Ep 1. The First to Fly

David Attenborough's Conquest of the Skies is a three-part documentary series that explores the evolution of flight in animals. Each episode focuses on a different aspect of flight, from the earliest beginnings to the most advanced techniques used by modern birds and insects. In the first episode, The First to Fly, Attenborough looks at the origins of flight and the incredible adaptations that allowed animals to take to the air.

The episode begins with a look at the Devonian period, around 370 million years ago, when the first animals began to venture onto land. Attenborough explains that these early creatures relied on strong limbs and robust skeletons to move on land, but in the air, they encountered a whole new set of challenges. To fly, an animal needed to be light, yet strong, with specialized wings that could generate lift.

Attenborough then moves on to look at some of the earliest winged creatures, including pterosaurs and Archaeopteryx. He explains how these animals used their wings for different purposes - pterosaurs for gliding and flying, Archaeopteryx for short bursts of flight. It becomes clear that there were many different ways in which early animals evolved to take to the skies.

One of the highlights of the episode is a detailed look at the anatomy of birds, particularly their feathers. Attenborough explains how feathers evolved from reptile scales and how they are vital for providing lift and maneuverability in the air. He also talks about the complex design of a bird's wing, with its different muscles, bones, and ligaments, and how this allows birds to control their flight with incredible precision.

Another fascinating aspect of the episode is the look at insects and their unique flying abilities. Attenborough films a variety of insects in flight, from the hovering hawkmoth to the acrobatic fly. He explains how insects use their wings in ways that are very different from birds, relying on vortices and complex wing motion to stay aloft.

Throughout the episode, Attenborough weaves a narrative that links all these different aspects of animal flight together. He shows how the evolution of flight was a slow and gradual process, with animals adapting to new challenges and opportunities as they arose. He also emphasizes the incredible diversity of creatures that have evolved to fly, from the mighty albatross to the tiny bee.

Overall, The First to Fly is a fascinating and informative look at the origins of flight in animals. Attenborough's trademark enthusiasm and expertise shine through, making this episode a joy to watch. It sets the stage for the rest of the series, which promises to delve even deeper into the world of animal flight.