BBC Studios Natural History Unit Unveils Pair of New Wildlife Titles

BBC Studios Natural History Unit is set to launch two new wildlife specials—Meerkat: A Dynasties Special and Penguins: Meet the Family.

Meerkat: A Dynasties Special, narrated by Sir David Attenborough, follows the story of a young meerkat queen on a quest to establish her dynasty in one of the harshest places on earth, the Makadikadi salt pans in Botswana. Made by BBC Studios Natural History Unit and co-produced by BBC America and BiliBili, it is premiering on BBC One and BiliBili this holiday season.

Narrated by Liz Bonnin, Penguins: Meet the Family introduces viewers to every single species in this bird family, bringing viewers on a journey through dense forests, desert burrows and city streets, from the Equator to Antarctica. Made by BBC Studios Natural History Unit, the special will bow on BBC One.

Julian Hector, head of BBC Studios Natural History Unit, said: “We’re thrilled to be bringing these two brand new natural history specials to viewers. In a year of such challenging times for everyone, seeing the world through the lives of such characterful animals we hope will bring joy and warm hearts and homes this festive season.”

Mike Gunton, creative director and executive producer at BBC Studios Natural History Unit, said: “Dynasties is back this festive season with a story like no other. Follow the twisting and turning tale of Maghogho and her clan and find yourself on the edge of your seat as they strive to battle both the elements and their enemies. This special shows viewers a whole new side to meerkats, and demonstrates the power of family unity through hardship.”

Doug Mackay-Hope, executive producer at BBC Studios Natural History Unit, said: “What I love about this show is that many of us feel we know penguins and yet if asked, most have no idea that there are 18 different varieties out there. From the striking snares penguin with its punk hairstyle to the little penguin with its blue feathers. In Penguins: Meet the Family we celebrate all of them for the first time, giving viewers a unique opportunity to meet and enjoy this much-loved animal family in a whole new light.”