它空中持續翱翔幾小時, 搜尋死屍和瀕死的動物, 每片羽毛都會對細微風向變化有所反應, 調整相應角度, 使飛翔變得更加完美.它張開翼梢以減小阻力, 同時用尾巴當舵,掌控方向.
Her efficient flight is helped by a weatherphenomenon, often found in these hot climes. Dust devils form when the sunbakes the ground, and hot air rises in a thermal, sucking up dirt. Thermals areusually invisible, but vultures know just where to find them, she uses them asexpress elevators to the sky.
它的高效飛行得益於一種天氣現象, 這種現象常見於炎熱的氣候環境, 當太陽炙烤大地,旋風沙柱形成, 熱空氣以氣流的方式上升, 把塵土卷向天空. 一般暖氣流是看不見的, 但兀鷲深諳找尋秘訣, 它把上升暖氣流當作飛向空中的高速電梯.
Just as she watches other vultures, theywatch her too. Sharing their knowledge of where thermals can be found. When shefinds lift, others rush to join her on her free ride.
兀鷲們會觀察彼此動向,它們相互分享著塵捲風方位的信息, 當它發現這個天然電梯時, 其餘的都奔向與它一起搭順風車.
Gliding from thermal to thermal, shesurveys hundreds of square miles with hardly any effort at all. A descendingspiral of other birds, marks the spot where a carcass might be found. She foldsher wings to lose height, and uses her legs as air brakes, feathers along herwings spring up to slow her even more.
它們搭乘著氣流滑行, 俯瞰數百平方英裡幾乎不費任何力氣. 盤旋下降的鳥群, 暗示著可能存在死屍的方位. 它收起羽翼降低高度, 同時用腿充當減速板, 豎起羽毛以減緩飛行速度.
With two and a half metres of wing to dealwith, landing among trees is a challenge. Once down, the hard bit is findingthe carcass. But backup is never far behind. The spiralling vultures have alsoattracted the lions, things could easily turn nasty.
兀鷲的翼展長達兩米半, 要在樹林中降落是個挑戰. 著陸後, 想找到死屍絕非易事. 不過, 後援部隊隨後就到, 盤旋的兀鷲也引來了獅子, 一不小心, 局面就會變得非常棘手.
Especially as something doesn't seem right.Swallows and carmine bee-eaters are here, not the usual suspects at a murderscene. Marabou storks, the undertaker birds, are more like it. But these wilyscavengers are not here for a carcass.
特別是在情況十分詭異的時刻, 燕子和紅蜂虎也出現在這裡, 它們可不是謀殺現場常見的嫌疑犯, 喜歡打掃腐肉的非洲禿鸛,看起來嫌疑更大, 看來這些機靈的清道夫不是來打掃腐肉的.
They're eating termites. The vultures andlions have messed up big-time. It was an easy mistaketo make. A gathering of birds always means food. They weren't to know that forthem it wouldn't even be a snack, Only the smaller hooded vulture has the righttool for the job. Much to the lion's frustration.
它們的目標是白蟻, 這回兀鷲和獅子都傻了眼, 犯這樣的錯誤在所難免. 一般來說, 聚集的鳥群意味著食物的出現. 但它們哪裡知道眼下的食物還不夠塞牙縫的. 只有體型較小的冠兀鷲才具備在此覓食的恰當工具, 這讓獅子萬分失望.
詞彙的深度學習：
52. Travel:trip tour journey
53. Travel: journey, take a trip, roam, backpack
54. broad:general common ordinary average
55. search:comb, go through, look around
56. reduce:lower, decrease, shrink, drop off
57. drag: pulldraw
58. hot:sultry
59. grounds: basis
60. ground:cause reason occasion
61. share: participate
62. rush:hurry, get a move on
63. rush: run trot gallop jog sprint
64. glide:crawl inch wriggle
65. elevate:heave hoist
66. spot: mark blemish
67. height:top peak
68. spring:jump
69. slow: dullobtuse
70. Slow: measured unhurried sluggish
71. deal:agreement bargain contract treaty
72. nasty:foul grubby squalid
73. especial:Special particular
74. wily:Artful crafty
75. mess:confusion disorder disorderliness
76. Mistake:error
77. mistaken:false wrong incorrect
6.
When messing with lions, the stakesare high. Unfortunately, it's an occupational hazard. Cape point atthe southern tip of Africa, is home to another bird that mixes with dangerouspredators.
跟獅子共事的風險可不小, 沒辦法, 這全都是為了養家餬口. 非洲南端的海角, 住有另一種與危險捕食者為伍的鳥類.
Kelp gulls may not have the charisma of avulture, but they certainly know their wildlife. The aptly named Seal island ishome to 10,000 Cape Fur Seals, the perfect meal if only the gulls were hunters.
黑背鷗沒有兀鷲的懾人魅力, 但就很會掌握野外形勢. 錫爾島住有一萬隻南非海狗, 是黑背鷗的理想美食.
But by studying the seal's behaviour,these inoffensive birds have put seal meat at the top of their menu. They pickout the youngest, and wait for them to brave the openwaters of the bay. Then look for someone to prepare their meal.
透過觀察海狗的舉動, 無害的黑背鷗視海狗肉為首選美食. 它們專挑年幼海狗, 靜待它們戰戰兢兢的躍進海灣裡, 然後就等別的動物為它們準備美食.
A great white shark will do nicely! To befirst at the kill means a feast. But the shark has to catch dinner first. Thecommotion is a signal to other gulls. In the killing season, over 30 attackshappen around Seal Island each day. And the gulls have become experts on theGreat white's killing technique.
大白鯊就再適合不過了!率先到場, 意味能享用大餐, 不過也要大白鯊先捉住獵物, 陣陣騷動為其他黑背鷗發出信號. 在捕食季節, 錫爾島一帶每天有逾30次攻擊行動, 黑背鷗成了大白鯊捕食手法的專家.
