Springwatch's Chris Packham was left with his head in his hands after telling co-star Michaela Strachan she had 'ruined' his segment during the latest episode of the BBC nature show.
The duo were broadcasting live from the National Trust Crom in Northern Ireland on Tuesday, June 9, when the hilarious blunder occurred.
Near the end of the programme, the pair began discussing limpets, the aquatic snails known for clinging to seaside rocks. To illustrate his explanation, Chris used a replica of a limpet as a demonstration tool.
'Over the last 500 million years, on at least 54 occasions, those gastropods have evolved into having this conical type shell,' the host informed audiences, explaining this was an example of convergent evolution.
Michaela added that limpets have adapted to thrive in their intertidal zone habitat, saying: 'They need to cope with extreme, changing conditions, so when waves come in, they get buffeted, and that cone shape distributes energy of waves in a very efficient way.'
Despite centuries of belief that limpets adhered to rocks through suction, Chris revealed that this is incorrect. 'It's two types of bioadhesive, essentially glue,' he stated.
The TV star then demonstrated how limpets attach to rocks using the replica. As his demonstration progressed, Michaela began sliding the replica across the table to show what he was describing.
She then inadvertently removed the makeshift radula (part of the limpet), causing Chris to bury his head in his hand. 'You just pulled the radula off. Honestly,' the host sighed.
Shortly afterwards, Michaela picked up the limpet replica and balanced it on her head. 'I think it's time for me to get into my little scar, to put my head on and enjoy a mindful moment with the sights and sounds of the forest,' she quipped.
Chris dropped his head in his hand once more, saying, 'You've ruined it.'
When the camera cut back to the presenters, Chris announced, 'Michaela's had her limpet confiscated. Thank goodness for that!'
Chris and Michaela are set to return for two more episodes this week before the current series concludes on Thursday, June 11. Springwatch airs on the BBC.
