| Summary: | There are more than 10 million species on the planet, but why have some thrived where others have failed? The Wonder of Animals celebrates the most successful animal groups on Earth - from apes to elephants, ants to bears. Discover why, despite appearing clumsy and comical, penguins actually have an anatomy that is perfect for their environment and how the dominance of big cats is down to more than just their brawn. New science is combined with the very latest animal behaviour research and extensive BBC natural history HD archive footage to build a complete picture of each animal, revealing how its unique characteristics have contributed to its success. Chris Packham explores the evolution of the great ape's brain to reveal how different parts have been adapted over time by its anatomy, ingenuity and sociability, culminating in one of the most complex brains on the planet. Chris examines how the ability to use two hands asymmetrically sets the great ape apart from other tool-using animals and how social living is linked to the evolution of the amygdala in both humans and our ape cousins. New research reveals how bonobos' peace-loving reputation may have developed through a similar domestication process to that undergone by our pet dogs.
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