詞彙的深度學習：
78. in: modern sharp cool
79. Hazard: peril
80. mix: combine
81. Dangerous: precarious treacherous insecure
82. Behaviour: conduct demeanour deportment
83. pick: Choose select elect single out go for
84. Wait: kick your heels, hold on, hang on
85. brave: bold
86. open: Direct frank outspoken
7.
Back on the South African mainland, a verydifferent wildlife spectacle occurs every evening. Theseare barn swallows - 3 million of them. They roost in these reed beds, beforetravelling 6,000 miles, to their spring breeding grounds in Northern Europe.
回到南非大陸, 每個傍晚都出現一個特別景象, 這些是家燕, 多達三百萬隻, 它們在這些蘆葦床上歇息, 然後再飛越6000英裡, 往歐洲北部的春天繁殖地.
They are well-equipped for their migration,few can beat their aerobatic skills. They even drink without missing a beat. Theirstreamlined body and long pointed wings, allow them to effortlessly manoeuvre, andtheir forked tail helps their sublime control. Taking a bath couldn't beeasier.
它們是長徵的能手, 它們的特技飛行技術幾乎無鳥能及, 就連喝水也不用停下來, 流線型的身體和長而尖的翅膀, 讓它們能輕易靈活的移動, 叉狀尾部更有助徹底控制飛行, 洗澡更是輕而易舉.
Their flying abilities will soon be tested,as they embark on one of the riskiest and most epic journeys on earth. But theywill not be alone. In the skies above thousands of white storks, join them in araceagainst time, to reach their European breeding grounds. But while swallows flaptheir wings all the way, white storks glide on thermals. On a good day thestorks can travel 300 miles, with hardly any effort at all.
它們將面對飛行力的考驗, 因快要展開世上極危險的長徵, 不過,它們並不孤單, 天上有數以千計的白鸛, 跟它們一起與時間競賽, 儘快飛抵歐洲的繁殖地. 但家燕要拍動翅膀高飛, 白鸛則乘上升熱氣流滑翔, 幸運的話,白鸛一天能飛三百英裡, 而不費吹灰之力.
詞彙的深度學習：
87. Test: examine
88. test: examination exam oral quiz
89. test: trial experiment
90. risky: hairy hazardous dodgy perilous
91. race: charge dart dash tear
8.
But flying isn't always such a breeze, theycan only travel when the sun shines. Victoria Falls is a majorlandmark on their journey, 900 miles from where they first set off. As theZambezi river plummets into the chasm below, it creates huge up draughts, thatmake the falls a paradise for soaring birds.
然而,飛行不總是一帆風順的,它們只能在有陽光照射時飛行, 維多利亞瀑布是途上一個重要地標, 距離起點900英裡, 隨著贊比西河直墮下方的深淵,形成強烈的上升氣流, 令瀑布成為乘風飛翔鳥類的天堂.
It's the perfect place for a fish eagle toset up home. It might be wet and wild,but these are the conditions eagles relish. He patrols the mile-long canyon, surfingon air pushed up by the falling water.
這是魚鷹建立安樂窩的好地方, 雖然溼漉漉又荒蕪, 但正合魚鷹之意, 它巡視一英裡長的峽谷, 乘瀑布形成的上升氣流飛翔.
Birds understand and feel air currents inways that are difficult to imagine. As well as detecting thermals, they seetheir landscape in terms of how it shapes and deflects the air. This knowledgeallows them to glide with little effort, allowing them to concentrate on whatreally matters- Finding a meal.
鳥類能以我們想像不到的方法 明白並感受到氣流. 除了偵測熱氣流, 它們以地理形態和空氣轉向看環境, 這些知識讓它們能輕易地滑翔, 讓它們能專注於更重要的事上-覓食.
詞彙的深度學習：
92. shine: polish burnish
93. push: Advertise promote plug marketpublicize
94. wet: damp
95. relish: savour
9.
Swooping from the air provides the bestelement of surprise, 600 miles north ofVictoria Falls, the thermals that support storks in the air simply vanish.Below lies the problem- Lake Malawi. The first of many lakes in East Africa'sGreat Rift Valley.
從高空撲下能得到最佳突擊效果, 在維多利亞瀑布往北600英裡處, 能讓白鸛翱翔的暖氣流驀然消失了, 問題就處在下面, 也就是馬拉威湖-是東非大裂谷最大的淡水湖.
Thermals can't form over water, so thestorks have to work hard just to stay airborne. And these soaring birds aren't designedto flap their wings for long. But a promising apparition suddenlyappears. Dust devils seem to be rising from the lake.
暖氣流沒辦法在水面形成, 白鸛想繼續飛行就得放手一搏, 依靠滑翔的鳥兒不適於長途飛行, 但突然出現的奇景讓前途不再暗淡, 旋風貌湖面驀然升起.
But these aren't thermals. In fact, they'remade entirely of flies. Each month, billions of lake flies swirltogether, in a huge mating dance, creating the biggest swarms on Earth.
這可不是暖氣流, 其實這些全部都是湖蠅.每個月都會有數十億隻湖蠅盤旋在湖面上, 舉行盛大的求偶儀式, 這是世界上最大的昆蟲聚會
Storks must head inland to find the realMcCoy. But flapping flight takes its toll. Tired storksmust make frequent stops to rest and feed. Tornadoes of flies may be uselessfor storks, but they are a godsend for the swallows travelling close behind.
對白鸛來說, 前往內陸才是頭等大事, 但它們振翅飛行會造成傷亡, 疲累的白鸛必須常常停下來休息進食. 白鸛對龍捲風般出現的湖蠅毫無興趣, 但對於緊隨其後的燕子來說就是豐盛大餐了.
