Secret Life of the Forest
Filmed over one year, this four-part series reveals the spectacular beauty of England's largest forest, Kielder, as it changes through the seasons. Situated in one of the wildest and most remote parts of the country, it's home to some of Britain's greatest and most secretive wildlife, from red squirrels to pine martens, feral goats to water voles and a variety of birds of prey. Despite its rich collection of wildlife, Kielder Forest didn't even exist one hundred years ago.
Episodes
Migratory birds return after the winter, and a beaver family's effects on the forest.
Summer in the forest brings blooming orchids and wildflowers and the buzzing of pollinating insects. At the pond, another litter of baby beavers is on the way.
A heatwave strikes in Yorkshire - potentially deadly for some creatures. Fortunately for the resident beavers, their cleverly-constructed dams create deep ponds of cool water.
Having built a dam over 70 metres long, the beavers move on to other projects. Young fawns and badger cubs investigate their suroundings, and herons target ponds teeming with life.
Young beavers bond with the family, learning about grooming and tree chewing. Plus, we find out about the Lumberjills; women who worked in the forest during WWII and meet two rescue dogs.
Autumn's on the way, and it may be time for some of the young beavers to leave home. At night time there are animals on the hunt, and humans documenting the forest's moth population.
Deep in the forest, the search is on for a rare creature to spot - the pine marten.
Autumn in Dalby and Cropton Forests is showtime for fungi. We revisit the beaver family, catch up with apprentice Holly, and meet the dogs competing in special event the Canicross.
