The Wonder of Animals

- Season 1

(2014)

At first sight, penguins seem ill-suited to their environment - rotund abdomens, stubby little legs and stiff wings appear to make the going tough. But in fact it is these very traits that enable this bird to thrive. Chris explores details of the penguin's anatomy, using new scientific research to reveal how its legs, wings and body shape have allowed it to conquer an extraordinary range of habitats, from deep forests to tropical waters, bustling cities and even the toughest place on the planet - Antarctica.

What specialised adaptions have enabled bears to thrive?

What makes big cats such good hunters?

How do ants collaborate to achieve their global success?

How the fox's senses, intelligence and flexibility helps it compete in the modern world.

Exploring the anatomy and physiology of the world's largest land animal.

How the Great Ape's brain has been adapted by it's anatomy, ingenuity and sociability.

How the crocodile's circulatory system enables it to hold its breath under water.

How Dolphins hunt using a combination of specialised anatomy and complex communication.

How tiny hairs on their wings give bats a detailed air-flow map during flight.

Delving beneath a snake's skin to discover what makes it such a successful predator.

How a bird of prey's anatomical and physiological adaptations help it dominate the skies.