Secret Weapons
(1983)
An entertaining account of insect warfare, Secret Weapons takes a close-up look at these miniscule masters of attack and defense. Using scanning electron microscopy, high speed filming techniques and tiny weights and pulleys, the BBC Natural History Unit conducts an in-depth exploration of an arthropod arms-race.
Action-packed shots record some truly barbaric strategies, beetles spray boiling hot liquid on their adversaries and moths use poison in their courtship rituals. An exciting and educational format sees the impressive technical photography interspersed with informative explanations from Professor Tom Eisner, a pioneer of chemical ecology.
Widely acclaimed for its scientific accuracy, Secret Weapons is a diverting and enjoyable production, providing an insight into an extraordinary and previously unseen world. Winner of the "Scientific Award" at the Wildscreen "Panda" awards ceremony in October 1984