The 80+ Best Wildlife Shows on TV
Experience our magnificent world like never before with this groundbreaking series that takes you on an awe-inspiring journey spanning the globe. Witness breathtaking landscapes, diverse habitats, and unprecedented access to the animal kingdom, all captured with state-of-the-art camera technology.
- Premiered: March 5, 2006
- Network: BBC One
Delve into the extraordinary and intricate lives of various species in this enthralling series. From fascinating behaviors to captivating survival strategies, this eye-opening experience showcases the struggles and triumphs of the animal kingdom, reminding us just how interconnected our planet truly is.
- Premiered: October 24, 2009
- Network: BBC One
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Explore the fascinating depths of our planet's greatest frontier: the ocean. This remarkable series reveals the mysterious and often unseen drama unfolding beneath the waves, showcasing an extraordinary array of marine life, their unique behaviors, and the crucial role the oceans play in our world.
- Premiered: September 12, 2001
- Network: BBC Four
The highly-anticipated sequel to the groundbreaking original brings viewers even closer to our planet's astonishing wildlife and landscapes. With cutting-edge technology and innovative storytelling, immerse yourself in the beauty, wonders, and harsh realities faced by creatures great and small, from remote islands to dense jungles and towering mountains.
- Premiered: November 6, 2016
- Network: BBC One
This pioneering series revolutionized natural history television, taking viewers on a breathtaking journey through the evolution of life on our planet. Join Sir David Attenborough as he reveals the extraordinary diversity of species and ecosystems that have shaped Earth's incredible story.
- Premiered: 1979
- Network: British Broadcasting Corporation
Embark on a global odyssey in this captivating series that explores the relationship between Earth's diverse ecosystems and the creatures that inhabit them. Discover how plants and animals have adapted to their unique environments, and the incredible feats they must accomplish to survive.
- Premiered: 1984
- Network: PBS
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Moving Art
Louie SchwartzbergMoving Art (Netflix, 2014) is an American documentary series crated by Louie Schwartzberg. Louie Schwartzberg highlights the beauty that lurks in oceans, forests, deserts and flowers.- Premiered: 2014
- Network: Netflix
Venture to Earth's polar regions in this extraordinary series that captures the beauty, majesty, and challenges of life in the frozen wilds. From the icy expanses of Antarctica to the Arctic's frigid tundra, witness breathtaking footage of remarkable creatures and landscapes that few humans have ever seen.
- Premiered: October 26, 2011
- Network: BBC One
The long-awaited sequel to the revolutionary original dives back beneath the waves to reveal the extraordinary changes and threats facing our oceans today. With cutting-edge technology, stunning visuals, and powerful storytelling, this series explores the beauty, challenges, and resilience of marine life like never before.
- Premiered: September 29, 2017
- Network: BBCRDB1
Discover the hidden wonders, epic landscapes, and diverse wildlife of America's first national park in this mesmerizing series. From geysers and hot springs to grizzly bears and bison herds, delve into the beauty, drama, and challenges faced by the park's inhabitants throughout the year.
- Premiered: 2009
- Network: BBC HD
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Weird Nature
Ciarán McMenaminGet ready to be amazed by some of the strangest and most unusual phenomena found in the natural world. This captivating series uncovers the bizarre behaviors, peculiar adaptations, and mind-boggling survival tactics that can only be described as, well, weird!
- Premiered: 2002
- Network: British Broadcasting Corporation
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The Private Life of Plants
David AttenboroughRevealing a hidden world rarely seen, this groundbreaking series explores the fascinating lives of plants in remarkable detail. From their ingenious methods of reproduction to their incredible adaptations for survival, witness the astounding lengths these green wonders go to thrive in their environment.
- Premiered: 1995
- Network: British Broadcasting Corporation
Embark on an incredible journey to discover the remarkable variety and adaptability of our planet's mammals. With Sir David Attenborough as your guide, witness the unique behaviors, evolutionary marvels, and diverse habitats that have allowed these fascinating creatures to thrive.
- Premiered: November 20, 2002
- Network: BBC One
Legendary wildlife expert and conservationist Steve Irwin brings his passion, humor, and daring spirit to this iconic series. Relive the thrilling adventures where he encounters some of the world's most dangerous and misunderstood animals, all while educating viewers and promoting conservation efforts.
