Joshua Rivera
Updated on: October 12, 2024 11:10 pm GMT
For wildlife enthusiasts and fans of big cats, an exciting opportunity awaits. For the first time ever, BBC Earth will broadcast a live stream from its natural history camp in Botswana, allowing viewers a unique glimpse into the lives of lions, leopards, and cheetahs. This initiative is set to deepen audience engagement and connect fans directly with the behind-the-scenes action and camera crews.
Live Streaming Event Details
BBC Earth will host the live stream event on September 29 at 2 PM BST, directly from the Okavango Delta. This rare experience will be exclusive to the BBC Earth YouTube channel, which boasts a large following of 12.9 million subscribers. Viewers can look forward to interacting with wildlife camera operators as they share insights about filming the series “Big Cats 24/7.”
Key details about the event include:
- Date and Time: September 29, 2 PM BST
- Platform: Live stream on BBC Earth’s YouTube channel
- Host Camera Operators: Anna Dimitriadis, Gordon Buchanan, Brad Bestelink, and Sets Nthomiwa
- Pre-Event Interaction: Fans can submit questions on Instagram starting September 18
During the live stream, viewers will be treated to real-time answers from the camera operators, providing a deeper understanding of wildlife filmmaking and the challenges faced by the team in the field.
A Close-up Look at Big Cats
The project aims to showcase the natural behaviors of big cats, such as hunting, social interactions, and raising young, all filmed using cutting-edge technology. The first series of “Big Cats 24/7” has already garnered attention on BBC iPlayer and PBS in the U.S. The documentary highlights the challenges lions, leopards, and cheetahs face in the Okavango Delta, considered one of Africa’s last natural sanctuaries.
The camera teams must deal with:
- Extreme weather conditions
- Wildfires
- Unforgiving terrain
It’s no easy task to capture these majestic creatures on film. With innovative tracking technology, the team can follow the movements of these big cats more closely than ever before. The use of low-light cameras also allows them to document behaviors that were previously hidden from view.
Continuing the Journey
Following the success of the first series, the second installment of “Big Cats 24/7” is scheduled for release in 2025. This new series will continue to explore the lives of beloved feline stars while introducing new characters, offering viewers another front-row seat to the life of these incredible animals.
The production of “Big Cats 24/7” is a joint venture between BBC Studios Natural History Unit and PBS. The series is co-produced by an expert team renowned for their storytelling and film-making capabilities.
The Creative Team
A dedicated team is behind the production of “Big Cats 24/7”:
- Commissioned by: Jack Bootle, Head of Commissioning, Specialist Factual
- Executive Producers: Roger Webb and Tom Jarvis
- Series Producer: Rowan Crawford
- Production Manager: Gillian Goodlet
- Commissioning Editor: Sreya Biswas
- Executive in Charge for PBS: Bill Gardner
These experts have a proven track record of delivering high-quality programming that draws viewers into the natural world.
Why This Matters
The live stream event is more than just a chance to view big cats in their natural habitat. It represents a shift in how wildlife content is consumed. By integrating live interaction, BBC Earth fosters a deeper connection between enthusiasts and the natural world.
In an era where viewers crave behind-the-scenes insights, this initiative allows them to experience nature documentaries in a more immersive and engaging way. Fans gain access to the expertise of seasoned wildlife filmmakers, enriching their knowledge and appreciation of these extraordinary animals and the ecosystems they inhabit.
What to Expect from the Live Session
Fans tuning into the live stream can expect a diverse range of activities, including:
- Live Q&A with camera operators
- Explanations about filming techniques
- Insights into the challenges faced in the field
Whether they are budding filmmakers or simply passionate about wildlife, viewers will find ample opportunities to learn from the professionals who bring these stories to life.
Viewing Information
To prepare for the live stream event, fans are encouraged to:
- Follow BBC Earth’s Instagram page for updates
- Submit questions in advance to engage with the team
- Subscribe to the BBC Earth YouTube channel to receive notifications about the live stream
By participating in the event, viewers become part of an expanding community of wildlife advocates and observers.
Conclusion
The upcoming live stream from the BBC’s natural history unit promises to deliver a captivating look at the lives of big cats in Botswana, blending education and entertainment in a groundbreaking format. By providing direct access to wildlife experts and their work, BBC Earth invites viewers to connect with the wonders of nature like never before.
Save the date for September 29! This is your chance to see Africa’s amazing big cats up close and meet the people who study them. You can ask questions, learn more, and discover why these beautiful animals and their homes are so important. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity!
