David Attenborough presents a nature documentary series looking at why mammals are the most successful creatures on the planet.
Cast: David Attenborough
TV-GHDCC
Season 1
10 episodes
1. A Winning DesignFrom the tiniest bat to the massive blue whale, all mammals share the ability to nurture their young on milk and regulate their own temperatures.TV-GCC58minNov 20, 2002
2. Insect HuntersMammals from tiny shrews to giant anteaters have specialised in eating insects. Some have even pursued their prey into the skies.TV-GCC58minNov 27, 2002
3. Plant PredatorsThe plant eaters take on the largely indigestible, spiny and poisonous defences of plants with some spectacular physical adaptations to diet.TV-GCC58minDec 4, 2002
4. ChisellersSpecial tools like chisel sharp front teeth and underground dwelling enable this group of mammals to feast on roots and seeds.TV-GCC58minDec 11, 2002
5. Meat EatersPredators and prey must evolve speed, endurance and manoeuvrability to outwit each other, and the pack hunters must maintain order in the ranks.TV-GCC58minDec 18, 2002
6. OpportunistsA mammal capable of having a varied diet can be highly adaptable and exploit new environments including the cities where they thrive.TV-GCC58minJan 8, 2003
7. Return to the WaterWith perfect streamlined bodies and great underwater speed, seals, dolphins, porpoises and whales became the new hunters of the sea..TV-GCC58minJan 15, 2003
8. Life in the TreesA range of adaptations from sucker-feet to gripping tails help the tree dwellers to survive, and in the dark forest super senses come in to play.TV-GCC58minJan 22, 2003
9. Social ClimbersIn the daily hubbub of monkey life, only those with a talent for social wheeler dealing get ahead, driving the shift towards larger brains.TV-GCC58minJan 29, 2003
10. Food for ThoughtThe natural world was transformed when one great ape began to walk upright - us. But why has this led to the development of our extraordinary brains?TV-GCC58minFeb 5, 2003
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★ 8.4/1020021 season10 episodesEnded
David Attenborough presents a nature documentary series looking at why mammals are the most successful creatures on the planet.
Creators and cast
- Created by
- Michael Salisbury, Sandra Gorel
- Studio
- Discovery, BBC, BBC Studios Natural History Unit
