A remarkable new wildlife series is offering viewers a rare glimpse into the lives of some of Africa’s most elusive predators, filmed deep within Zambia’s Luangwa Valley. The programme follows four animal families — leopards, hyenas, lions, and wild dogs — documenting extraordinary moments and revealing the complex relationships within one of the continent’s wildest ecosystems.

Audiences will witness intimate scenes, including five-day-old lion cubs opening their eyes for the first time, as well as dramatic footage such as a pack of wild dogs bravely rescuing one of their own from a crocodile’s jaws — a moment being shown for the first time in this series.

Narrated by Sir David Attenborough, the series also features elephants, baboons and other iconic wildlife, while showcasing the fierce competition and delicate balance between species.

“Everything about these species has been shaped by millions of years of competition alongside each other. Now… humans are changing that,”
— Felicity Lanchester, series producer

Behind the scenes, filmmakers worked closely with scientific researchers, turning rare animal footage into valuable data that supports ongoing conservation work.

Dr Matthew Becker, CEO of the Zambia Carnivore Programme and scientific consultant for the series, said the collaboration provided critical insights on topography, diet, movement, births and deaths, helping shape protection strategies.

However, the documentary also highlights growing threats. Habitat loss, snaring, and dwindling prey numbers continue to put large carnivores at risk. Snares — often set to catch antelope — frequently trap big mammals as unintended victims, disrupting entire animal communities.

In one poignant scene, a wild dog with a missing leg — a victim of a snare — returns to his pack, who accept him and ensure he continues to eat and hunt alongside them.

For those not as fortunate, organisations like the Zambia Carnivore Programme are stepping in. The initiative removes snares, protects dens, and supports law enforcement in tackling illegal wildlife trade and bushmeat poaching.

As the series shows, every animal lost has an impact far beyond a single life — altering pack dynamics, behaviour and survival for generations. In shining a spotlight on these powerful stories, the filmmakers hope to inspire greater support for the region’s fragile wildlife.