When we venture into the wild, understanding the behavior of the region's apex predator can provide both safety and a sense of control.

Knowledge truly is power.

In grizzly country, we know that wild bears can be dangerous under certain conditions, they generally prefer to avoid humans.

That's why we take safety courses,

carry bear spray, hiking groups, make noise, and store food properly to avoid them as well as we can.

In Mountain Lion territory, we understand these predators are elusive, but still keep dogs

leash to avoid an unnecessary encounter. In the bayous or Everglades, we stay out of the water, knowing alligators and crocodiles

can ambush and kill prey there, including people.

These truths may seem frightening, but they're also comforting, because wild animals tend to

follow predictable behaviors.

When we understand those behaviors, we can prepare, adapt, and minimize conflict.

But what happens when those behaviors start to shift?

Habitat loss, climate change, and human encroachment are disrupting ecosystems and altering animal behavior.

Species that once avoided us are now forced into closer contact,

and in some cases are beginning to see humans as easier prey. When the rules change and behavior

becomes unpredictable, how do we stay safe? And more importantly, are we responsible? And what will it

take to restore the balance in nature?

Welcome to National Park After Dark. Oh, honey, I am so stoked.

I am so freaking pumped.

We are diving into an animal attack episode, which we haven't done in a while. So I am also

very, I've been wanting to know about the story for a while and tell it. So I'm excited to be doing it.

I'm so happy. By the way, everyone, I'm Danielle. And I'm Cassie telling the story. And this is

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