Islands of the Vampire Birds

Watch Islands of the Vampire Birds

  • 1999

Islands of the Vampire Birds is a fascinating documentary series produced by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation that explores the mysterious and hidden world of the world's largest seabird, the sooty tern. This bird hibernates in the coral reefs near Australia and ventures out into the open ocean to feed on plankton, fish and squid.

The show is set in the stunning French Pacific territory of New Caledonia, where the sooty terns have made their home among the coral outcrops and sandy islands. The appropriately named 'vampire birds' are nocturnal and breed only at night on the island. Their unique nocturnal lifestyle is a sight to behold, with thousands of birds leaving and arriving on the island every evening and morning.

The show captures the magic of the sooty terns as they fly through the night sky from the ocean to the island. The series outlines the life cycle of these creatures, from the nesting habits of the parents to the survival of the chicks. The cameras capture the harsh reality of the island environment, where predators like rats and ants often find their way into the breeding colonies.

Throughout the series, the filmmakers take us through the incredible journey of the sooty terns, as they migrate for almost half of the year. The birds travel the equivalent of two round-trip journeys around the Earth to return to their breeding grounds. The show explains the challenges that the sooty terns face on their migratory journey, such as the impact of climate change and commercial fishing on their survival.

The Islands of the Vampire Birds series also highlights the importance of conservation efforts to protect the birds and their habitats. The show outlines the research efforts which gather vital information on the specific breeding sites and migratory patterns of the sooty terns to help protect them from potential threats.

One of the striking features of the series is the outstanding visual footage of the birds in their natural habitat. The show features time-lapses, close-ups and breathtaking aerial shots of the islands and the surrounding ocean. The camera work is truly awe-inspiring, capturing intimate moments of the birds' mating rituals and the daily lives of the chicks.

The series also explores the historical and cultural significance of the islands. The director and crew interview the indigenous people of New Caledonia, the Kanaks, who share their knowledge and beliefs about the islands and the sooty terns. The show delves into the Kanak's traditional way of life, culture and celebrations, which all have a connection to the sooty terns and the surrounding environment.

Islands of the Vampire Birds is a five-part series that provides a unique and compelling insight into the natural world. The show is both educational and entertaining, as the filmmakers take the audience on a journey through an impressive and captivating world, one that many viewers might never have known existed. The show is also an inspiring call to action to raise awareness about conservation efforts and the impact that we have on the environment.

In summary, Islands of the Vampire Birds is a must-see documentary that showcases the beauty and fragility of the natural world. The show is informative, entertaining and visually stunning, offering a unique insight into a little-known world. It is a perfect blend of science, culture and storytelling that captivates the viewer from start to finish.

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Description
  • Premiere Date
    October 13, 1999