Like the storks, they have already flownover 1,000 miles at this point. They too are ravenous. Theyhead into the very heart of the swarm. Swallows put onlittle weight before their journey, so must feed at every opportunity. Windfallslike this make the difference between life and death. Refuelled, they continuetheir travels.
就像白鸛, 它們也是飛了10,00多英裡才到達這裡, 已經餓得前胸貼後背了, 它們衝進蠅群大快朵頤, 在遷徙前,燕子並沒有增重多少, 它們絕不能浪費任何一次進食的機會, 這樣的進食對燕子來說可是生死攸關的大事, 吃飽喝足, 燕子繼續它們的遷徙之旅.
詞彙的深度學習：
96. Surprise: astonish, amaze,take aback
97. vanish: fade evaporate melt away
98. Design: devise contrive
99. Apparition: phantom poltergeist spectre
100. Sudden: abrupt
101. mate: Friend comrade
102. mate: colleague, opposite number
103. Tired: sleepy exhausted weary fatigued
104. useless: ineffective, vain, in vain
105. useless: hopeless inadequateunsatisfactory
106. Close: near nearby immediate neighboringnext to
107. close: shut
108. close: closed closing
109. close: Familiar
110. ravenous: Underfed puckish famishedstarving
111. heart: core
112. put on: Dress, have on, wear
10.
Further north along the Rift Valley, theland opens up into a huge expanse of grassland. Here vultures command the skies,soaring up to 5 miles above the earth. From these heights they can drop down atany time to check out a meal.
沿北面的大裂谷前行, 大地逐漸變成一望無際的大草原, 在這裡, 兀鷲稱霸天際, 在離地面5英裡的高空翱翔, 它們能隨時從高空降下查看獵物.
Her favourite scavenginggrounds are the Serengeti plains, home to the largest landmigration in the world. Below, around one and a half million wildebeest performtheir yearly journey. Vultures escort the herd, and are an experton their habits. especiallyas they might bring a meal.
它至愛的覓腐食地是塞倫蓋蒂平原, 世上最大型的陸上遷徙之地, 地面約150萬隻角馬進行年度遷徙, 熟悉角馬習性的兀鷲到來護航, 尤其因為角馬或會成為食物.
They know the torrential waters of the Marariver, are an accident waiting to happen. Thousands of wildebeest mustnegotiate its dangerous waters, and casualties are inevitable. The crocshave waited a year for this moment. They won't wastetheir chance.
它們知道馬拉河的洶湧河水, 隨時都能觸發意外, 數以千計角馬必須越過危險的水流, 傷亡實在無可避免. 鱷魚為這一刻等上一年, 絕不會浪費良機.
It's carnage, but there won't be much leftfor the vultures. But as the wildebeest reach the other side, a 4 metres wall blockstheir path, it's a death trap. All it takes is just one slip, and there it is:the perfect meal, ripe for the taking.
這是屠殺,但不會剩下多少給兀鷲, 但當角馬到達對岸, 一道四米高的巖壁擋著去路, 這是個死亡陷阱. 稍有差池, 就成了一頓大餐, 任君享用.
Now the arguing begins. The marabou storkis back. He uses his bill to dismember carcasses. but he is quitehappy to use it as a spear. Vultures never get to eat in peace, that'swhy they always keep moving.
開始你爭我奪, 非洲禿鸛回來了, 它能用鳥嘴來扯開屍體, 但亦樂於用來當長矛出擊, 兀鷲從不能安安靜靜的進食, 所以總是不停的走來走去.
詞彙的深度學習：
113. check out: Inspect, vet, look over
114. check:double-check, examine
115. check: Control contain limit
116. favourite: dearest pet
117. favourite: Popular, in favour, in demand,sought-after
118. plain: clear obvious evident apparent
119. plain: unpretentious unsophisticatedno-nonsense
120. plain: unattractive
121. escort: Accompany attend chaperone
122. escort: Bodyguard lifeguard warder lookout
121. habit: practice custom routine
123. waste: blow, throw away
124. block: prevent
125. quite: Very really truly
126. peace:Quiet calm silence
11.
Flamingos are also driven by the quest forfood. In desperate times many travel up from Southern Africa, to join EastAfrican flamingos as they seek the perfect soda lake. Just south of the equatoris Lake Nakuru, - the most famous flamingo lake in the world.
紅鸛亦因覓食而不停地飛行, 糧食短缺時,不少從非洲南部飛去, 跟東非紅鸛一起找尋理想的鹼湖, 赤道以南就是納庫魯湖-世上最有名的紅鸛湖.
The lake is a favourite stopover forflamingos, and thousands can arrive in a single day. But despite its past gloryit's now a bitter disappointment. A change in water qualitymeans little algae grows here now.
這湖是紅鸛至愛的中途站,單是一天就有數以千計的紅鸛飛抵, 但風光不再,如今淪為雞肋. 水質改變意味湖裡沒多少水藻生長.
There are other signs of change. Greatwhite pelicans arrive, attracted to the salt-tolerantfish, that have been introduced by local fishermen to the lake. They cruiseover the water surface, riding a cushion of air created by the down thrustof their wings. The recent appearance of pelicans shows that the lake ischanging.
還有一些其他跡象可以證明這點, 受到鹹水魚的吸引, 白鵜鶘也飛來了, 湖裡的鹹水魚是當地漁民野放的. 它們在湖面上巡遊, 依靠著拍動翅膀產生的氣流滑翔, 這些新出現的鵜鶘表明湖水正在發生變化.
The flamingos face other problems too. Herescavengers have turned hunters. The delicate flamingos make easy prey for thehyenas. They need space for take off. it's not good to be at the back of the queue. And to make thingsworse many have been weakened by a lack of food. The hyenas technique is crudebut effective. just charge and grab the slowest. Lake Nakuru has become adangerous place with few attractions.
