Wildlife on the Small Screen: What’s Coming to ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC in Fall 2026

As summer fades into memory, television is about to undergo a significant transformation. With autumn’s arrival comes the return of beloved wildlife documentaries and the premiere of new series that promise to captivate audiences. This fall, ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC will showcase an impressive lineup of wildlife programming, featuring critically acclaimed returning favorites and innovative new offerings.

New Animal Series Premiering in Fall 2026

Among the newcomers is “Wildlife Odyssey,” a sweeping epic produced by National Geographic that explores the intricate relationships between species in some of the world’s most remarkable ecosystems. Narrated by renowned conservationist Jane Goodall, this series promises to take viewers on a thrilling journey across continents. ABC will also premiere “Urban Jungles,” a gritty exposé of city-dwelling wildlife, from clever raccoons to cunning coyotes.

On CBS, “Wildlife Wars” pits humanity against the unforgiving forces of nature, following dedicated conservationists as they battle to protect endangered species and their habitats. With its mix of high-stakes drama and inspiring triumphs, this series is sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. FOX will premiere “The Last Wild Places,” a poignant exploration of the dwindling number of untouched wilderness areas around the globe.

NBC’s contribution to the season will be “Trophic Cascade,” an innovative look at the interconnectedness of ecosystems through the lens of apex predators. By examining the ripple effects of predator-prey dynamics, this series promises to shed new light on the intricate balance of nature.

Returning Favorites: Beloved Wildlife Documentaries

Some of our favorite wildlife documentaries are back for another season, and we’re eager to see what they have in store for us. “Planet Earth” is once again teaming up with Sir David Attenborough to bring viewers face-to-face with the awe-inspiring creatures that call our planet home. This time around, the focus will be on the majestic mountain ranges of Asia, where snow leopards and red pandas roam free.

Meanwhile, PBS’s flagship nature series “Nature” is premiering a new season focused on the extraordinary lives of birds, from the majestic migratory patterns of songbirds to the cunning strategies employed by crows. Expect stunning cinematography and insightful narration that will leave viewers in awe.

Network-Specific Lineups

Each network has its own unique offerings this fall. ABC’s “Wildlife Odyssey” premieres September 17th at 8/7c, followed by “Urban Jungles” on October 1st at 9/8c. CBS’s “Wildlife Wars” debuts September 10th at 10/9c, while “The Last Wild Places” premieres October 15th at 9/8c.

FOX is launching “Trophic Cascade” on September 24th at 8/7c, and NBC will showcase a new season of “Planet Earth” featuring Sir David Attenborough on October 2nd at 9/8c. PBS’s “Nature” premieres September 19th at 10/9c.

Hosts and Key Creators to Watch

Meet the talented individuals behind these exciting new series. Jane Goodall, a renowned conservationist and primatologist, will be narrating “Wildlife Odyssey.” Her voice has become synonymous with wildlife storytelling, and we’re eager to hear her take on this sweeping epic.

On CBS, acclaimed documentarian Chris Morgan is bringing his expertise to bear on “Wildlife Wars,” a testament to the power of human dedication in the face of overwhelming odds. Meanwhile, critically acclaimed cinematographer Drew Hall is using his unique visual style to bring the majesty of apex predators to life in NBC’s “Trophic Cascade.”

Behind-the-Scenes Insights

Ever wondered how these documentaries are made? This fall, all four networks will offer behind-the-scenes insights into their production processes. On ABC, we’ll get a glimpse into the making of “Urban Jungles,” while CBS is promising an exclusive look at the challenges faced by conservationists in “Wildlife Wars.”

NBC’s “Planet Earth” will feature an intimate portrait of Sir David Attenborough on set, and FOX’s “Trophic Cascade” will take viewers through the intricate process of planning a documentary shoot. Whether you’re fascinated by the logistics or simply want to know what goes into bringing these incredible stories to life, there’s something for everyone this fall.

Fall Schedule: A Guide to Planning Your Wildlife Viewing

As the seasons change and the weather cools, we invite you to join us on a journey through the natural world. With so many exciting new series premiering this fall, it’s essential to plan ahead to make sure you don’t miss out on any of these thrilling wildlife documentaries.

Mark your calendars for September 10th, when CBS will kick off its fall lineup with “Wildlife Wars.” On the same day, ABC will debut “Urban Jungles,” while NBC premieres a new season of “Planet Earth” featuring Sir David Attenborough. Don’t forget to set reminders for the premiere dates listed above – trust us, you won’t want to miss these groundbreaking series.

With this comprehensive guide in hand, you’re ready to dive into the wonderful world of wildlife documentaries on ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and get ready for a wild ride that will leave you inspired, educated, and maybe even changed – for the better.