The Velvet Claw

30min

Documentary

From big cats to tiny weasels, this series follows the sometimes surprising evolution of the Carnivora - the mammals that eat meat.

Episodes

Cast

The Carnassial Connection

1. The Carnassial Connection

30min

7th Sep 1992

Introductory programme of a seven part series, exploring the evolution of the carnivores as a successful and highly diverse mammalian group.

Sharpening the Tooth

2. Sharpening the Tooth

30min

14th Sep 1992

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.

Strength in Numbers

3. Strength in Numbers

30min

21st Sep 1992

Looks at the evolution of the dog family, how as generalists and through group predation they have filled a successful niche within the Carnivora.

The Rich Man's Table

4. The Rich Man's Table

30min

28th Sep 1992

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

Jacks of All Trades

5. Jacks of All Trades

30min

5th Oct 1992

The rise of bears and raccoons in the Carnivora, exhibit the most diverse feeding patterns of the group: predators, scavenging omnivores, specialist herbivores.

Small and Deadly

6. Small and Deadly

30min

12th Oct 1992

The weasel family - fast, ferociously skillful killers. This is the story of how one family of carnivores opted for smallness as a positive advantage.

It's Tough At The Top

7. It's Tough At The Top

30min

19th Oct 1992

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.

First air date

7th Sep 1992

Last air date

19th Oct 1992

Status

Ended

Type

Documentary

Original language

en

Networks