George McGavin, Steve Backshall and Gordon Buchanan: I’ve just watched “Lost Land of the Volcano” on BBC1. Sadly, I’ve missed the other episodes of this series – watching Jamie Oliver in America. A real shame, because this was the most entertaining hour of TV I’ve watched in a long time – and quite possibly the best wildlife documentary in years.
The 3 scientists were based on Mount Bosavi, New Guinea, with the aim of discovering new species of animal. George in particular seems a real character, completely ignoring the flying rocks erupting from the volcano and being overcome with excitement at bugs in the surrounding ash! The most amusing moment was watching his excitement at being covered in moths whilst in the rain forest. Truly, like a child in a sweet shop.
What was fascinating was the incredible amount of undiscovered species (40) in this most amazing and dense rain forest- the animals clearly were unused to humans and totally unafraid, being happy to be picked up and stroked. Not that I personally would have liked to have stroked a giant rat (about the size of a cat). However, I’d quite happily have the rather lovely Bosavi Cus Cus as a pet at home – warming my feet as it lies on my bed…..Or maybe not. Enough for now. I’m getting a bit carried away. Back soon…..