Dying for a drink
BBC2, 8pm
WORD has definitely got out about the brand new waterhole that has suddenly sprung up in the middle of Tanzania’s Mwiba Wildlife Reserve.
If there’s an animal grapevine, it’s working well.
Within days of the man- made structure going up i n the harsh African climate, the animals came in their droves, with over 70 species counted in the first few days.
The animals can literally sniff out the water – a much- needed lifeline.
Chris Packham and biologist Ella Al- Shamahi head up the team which has built this waterhole rigged with cameras, meaning we can see intimate animal behaviour 24/ 7.
As the last episode ended, the previously anti- social drinkers had formed a different dynamic, with species visiting the water hole together for protection against big beasts like lions and leopards.
As the hottest time of the year approaches, this episode studies the waterhole as it becomes busier in the cool of night.
But the nocturnal activity brings new predators into the midst– hyenas, who seem to scare off even the mighty lions.
While Chris and wildlife cameraman Bob Poole investigate this hyena clan, Ella explores how waterhole behaviour is changing. Cape buffalo, once regulars, are now nowhere to be seen, while elephants are turning up in big numbers.
There are newcomers too, including yellow- billed storks that are trying to fish, as well as some trespassing cows which have arrived from nearby villages.
Everything ends with a dramatic moment as powerful hyenas surround the waterhole like an animal mafia in the dead of night.