The BBC regularly broadcasts quality, extremely interesting science programmes that, at least in my opinion, exceeds that which you may find on the popular science and nature channels like National Geographic or Discovery. I just watched the first episode of the new nature series called Life which began airing on BBC One last week. The first episode opens with breath-taking shots of a pod of very smart dolphins that have developed the strategy of kicking up a cloud of mud in a tight circle to entrap the fast moving, hard to catch fish that they call their food. The awe-inspiring footage continued throughout the episode with various other animals and plants.

If this first episode is indicative of what's to expect, then this is definitely a series I would definitely reserve some telly time for. Life is available for viewing and download at http://www.bbc.co.uk/life. If you do watch it, make sure you watch it in HD - it's worth it. There is also some interesting supplementary material on the dedicated series mini-site by the co-producer The Open University.

I would also recommend catching the BBC's Bang Goes the Theory science series which takes a very hands-on approach and is especially great for kids. I love the little projects that Jem undertakes in each episode!