KUOW's THE WILD with Chris Morgan returns in February

Ecologist and award-winning filmmaker Chris Morgan kicks off season 2 with more adventures in the wild.

He takes listeners across the Pacific Northwest and around the world to explore wildlife, the complex web of ecosystems they inhabit, and the colorful human characters that know these places and species best.

This season’s first episode follows Chris to the remote Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard, famous for polar bears, walruses and migratory birds. It’s been eight years since he last visited the island and he is excited — but apprehensive — about what he might find.

"We are doubling down on what we loved about season one," said producer Matt Martin. "We want to teach people interesting facts about ecology but also have some fun while we do that."

Season 2 will also explore the return of the Elwha River after the removal of two dams. In another episode, Chris hops on horseback with a range rider, a group of ranchers seeking a middle ground to protect the wolf and their livelihoods.

You can catch up on all of the episodes from season 1 wherever you get your podcasts now. New episodes will be available starting Tuesday, February 18.