Two in the Bush: The Animals that Vanished
(1963)
Also known as: Programme 5
Charting the adventures of world-famous conservationist Gerald Durrell, The Animals That Vanished details his search for some of Australia and New Zealand's rarest creatures.
Nearing the end of his extensive tour, Durrell embarks on a seemingly fruitless search for the newly discovered takahe in the remote valleys of New Zealand's South Island. He also views kakapos in captivity and undertakes a moonlit hunt for Australia's endangered Leadbeater's possum.
A powerful conservation piece, Durrell and his wife Jacquie examine the preservation efforts that are in place for some of Australasia's most threatened species. Interviewing conservation officials, the programme reveals some of the weird and wonderful schemes that have been implemented to safeguard the most vulnerable populations.
Filmed by the BBC's Natural History Unit over six months, Two in the Bush proved highly popular and helped raise the nation's awareness of many conservation issues.
Two in the Bush: First Steps in a Jungle (1963)
Gerald Durrell
