Watch David Attenborough's Ant Mountain

David Attenborough's Ant Mountain is a stunning nature documentary that takes viewers deep into the hidden world of ant colonies. Through breathtaking close-up footage and Attenborough's classic narration, viewers are introduced to the fascinating lives of these tiny creatures, who build complex societies and work together to survive in a harsh and competitive world.

The film begins with an overview of ant biology, explaining their anatomy and behavior. Although they are tiny, ants have incredible strength relative to their size and can lift objects many times heavier than themselves. They also have a sophisticated communication system based on pheromones, allowing them to leave trails for their fellow ants to follow, and to identify and assist each other when needed.

The main focus of the film is on a particular colony of wood ants living in the forests of Sweden. These ants are particularly fascinating because they build towering nests made of twigs and leaves, which can reach over a meter high. The film crew uses specially designed camera rigs to capture these nests up close and show the incredible detail of the ants' construction techniques.

As we follow the daily routine of the wood ants, we see them engaged in a variety of tasks, from foraging for food to tending to their young. We learn how they protect themselves from predators, such as birds and spiders, and how they work together to repair damage to their nest caused by wind or rain.

One of the most dramatic scenes in the film shows a battle between the wood ants and a gang of raiding ants from a neighboring colony. The two groups engage in a fierce struggle, with each ant fiercely defending their own territory. Attenborough explains the complex strategies used by both sides to gain an advantage, including the use of camouflage and chemical weapons.

The film also spends time exploring the relationship between wood ants and other creatures in the forest ecosystem. We see how they interact with other insects, such as aphids and caterpillars, in symbiotic relationships that benefit both parties. And we learn how wood ants play a critical role in shaping the forest environment, by spreading seeds and clearing away dead wood.

Throughout the film, Attenborough's narration is full of fascinating facts and insights into the world of ants. He highlights their incredible intelligence and resourcefulness, and their remarkable ability to adapt and survive in a changing world. We also get a sense of the challenges facing ants today, such as habitat destruction and climate change, and the urgent need to protect these amazing creatures for future generations.

Overall, David Attenborough's Ant Mountain is a beautiful and captivating documentary that will appeal to anyone with an interest in nature and the wonders of the animal kingdom. It is a powerful reminder of the intricate and delicate balance of life on our planet, and the importance of protecting all the creatures that make it so special.

David Attenborough's Ant Mountain is a 2019 documentary with a runtime of 52 minutes.