Season 1

Episodes

1. 1

   1. The Carnassial Connection

   7 Sept 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. 2

   2. Sharpening the Tooth

   14 Sept 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. 3

   3. Strength in Numbers

   21 Sept 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. 4

   4. The Rich Man's Table

   28 Sept 1992 · 30 min

   Follows the evolution of the hyaenas within the Carnivora, reveals how they have successfully exploited scavenging strategies, to supplement hunting.

5. 5

   5. Jacks of All Trades

   5 Oct 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. 6

   6. Small and Deadly

   12 Oct 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. 7

   7. It's Tough At The Top

   19 Oct 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.