The Research Behind the Documentaries
Sexual reproduction can be quite a tricky process, involving an array of selective pressures that produce intriguing behaviors across species. Male-male competition is one common form of sexual selection and includes a variety of processes, such as direct combat. For example, look at the male-male competition that occurs within the wild ass populations of the... Continue Reading →
There are many misconceptions regarding the physiology of one of the most bizarre denizens of Africa’s plains: giraffes. First and foremost amongst these misconceptions is the origin behind the giraffe’s elongated necks. Several different theories exist to explain this physiological oddity, though none of them have been conclusively proven as the primary reason for the... Continue Reading →
At first glance the Draco lizard looks like your typical lizard, a small scaly reptile with clawed feet and a long tail. However, these lizards have an extraordinary feature that allows them to easily travel throughout their environment. The Draco lizards have wings! These wings are not analogous to the wings of a bird, but... Continue Reading →
In Life: Season 1 Episode 10, David Attenborough explores the social interactions and behavior of various primates that live around the world. Particularly in the Congo Basin, many populations of Western Lowland Gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) inhabit the dense rainforest. Living in family packs, gorillas are led and protected by one silverback male. As the... Continue Reading →
It appears that, just like us, Gelada baboons love to network. In Season 1, Episode 1 of Planet Earth, David Attenborough describes how, like other primates, Gelada baboons use morning time as a chance to groom. However, unlike other primates, the Geladas chatter constantly during grooming in an effort to network with others. The Gelada... Continue Reading →
According to David Attenborough in Planet Earth, Season 1, Episode 8 “Jungles”, fig trees and other fruiting trees are very valuable, causing many monkeys to be territorial. Siamang Gibbons claim their territory through their calls, starting with a duet between the dominant male and female and then spreading through their group. But how does this... Continue Reading →
The Evolution of Planet Earth 