Another landmark natural history show from Sir David Attenborough and the BBC will air tonight with the legendary naturalist travelling to South Africa.
Meercats are the focus of the first episode of Life Story as Sir David monitors the progress of a new batch of pups born into a meerkat mob, as they take their first tentative steps outside of their underground homes.
"This is when they are the smallest and most vulnerable," the 88-year-old said.
"Many animals face their greatest challenges within days or even hours of entering the world."
Within two months, the young meerkats must learn to catch and eat their own food, and we see a hungry pup being taught to tackle a feisty scorpion.
"It's a test every member of the family has to go through," explained Sir David.
"One of the great benefits of being raised in meerkat society is that adults without young of their own help with the child care for the others.
"They will spend hours teaching the youngsters important lessons, such as how to hunt for food."
This series tells the astonishing and often dangerous story of the journey through life for many different fascinating species.
Sir David details that epic quest in its six vital stages: first steps, growing up, finding a home, gaining power, winning a mate and, finally, succeeding as a parent.
"The drive and inventiveness of animals is breathtaking," he added.
