MUMBAI: This is an effort aimed at making the global television audience aware of the need for conservation.

Animal Planet, in conjunction with global conservation organisation WWF, has commissioned Granada Bristol to produce a six-part eco-reality series.
 

The show will air globally including Asia next year in 24 languages. Participants will take on a variety of WWF conservation challenges in Central America and Asia. WWF experts will mentor participants as they learn first hand about the realities of conservation. Production is scheduled to begin in a few months time.
 
 

Meanwhile in the US Animal Planet will air a special later this month to coincide with the release of the new Star Wars movie. It will give viewers a glimpse into stories behind the unique and quirky creatures that define the Star wars films. From Ewoks to Wookees to Boga, Star Wars movies have given viewers some of the world's most memorable fantasy creatures -- aliens so vivid, they almost seem real.

Animal Planet US GM and executive VP Maureen Smith says, "We are thrilled to present viewers with the fascinating stories behind
the creatures of Star Wars films. Animal Icons: Star Wars Creatures is an imaginative and engaging example of the type of programming Animal Planet wants to do more of and that certainly appeals to every generation in the family."

The show tackles questions like where the idea for Jabba the Hutt originated. Apparently the
character of Chewbacca was inspired by film creator George Lucas' family dog.