Underdogs
The Unusual Suspects - Photos
Episodic
The hairy frogfish has specially adapted dermal spinules and fins that allow it to be camouflaged, but only if it matches the color of its surroundings. (National Geographic/Jason Isley)
Episode: #104 "The Unusual Suspects"
Air Date 06/22/2025
104_TheUnusualSuspects_Underdogs_18.jpg
Download
As it grows and molts, the mad hatterpillar stacks old head casings on top of its head. Scientists think it is used as a decoy against would-be predators and parasites, and when needed, it can also be used as a weapon. (National Geographic/Katherine Hannaford)
Episode: #104 "The Unusual Suspects"
Air Date 06/22/2025
104_TheUnusualSuspects_Underdogs_24.jpg
Download
The hairy frogfish has specially adapted dermal spinules and fins that allow it to be camouflaged among undersea vegetation. Its first dorsal spine is adapted into a worm-like lure which it unfurls to attract prey. (National Geographic/Jason Isley)
Episode: #104 "The Unusual Suspects"
Air Date 06/22/2025
104_TheUnusualSuspects_Underdogs_20.jpg
Download
As it grows and molts, the mad hatterpillar stacks old head casings on top of its head. Scientists think it is used as a decoy against would-be predators and parasites, and when needed, it can also be used as a weapon. (National Geographic/Katherine Hannaford)
Episode: #104 "The Unusual Suspects"
Air Date 06/22/2025
104_TheUnusualSuspects_Underdogs_23.jpg
Download
The faeder male ruff uses his female-mimic plumage to infiltrate the mating lek without being attacked by other males, where he can sneak in and mate with the females under the other males' noses. (National Geographic)
Episode: #104 "The Unusual Suspects"
Air Date 06/22/2025
104_TheUnusualSuspects_Underdogs_UHD_07.jpg
Download
A female cowbird arrives at a yellow warbler nest. Using the best spatial memory of any songbird, female cowbirds keep track of a network of host nests, monitoring their quality and development over time. (National Geographic)
Episode: #104 "The Unusual Suspects"
Air Date 06/22/2025
104_TheUnusualSuspects_Underdogs_UHD_01.jpg
Download
Experienced long-tailed macaques have learned to snatch smartphones from tourists as they are likely to be offered a high-value barter in return, such as a protein rich egg. (National Geographic/Laura Pennafort)
Episode: #104 "The Unusual Suspects"
Air Date 06/22/2025
104_TheUnusualSuspects_Underdogs_12.jpg
Download
Experienced long-tailed macaques have learned to snatch smartphones from tourists as they are likely to be offered a high-value barter in return, such as a protein rich egg. The macaque may refuse initial low-ball offers of fruit, holding onto the phone until a satisfactory barter is offered. (National Geographic/Laura Pennafort)
Episode: #104 "The Unusual Suspects"
Air Date 06/22/2025
104_TheUnusualSuspects_Underdogs_13.jpg
Download
Long-tailed macaques live among humans in the grounds of Uluwatu Temple in Bali. They sometimes snatch glasses from tourists in order to barter them back for food. (National Geographic/Laura Pennafort)
Episode: #104 "The Unusual Suspects"
Air Date 06/22/2025
104_TheUnusualSuspects_Underdogs_11.jpg
Download
As tourists watch the sunset, macaques position themselves high on the sea wall so they can carefully scan the crowds, looking for objects to snatch. (National Geographic/Laura Pennafort)
Episode: #104 "The Unusual Suspects"
Air Date 06/22/2025
104_TheUnusualSuspects_Underdogs_14.jpg
Download