紅鸛還要面對其他問題, 在這裡, 食腐者變成捕食者, 優美的紅鸛淪為鬣狗的獵物, 它們需要空間起跑升空, 排在隊伍後面可不是一件好事, 更糟的是不少因缺乏糧食變得虛弱. 鬣狗的捕食技巧殘酷但有效, 衝過去捉住動作最慢的, 納庫魯湖變成沒啥吸引力的險地.
詞彙的深度學習：
127. Famous: well-known
128. quality: feature property
129. tolerant: Patient forbearinglong-suffering
130. Thrust:poke prod
131. take off: Imitate, copy, emulate, send up
132. crude: Rude coarse vulgar indecent
12.
Hungry and out of condition, the flamingos must trytheir luck elsewhere. Above, the storks continue their migration, but theycarry few reserves and need to make frequent stops to feed.
餓極且狀態不佳, 紅鸛必須到別處碰運氣.在空中,非洲禿鸛繼續遷徙之旅, 但它們儲備不多, 要不時地停下覓食.
Here the open plains are their best chanceof catching the insect life they need. But stopovers bring their ownhazards. A hungry lion will hunt anything. Fortunately for the storks, thelions have set their sights on bigger prey.
這裡, 平原提供捕食昆蟲的好機會, 中途停留亦有危險, 獅子會飢不擇食. 禿鸛走運了, 獅子看準更肥美的目標.
On his 6,000-mile safari(特指非洲的旅行，注意與travel等的區別), the stork must be ready for anything. Some birds can’t getenough of hunting lions. One vulture has hit the jackpot. The lionesseshave killed, and so too has the male. She makes her choice.
6000英裡的旅程, 白鸛必須隨機應變, 有些鳥類就愛跟著捕食的獅子, 一隻兀鷲中大獎. 一頭母獅捕到獵物, 雄獅也一樣, 它作出選擇.
Finding the carcass is easy, getting itfrom the owner won’t be! Some sneaky tactics are required. Tip-toeingaround the back could be the answer. Hungry lions may be big but they aren'tstupid. Dealing with the vulture would be like swatting a gnat, hardly worththe effort.
找屍體是易事, 但從物主手上搶來則難了!這要用上一些鬼祟技倆, 從後潛近也許可行. 飢餓的獅子體型龐大, 但絕不笨, 應付兀鷲就如拍擊小蟲, 不值得費勁.
But reinforcements arrive, swelling theranks. They include the more burly lappet-faced vultures. She has attracted strongsupport, but she must be careful. Her master planis simple but dangerous, tease the lion to distraction. Lions get hot andbothered keeping vultures from their kill. And that's exactly what they want.
但增援來到, 聲勢變得浩大, 隊伍中還有更加強壯的皺臉兀鷲, 它引來大批支持者, 但得小心行事, 它的大計簡單但危險, 逗弄獅子使之分心, 阻止兀鷲接近獵物使獅子煩躁不安, 這樣就正中下懷了.
The vulture plays dare goading the lion. Inthe hot sun it is a war of attrition. Their cunningplan has worked. The lion heads for shade. Vultures rush in where others fearto tread. Now it's everyone for themselves. Then the neighbours from hellarrive. Somewhere in the mayhem, everyone eventuallygets something.
兀鷲大膽地挑釁獅子, 在烈日下, 這是一場消耗戰, 奸計得逞,獅子忍不住要去乘涼, 兀鷲湧向其他動物不敢接近之處, 大家趕快地盡情吃, 隨後, 兇神惡煞的鄰居來了, 混亂之中,大家都有所收穫.
詞彙的深度學習：
133. hungry: empty
134. condition: State situation status
135. condition: Illness disease disordercomplaint
136. require: Ask beg demand request
137. require: entail necessitate
138. required: Vital imperative requisite
139. strong:deep
140. strong: Bold bright loud
141. strong: beefy brawny powerful forceful
142. Careful: particular thorough
143. Careful: cautious watchful
144. plan: aim intend propose
145. plan: plot conspire
146. goad: Urge, egg on
147. cunning: foxy tricky sly
148. Fear: terror fright horror scare
149. eventual: ultimate terminal
13.
High in the skies above, the flamingoscontinue their quest for the perfect lake. Just past the equator in centralKenya, they finally find it - Lake Bogoria. Here flamingos gather intheir millions, the greatest concentration on Earth. Breathtaking gatheringslike these happen just once in twenty years. Their bodies become a pinkblanket, veiling the shallows of the lake.
在上方的高空, 紅鸛繼續尋覓理想的湖,終在赤道附近的肯亞中部找到博戈裡亞湖, 數以百萬計的紅鸛聚在這裡, 世上最龐大的紅鸛群. 如此壯觀的集會是二十年一遇, 身體形成一塊粉紅毯子, 蓋住湖的淺水處
For the new arrivals, the lake lives up toits promise. It's brimming with all the algae they can eat. At Lake Bogoriathey can stop for a while, and feed to their heart's content, they have reachedtheir Shangri-la.
對新來者而言, 這湖真如它們所願, 滿是它們能吃的水藻, 它們能在博戈裡亞湖停留一會, 盡情的吃, 它們來到屬於它們的香格裡拉（-天堂）.
But there's trouble in Paradise. Herebaboons have turned killers. And it's not only baboons that hunt in the Lake. Fisheagles always know what's going on, and want a piece ofthe action.
不過天堂也暗藏殺機, 在這裡, 狒狒變成殺手, 而且, 在湖裡捕食的不僅是狒狒, 魚鷹總能掌握形勢, 望能漁翁得利,
They know that baboons hunt in packs,and usually there are leftovers. Staying airborne puts him in pole position. Withbaboons attacking from every direction, the flamingos have little chance.
它們知道狒狒集體捕食, 而且, 通常有吃剩的, 待在天空上使它處於有利位置, 面對四方八面襲來的狒狒, 不少紅鸛難逃一劫,
The pent-up aggression causes fights to breakout. Exactly what the eagle was hoping for. Although he's a hunter,he's never too proud to scavenge. But two can play at the thieving game.
