New RTÉ series narrated by Brendan Gleeson tells the story of Kerry’s rich natural history
Episode one airs Sunday April 27th, 6.30pm on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player
Kerry: Tides of Time, a two-part series that tells the multi-dimensional story of the Kerry landscape, from its earliest origins, deep in the geological past, right up to the present day begins this Sunday April 27th at 6.30pm on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player. Narrated by Brendan Gleeson, the story is revealed by biologists, historians, ecologists and archaeologists who spend their lives connected to this landscape providing personal and often emotional insight.
This brand-new natural history series celebrating our island, is part of RTÉ’s commitment in delivering a range of unique Irish content that informs, entertains and inspires. The series was produced and directed by Katrina Costello, the filmmaker behind the acclaimed series, The Burren: Heart of Stone. The backdrop against which these films are set includes some of Irelands most iconic landmarks; from the Skellig Islands to Corrán Tuathail – Ireland’s highest mountain, and the magnificent National Park in Killarney.
Episode one explores the deep history, geology, and human story of Kerry. Starting on an isolated stretch of rocky shoreline that reveals evidence of the very first vertebrate life on earth, it progresses to tell the fascinating story of human culture in the county. It is the story of constant struggle between our ancestors who sought to make a living among the woods, mountains and valleys, and the landscape itself.
A number of leading experts bring their knowledge and personal perspectives to the narrative, including the archaeologist Billy Mag Fhloinn, marine biologist Cormac McGinley, nature activist Mary Reynolds, ecologist Susan O Donohue and many more.
Episode two is the story of a single, magical, year as the seasons play out through and across the county’s varied habitats. It looks in detail at the lives of some of the area’s most charismatic and fascinating wild inhabitants. Beautifully and sensitively filmed, it is an immersive and compelling record of the natural history of Kerry.
Badgers, Red Deer, Hen Harrier and Puffins are among the cast of characters whose lives are followed through the year. Specialist camera equipment captures a rare glimpse into the secret world of a badger clan, and rare access to the Skellig Islands immerses us in the spectacle of Puffin breeding season.
Beyond the natural history behavioural sequences, the film provides an emotional overview of how ecosystems function within the annual cycle of life, death and renewal, and how the modern world is impacting the lives of some of county Kerry’s more vulnerable species.
In order to authentically tell the story of the natural history of Kerry, the narrative is driven by passionate and knowledgeable advocates for the landscape and its wildlife.
Episode one of Kerry: Tides of Time airs Sunday April 27th at 6.30pm on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player. Episode two will air on Sunday May 4th.
Kerry: Tides of Time is produced by Silver Branch Films for RTÉ.
-ENDS-
IMAGES: https://we.tl/t-nawkG9leiA
Date: 24 April 2025
For More Information:
Éadaoin Nic Giolla Chomhaill, RTÉ Communications Lead | eadaoin.nicgiolla@rte.ie
Notes to Editors:
A preview of episodes one and two are available on request.
The music in this series was composed by Bradley Ayres and vocals were performed by Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh. The soundtrack album for Kerry: Tides of Time will also be released on Sunday April 27th, to coincide with episode one. Visit www.SilverBranch.ie for more information.