Guano: Liquid Gold
Prof Adam Rutherford and Jessica Fostekew discover how bird and bat poo became a highly prized treasure - transforming agriculture, fuelling wars and supporting ecosystems.
The Infinite Monkey Cage returns for a brand-new series, with Professor Adam Rutherford and comedian Jessica Fostekew swinging into the cage as guest presenters. In this first episode, they investigate guano, the remarkable bird and bat droppings that despite their pong were once prized as "liquid gold". Joined by ecologist Professor Kate Jones, ornithologist Professor Tim Birkhead and comedian Zoe Lyons, they explore how guano transformed agriculture, fuelled global trade, inspired the development of gunpowder and supports entire ecosystems. From vast seabird colonies to bat-filled caves, the panel reveals the surprising science and extraordinary history behind one of nature's most useful (if not slightly gross) substances.
Producer: Mel Brown
A BBC Studios Production
On radio
Broadcasts
- Thu 15 Oct 202611:00BBC Radio 4
- Sat 17 Oct 202619:15BBC Radio 4
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The Infinite Monkey Cage
A witty, irreverent look at the world through scientists' eyes.
