LETTER TO NETWORK PROGRAM COMMISSIONING EXECUTIVES
Dear Program Executive:
We the petitioners would like to see the return of the delightful program, Meerkat Manor, a program featuring meerkats--diminutive creatures that strive to survive in the harsh environment of the Kalahari Desert in Southern Africa. A dedicated group of meerkat lovers has generated this petition in order to entice a television network to pick up the program, Meerkat Manor.
Meerkat Manor is a serial docudrama, carried by Animal Planet for four years. It has not yet had a fifth year. It was nominated for and/or received numerous awards. The program had a huge following and, in fact, caused the generation of many meerkat-related websites. There was considerable international media coverage upon the deaths of some of its main characters, in particular Flower, the beloved matriarch.
The groups have a complex social structure, resembling that of humans with all our idiosyncrasies, joys, and tragedies. Their social behavior is so endearing to watch that, once hooked, it's hard to not want to see more of them.
One important consequence of this series is that it bolsters support for the ongoing research into the survival methods of other species besides humans. In the case of meerkats, the study of their cooperative behavior can lead to some insights into human behavior. Humans are a cooperative species as well. Preserving undisturbed habitats is important in order to conduct such research. If we are to have a "greener" earth, awareness of, and respect for the intelligence of other species is a fundamental need.
Please bring back this joyful and important series. The docudrama format and fascinating individual and group interactions make this series an enticing program to watch. As indicated by the number of petition signers, you have a sufficient audience to seriously consider adding this series to your programming.
Thank you for considering our petition.
Sincerely,
