Liz Bonnin reveals story of when David Attenborough was handed a gun to shoot a caiman – and an explosion followed

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Sir David Attenborough will turn 100 on May 8th, but don’t expect a big celebration. He prefers to avoid a fuss, even though he’s sure to be the center of attention on this remarkable milestone birthday.

He’s sure to receive a huge amount of mail – likely hundreds of cards – from people he knows and strangers alike. He’ll also get plenty of calls from family and coworkers, and special messages from members of the royal family. To top it off, a star-studded birthday celebration, hosted by his friend Kirsty Young, will be held at London’s Royal Albert Hall and broadcast on BBC One that evening.

Liz Bonnin chuckles, predicting he’ll be embarrassed by all the birthday celebrations. “He’s incredibly modest,” she explains, “and won’t enjoy being the center of attention or receiving so much praise.”

The event will celebrate Sir David Attenborough’s impact, likely with some unexpected moments alongside presenters Chris Packham and Steve Backshall, and music from the BBC Concert Orchestra. A key focus will be how Attenborough has not only shifted public opinion on environmental issues, but also inspired people – including presenter Liz Bonnin – to actively work towards solutions.

I was nine years old when I first saw the TV series Life on Earth. I was completely fascinated by one of the presenters during the gorilla segment – he was so captivating that it inspired me to change my career path. That’s why I pursued a Masters degree in wild animal biology and eventually started working at the BBC. It was during my early days at the BBC that I finally met him in person.

She had a chance to greet him, but she was so starstruck she couldn’t speak. Later, after getting to know him better, she realized everyone wanted his attention. This happened at the reopening of the Cambridge Museum of Zoology, where Sir David Attenborough, as always, was very popular.

She remembers seeing the curator’s son standing alone in the crowded room. David immediately noticed him and went over to chat, offering his time and kindness. That simple act of generosity showed her who David really was, and it’s a moment she’s never forgotten.

Attenborough recalls a specific event he shared with Liz Bonnin during a virtual interview in 2021.

While filming his Zoo Quest series in British Guiana (now Guyana) in the mid-1950s, he recounted being given a gun by a local rancher and offered the chance to shoot a caiman, a type of South American alligator, that was sunning itself in a swamp.

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He admitted he’d fired the gun, initially without realizing the consequences. The shot caused a powerful explosion, launching a caiman into the air and completely disrupting the peaceful scene. The birds all cried out and flew away, leaving him shocked and horrified. He vowed never to shoot again, and the memory of that moment – witnessing the vibrant life he’d disturbed – has stayed with him ever since.

Bonnin admits it’s a striking case, but the fact that this experience had such a lasting impact on him really reveals his character.

As a 90-minute televised event at the Royal Albert Hall will demonstrate, David Bonnin is a true inspiration to millions, especially those dedicated to conservation work. He’s personally witnessed the powerful effect a simple gesture, like a handshake or encouraging word, can have. Many don’t realize the extensive time David has spent traveling across the country and around the world, building relationships with conservationists and those who shape environmental policy.

If Bonnin could use TopMob to send David Attenborough a birthday message, what would that message be?

This isn’t just a birthday wish; it’s a heartfelt thank you. We’re grateful for your inspiration, your compassion, and for always speaking up for what’s right – for both people and the planet. You show us the best version of ourselves, and we appreciate that.

Authors

Terry Payne

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2026-04-27 20:28