Animal Exploration with Jarod Miller (qubo, Syndicated)

In ANIMAL EXPLORATION WITH JAROD MILLER, zoologist Jarod Miller goes face-to-face with critters both great and small to find out what makes each one special. He travels around the world to meet the animals, chat with other experts, and share his discoveries about creatures' special traits and lifestyle with his audience. Through his hands-on experience, viewers will gain new respect for the diversity of the animal world and learn about how humans affect its continued prosperity.

Animal Exploration is steeped in kid-friendly educational material. Miller and the other experts often exchange interesting facts -- some of which are also displayed in pop-ups on the screen -- that are sure to stick with kids long after they turn off the TV. Each episode also has a central theme that groups critters of all shapes and sizes by some shared trait ("Camo, Ammo, and Other Amazing Skills," for example). Viewers will be surprised to find similarities among seemingly unrelated creatures like insects and large mammals, and they'll start looking at the animals they see in a different way because of it. (Who knew that a butterfly's speed could give a cheetah a run for its money?)

This fun series also works well for kids thanks to its fast pace and Miller's obvious excitement over the animals he meets; his giddy enthusiasm will encourage kids' own interest in the subject matter. Miller also isn't afraid to connect with his young audience via a bit of silliness; in one segment, for instance, he hung from a branch next to a two-toed sloth to see how long he could last in the animal's lifelong position.

TV Rating: TV-G
Network: qubo
Cast: Jarod Miller
Genre: Educational
Where to watch: qubo