Animal Empires

The macaques of Gibraltar are the only nonhuman wild primates in Europe, raising their young amid the hustle and bustle of the city. Half a world away in Bonaire, expectant flamingo parents spend six weeks building a nest in anticipation of their chicks. What binds these two species together, among others, is an instinctive recognition of the importance of family life, and the lengths theyll go to preserve and celebrate it.

Off the southern coast of Australia, a group of western grey kangaroos enjoys life on the predator-free and aptly named Kangaroo Island. Further south lies Phillip Island, a refuge for the smallest species of penguin in the world. Journey to some of the animal worlds more welcoming natural enclaves.

While seafaring elephant seals and tundra-traversing caribou are impressive travelers, monarch butterflies may be the most amazing migrators of all. Theirs is a cross-generational journey that involves laying their eggs en route, dying, and relying on offspring to finish the trip. Join us as we map their epic travels.