Watch Sky Monsters

Sky Monsters is a thrilling documentary series produced by National Geographic that was first released in 2005. The six-episode series sets out on a journey to reveal to viewers the mysteries and marvels of some of the most impressive flying creatures that we share our planet with.

With breathtaking bird’s-eye footage, computer-generated imagery, and plenty of expert insights, Sky Monsters takes the audience on an epic quest to discover the secrets of the most fascinating creatures that rule the skies. From pterosaurs to bats, and birds to insects, the show explores the biology, behavior, and evolution of these flying wonders. Each episode of the series examines a different kind of flying creature in depth, challenging our preconceptions and revealing the complexities and intelligence of these often-misunderstood animals.

The first episode of Sky Monsters sets out to unearth the secrets of bats – the only mammals with the ability to fly. It reveals how these creatures navigate in the dark, search for prey, and escape from predators. The second episode explores the world of birds from the perspective of their incredibly complex feathers. The show reveals how these feathers not only give birds their flight capability but also provide camouflage, insulation, and communication capabilities.

In the third episode, Sky Monsters takes a deep dive into the world of flying dinosaurs – the pterosaurs. It explores how these flying reptiles ruled the skies millions of years before birds and bats took to the air. The fourth episode scrutinizes the intelligence of pests - insects - and how they navigate their way around the world using their antennae, vision, and smell.

For the fifth episode, Sky Monsters offers a rare opportunity to identify the behavior of predatory birds, such as owls, eagles, and hawks. It explores the unique adaptations of these predators that make them a terrifying force in birdland. In the grand finale of the series, the show uncovers the secrets of flight itself, examining how the various kinds of flying creatures use different aerodynamic methods to stay aloft.

Throughout the show, narrated by award-winning actor Peter Coyote, viewers are introduced to a diverse range of experts and researchers who share their insights and knowledge about these fascinating creatures. From biologists to paleontologists, entomologists to ornithologists, the series unveils the dedicated people studying different aspects of the skies.

Sky Monsters also boasts a delightful soundtrack that captures the mood of each episode perfectly. From intricate sounds of insect communication to the cries of raptors as they soar through the skies, the music transports you to the captivating world that each episode is exploring.

In summary, Sky Monsters is an informative and compelling exploration of the many animals that take to the skies. With its captivating visuals, fascinating expert insights, and engaging soundtrack, it provides viewers with a new appreciation for the complexity and intelligence of these awe-inspiring creatures. It's a documentary that, many years since its original release, remains a must-watch for those fascinated by the wonders of nature.