Watch Galapagos

Galapagos is a documentary series created by BBC Earth and narrated by Tilda Swinton, first aired in 2006. The series explores the unique ecosystem and wildlife of the Galapagos Islands in the Pacific Ocean, a place that has been dubbed as a "living laboratory" due to its abundance of species that have evolved in isolation for millions of years.

Throughout the six episodes of the series, viewers are taken on a journey through the Galapagos Islands, from the diversity of marine life in the surrounding ocean to the volcanic landscapes and the different species that inhabit them. The show also delves into the history of the islands and the impact that humans have had on its delicate environment.

The first episode, entitled "Born of Fire", introduces viewers to the Galapagos and the geological forces that created them. Viewers get to see the volcanic landscapes of the islands and how these formations have shaped the growth of the unique plant and animal life that exists there. The episode also focuses on the region's prehistoric origins, exploring how the first creatures on the island arrived and evolved over time.

The second episode, "Islands that Changed the World", delves into the science behind how different species evolved in isolation on separate islands, leading to the evolution of creatures that are unique to the Galapagos Islands. Viewers learn about the connections between different islands, and how difficult it was for early explorers to navigate these expanses of open water.

"Force of Life", the third episode, delves further into the island's plant life and how it has adapted to the harsh and unpredictable climate of the region. Viewers witness the different methods of survival used by the flora, including the cacti species that serve as a habitat for the islands' unique bird species.

The fourth episode, "Fragile Paradise", explores the ongoing struggle between the islands' delicate ecosystem and human impact. The documentary delves into the work that scientists and conservationists are doing to protect the islands, such as the efforts to eradicate invasive species and reintroduce endangered creatures to their native habitats.

"Hurricane Hell", the fifth episode, focuses on the effects of natural disasters on the islands. The show follows the aftermath of a hurricane that wreaked havoc on the region in 1982, with interviews and first-hand accounts from locals who lived through the experience. The episode also explores how the resilience of the island's creatures allowed them to rebound in the wake of such a disaster.

Finally, "Forces of Change", the sixth and final episode, looks to the future of the Galapagos, exploring how climate change will impact the unique ecosystem and wildlife of the islands, and what steps can be taken to protect them.

Overall, Galapagos is an eye-opening and informative series that showcases the amazing biodiversity and importance of the Galapagos Islands, and the ongoing work that is being done to protect them. Tilda Swinton's narration adds to the informative and engaging nature of the series. A must-watch for anyone interested in wildlife and conservation.

Galapagos is a series that ran for 1 seasons (3 episodes) between and on BBC Earth