- Premiered: January 5, 1995
- Network: Animal Planet
Journey into the secretive world of reptiles and amphibians with Sir David Attenborough. This captivating series showcases the amazing diversity, unique behaviors, and incredible survival strategies of these cold-blooded creatures, revealing their vital role within our planet's ecosystems.
- Premiered: February 4, 2008
- Network: BBC One
This long-running, beloved series explores the planet's most fascinating natural wonders and wildlife. Each episode offers immersive, up-close encounters with a vast range of species and environments, providing viewers with a deeper understanding and appreciation for the complex web of life that surrounds us.
- Premiered: October 10, 1982
- Network: PBS
- Sir David Attenborough follows some of the world's most amazing species in ever-changing habitats.
- Premiered: October 22, 2023
- Network: BBC1HD
- Animal expert Coyote Peterson encounters some of the world's most incredible and dangerous animals.
- Premiered: February 9, 2020
- Network: Animal Planet
This breathtaking series transports viewers to the heart of Africa, revealing the continent's awe-inspiring landscapes, extraordinary wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. From the Sahara Desert to the tropical rainforests, experience the unparalleled beauty, drama, and diversity of this vast and ancient land.
- Premiered: November 7, 2001
- Network: BBC Two
Peer into the complex social lives of these majestic giants as they navigate the challenges of life in the African savanna. With stunning footage of their intricate communication, emotional bonds, and tight-knit family structures, this series offers a rare and intimate look into the world of elephants.
- Premiered: 2009
- Network: British Broadcasting Corporation
Venture to one of the most biologically unique places on Earth with this captivating series that explores the island's incredible natural wonders and rare species found nowhere else. Discover the fascinating story of how isolation and evolution shaped this enchanting land and its wildlife.
- Premiered: February 9, 2011
- Network: BBC2ENG
Utilizing state-of-the-art technology, this series reveals the hidden world beneath the ocean's surface. From ancient shipwrecks and natural wonders to the impact of human activity, uncover the secrets lying deep beneath the waves and their profound impact on our understanding of Earth's history.
- Premiered: May 28, 2018
- Network: National Geographic
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The Life of Birds
David AttenboroughDelve into the fascinating world of birds with this groundbreaking series that reveals their astonishing feats of survival, mastery of flight, and complex social behaviors. Experience the unmatched beauty, diversity, and intelligence of these winged wonders through the lens of Sir David Attenborough.
- Premiered: 1998
- Network: BBC One
- 24
Penguin Island
Rolf HarrisDiscover the heart-warming and often comical lives of Australia's smallest penguins as they navigate the trials and tribulations of family life on a remote island. From courtship and parenting to the unique challenges they face in their harsh environment, this delightful series offers an endearing glimpse into the world of these charming birds.
- Premiered: 2010
- Network: BBC Television
Sir David Attenborough brings his unparalleled expertise in this groundbreaking series that examines the incredible challenges faced by animals at every stage of their lives. From birth to adulthood, discover the unique behaviors, ingenious adaptations, and harrowing struggles these creatures must overcome to survive.
- Premiered: 1990
- Network: BBC One
Prepare to be astounded by the incredible lives of the smallest creatures on our planet in this groundbreaking series that offers an up-close and revealing glimpse into their hidden worlds. Witness the remarkable behaviors, formidable challenges, and epic feats of survival that make these tiny wonders truly extraordinary.
- Premiered: October 2, 2020
- Network: Apple TV+
Embark on a global adventure to explore the amazing diversity and adaptations of Earth's creatures. This engaging series takes viewers on a virtual tour of various habitats, revealing the intriguing lives, behaviors, and challenges faced by animals around the world.
- Premiered: 2004
- Network: Smile of a Child TV, Qubo
Get ready for a wild ride, as this thrilling series counts down the most remarkable and extreme examples of animal behavior, adaptations, and survival strategies. From fearsome predators to incredible feats of endurance, learn what it takes for these creatures to make it in nature's toughest conditions.
