My account Basket
David Attenborough holding a Goliath Beetle
David Attenborough holding a Goliath Beetle

The Royal Entomological Society is proud to celebrate the 100th birthday of Honorary Fellow, Sir David Attenborough, one of the most influential and respected voices in natural history.

For decades, Sir David has transformed public understanding of the natural world through pioneering broadcasting and storytelling that has brought biodiversity, ecology and entomology into homes across the globe. His work has inspired generations to look more closely at the living systems that sustain life on Earth and to recognise the extraordinary importance of even the smallest creatures.

Through landmark programmes spanning forests, deserts, grasslands and oceans, Sir David has consistently highlighted the critical role insects play in ecosystems, from pollination and decomposition to food webs and environmental balance.

His ability to communicate the complexity, beauty and wonder of insect life has helped elevate public appreciation for species that are too often overlooked despite their immense ecological importance.

His tireless work has inspired countless naturalists to take more of an interest in the little things that run the world, and his enthusiasm for the natural world has encouraged others to engage with the fields of ecology, conservation and entomology.

Picture shows: David Attenborough with a morpho butterfly © BBC/Mark Carwardine TX: BBC One Wednesday, November 30 2005 Just when you thought there was no more of the natural world left to film, Sir David Attenborough returns to TV screens in a landmark new series revealing that he has yet to film most of the animals in the world. Although they are all around, these creatures' lives often go virtually unnoticed. Now, using the latest technology, BBC ONE takes viewers into their world to discover the amazing stories of the most successful creatures on Earth: the invertebrates. Cameras capture not just bugs, beetles, spiders and scorpions, but also the most amazing butterflies, dragonflies and a host of incredible creatures never before seen on television. The invertebrate world is one of magnificent spectacles. David takes viewers to Taiwan to see swarming purple crow butterflies, to Africa to witness an army of Matabele ants raid a termite colony, and to North America in time for the great emergence of 17 year cicadas. Warning: Use of this copyright image is subject to Terms of Use of BBC Digital Picture Service. In particular, this image may only be used during the publicity period for the purpose of publicising 'Life in the Undergrowth' and provided by the copyright holder is credited. Any use of this image on the internet or for any other purpose whatsoever, including advertising or other commercial uses, requires the prior written approval of the copyright holder.

Image: David Attenborough with a morpho butterfly © BBC/Mark Carwardine, TX: BBC One Wednesday, November 30 2005

David Attenborough with Sarah Meredith, RES Conservation Project Officer in 2013

Image: David Attenborough with Sarah Meredith, RES Conservation Project Officer in 2013

Sir David Attenborough has long been a champion for science communication, conservation and biodiversity awareness. His work has encouraged curiosity, supported environmental education and inspired countless entomologists, ecologists, conservationists and nature enthusiasts around the world.

As an Honorary Fellow, the Society recognises Sir David not only for his extraordinary contribution to nature itself, but also for his lifelong commitment to advancing public understanding of the natural world and the urgent need to protect it.

At a time of growing environmental challenges, his voice continues to play a vital role in raising awareness of biodiversity loss and the need for collective action to safeguard ecosystems for future generations.

On this remarkable milestone, the Royal Entomological Society extends its gratitude and warmest congratulations to Sir David Attenborough on his 100th birthday.


Share your stories and photos with us by tagging @royentsoc on social media


See also