Our favourite wildlife documentaries
We love sitting down to watch a great nature documentary. While it's never quite as good as seeing wildlife in real life, documentaries are brilliant for taking us to places and seeing animals, insects and plants that we might not otherwise have the opportunity to, and learn about them as well as seeing spectacular footage. There are lots of amazing nature programmes available to stream online and watch on the TV, and we've listed a few of our favourites below. What are yours?
1. Jane, by National Geographic
It's not a surprise that topping our list is 'Jane', and amazing documentary that charts the life and work of our very own Dr Jane Goodall. Directed by Brett Morgan, the film includes never-before-seen footage of Dr Goodall and her chimpanzee research, charting her journey and showing how she revolutionised our understanding of the natural world.Where to watch 'Jane': Disney Plus, available to buy, National Geographic
2. The Green Planet
Plants often get overlooked in comparison to more spectacular animals and insects, but they have an incredible existence, as wild and strange as any animal. Some can live for thousands of year, some have incredible life cycles, and all are a crucial part of life on Earth. This incredible series presented by Sir tDavid Attenborough will open your eyes to the wonder of plants. The BBC Green Planet website also has lots of great resources and activity, so you can learn more about plants, get practical with experiments and more.Where to watch 'The Green Planet': BBC Online, BBC One
3. The Earthshot Prize
Humans are creative and inventive, and when faced with challenges we can work together to come up with solutions. The Earthshot Prize is all about ideas for helping us repair our planet, heal our oceans, restore nature and reduce waste. Presented by Prince William and Sir David Attenborough, each episode explores award winning ideas from around the world.Where to watch 'The Earthshot Prize': BBC iPlayer
4. I Am Greta
Greta Thunberg is a name environmentalists around the world instantly recognise. She is the voice of a generation, holding those in power to account, leading fellow students in climate strikes across the planet, and calling for the immediate change we need to see to save our world. This documentary charts her story, with new footage, and is guaranteed to inspire.Where to watch 'I Am Greta': BBC iPlayer and Amazon Video
5. My Octopus Teacher
This surprising documentary will make you rethink the way you regard ocean animals. It shares the story of naturalist Craig Foster and the octopus he forms an incredible relationship while diving amongst the beautiful wafting fronds of an underwater kelp forest.Where to watch 'My Octopus Teacher': Netflix
Looking for more?
There are some great wildlife documentary suggestions on the Science Focus website and the Discover Wildlife website.