BOREAL FOREST (Fall and Winter): We see the many preparations and adaptations plants and animals must make to survive the rigors odf winter. Over twenty-five species of animals are shown and a rich vocabulary is presented to give viewers an understanding of the relationship between plants and animals and their environment. BOREAL FOREST (Spring and Summer): Spring is heralded in with an array of natural signals including the melting of snow, the return of migratory birds, and the popping of catkins and leaves. There is a flurry of activity as animals begin courting, mating, nest building and rearing their young. Plants show a profusion of flowers and send out their annual set of new leaves. Summer is thetime for replenishment of living things, both plant and animal. BELOW THE RAMPARTS: We see close-up and habitat shots of many mountain flowers. We see their special needs to live and survive in the mountains. Unique shots of the American Dipper, Golden-Mantled Ground Squirrel, Black Bear and other animals show and explain hibernation, cryptic coloration, and predator-prey relationships. Erosional phenomena caused by water, ice, wind and extremes of temperature are also examined. The beauty of the Canadian Rockies comes to life. LAKESIDE HABITAT: Each spring the lakeside habitat sees the return of shore and water birds. This glorious sight is captured as we see the courtship rituals, nest building, and territorial establishment of these birds. Mallard chicks breaking out of their eggshells, feeding habits, food preferences, and the parental care of the young are but a few of the animal activities examined. LOONS of AMISK: We meet the Common Loon with its eerie call and its remarkable adaptations - pointed bill, heavy bones, torpedo-shaped body and water-proff feathers. Study reveals the habitat requirements in the loon's natural habitat have driven this bird from much of its former range, making it a greatly endangered species. OSPREY'S DOMAIN: The Osprey, a specialized fish-eating hawk, is found throughout most of the world. Its fascinating fish-catching technique of diving underwater and grabbing fish with its talons is shown. Parental care, feeding, the young learning how to fly, and disaster caused by storma are also illustrated. Unfortunately, pesticides and habitat destruction have placed this interesting bird on the endangered species list.