The 'Science and Nature' tab on BBC iPlayer can be overwhelming, with dozens of documentaries to choose from.
We've done the hard work for you, and rounded up some of the classics of the genre. There are plenty of David Attenborough documentaries here, many of which you'll be familiar with, but there are also a few you may not have heard of, telling wildlife stories from around the globe.
Best wildlife documentaries on BBC iPlayer
The Americas
Following a US release, The Americas is now available to stream in the UK on BBC iPlayer, visiting various vast landscapes across North and South America.
Produced by BBC Studios Natural History Unit (creators of Asia, Frozen Planet IIand Springwatch) in association with Universal Television Alternative Studio, The Americas is a 10-part series about the extraordinary wildlife found in iconic habitats across the Americas. Witness extraordinary, untold stories in locations such as the Amazon, the Caribbean and the west coast. From critically endangered sand tiger sharks hunting around an old shipwreck to the bear that inspired Paddington, it features plenty of never-seen-before-behaviour.
Joanna Page’s Wild Life
Join Gavin and Stacey star Joanna Page as she finally follows her lifelong dream to become a wildlife rescue volunteer, trying to master the three Rs: rescue, rehab and release.
Asia
David Attenborough’s 2024 series Asia visits some of the continent’s most breathtaking wild places, from the vast, hostile arid deserts to the frozen north. Find out about where Asia was filmed here – and how to watch Asia online.
Africa
The 2013 series from David Attenborough and the BBC’s Natural History Unit takes us to Africa to meet the animals surviving in the extreme environments there.
Attenborough and the Giant Sea Monster
Pictured above, David Attenborough investigates the fascinating discovery of the pliosaur – a prehistoric sea monster.
"This film is about the discovery of the skull of an extraordinary monster of the seas – one of the biggest predators the world has ever seen," says David. "The skull is the most important part of an animal, and what you can deduce from the skull is absolutely fascinating.
- Sir David Attenborough talks about unearthing one of the biggest carnivorous creatures the world has ever seen
- Terrifying prehistoric sea monsters: 10 menacing ocean creatures that you'll be glad aren't alive today
A Perfect Planet
The five-part series A Perfect Planet was first released in 2021 and shows how humans can become a force for good if we care for the miraculous planet we live in. It shows the essential value of oceans, volcanos and animal survival strategies, and how weather and humans can shape the lives of animals across the globe.
Big Cats 24/7
Get up close to the big cats of the world, as the BBC meets the lions, cheetahs and leopards at home in the wilderness, and those who are ensuring their survival.
Back from the Brink
Libby Penman showcases some of the most exciting nature conservation success stories from across Europe. Find out more about the animals that have survived extinction here.
Birdsong
This film follows ornithologist Seán Ronayne’s mission to record the sound of every bird species in Ireland.
The Blue Planet
Watch this classic 2001 nature documentary, which features many creatures and behaviours that had previously never been filmed. The Blue Planet explores the history of the world’s oceans across eight episodes.
Dynasties
Delve into the lives of some of the world’s most captivating animals as they fight for their families’ survival, with narration for Dynasties by David Attenborough.
Eden: Untamed Planet
Although many areas of the world are overpopulated, some remain entirely untouched. Eden: Untamed Planet visits the secrets of Alaska, Patagonia, the Galapagos, Luanga, Namib and Borneo.
Frozen Planet
The beloved 2011 series Frozen Planet takes viewers to the polar regions to meet animals that survive – and thrive – in these extreme conditions. If you need more, Frozen Planet II is also available to stream.
Life
David Attenborough’s 2009 series Life looks at the extraordinary lengths animals and plants go to in order to survive.
Mammals
Visiting the mammals that exist on every continent, David Attenborough reveals how these creatures must survive in a variety of conditions. Find out more about the Mammals documentary here.
The Mating Game
The rules of courtship for different animals are fascinating – and vastly differ between the species. In The Mating Game, David Attenborough reveals the spectacular scenes of courting and companionship in the jungles, grasslands and oceans across the globe.
Planet Earth
Filmed over four years across 64 different countries, Planet Earth is a true celebration of the natural world. After you’ve finished it, you can then watch Planet Earth II, Planet Earth III and Planet Earth: A Celebration.
Seven Worlds, One Planet
Across the seven continents of the globe, the BBC reveals the extraordinary wildlife stories and unseen wildernesses. Find out more about Seven Worlds, One Planet here.
Wild Isles
Looking a little closer to home, David Attenborough celebrates the wonders of British wildlife. Find out more about the Wild Isles filming locations here.
Zoo Quest
Ever wondered what David Attenborough’s very first documentary was? Well, it was this – and you can watch the 1956 series Zoo Quest on BBC iPlayer.
Top image: Attenborough and the Giant Sea Monster (credit: BBC Studios)