Mammals, 7 April 2024, BBC One, “The New Wild”

In this episode of Mammals titled The New Wild, viewers will explore the evolving relationship between humans and mammals in a rapidly changing world. The episode, airing on Sunday 7 April on BBC One, highlights the impact of human activities on the planet and the resulting challenges faced by mammals in their quest for survival.

While mammals have mastered their environments over millions of years, the rapid changes brought about by human activities have forced them to adapt. Some mammals have found clever ways to thrive in this new wild, while others require human intervention for their survival.

The episode takes us to the fish markets of Chile, where sea lions have easy access to food but face conflict with stray dogs. In Singapore, a daring family of otters has learned to cross busy highways, but some struggle to keep up, making it difficult to reunite with their family.

The programme also showcases the impact of human activities on elephant habitats and the conservation efforts to protect them. It highlights the challenges faced by hippos in Tanzania due to water diversion for agriculture, and the refuge found by Indian wolves in abandoned minefields.

The New Wild also touches on the domestication of American bison and the impact of palm oil plantations on pig-tailed macaques. It emphasises the importance of balance and the need to protect wildlife habitats.

Mammals: The New Wild airs on BBC One at 7:00 pm on Sunday, 7 April 2024.