The incredible ibex defies gravity and climbs a dam | Forces of Nature with Brian Cox – BBC
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Published -
- November 13, 2019
- 1:30 pm
The spectacular sight of mountain goats defying gravity on a vertical dam wall in Italy, and all because they are have a craving for some of Earth’s elements essential to life.
Professor Brian Cox combines some of the most spectacular sights on Earth with our deepest understanding of the universe to reveal how the planet’s beauty is created by just a handful of forces.
Why is the Cingino Dam considered an insurmountable challenge for most animals?
The ibex, a remarkable species of mountain goat, has been wowing audiences with its incredible climbing abilities. In a recent episode of Forces of Nature with Brian Cox, a BBC documentary series exploring the phenomena of the natural world, viewers witnessed the ibex defying gravity and scaling the Cingino Dam in Northern Italy.
The Cingino Dam stands at an impressive 160 feet tall and is made of concrete. The slick surface of the dam offers little grip for most animals and should, in theory, provide an insurmountable challenge for the ibex. But instead of shying away, the ibex approach the dam with a confidence that belies their small size.
With their sharp hooves and extraordinary balance, the ibex use the smallest crevices and cracks in the dam to climb up to its highest points. They jump from ledge to ledge, pausing only to take a quick rest and survey their surroundings before continuing their upward ascent.
Despite their steep climb, the ibex remain unfazed. Their agility and strength leave onlookers in awe as they effortlessly move up the sheer face of the dam. Their incredible feet offer the necessary traction while their powerful hind legs provide the force needed to propel them up even the steepest parts of the dam.
The ibex continue to amaze and defy conventional understanding of the limits of the animal kingdom. Their unique adaptations and incredible physical abilities make them one of the most remarkable species on Earth. The impressive climb of the ibex only further highlights the awesome power of nature and its ability to overcome seemingly impossible obstacles.
As we continue to explore and study the natural world, the ibex will undoubtedly continue to be a source of inspiration and wonder. Whether it’s climbing a dam or surveying the landscape from the top of a mountain, the ibex reminds us of the incredible diversity and beauty of life on this planet.