長期壓抑的戾氣使打鬥一觸即發, 正是魚鷹想看到的, 雖是捕食者, 但它亦樂意食腐, 兩雄相遇就是神偷遇上大盜,
A steppe eagle drops in at 150mph. Hesends it packing,but many more are waiting in the wings. Fish eagles are plucky birds, and don'tgive up their food easily. But in the end it's a numbers game. Beatenby overwhelming force, the fish eagle has barelyhad a mouthful.
草原雕以時速150英裡衝下來, 它趕走這對手, 但對手陸續有來, 魚鷹生性勇猛, 不會輕易放棄食物, 但說到底,這是個以量取勝的遊戲, 寡不敵眾, 魚鷹沒吃到多少.
詞彙的深度學習：
150. past: pass
151. stop: prevent, stop, forestall, preclude,keep from
152. piece: bit fragment
153. pack: fillstuff jam
154. packed: jam-packed occupied
155. Exact: Accurate precise correct rightspot-on
156. game: play sport
157. send: consign dispatch forward
158. Beat: hit strike knock pound tap hammer
159. Force:compel oblige obligate
160. bare: Empty blank hollow
161. Bare: naked, not decent, In your birthdaysuit
14.
Vultures are used to competingfor their meals, for a scavenger it comes with the territory. But there is oneplace that usually gives enough to go round- the Grumetti River. All they haveto do is wait for the conveyer-belt of food to arrive. Thisriver is a favourite drinking spot on the wildebeestmigration, but it's also one of the most dangerous.
兀鷲習慣為食物奮戰, 對食腐者來說, 有地盤就有食物. 但有一個地方糧食富饒-格魯柏蒂河. 它們只需待運輸帶送來食物. 這河是角馬遷徙路線上一個喝水點, 但亦是最危險的喝水點之一,
The vulture waits as the crocodilesdemonstrate their lethal skills. By the end of the killing spree, the crocs arefull and there are carcasses to spare. But where there are big crocodiles,there are also little ones. And they have to practice somewhere, even at thishallowed spot, there's no rest for the wicked,a vulture’s life is a never-ending journey to find food.
兀鷲待鱷魚使出致命攻擊, 一輪殺戮結束時, 鱷魚已吃飽,還有屍骸剩下, 不過, 有大鱷魚的地方當然有小的, 它們要在別處練習, 即使在這個天堂, 惡人也不能歇息, 兀鷲的一生就是無休止的到處覓食.
詞彙的深度學習：
162. compete: rival contest vie
163. convey: carry bear cart transport lug
164. drink: down, swallow, knock back
15.
Among the hot springs and geysers of LakeBogoria, the flamingos have finally found peace. But they must be on their guard，the fish eagle is still hungry. He looks for any breaks in theranks. He can't afford to fail this time. Success at last!
在博戈裡亞湖眾多溫泉和間歇泉間, 紅鸛終於找到一絲安寧, 但它們必須提高警覺，魚鷹還沒吃飽，它想找乘虛而入的機會，這次萬萬不能失敗，終於成功了!
As ever, the marabou stork never misses athing. He could spear the eagle with just one jab. It's David versus Goliath. Likeall bullies, the marabou crumbles when challenged, pecking the dirt infrustration. At last, the fish eagle enjoys thesweet taste of success.
一如以往, 非洲禿鸛啥也不會錯過，一下猛刺, 它就能擊退魚鷹，情況猶如大衛跟巨人對戰，禿鸛就如紙老虎, 遇到挑戰就退縮，只能沮喪地啄塵土，魚鷹終能體會成功的甜美了.
The flamingos may have lost one of theirmember, but it's a small price to pay for staying in a pink paradise. With 2million together in peak condition, they can take timeout for dancing. True love blossoms as they mirror each other's actionsperfectly, and lifelong relationships are formed.
紅鸛群或會失去一個成員，但能待在這粉紅天堂, 代價很小了，高峰時二百萬隻聚首一堂，它們還有興致跳跳舞呢，完美地模仿對方舞步, 覓得真愛, 繼而長相廝守，
Soon hundreds join the parade. Theirsynchronised dance，is one of the most beautiful in thebird world. It happens when the birds are fit and truly happy, a prelude tobreeding that occurs only in special years. For the flamingo, it's a fittingend to her journey,
不久數以百計的紅鸛加入巡遊，它們一致的舞姿，是鳥類世界最美的舞蹈之一. 紅鸛健康快樂才能跳出這種舞姿，是極難得的交配序曲, 對於紅鸛, 這是遷徙的圓滿終結.
詞彙的深度學習：
165. Guard: sentry, night watchman
166. enjoy:appreciate savor
167. Taste: flavor tang
168. Taste: try sample
169. peak: top crown tip
16.
But the swallows have a long way to go. Theyhave travelled 3000 miles from South Africa to reach here，but they are still only half way home. A hatch of midges will helppower their journey onwards. It's a vital meal, the swallows still have tocross the Sahara- an area as big as the United States.
但家燕還有很漫長的路要走，它們從南非飛了三千英裡到來，但仍只完成了一半路程，一大堆搖蚊有助驅動它們繼續前行, 這是重要的大餐，家燕還要橫越撒哈拉沙漠，範圍跟整個美國一樣大
The white storks choose a safer but longer route,one that avoids the Sahara altogether. Theyfollow the life-giving waters of the Nile. The swallows rely on oases; withoutthem they could never survive. Meanwhile, common cranes have joined themigration，and are heading out of Africa towards Europe.It's a route that takes them over the Mediterranean Sea.