- Premiered: 2002
- Network: Animal Planet
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the stunning islands and remote corners of the vast South Pacific. This awe-inspiring series captures the region's unparalleled beauty, diverse wildlife, and fascinating cultural traditions, offering a fresh perspective on the world's least explored ocean.
- Premiered: May 10, 2009
- Network: BBC Two
Take a heartwarming journey to Borneo, where a dedicated team works tirelessly to rescue and rehabilitate orphaned orangutans. Witness the incredible progress and friendships formed at this unique sanctuary, as these intelligent primates learn the skills they need to one day return to the wild.
- Premiered: 2007
- Network: Animal Planet
- 31
Planet Earth: The Future
Simon PolandExplore the challenges, opportunities, and potential solutions we face in preserving our planet's precious natural environments and wildlife. Through powerful stories and thought-provoking insights, this series encourages viewers to consider the crucial role we all play in securing a sustainable future for generations to come.
- Premiered: 2006
- Network: BBC Four
Embark on a dazzling journey through Earth's most incredible natural systems in this awe-inspiring exploration of our planet's delicate balance, highlighting the beauty and fragility of our world. Discover how these systems work together to create an interconnected global environment, sustaining and shaping life on Earth.
- Premiered: December 1, 2019
- Network: Discovery Channel
Unlock the mysteries of the nocturnal world in this mesmerizing series that reveals the unique behaviors, adaptations, and lives of creatures after dark. Utilizing cutting-edge technology, experience the astonishing activity and dramatic events that unfold beneath the cover of darkness.
- Premiered: January 29, 2020
- Network: Netflix
Witness the epic scale and drama of nature's most extraordinary phenomena, as this captivating series takes you on a journey through the Earth's greatest spectacles. From awe-inspiring migrations to powerful natural disasters, uncover the remarkable stories and incredible survival strategies behind these unforgettable events.
- Premiered: February 11, 2009
- Network: BBC One
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Pure Nature
Jean-Yves Cauchard, Pascal VasselinExperience Earth's most spectacular natural wonders and captivating wildlife in this mesmerizing series that showcases our planet's breathtaking beauty. Be transported to a world of wonder, amazement, and inspiration, as you witness the incredible resilience and diversity of life on Earth.
- Premiered: 2011
- Network: Discovery
Follow the heartwarming story of a dedicated couple and their small team as they rescue and rehabilitate endangered baby chimpanzees in West Africa. Witness their tireless efforts to provide a safe haven and loving home for these vulnerable orphans, while working towards their ultimate goal of returning them to the wild.
- Premiered: February 14, 2020
- Network: HULUOV
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Life in the Freezer
David AttenboroughVenture to Earth's most extreme and inhospitable environment, Antarctica, in this awe-inspiring series that captures the incredible beauty, isolation, and resilience of life in the frozen wilds. Discover the remarkable creatures and extraordinary landscapes that make this seemingly barren world a place of breathtaking wonder.
- Premiered: 1993
- Network: BBC One
Prepare to be amazed and on the edge of your seat, as you discover the most lethal and fascinating creatures inhabiting Asia's diverse landscapes. From venomous snakes to stealthy big cats, this thrilling series reveals the adaptations, hunting strategies, and powerful weaponry of these notorious animals.
- Premiered: August 10, 2018
- Network: Netflix
Return to the captivating world of meerkat society in this enthralling series that follows the trials and tribulations of a new matriarch and her clan. Experience the drama, friendships, and courageous battles for survival that make these tiny creatures some of the most compelling personalities in the animal kingdom.
- Premiered: June 6, 2021
- Network: BBC America
Get ready for a hilarious and heartwarming journey, as this unique series delves into the fascinating, sometimes embarrassing, and often comical moments of animal communication. With the help of expert narrators and humor, uncover the hidden messages and quirky behaviors exhibited by Earth's diverse inhabitants.
- Premiered: 2021
- Network: ABC
Join an endearing cast of African penguins as they navigate life in a unique South African coastal town, mingling with curious tourists and charming locals. From love triangles to rivalries, this delightful series offers a heartwarming and hilarious glimpse into the lives of these waddling wanderers.
