Ep 1. Why Lizard Hides Under Rocks

Tinga Tinga Tales is an animated African folk tale series, which recounts traditional stories and fables, using vibrant colors, music and a variety of animals. In season 1, episode 1, titled Why Lizard Hides Under Rocks, we are introduced to the land of Tinga Tinga, a world full of lively and colorful animals with unique personalities. Viewing the world through the eyes of children, the show tells stories of how African animals came to look the way they do today, and it educates children on important life lessons such as problem-solving, friendship and kindness.

The episode begins with a group of animals, including Monkey, Elephant, Giraffe, Hippo, and Lizard, gathered around a watering hole in Tinga Tinga. The animals are all relaxing and enjoying the beautiful day, when a sudden loud noise startles them and sends them all fleeing. The source of the noise is eventually revealed to be a huge elephant, having a bath in the watering hole.

Despite Elephant being one of the largest animals in Tinga Tinga, the others still run away in fear. Lizard is the last one to run and as he is running, he trips and falls over a rock, revealing his secret hiding spot. The other animals gather around him and start to make fun of him for hiding, and Lizard feels really embarrassed and humiliated.

To help Lizard feel better, Elephant begins to tell the story of how Lizard got his spotless skin. Elephant recounts how, long ago, Lizard used to be very proud of his colorful, spotted skin and would often boast about it to the other animals. One day, a clever and wise hen challenged Lizard to have a race across the savannah. If Lizard won, Hen would give him all of her beautiful feathers and if Hen won, Lizard would have to give up his colorful skin.

The race begins, and Lizard runs as fast as he can, but eventually he tires out and gets out of breath. Hen, taking advantage of Lizard's tiredness, takes a shortcut and wins the race. Lizard loses the bet and sadly gives up his beautiful, colorful skin. From that day on, Lizard has been too ashamed of his plain skin to show it off and started to hide.

The other animals are touched by the story and Elephant tells Lizard that he shouldn't be ashamed of who he is. He tells Lizard that he is unique and special just the way he is, while the other animals chime in and offer Lizard encouragement. Lizard finally feels better and grateful for the kind words of the other animals.

The episode comes to a close as Elephant suggests that they all have a race together. But instead of running, they decide to have a swimming race in the watering hole. Everyone is eager and excited to participate, even Lizard who is no longer ashamed of his plain skin.

In summary, episode 1 of season 1 of Tinga Tinga Tales, titled Why Lizard Hides Under Rocks, is a heartwarming story full of important life lessons. It teaches viewers the value of being unique and that one should never be ashamed of who they are.