Wild Indonesia

A look at the unique array of animals that inhabit Indonesia’s vast chain of 17,000 islands, from the dinosaur-like komodo dragon to tree kangaroos. Indonesia is nicknamed "The Ring of Fire" as this 3,000-mile chain of 17,000 islands, running from Northern Australia to Asia, was created by volcanic eruptions 150 million years ago. Today there are 155 active volcanoes in Indonesia and one erupts every day, making this the most violent volcanic region on Earth. With 150 million people, Java is the most densely populated island in the world and it has the largest Buddhist temple - the stunning ruins of Borobudhur that date from the eighth century.

Indonesia’s seas are home to a variety of life including batfish and the mimic octopus. While off the island of Sulawesi, the Bajau people, known as sea gypsies, live on the water. Indonesia is one of the world's natural wonders. In its underwater wonderland, flamboyant reef fish, huge manta rays and shimmering schools of barracudas ride the strong currents that flow between the 17,000 islands that form stepping-stones between Asia and Australia. The coral reefs are the rainforests of the sea. The people of the sea are as fascinating as the wildlife. Off the island of Sulawesi the Bajau people, known as sea gypsies, live on the water.

Despite all the destruction, two thirds of Indonesia is still jungle. As their islands connect Australia to Asia, it is a unique meeting point for wildlife from East and West. Kangaroos in trees and flying foxes - nowhere else on the planet are their animals as weird and wonderful as in the forests of Indonesia. Despite all the destruction, two thirds of Indonesia is still jungle and, as the islands of Indonesia connect Australia to Asia, it is a unique meeting point for wildlife from East and West. Magical forests enters the steamy jungles of Borneo, Sumatra and Java where highly endangered Asian elephants and hairy rhinos still roam.