The series premiere of Big Cats 24/7 takes a look at the lives of majestic lions, graceful cheetahs, and elusive leopards inhabiting the Okavango Delta in Botswana, a region renowned for its untamed beauty as one of Africa’s last remaining wildernesses.
This episode marks the beginning of a six-month expedition, during which the dedicated Big Cat 24/7 team, equipped with advanced filming technology, will tirelessly track these magnificent creatures, capturing their daily lives from unique perspectives, both on the ground and from the sky, even continuing their watch through the night.
Wildlife cinematographer Gordon Buchanan joins the quest, focusing on one of Africa’s largest lion prides as they embark on hunts to sustain their sizable pride, which includes a number of adorable yet hungry cubs. Meanwhile, Anna Dimitriadis, an expert in her field, embarks on a challenging mission to track and film the Okavango’s most elusive big cat, the cheetah, known for its incredible speed and stealth.
Local wildlife filmmaker Brad Bestelink adds a personal touch to the narrative as he reconnects with a familiar face, the leopardess Xudum, whom he has encountered and filmed previously.
However, a sudden turn of events introduces an element of danger as a massive wildfire ravages the area, threatening the lives of the resident big cats and even endangering the dedicated film crew themselves.
Big Cats 24/7 airs Sunday, 25 August 2024, on BBC iPlayer.
