NORDIC WILD

As the bitter Arctic winter loosens its grip, Scandinavia's young animals explore their home. But the gentler seasons won't last long; these bear and fox cubs, barnacle goose chicks and young owls are going to have to grow up fast.

Autumn on the tundra is mating season for the mighty musk oxen - shaggy giants colliding at speeds of up to 40 kilometres per hour as females wait for the victor. Elk, capercaillie and dear also battle for opportunities to breed.

For some of the North's inhabitants, such as Sweden's sea eagles, the frozen seas of winter make hunting hard. But for others, like the majestic polar bears, summer and the melting ice make for hard and hungry times.

Life in Scandinavia isn't easy, but its animals have strategies for survival. The Arctic fox conserves heat brilliantly, and is furry down to the soles of its feet. Meanwhile, on Iceland, a tough breed of horse has evolved to thrive in harsh conditions.