- Premiered: June 16, 2021
- Network: Netflix
Step inside Thailand's world-renowned elephant hospital in this moving series that offers a rare glimpse into the dedication and compassion required to care for these magnificent creatures. Witness the remarkable bond between elephants and their caregivers, as they work together to heal physical and emotional wounds.
- Premiered: 2021
- Network: Discovery+
- Host Rob Riggle celebrates Shark Week with special guests, shark experts, highlights, and previews.
- Premiered: August 4, 2013
- Network: Discovery Channel
- 44
Fierce Queens
Reese WitherspoonCelebrate the power and prowess of female animals in this thrilling series that showcases nature's most tenacious and resourceful queens. From lionesses hunting in packs to mother bears protecting their young, witness the incredible strength and determination these fierce females exhibit in the wild.
- Premiered: 2020
- Network: Quibi
- 45
Naked Science
Eric MeyersDelve into the fascinating world of science and nature in this compelling series that investigates a wide range of topics, from extreme weather and natural disasters to cutting-edge technology and space exploration. Discover the incredible stories, mind-boggling facts, and captivating mysteries that lie at the heart of our ever-changing world.
- Premiered: September 15, 2004
- Network: National Geographic
Join the Irwin family as they continue Steve Irwin's legacy by dedicating their lives to wildlife conservation, education, and rescue at the Australian Zoo. Witness their passion, humor, and unwavering commitment to making a difference for animals and the environment, inspiring a new generation of wildlife warriors.
- Premiered: October 28, 2018
- Network: Animal Planet, Discovery Plus US
- Lemur Street is a British television show produced by Oxford Scientific Films for Animal Planet International which is based on the successful format of Meerkat Manor. The series premièred in the United Kingdom on 20 November 2007 on the UK Animal Planet network with Martin Shaw narrating. On 8 February 2008 it aired in the United States under the name Lemur Kingdom, with fourteen episodes airing until 9 May 2008. It was removed from the air with the return of the channel's top series, Meerkat Manor. It aired in Canada on TVO from 13 February 2008 until 16 April 2008 and on Knowledge from 2 April 2008 until 31 May 2008, using its original name of Lemur Street. Each episode is thirty minutes long. Renowned primatologist Alison Jolly is the series scientific consultant and Joanne Lunt is the producer. Lemur Street was released in a three disc DVD set in the United Kingdom in September 2008 by Eureka Entertainment.
- Premiered: 2007
- Network: Animal Planet
- A glimpse into the lives of the quirkiest animals on Earth.
- Premiered: April 22, 2020
- Network: Netflix
Go behind the scenes of Disney's Animal Kingdom theme park, as this enchanting series reveals the dedicated team working to care for its diverse inhabitants. Discover the whimsical tales, extraordinary creatures, and heartwarming bonds formed in this magical world where wildlife and imagination collide.
- Premiered: September 25, 2020
- Network: Disney+
Hold on tight as you join fearless storm chasers in pursuit of Mother Nature's most powerful and awe-inspiring phenomena: tornadoes. This adrenaline-fueled series explores the extreme lengths, dangerous conditions, and scientific intrigue that drive these thrill-seekers to confront Earth's most violent storms head-on.
- Premiered: October 17, 2007
- Network: Discovery Channel
- Escape to Chimp Eden is a television series broadcast on the Animal Planet network that premiered on February 8, 2008. The series examines the rescue of abused and neglected chimpanzees.
- Premiered: 2008
- Network: Animal Planet
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The Really Wild Show
Janice AcquahGet ready for a unique and entertaining journey into the world of wildlife and conservation with this beloved, long-running series. Featuring a lively mix of expert hosts, heartwarming animal stories, and engaging segments, this show inspires viewers of all ages to develop a lifelong love and appreciation for the natural world.
- Premiered: 1986
- Network: British Broadcasting Corporation, CBBC
Follow the entertaining antics and tests of the crew at Battlebox, as they put survival gear and outdoor products through their paces in a variety of extreme conditions. From waterproof matches to emergency shelters, this engaging series offers viewers practical tips and valuable insights for surviving life's unexpected challenges.
