Part 6/9:
The rise of the Southern Alps, where geological plates collide, showcases a dramatic transformation that has spurred evolutionary changes in various species. As these mountains reached their current heights, they created new niches for wildlife, allowing a myriad of species to thrive in this unique ecology.
The harsh environment of the Southern Alps further forced native wildlife to evolve survival strategies. In these high-altitude arenas, species had to adapt to extreme weather conditions, leading to evolutionary paths that dramatically differ from those of animals in less challenging environments.