Quick Summary
Autumn follows chipmunks, beavers, musk oxen and beetles as they race to store food, find mates and face the first challenges of life, delivering a vivid wildlife documentary that blends drama and natural‑history entertainment for UK viewers. This RTE2 programming episode of the series, and the episode itself, offers a quick overview at a glance, packed with programme highlights that make it a must‑watch entry in any British TV or UK television guide.
About This Program
Autumn is a four‑part documentary series that follows the frantic rush of wildlife as the season turns. From chipmunks and beavers hurriedly stashing food for the cold months, to musk oxen and beetles battling for mates, the series captures the drama of survival in vivid detail. The final episode focuses on gannet chicks confronting their first challenges, offering a poignant look at fledgling life. Produced for RTE2, the programme blends scientific insight with cinematic storytelling, making it a standout entry in the channel’s natural‑history slate. Each episode delivers a tightly edited narrative that balances close‑up wildlife footage with expert commentary. Viewers will see the intricate strategies of small mammals as they cache supplies, the fierce courtship displays of larger ungulates, and the astonishing aerial choreography of gannets over coastal cliffs. The series is narrated in a calm, authoritative tone, punctuated by occasional interviews with ecologists and conservationists who explain the broader ecological significance of these seasonal behaviours. The pacing is designed to keep UK viewers engaged, with a mix of high‑tension moments and quieter, reflective scenes. The series stands out for its use of ultra‑high definition cameras that capture the texture of autumn foliage and the subtle movements of insects. A recurring visual motif is the contrast between the amber light of early autumn and the stark, bare branches that signal the approach of winter. Highlights include a dramatic chase between a beetle and a predatory spider, an intimate look at a beaver dam being reinforced before the first frost, and a breathtaking sequence of gannet chicks learning to dive for fish. Each episode concludes with a concise “science snapshot” that summarises the main findings, providing full details for the curious viewer. British TV audiences have long appreciated natural‑history documentaries that combine education with entertainment, and Autumn fits that tradition perfectly. The series resonates with viewers who enjoy outdoor pursuits such as hiking and birdwatching, offering a familiar yet fresh perspective on the wildlife that inhabits the British countryside and coastal regions. Its focus on the seasonal cycle mirrors the cultural rhythm of the UK, where autumn festivals and harvest celebrations are still part of the social calendar. The programme’s high production values and accessible storytelling make it a compelling addition to any television guide for discerning UK viewers. RTE2 has built a reputation for delivering quality documentary series that explore the natural world, and Autumn reinforces that brand identity. Positioned alongside other flagship series in the channel’s schedule, it provides a seasonal counterpoint to winter‑focused programmes, ensuring year‑round variety for British TV fans. The series also serves as a bridge for cross‑channel promotion, inviting viewers of RTE2’s drama and entertainment blocks to sample the network’s documentary offering. As an in‑depth review of autumnal wildlife, the programme is a must‑watch for anyone seeking a comprehensive guide to the season’s hidden dramas.
Earth's Great Seasons broadcasts on RTE2 at 4:00pm, Sunday, 21 September 2025. (Subtitles, repeat)