Ep 12. Origin of Cute

72 Cutest Animals is a soothing yet informative nature documentary that aims to explore and showcase some of the most adorable and fascinating creatures found across the planet. Season 1 episode 12, titled 'Origin of Cute', looks at the history and evolution of cuteness in the animal kingdom, and how certain features and behaviors have helped these animals survive and thrive.

The episode starts off by introducing the concept of cuteness and how it is a powerful and universal phenomenon that transcends cultural and linguistic barriers. The narrator mentions how humans tend to find certain physical attributes and behaviors, such as big eyes, round faces, playfulness, and clumsiness, irresistibly cute, and how this phenomenon has been studied extensively in psychology, biology, and even marketing.

The show then takes a closer look at some of the animals that are commonly considered cute, from puppies and kittens to otters and pandas, and explores how their physical characteristics and behaviors have evolved over time. For instance, the narrator explains how baby animals tend to have more exaggerated features, such as larger eyes and heads, than adult animals, which makes them appear more helpless and reliant on their parents, making it easier for them to receive care and protection.

The episode also features some lesser-known creatures that are surprisingly cute, such as the tarsier, a tiny primate with huge eyes and a peculiar head structure that is found in Southeast Asia. The tarsier is so cute that it has even become a sort of mascot for some tourism campaigns, but it is also threatened by habitat loss and hunting.

Throughout the episode, the show highlights the various ways in which cuteness is not just a superficial or arbitrary quality, but has real-world implications for the survival and success of these animals. For example, the narrator describes how some animal species have evolved to mimic or exploit the cute features of other animals in order to survive. The mimic octopus, for instance, can change its shape and color to resemble other animals, such as sea snakes and lionfish, to deter predators.

The episode also touches on the darker side of cuteness, particularly in the context of captive or domesticated animals. The narrator explains how some animals, such as foxes, have been selectively bred for their cute features, often at the expense of their health and well-being. Similarly, some exotic or wild animals are captured and sold as pets or attractions because of their cuteness, leading to widespread cruelty and exploitation.

Overall, 'Origin of Cute' is a thought-provoking and entertaining episode that offers a nuanced and engaging exploration of the complex and fascinating world of cuteness in the animal kingdom. Whether you're a fan of puppies and kittens or obscure critters like the blobfish and the aye-aye, this show is sure to make you smile and learn something new about the amazing creatures that share our planet.