白鸛選取較安全但較長的路線，完全避開撒哈拉沙漠，它們沿滋養生命的尼羅河前行，家燕要依賴綠洲. 沒有綠洲,它們定熬不過去，同時灰鶴加入大遷徙，準備離開非洲, 往歐洲進發，這路線要橫越地中海。
The storks try to avoid the sea altogether,but things don't always go to plan. Thermals can't form over water, so thestorks are heading for disaster. If a wingtip touches thewater, they will fall in and drown.
非洲禿鸛想避開所有海洋，但世事總難如願，熱氣流不能在水面上形成，這樣, 禿鸛等於自找麻煩，翼尖碰到水,它們就會掉下溺斃.
詞彙的深度學習：
170. route: artery
171. avoid: escape, duck out of
172. Avoid: avert, rule out, nip in the bud
173. Disaster:tragedy misfortune
統計與說明：
1、這篇TheWorld On The Wing 帶出詞彙辨析173組，涉及詞彙628個，同時帶出二級深度詞彙605個，合計1,232個，例句1,826條。
2、上一篇We AreWhat We Learn涉及的詞彙辨析有1690個，兩篇合計為2923個，佔《詞不離句》收錄的詞彙辨析4520個的64.6%。
也就是說，通過精讀這兩篇文章，就把近3000個易混詞攻下來，我們怎麼忍得住不把這兩篇經典文章牢牢地背下來呢？這些統計數字是告訴大家，你的學習程度到達哪個層次。
3、看到如此之多的詞彙辨析，大家不要煩躁，應該感到高興才是，因為學會了它們，你的英語水平就會拔高了一大截！人們在英語的學習過程中，總會有段時間感到進展緩慢，主因就在這裡啦！通過詞彙辨析的學習來突破瓶頸，這樣我們就能擁有一個清晰的英語世界！學了這些詞彙，就掌握了英語的層次表述，可以裝B一下啦，而且還能裝得高大上，別人還看不出來，哈~！要擅於抓重點學習，才能高效，是宋朝大文豪蘇東坡教大家的學習方法！
4. 這篇TheWorld On The Wing，要求背下來，直至《詞不離句》12冊全面學完，都要隨時能背下來。全文約3000字，分為16小節，不用一次性全部背完，每次可以背1小節，在工作之間，課間，候車，或等人的時候都可以背，每天都這樣去做，英語進步就會突飛猛進！為什麼？詳見文末的連結：「優秀其實是一種習慣」！
如下是純英語版：
The World On The Wing
1.
.It's a universal dream to fly like a bird. To soar on wings into theHeavens. But it's nothing compared to the reality. This is our planet seen asnever before- A bird's eye view.
.Theirs is a journey that covers the world, filled with astonishingnatural events - extreme challenges, and hard won rewards. This is the world onthe wing.
2.
.Our story begins at the southern tip of Africa. A bird's eye view ofCape Town's Table mountain, gives no hint of what's stirring in the seas faroffshore.
.Beneath the waves a great gathering is occurring. Its innermostsecrets are known by a bird- the Cape Gannet.
An intelligent and curious creature thatworks as part of a team. Small groups spread out across the ocean, looking forclues that might lead them to the great event.
.They keep their eye on humpback whales as they seek the same reward,but dolphins make even better allies. The two creatures work together. The gannetsare the dolphin's eyes in the sky, from their high vantage point, the gannetscan see what the dolphins can't.
.One finally spots what they're looking for. He dives, a signal toall his followers that they've finally arrived, 20 metres down they reach theirtarget- The Great Sardine Run.
.The biggest fish migration in the world. But at this depth thesardines are quite a challenge. He comes up with nothing. But guiding thedolphins here is about to pay off. They attack from below, breaking up theshoals and driving them to the surface. Now the sardines are much easier tocatch.
.But the commotion also attracts bronze whaler sharks. At every dive,the birds now dice with death. And some hunters could swallow a dozen gannetsin just one gulp.
.Fortunately, Bryde whales are only here for the sardines. Thevictors return to Bird Island-the biggest Cape gannet colony in the world. It'stheir extraordinary knowledge of ocean life, that allows 65,000 pairs to thrivehere.
3.
.Back on the mainland, vultures have an unrivalled knowledge of thecreatures that live on the land, these canny scavengers soar for hours, studyingthe movements of animals. Their all-seeing eyes watch for clues that might leadthem to a meal.
.Ruining animals are a good sign, but lions are even better. But inthe high stakes world of the African bush, the watched also do the watching. Thereis an uneasy alliance between vultures and lions, as both spy on one another tofind fresh meat. This time there's nothing, but she will keep looking.
4.
.Her(註：her（she）是帶攝像頭的禿鷲) birds-eye view reveals many secrets. This S-shaped island isactually alive! It is made up entirely of lesser flamingos. Flamingos may bethe most beautiful and graceful birds in Africa, but they spend their lives inthe most unsavoury of places.
.They wade in toxic soda lakes, the only lagoons where the algae theyeat is found. They filter it from the caustic water with their bills. It notonly keeps them alive, pigments in the algae create their flamboyant colour. Asthe amount of algae varies with the seasons, the flamingos are on a continuequest for the perfect lake.
.But wherever they go, these delicate birds fall prey to hunters ofevery kind. Fish eagles are their main enemy. These clever and solitarypredators, are found over every body of water south of the Sahara.
.They eat mainly fish, but here flamingos are easier prey. Fisheagles have become expert at hunting them. The fish eagle is small and highlymanoeuvrable, but it still won't be easy.
.This battle plays out wherever flamingos roam. For now the lakesalgal bloom gives them all they could wish for, but all good things must end, soonthey will be gone.
5.
.Vultures never get the chance to stop travelling. Her broad wingsride the air for hours, as she searches for the dead or done for. Every featherreacts to the tiniest breath of air, adjusting its angle to perfect her flight.She splays her wing-tip feathers to reduce drag. And uses her tail to steer.
