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“We didn’t want to be preachy”: David Attenborough’s unexpected new show
The great naturalist, who is about to turn 100, is still surprised by wildlife in his new series about British gardens. But not every pet owner will be happy with his top tips
TL;DR
- David Attenborough's new BBC series, Secret Garden, focuses on the natural history found in UK gardens.
- The series producer, Bill Markham, hopes the show is relatable, emphasizing the importance of local wildlife.
- British gardens are described as potentially as diverse as tropical rainforests and cover a larger area than national nature reserves.
- The program aims to reduce eco-anxiety by offering viewers actionable tips to help wildlife.
- Suggested tips include putting bells on cats to reduce bird deaths and keeping cats indoors during bird breeding season.
- The series also addresses the impact of introduced pheasants on native insects, reptiles, and amphibians.
- The show draws parallels to the impact of Blue Planet II in reducing plastic pollution.
- Markham hopes the show will be comforting for those experiencing eco-anxiety, emphasizing individual actions in gardens.
- Highlights include filmed footage of a pine marten hunting sand martins, an otter hunting ducks, and mayflies and damselflies fighting.
- Secret Garden airs from April 5 on BBC One and iPlayer.