- Premiered: July 3, 2020
- Network: Netflix
Join 13-year-old koala caretaker Izzy Bee on her mission to rescue and rehabilitate injured koalas on Australia's Magnetic Island. This heartwarming series follows Izzy and her family as they work tirelessly to help these vulnerable marsupials recover and regain their place in the wild.
- Premiered: September 15, 2020
- Network: NETAUOV
Step inside one of the largest chimpanzee sanctuaries in the world in this fascinating series that offers a rare glimpse into the complex social lives of these incredible primates. Discover their unique personalities, hierarchical structure, and the dedicated team working to give these intelligent animals a second chance at life.
- Premiered: October 16, 2020
- Network: Disney+
Six couples compete in a series of grueling challenges and unexpected twists, all with one goal in mind: to win a remote Alaskan homestead and embrace a life off the grid. In this gripping reality series, witness the determination, grit, and resilience required to survive and thrive in the wild.
- Premiered: 2020
- Network: Netflix
- Following five of nature's biggest predators in their fight for survival in the wild.
- Premiered: December 11, 2022
- Network: SKYSHOI
- An exploration of how and why animals migrate to reveal the natural world's most compelling stories.
- Premiered: June 14, 2023
- Network: Netflix
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72 Cutest Animals
Graham Mitchell, Bob Humphries, Kym Illman72 Cutest Animals (Netflix, 2016) is an Australian documentary miniseries. The series examines the nature of cuteness and how adorability helps some animal species to survive and thrive in a variety of environments.- Premiered: 2016
- Network: Netflix
- Tales by Light (National Geographic, 2015) an Australian documentary reality series. The series follows photographers from Australia and around the world as they push the limits of their photography skills.
- Premiered: 2015
- Network: National Geographic
- The adventures of baby lions, elephants, penguins, pangolins, and more.
- Premiered: May 5, 2022
- Network: Netflix
- The intimate adventure of baby animals, from the safety of the womb to the uncertainty of birth.
- Premiered: August 18, 2021
- Network: Disney+
- Extreme-weather survivors provide firsthand accounts of catastrophic forces of nature.
- Premiered: May 11, 2021
- Network: Discovery Channel
- Ian Shive uncovers the mysteries of America's unexplored National Wildlife Refuge System.
- Premiered: March 18, 2021
- Network: Discovery+
- Sir David Attenborough explores companionship and survival in the natural world.
- Premiered: October 3, 2021
- Network: BBC1NE
- MeatEater is a non-fiction outdoors hunting television series in the United States airing on The Sportsman Channel starring Steven Rinella. The show first aired on January 1, 2012 and is produced by Zero Point Zero Production.
- Premiered: 2012
- Network: Sportsman Channel
- 72 Dangerous Animals: Latin America (Netflix, 2017) is a nature documentary series presented by Bob Brisbane. Powerful cats, indestructible arachnids, and flesh-melting pit vipers are just the beginning in this series about Latin America's deadliest creatures.
- Premiered: 2017
- Network: Netflix
Carole Baskin, the infamous big cat advocate from Tiger King, takes on the cruel practice of cub petting and backyard zoos in this revealing docuseries. Follow her relentless pursuit to expose exploitation, raise awareness, and rescue captive big cats from unfit and abusive conditions.
- Premiered: November 13, 2021
- Network: Discovery+
- Eight individuals hope to get a spot on shark scientist Dr. Riley Elliott's next diving expedition.
- Premiered: July 11, 2021
- Network: Discovery Channel
- A look at the migration patterns of animals that have been passed down for generations.
- Premiered: November 19, 2023
- Network: National Geographic
- The story of life's epic 4 billion-year journey on Earth.
- Premiered: October 25, 2023
- Network: Netflix
- David Attenborough explores British woodland, grassland, freshwater and ocean habitats.
- Premiered: March 12, 2023
- Network: BBC One
- Traveling from freezing poles to tropical rainforests to meet nature's most captivating giants.
- Premiered: April 21, 2023
- Network: Apple TV+
- Chimpanzees thrive in a Ugandan forest, navigating family dynamics and territorial disputes.
- Premiered: April 19, 2023
- Network: Netflix
- Traveling the globe to meet different families of elephants, each with their own set of behaviors.
- Premiered: April 21, 2023
- Network: National Geographic
- How animal mothers protect their young in the wild.