.Her efficient flight is helped by a weather phenomenon, often foundin these hot climes. Dust devils form when the sun bakes the ground, and hotair rises in a thermal, sucking up dirt. Thermals are usually invisible, butvultures know just where to find them, she uses them as express elevators tothe sky.
.Just as she watches other vultures, they watch her too. Sharingtheir knowledge of where thermals can be found. When she finds lift, othersrush to join her on her free ride.
.Gliding from thermal to thermal, she surveys hundreds of squaremiles with hardly any effort at all. A descending spiral of other birds, marksthe spot where a carcass might be found. She folds her wings to lose height, anduses her legs as air brakes, feathers along her wings spring up to slow hereven more.
.With two and a half metres of wing to deal with, landing among treesis a challenge. Once down, the hard bit is finding the carcass. But backup isnever far behind. The spiralling vultures have also attracted the lions, thingscould easily turn nasty.
.Especially as something doesn't seem right. Swallows and carminebee-eaters are here, not the usual suspects at a murder scene. Marabou storks,the undertaker birds, are more like it. But these wily scavengers are not herefor a carcass.
.They're eating termites. The vultures and lions have messed upbig-time. It was an easy mistake to make. A gathering of birds always meansfood. They weren't to know that for them it wouldn't even be a snack, Only thesmaller hooded vulture has the right tool for the job. Much to the lion'sfrustration.
6.
.When messing with lions, the stakes are high. Unfortunately, it's anoccupational hazard. Cape point at the southern tip of Africa, is home toanother bird that mixes with dangerous predators.
.Kelp gulls may not have the charisma of a vulture, but theycertainly know their wildlife. The aptly named Seal island is home to 10,000Cape Fur Seals, the perfect meal if only the gulls were hunters.
.But by studying the seal's behaviour, these inoffensive birds haveput seal meat at the top of their menu. They pick out the youngest, and waitfor them to brave the open waters of the bay. Then look for someone to preparetheir meal.
.A great white shark will do nicely! To be first at the kill means afeast. But the shark has to catch dinner first. The commotion is a signal toother gulls. In the killing season, over 30 attacks happen around Seal Islandeach day. And the gulls have become experts on the Great white's killingtechnique.
7.
.Back on the South African mainland, a very different wildlifespectacle occurs every evening. These are barn swallows - 3 million of them. Theyroost in these reed beds, before travelling 6,000 miles, to their springbreeding grounds in Northern Europe.
.They are well-equipped for their migration, few can beat theiraerobatic skills. They even drink without missing a beat. Their streamlinedbody and long pointed wings, allow them to effortlessly manoeuvre, and theirforked tail helps their sublime control. Taking a bath couldn't be easier.
.Their flying abilities will soon be tested, as they embark on one ofthe riskiest and most epic journeys on earth. But they will not be alone. Inthe skies above thousands of white storks, join them in a race against time, toreach their European breeding grounds. But while swallows flap their wings allthe way, white storks glide on thermals. On a good day the storks can travel300 miles, with hardly any effort at all.
8.
.But flying isn't always such a breeze, they can only travel when thesun shines. Victoria Falls is a major landmark on their journey, 1500kilometers from where they first set off. As the Zambezi river plummets intothe chasm below, it creates huge up draughts, that make the falls a paradisefor soaring birds.
.It's the perfect place for a fish eagle to set up home. It might bewet and wild, but these are the conditions eagles relish. He patrols themile-long canyon, surfing on air pushed up by the falling water.
.Birds understand and feel air currents in ways that are difficult toimagine. As well as detecting thermals, they see their landscape in terms ofhow it shapes and deflects the air. This knowledge allows them to glide withlittle effort, allowing them to concentrate on what really matters- Finding ameal.
9.
.Swooping from the air provides the best element of surprise, 600miles north of Victoria Falls, the thermals that support storks in the airsimply vanish. Below lies the problem- Lake Malawi. The first of many lakes inEast Africa's Great Rift Valley.
.Thermals can't form over water, so the storks have to work hard justto stay airborne. And these soaring birds aren't designed to flap their wingsfor long. But a promising apparition suddenly appears. Dust devils seem to berising from the lake.
.But these aren't thermals. In fact, they're made entirely of flies. Eachmonth, billions of lake flies swirl together, in a huge mating dance, creatingthe biggest swarms on Earth.
.Storks must head inland to find the real McCoy. But flapping flighttakes its toll. Tired storks must make frequent stops to rest and feed. Tornadoesof flies may be useless for storks, but they are a godsend for the swallowstravelling close behind.
.Like the storks, they have already flown over 1,000 miles at thispoint. They too are ravenous. They head into the very heart of the swarm. Swallowsput on little weight before their journey, so must feed at every opportunity. Windfallslike this make the difference between life and death. Refuelled, they continuetheir travels.
10.
.Further north along the Rift Valley, the land opens up into a hugeexpanse of grassland. Here vultures command the skies, soaring up to 5 milesabove the earth. From these heights they can drop down at any time to check outa meal.
.Her favourite scavenging grounds are the Serengeti plains, home tothe largest land migration in the world. Below, around one and a half millionwildebeest perform their yearly journey. Vultures escort the herd, and are anexpert on their habits. especially as they might bring a meal.
.They know the torrential waters of the Mara river, are an accidentwaiting to happen. Thousands of wildebeest must negotiate its dangerous waters,and casualties are inevitable. The crocs have waited a year for this moment. Theywon't waste their chance.
.It's carnage, but there won't be much left for the vultures. But asthe wildebeest reach the other side, a 4 metres wall blocks their path, it's adeath trap. All it takes is just one slip, and there it is: the perfect meal,ripe for the taking.
.Now the arguing begins. The marabou stork is back. He uses his billto dismember carcasses. but he is quite happy to use it as a spear. Vulturesnever get to eat in peace, that's why they always keep moving.
11.
