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Insect Hunting with Africa's Giants

In Insect Hunting with Africa's Giants, narrator Sir David Attenborough explains a unique partnership between carmine bee-eaters and elephants. These birds follow elephants across the African savanna to catch insects stirred up by the elephants' movements. This fascinating collaboration is a perfect example of how different species can work together to survive. This video is excerpted from BBC’s Planet Earth II, a breathtaking documentary series that highlights the natural wonders of our planet.

Planet Earth II

Get up close with wild animals in Planet Earth II, featuring stunning spectacles and intimate encounters shot from the animals' own perspectives. Learn more.

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African savanna
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Lesson Express

Q: How do the carmine bee-eaters get food from the elephants?
A: The bee-eaters catch insects that are stirred up when the elephants move through the grass.

Q: Why is the relationship between the elephants and the bee-eaters important for their survival?
A: The elephants help the bee-eaters find food, and the bee-eaters help keep the elephants free of insects.

Q: How does the time of year affect how the bee-eaters and elephants work together?
A: The seasons affect the number of insects in the area, which means the bee-eaters rely on the elephants more during certain times of the year.

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Bee-Eaters and Elephants: The Perfect Collaboration | BBC Learning Hub