About this season
From big cats to tiny weasels, this series follows the sometimes surprising evolution of the Carnivora - the mammals that eat meat.
Episodes (7)
1. The Carnassial Connection
Aired 7 September 1992 • 30 min
Introductory programme of a seven part series, exploring the evolution of the carnivores as a successful and highly diverse mammalian group.
2. Sharpening the Tooth
Aired 14 September 1992 • 30 min
Explores the many different members of the cat family and their rise over 40 million years to represent a powerful group of predators within the Carnivora.
3. Strength in Numbers
Aired 21 September 1992 • 30 min
Looks at the evolution of the dog family, how as generalists and through group predation they have filled a successful niche within the Carnivora.
4. The Rich Man's Table
Aired 28 September 1992 • 30 min
Follows the evolution of the hyaenas within the Carnivora, reveals how they have successfully exploited scavenging strategies, to supplement hunting.
5. Jacks of All Trades
Aired 5 October 1992 • 30 min
The rise of bears and raccoons in the Carnivora, exhibit the most diverse feeding patterns of the group: predators, scavenging omnivores, specialist herbivores.
6. Small and Deadly
Aired 12 October 1992 • 30 min
The weasel family - fast, ferociously skillful killers. This is the story of how one family of carnivores opted for smallness as a positive advantage.
7. It's Tough At The Top
Aired 19 October 1992 • 30 min
Looks at the development of top carnivores and asks if they are really masters of their world or long term losers? The winners are the small carnivores.