Watch out for a new series that starts on Friday BBC2 at 9pm which explores the natural wonders of the Galapagos. This is a new three-parter series which will bring the volcanic archipelago to life. So what makes the Galapagos so special?
Location - The Galapagos lies slap bang in the middle of a volcanic hotspot. Eruptions have created a string of 13 main islands and more than 100 smaller outcrops. Because of its isolation and protection from human contact, it has allowed 95% of its endemic species to survive.
Birds and Marine life - Galapagos finches and the Blue-footed Booby are part of the rich array of fascinating birdlife on the islands. The marine iguana is the only sea lizard and they started off as land lizards but lack of food forced them to take to the waters to feed. Despite this they still spend their days warming up in the sun.
Giant Tortoise - The Galapagos were named after these reptiles but sadly, because passing sailors used them as highly valued food, there are now only 15,000 left. The giant tortoise weighs the same as four men and can live for 200 years, making it the world's longest-living animal.
For more information visit www.gct.org. Don't forget BBC2 on Fridays at 9pm!
I have only just seen this documentary and I found it astounding. The photography was stunning and it has inspired me to not only text my friends to tell them to catch the repeats this evening, but also to go there for my next adventure.
Posted by: Ben Robinson | February 09, 2008 at 09:30 PM
I missed this showing of the Galapagos and would like to know if there is a DVD or other media that could be purchased? I recently, went on a dive trip to the Galapagos with my 15 year old son and would love to have another video.
Posted by: Tom Aham | December 29, 2006 at 10:48 PM
I am currently at 6th form and my favorite subject is geography. This programme was totally inspirational... thank you -x-
Posted by: Jenny | November 02, 2006 at 08:19 PM
I luckily caught the repeat episodes last weekend and I found it very interesting, especially the effects the El Nino had on the wildlife, and I agree the photography was spectacular. I hope you enjoy reading our blog, let me know if there is anything you would like to see or if we can improve or make it more interesting!
Posted by: Karen | October 17, 2006 at 11:37 AM
The photography was superb, but the commentary was dreadful. Whose idea was it to use Tilda Swinton? She sounded half asleep, the commentary itself was jerky, with long pauses and a pattern of short sentence, pause, sentence, pause. And personally we thought the music too was intrusive, particularly during the first programme.
Still - a marvellous part of the world. Hope "we" don't spoil it.
Audrey Rostron
Bolton, Lancs
Posted by: audrey rostron | October 13, 2006 at 11:58 PM
You can order the documentary at www.amazon.co.uk
Posted by: ant | October 10, 2006 at 10:51 PM
For the last 20 years I have taught a course on Darwin and the Galapagos Islands. This past June 2006 my class met some of the BBC Galapagos film crew in the islands and were able to view the series demo DVD. It is the highest quality Galapagos footage I have ever seen. It is spectacular, and I have been trying to secure a copy for my class ever since. Do you know when the series will air in the USA and if it is possible to get a copy of the DVD and demo DVD as well?
Posted by: Fred Caporaso | October 09, 2006 at 09:11 AM
My wife is Ecuadorian and therefore I have been to the Galapagos on various occasions to explore and predominantly dive with the three main shark species, sea lions, manta rays and other sights etc. This is without doubt the best documentary on the Galapagos I have witnessed. Congratulations. Jeremy and Cristina...
Posted by: Jeremy Freeman | September 29, 2006 at 10:54 PM