Desert Island Discs David Attenborough on his connection to the natural world
Oct 21, 2025
Sir David Attenborough shares his childhood passion for fossils, recalling the excitement of discovering ancient shells. He reminisces about his eclectic collection, which included ammonites and Roman pottery. The conversation also touches on his early theatrical experiences with his brother, showcasing the artistic spirit of his youth. Attenborough’s deep connection to nature is evident as he reflects on how these experiences shaped his enduring love for the natural world.
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Childhood Fossil Obsession
- David Attenborough vividly recalled finding fossils as if seeing shells no one had seen for 350 million years.
- He described collecting ammonites, belemnites, brachiopods and even Roman pottery in his childhood museum.
Museum Of Curious Finds
- He kept varied items in his collection, including Roman pottery and a two-and-a-half-foot grass snake skin.
- These tangible finds fueled his early curiosity about the natural world.
Early Theatre With His Brother
- David described being roped into amateur dramatics by his brother Richard and cast as a spear carrier and in sketches.
- He recalled performing in a sketch called The Ladies What Come to Oblige and being dressed up as a child lady.