A majestic alpine ibex stands on a snowy mountain slope in the Alps, its large curved horns prominently displayed. The background is a blurred expanse of snow-covered terrain, reminiscent of a Christmas postcard, emphasizing the ibex in its natural habitat.

Christmas in the Alps

Nature & Wildlife·1 x 50 min·In Development

Experience the magic of an Alpine Christmas! Snowy peaks and and wildlife resilience combine for a breathtaking seasonal journey.

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Genre
Nature & Wildlife
Duration
1 × 50 min
Definition
4K
Audio
5.1
Status
In Development
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Synopsis

Come with us on a magical journey into the heart of the Alps during the most enchanting season, Christmas. The vast winter skies, crisp air, and crunching snow underfoot create a scene of pure wonder. Amid whispering coniferous forests and silent peaks lies a place where tradition and tranquility shape an unforgettable Christmas spirit. 

Across five chapters we explore the fate of the charismatic Alpine wildlife during a special Christmas. As snowflakes begin to transform the landscape and frost seals the waterways, the high mountain animals, like marmots, retreat, while chamois and ibexes engage in their seasonal rituals. 

Despite the beauty, the Alpine winter brings the harsh realities of biting cold and brutal storms. Yet, wildlife like snow voles, hares, and ptarmigans have adapted with extraordinary strategies to thrive. 

Once extinct in the region, the Alps also celebrate a comeback: the bearded vulture once more soars overhead, thanks to determined reintroduction efforts. It fulfills an important role, as it acts as the cleaning crew of the Alpine region and removes animal cadavers before they could spread disease – by devouring them.  

High above, where storms rage, a young golden eagle struggles to flee the fierce weather when he crash-lands and cannot get skyborne again until its feathers are dry. Which means, it’s going to be a long, long night for the little raptor, used to commandeering the skies. 

Snow hares and ptarmigans weather the storm; wolves even make use of the deep snow as they light-footedly hunt down their prey. A brutal winter storm is a stark reminder of the enduring cycle of life and survival. 

Everything is tied together by a delicate, light-weight animal protagonist with big black eyes, endearing little paws and whiskers that guide it even through the darkest moments. Through this little mouse we come to experience the true meaning of Christmas: fellowship, connection, and resilience – culminating in the ultimate Christmas miracle: the quiet wonder of life itself.   

This Alpine Christmas is not just a celebration but a narrative of life and the resilience of nature, where each snowflake and frosty breath is a testament to the simple joys of existence.

Team

Written by Petra Lederhilger
Executive producers Petra Lederhilger, Susanne Lummer, Andrea Gastgeb, Sabine Holzer
Production companies A co-production of Terra Mater Studios and The WNET Group in association with PBS and CPB
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