Trials of Life

The first episode examines the various methods by which creatures come into the world. Attenborough’s opening statement alludes to the annual spawning...

This programme describes the ways that various species care for their young. Attenborough defines childhood as achieving two tasks: growing and surviv...

The next installment is devoted to the ways in which animals gather their sustenance. Attenborough begins in the South American rainforest, where the...

This episode looks at those that hunt other creatures and ways of avoiding capture. Attenborough is attacked by a pair of skuas as he approaches their...

This programme explores forms of navigation. Attenborough starts in Africa at dusk, by describing some of the species that don't rely on sight. The sp...

This installment deals with how animals construct their shelters from the elements and predators. Burrows and holes can provide considerable refuge, a...

This episode focuses on those species that co-operate and depend on (or exploit) others. Spotted deer follow langur monkeys as they travel from tree t...

This programme details how fighting - both physical and psychological - is used for food, land or to gain a mate. Territorial conflict is demonstrated...

This installment investigates the ways in which those animals that live in social groups interact with each other. The solitary eagle is contrasted wi...

This episode concentrates on communication. In Kenya, Attenborough accompanies a tribesman who calls to a honeyguide, which in turn answers him and le...

This programme surveys the methods employed in attracting a mate, mainly those of birds. The Indian florican inhabits long grass, and so is difficult...

The final installment illustrates how species fulfill their ultimate raison d'être and ensure that their genes are passed on to the next generation. I...