Ten years ago, the BBC debuted it’s amazing series, Planet Earth, which documents beautiful, intriguing, and rare moments of life on Earth. Planet Earth II promises to capture even more amazing moments, taking advantage of significant advances in filming technology. Similar to the original series, Sir David Attenborough will narrate.
Watch the full trailer below:
The oarfish is a rarely seen giant of the deep. Measuring up to 17 meters (55 feet), the oarfish had previously only been seen dead or dying after being washed up on shore. This sighting, by scientists in Gulf of Mexico, may be the first of the fish in its natural habitat.
The creature was spotted using a remotely operated vehicle, which allows scientists to observe sea life at depths that are otherwise unreachable.
For more and to see a video of the oarfish, visit BBC News.
Tasmanian devils have been threatened with extinction because of devil facial tumor disease, a fast spreading cancer. In the past 10 years the population of devils has declined by 60% as a result of the fast spreading disease.
Researchers have found that the tumors are spread through physical contact between devils, most likely biting to the face.
Researchers have also found that cells that are meant to protect nerves are likely the origin of the disease. The implications of this discovery have not been fully realized yet but may include new ways to test for the disease and a potential for an eventual vaccine.
Read more about the discovery at the BBC.
Read more about the Tasmanian devil at Animal Fact Guide.