Walking with Monsters

Walking with Monsters brings to life the ancient creatures that inhabited Earth millions of years ago during the Paleozoic era. Narrated by Kenneth Branagh, this BBC series reconstructs the evolutionary journey from the Cambrian Period (530 million years ago) to the Early Triassic Period (248 million years ago). It is divided into three episodes, each focusing on significant evolutionary milestones that shaped the planet’s biological history.

The first episode, “Water Dwellers,” delves into the Cambrian through Devonian periods, highlighting the dominance of oceanic life forms. During this time, the majority of animal life was confined to marine environments. Notable species include Haikouichthys, considered one of the earliest vertebrates, and massive arthropods like Brontoscorpio. The episode illustrates how some species began venturing onto land in search of food and refuge from predators, marking a pivotal moment in evolutionary history.

In the second episode, “Reptile’s Beginnings,” the narrative shifts to the Carboniferous and early Permian periods. This era is characterized by a high atmospheric oxygen content, which allowed land-dwelling arthropods to grow to enormous sizes. The emergence of conifer trees and the evolution of early reptiles are also explored. These developments set the stage for significant ecological changes and adaptations that would influence future terrestrial life forms.

The final episode, “Clash of Titans,” captures the dramatic events of the late Permian through early Triassic periods. During this time, Earth’s climate became increasingly arid and dry. The episode covers the Permian-Triassic extinction event, often referred to as “The Great Dying,” which led to a massive loss of biodiversity. Following this extinction, a warmer climate favored the rise of larger and more diverse reptiles, paving the way for the age of dinosaurs.