Experts dissect a 65-foot, 60-ton fin whale that has died after being stranded off the coast of Ireland. Veterinary scientist Mark Evans helps investigate why the animal died and explores its extraordinary anatomy. Whale anatomist Joy Reidenberg and the team work amidst gale force winds, driving rain, blood, intestines, evil smells and freezing conditions. Using dissection and computer graphics, the programme discovers an animal whose closest living relative is the hippo. Meanwhile, evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins explains why the whale’s ancestors may have taken to the water.

Monday 6 July 2009
9:00pm, Channel 4