THE SECRET LIFE OF THE ZOO

Channel 4, 8pm

Everyone loves a trip to the zoo – especially somewhere like Chester, where animal welfare is a primary concern. Indeed, such establishments offer rare insights into the behaviour and habitats of creatures from around the world, and provide glimpses of a natural world we might otherwise never experience – outside of a David Attenborough documentary.

There are lucky individuals, though, who can get even more up-close and personal with the animals – zookeepers, whose hard work and hands-on care ensure the success of these beloved attractions. Sure, it’s a tough job – and dirtier than most (fancy cleaning out the elephant paddock, anyone?) – but it also allows for unparalleled access to some of the world’s most endangered, and adorable, creatures. That’s why this series, following the behind-the-scenes efforts of staff at Chester Zoo, is so popular.

Now entering into its fifth run, we catch up with the workers and animals at a time when much is set to change.

For starters, the meerkats get some new members, as breeding pair Beagle and Husky arrive at the zoo. However, the move doesn’t go smoothly, as the happy couple’s new neighbours – the aardvarks – seem to be making them nervous. The team decide that the enclosure needs redesigning to afford the pair a bit of privacy.

Meanwhile, the Sumatran orangutans should also be set for some new faces, with sisters Emma and Subis both due to give birth – and, unusually, at the same time too. However, Subis’s labour doesn’t go according to plan, and after 24 hours with no further progress, she’s rushed in for emergency treatment. As the vets are ascertaining the best course of treatment – with a caesarean section becoming ever more likely – they receive a shock that changes everything...

Elsewhere keepers hope that vampire crabs Janet and John might finally mate, but the pair seem shy. They think the introduction of a new, larger male, Claude, will help Janet come out of her shell

Catch up with the residents of Chester Zoo in the new series of The Secret Life of the Zoo