Sir David Attenborough Once Accidentally Shot and Killed a Reptile During Filming — And Never Picked Up a Gun Again

Sir David Attenborough, one of the world’s most beloved wildlife broadcasters, has shared a haunting memory from his early days on television. Nearly 70 years ago, while filming in South America, he accidentally killed a caiman — a type of alligator — and the moment stayed with him ever since.

The story came to light through wildlife presenter Liz Bonnin, who spoke with Our Planet II wildlife documentarian Sir David ahead of his milestone 100th birthday on May 8. Bonnin shared the details with Radio Times, describing how the incident clearly left a deep mark on the veteran broadcaster.

According to Bonnin, the moment took place in the mid-1950s during production of Sir David‘s early BBC series, Zoo Quest. He was traveling through Guyana in South America when a local cattle rancher handed him a gun and invited him to shoot a caiman resting in a nearby swamp.

In a conversation with Bonnin, Sir David recalled what happened next: “There was an explosion and the caiman arched into the air with a huge splash and the entire scene was destroyed. I sat there appalled. It was the first and last time I shot anything.”

Bonnin reflected on the story, telling Radio Times that the fact it had stayed with him for so many decades says a great deal about his character. She also noted that Sir David is not likely to enjoy the spotlight as his centenary approaches. “He will not be comfortable with all the love and the gushing because he is just so modest,” she said.

Radio Times has placed Sir David Attenborough on its front cover as part of a special birthday edition. Fellow wildlife presenters Steve Backshall and Chris Packham also appear in the magazine, sharing their own memories of working with the celebrated conservationist.

Meanwhile, the BBC has announced a special live celebration event to mark the occasion. Hosted by Kirsty Young, the evening will be broadcast live from London’s Royal Albert Hall. Broadcasters including Sir Michael Palin, Steve Backshall, and Chris Packham will come together to honor Sir David‘s extraordinary legacy.

The event will also feature musical performances. Dan Smith, frontman of Brit Award-winning band Bastille, will join the BBC Concert Orchestra to perform Pompeii, the track featured in Planet Earth III. Icelandic band Sigur Ros will perform Hoppipolla, which was used in promotions for Planet Earth and Planet Earth II.

The evening will blend iconic wildlife footage from the BBC‘s natural history archive with personal tributes from those who have worked alongside Sir David across his remarkable career. As reported by The Independent, the full account of his filming regret and birthday celebrations is part of a wider tribute to one of television’s greatest voices.

Sir David Attenborough turns 100 years old on May 8, 2025.