Land of Primates

Millions of years ago, animals were stranded on the shores of Madagascar, leading to remarkable adaptations. A case in point - the ring-tailed lemur.

The lemur's unique features disguise a cunning mind, and it's no coincidence that these primates thrive all over Madagascar. But how have they done it?

This story takes place in the town of Hogsback, a tiny village surrounded by indigenous Afromontane forests atop a mountain in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. This interface between natural habitat and human world is the stage for two interweaving stories.

The Bambelela Troop is a successful troop of chacma baboons that live in a pristine South African valley. But now they aren't the only baboons around.

The gelada is a rare monkey that lives in Ethiopia's Simien Mountains. They're charismatic, vocal, and prone to mixing affection and confrontation.

This documentary provides an intimate look into one of Africas most misunderstood primates. Baboons have complicated relationships and mothers are the glue that binds this baboon family together. They nurture their offspring, preparing them for life in a tight communal group, where trust is earned through care.