Since early humans began walking across Earth’s timeline, animals have been part of our daily existence. From cats to dogs and birds to bunny rabbits, humans have conquered much of the animal kingdom, and learned to keep a cautious distance from the rest. But, the animals we see today have been here millions of years before us. And, like humans, they’ve gone through some big changes.
When Whales Walked: Journeys in Deep Time, which premieres at 8 p.m., June 19 on the Oklahoma Educational Television Authority (OETA) explores the evolution of today’s animals by looking through the fossil record to their earliest ancestors.
When Whales Walked traces the origin stories of some of the world’s most spectacular creatures. This program takes viewers on a global adventure, from Abu Dhabi to Argentina, Kenya to China, to investigate clues from the fossil record. Through innovative storytelling, 3D graphics and CGI, When Whales Walked brings these ancient beasts to life.
An early crocodile built like a greyhound, ancient whales that walked the Earth on four legs and early ancestors of the elephant that were the size of a rabbit, When Whales Walked examines where today’s animals came from and sounds the alarm each of these survivors face in a changing climate.
Narrated by Lee Pace (Guardians of the Galaxy, Lincoln), When Whales Walked is part of a first-ever partnership with the Smithsonian Channel and the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History. It will also be simulcast on the Smithsonian Channel.
OETA provides essential educational content and services that inform, inspire and connect Oklahomans to ideas and information that enrich our quality of life. We do this by consistently engaging Oklahomans with educational and public television programming, providing educational training and curriculum, outreach initiatives and online features that collectively encourage lifelong learning. For more information about education curriculum and programs, local productions, digital television, community resources and show schedules explore OETA.tv or visit us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.