- Premiered: May 6, 2022
- Network: ROKUCH
- Capturing never-before-seen footage of the world's most magnificent creatures.
- Premiered: November 10, 2021
- Network: Netflix
- Investigating why sharks bite humans, as international experts unravel the threads that link clues.
- Premiered: July 7, 2023
- Network: National Geographic
- From America's coastlines to exotic beaches around the world, shark attacks are becoming more unpredictable. Many of these attacks occur suddenly, in large numbers and in unexpected locations — puzzling locals and scientists alike. Experts investigate these mysterious incidents to discover what is affecting some of nature’s most feared fish.
- Premiered: July 2, 2023
- Network: Nat Geo
- Cameras capture animal attacks, unlikely encounters and animals that portray human traits.
- Premiered: May 15, 2014
- Network: NGWILDE
- Witnessing the teamwork of meerkats.
- Premiered: September 8, 2024
- Network: National Geographic
- Wildlife filmmakers follow the Okavango Delta's big cats.
- Premiered: September 18, 2024
- Network: PBS
- Using the latest audio technology, David Attenborough explores the crucial role of sound in nature.
- Premiered: February 25, 2024
- Network: SKYNAT
- Diving into the science of shark behavior.
- Premiered: July 3, 2024
- Network: National Geographic
- Cutthroat Alaskan bears gorge their way to the top BIG (beefiness, ingenuity and grit) score.
- Premiered: July 11, 2024
- Network: Peacock
- Sir David Attenborough reveals how mammals have conquered the Earth and its environments.
- Premiered: March 31, 2024
- Network: BBC1YAL
- How schizophrenia ripped through the Galvin family, affecting six of 12 siblings.
- Premiered: June 10, 2024
- Network: Discovery Channel
- The interconnectedness of life on Earth.
- Premiered: April 17, 2024
- Network: Netflix
- Never-before-heard sounds from the natural world.
- Premiered: February 23, 2024
- Network: Apple TV+
- Following the fortunes of the world's most formidable apex predators.
- Premiered: April 20, 2024
- Network: BBC America
- Octopuses can transform their bodies to mimic other animals and communicate with different species.
- Premiered: April 21, 2024
- Network: National Geographic
- Adventuring into nine different micro bug worlds around the globe.
- Premiered: January 24, 2024
- Network: Disney+
- Bertie Gregory and his team take viewers deep into the natural world and showcase animal lives.
- Premiered: September 13, 2023
- Network: Disney+
- Five animal families are forced to live together in harsh conditions in Mashatu, Botswana.
- Premiered: August 5, 2023
- Network: BBC America
- An exploration of how African wildlife survives the cycles of draught and rainfall.
- Premiered: April 22, 2023
- Network: BBC America
- Dan Cabela learns how certain creatures play vital roles on the planet.
- Premiered: August 20, 2022
- Network: History
- China's wild lands are so vast and so extreme with creatures seen nowhere else on earth.
- Premiered: September 29, 2019
- Network: NGWILDE
- The hosts catch some of the most poisonous snakes; they encounter life-threatening situations.
- Premiered: February 25, 2014
- Network: NGWILDE, Nat Geo Wild
- The incredible story of some very special meerkat families rescued from the illegal wildlife trade.
- Premiered: May 8, 2021
- Network: Discovery+
- Sir David Attenborough presents Asia, a series dedicated to the wildlife of our greatest continent.
- Premiered: November 3, 2024
- Network: BBCNORD
- Footage of rare animal behaviors, highlighting the intelligence of the natural world.
- Premiered: December 18, 2024
- Network: Apple TV+
- Wildlife rescue staff provide treatment for animals in the wild around Australia.
- Premiered: June 11, 2022
- Network: NETTN
- Giles Clark joins South African wildlife rescue centers caring for orphans.
- Premiered: September 15, 2024
- Network: National Geographic
- Life-long birder Christian Cooper reveals the wild, wonderful and unpredictable world of birds.
- Premiered: March 12, 2023
- Network: Nat Geo Wild
- Traveling the planet to discover the secrets of Earth's few remaining untouched lands.
- Premiered: July 24, 2021
- Network: BBC America