A recent BBC4 documentary, Oak Tree: Nature’s Greatest Survivor, has been praised for its fascinating and lovely portrayal of a single oak tree in Oxfordshire. Presented by entomologist Dr George McGavin, the film explores the tree's 400-year history, from its acorns to its intricate root system.
The tree, which has stood since the English Civil War, is home to thousands of insects, including a green cricket with ears on its knees and an acorn weevil that drills into acorns to lay its eggs. McGavin's natural, unscripted presentation style has been noted as a refreshing change from typical presenting.
The documentary also highlights the cultural significance of oak, from its use in building ships and cathedrals to its role in flavouring Scotch whisky and producing ink for writing. The film uses time-lapse photography and a laser-created 3D model to bring dendrology to life.
