What Animals See

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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that What Animals See is an informative documentary that delves into the visual mechanics of animals ranging from insects and mollusks to fish and raptors. Animated visuals showing the structure and mechanics of the eyes depict blood vessels and eye socket shapes in a scientific manner. Some animals are shown hunting other animals, though no blood is shown. A mantis shrimp is described as being violent enough to break the glass of an aquarium when provoked.
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What's the Story?
In WHAT ANIMALS SEE, Professor Thomas Cronin of The University of Maryland, Baltimore, patiently and thoroughly describes the different types of vision that animals possess. Visuals that accompany his informative narrative show how it might be to see the world through a dog's eyes, or even a shrimp's eyes. This short documentary allows viewers to visualize how the UV vision of coral reef fish might look, as well as what a dragonfly sees while it's hunting. Professor Cronin's narrative guides the way for viewers to learn about the complex vision capacity of animals large and small.
Is It Any Good?
Educational, inspirational, and fascinating, this documentary literally looks through the eyes of various animals that inhabit our planet. What Animals See investigates the way animals see, exploring why they have evolved to see the way that they see. Though it's a scientific exploration of the vision capacity of animals on Earth, there is a sense of excitement and wonder that is relayed in the telling (and showing).
Kids who have wondered what their own dog or cat can see will feel satisfied when watching the simulated video of their pets' vision. Curious adults will feel inspired by the complexity of life that exists both in the trees in the backyard and in the bottom of the ocean. Great educational content for home viewing.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the science behind What Animals See. How have different animals evolved to become specialized over the millennia? What do humans specialize in?
Curiosity is a character strength that is exhibited in animals with highly developed brains. How do you use your curiosity to explore the world around you?
Animals like insects and mollusks have complex methods of communication. How do you use your ability to communicate every day? How can you develop your communication skills?
TV Details
- Premiere date: June 24, 2021
- Network: HBO Max
- Genre: Educational
- Topics: Bugs, Cats, Dogs, and Mice, Ocean Creatures
- TV rating: NR
- Last updated: June 30, 2021
Our Editors Recommend
For kids who love animals
Themes & Topics
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