.Flamingos are also driven by the quest for food. In desperate timesmany travel up from Southern Africa, to join East African flamingos as theyseek the perfect soda lake. Just south of the equator is Lake Nakuru, - themost famous flamingo lake in the world.
.The lake is a favourite stopover for flamingos, and thousands canarrive in a single day. But despite its past glory it's now a bitterdisappointment. A change in water quality means little algae grows here now.
.There are other signs of change. Great white pelicans arrive,attracted to the salt-tolerant fish, that have been introduced by localfishermen to the lake. They cruise over the water surface, riding a cushion ofair created by the down thrust of their wings. The recent appearance ofpelicans shows that the lake is changing.
.The flamingos face other problems too. Here scavengers have turnedhunters. The delicate flamingos make easy prey for the hyenas. They need spacefor take off. it's not good to be atthe back of the queue. And to make things worse many have been weakened by alack of food. The hyenas technique is crude but effective. just charge and grabthe slowest. Lake Nakuru has become a dangerous place with few attractions.
12.
.Hungry and out of condition, the flamingos must try their luckelsewhere. Above, the storks continue their migration, but they carry fewreserves and need to make frequent stops to feed.
.Here the open plains are their best chance of catching the insectlife they need. But stopovers bring their own hazards. A hungry lion willhunt anything. Fortunately for the storks, the lions have set their sights onbigger prey.
.On his 6,000-mile safari, the stork must be ready for anything. Somebirds can’t get enough of hunting lions. One vulture has hit the jackpot. Thelionesses have killed, and so too has the male. She makes her choice.
.Finding the carcass is easy, getting it from the owner won’t be! Somesneaky tactics are required. Tip-toeing around the back could be the answer. Hungrylions may be big but they aren't stupid. Dealing with the vulture would be likeswatting a gnat, hardly worth the effort.
.But reinforcements arrive, swelling the ranks. They include the moreburly lappet-faced vultures. She has attracted strong support, but she must becareful. Her master plan is simple but dangerous, tease the lion to distraction.Lions get hot and bothered keeping vultures from their kill. And that's exactlywhat they want.
.The vulture plays dare goading the lion. In the hot sun it is a warof attrition. Their cunning plan has worked. The lion heads for shade. Vulturesrush in where others fear to tread. Now it's everyone for themselves. Then theneighbours from hell arrive. Somewhere in the mayhem, everyone eventually getssomething.
13.
.High in the skies above, the flamingos continue their quest for theperfect lake. Just past the equator in central Kenya, they finally find it -Lake Bogoria. Here flamingos gather in their millions, the greatestconcentration on Earth. Breathtaking gatherings like these happen just once intwenty years. Their bodies become a pink blanket, veiling the shallows of thelake.
.For the new arrivals, the lake lives up to its promise. It'sbrimming with all the algae they can eat. At Lake Bogoria they can stop for awhile, and feed to their heart's content, they have reached their Shangri-la.
.But there's trouble in Paradise. Here baboons have turned killers. Andit's not only baboons that hunt in the Lake. Fish eagles always know what'sgoing on, and want a piece of the action.
.They know that baboons hunt in packs, and usually there are leftovers.Staying airborne puts him in pole position. With baboons attacking from everydirection, the flamingos have little chance.
.The pent-up aggression causes fights to break out. Exactly what theeagle was hoping for. Although he's a hunter, he's never too proud to scavenge.But two can play at the thieving game.
.A steppe eagle drops in at 150mph. He sends it packing, but manymore are waiting in the wings. Fish eagles are plucky birds, and don't give uptheir food easily. But in the end it's a numbers game. Beaten by overwhelmingforce, the fish eagle has barely had a mouthful.
14.
.Vultures are used to competing for their meals, for a scavenger itcomes with the territory. But there is one place that usually gives enough togo round- the Grumetti River. All they have to do is wait for the conveyer-beltof food to arrive. This river is a favourite drinking spot on the wildebeestmigration, but it's also one of the most dangerous.
.The vulture waits as the crocodiles demonstrate their lethal skills.By the end of the killing spree, the crocs are full and there are carcasses tospare. But where there are big crocodiles, there are also little ones. And theyhave to practice somewhere, even at this hallowed spot, there's no rest for thewicked, a vulture’s life is a never-ending journey to find food.
15.
.Among the hot springs and geysers of Lake Bogoria, the flamingoshave finally found peace. But they must be on their guard，the fish eagle is still hungry. He looks for any breaks in the ranks.He can't afford to fail this time. Success at last!
.As ever, the marabou stork never misses a thing. He could spear theeagle with just one jab. It's David versus Goliath. Like all bullies, themarabou crumbles when challenged, pecking the dirt in frustration. At last, thefish eagle enjoys the sweet taste of success.
.The flamingos may have lost one of their member, but it's a smallprice to pay for staying in a pink paradise. With 2 million together in peakcondition, they can take time out for dancing. True love blossoms as theymirror each other's actions perfectly, and lifelong relationships are formed.
.Soon hundreds join the parade. Their synchronised dance，is one of the most beautiful in the bird world. It happens when thebirds are fit and truly happy, a prelude to breeding that occurs only inspecial years. For the flamingo, it's a fitting end to her journey,
16.
.But the swallows have a long way to go. They travelled 5000kilometers from South Africa to reach here，but they arestill only half way home. A hatch of midges will help power their journeyonwards. It's a vital meal, the swallows still have to cross the Sahara- anarea as big as the United States.
.The white storks choose a safer but longer route, one that avoidsthe Sahara altogether. They follow the life-giving waters of the Nile. Theswallows rely on oases; without them they could never survive. Meanwhile,common cranes have joined the migration，and are headingout of Africa towards Europe. It's a route that takes them over the MediterraneanSea.
.The storks try to avoid the sea altogether, but things don't alwaysgo to plan. Thermals can't form over water, so the storks are heading fordisaster. If a wingtip touches the water, they will fall in and drown.
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