Animals convey King's wishes to Sir David Attenborough on 100th birthday

There were celebrations across the city to pay tribute to the naturalist who has brought the plight of the natural world to everyone, as ITV News’ Science Correspondent Martin Stew reports

The animal kingdom came together to transport a birthday card from King Charles to Sir David Attenborough, who celebrated his 100th birthday on Friday.

In a video screened as part of celebrations at the Royal Albert Hall, a chain of animals transported the note from Balmoral Castle to Sir David’s London home.

He was described as “a remarkable man” and a “marvellous presenter” before the concert, which featured musical performances and montages of some of Sir David’s most memorable work.

Lily the barn owl took the letter to Sir David’s London home. / Credit: BBC Studios NHU/Buckingham Palace

The creature courier service started with a border collie sheepdog called Flynn and features eagles, a hedgehog, a red squirrel, a flock of geese, an otter, a swan, a duck, a fox, a deer, and finally barn owl Lily, who posts the letter through Sir David’s letterbox.

The King recounted a seven-decade friendship with the naturalist, with the pair having first met when the then nine-year-old Prince Charles visited the set of the BBC children’s programme Zoo Quest in 1958 with his sister Princess Anne.

King Charles enlists friends from the animal kingdom to congratulate David Attenborough on his 100th birthday

The Queen’s adopted dog Moley also made a cameo in the film.

The King was “delighted” to feature in the tribute, according to Buckingham Palace, and followed each stage of the filming process “with great interest”.

“He was only sorry not to meet Lily the magical barn owl in person,” the statement said.

A fox was among the animals delivering the letter to Sir David. / Credit: BBC Studios NHU/Buckingham Palace

“Her Majesty was particularly touched that her mischievous Moley was invited to make a cameo appearance and was on hand with a ready selection of dog treats to help coax a willing performance on the day.

“The King and Queen send their warmest wishes to Sir David on his special night and hope he enjoys the resulting film as much as they enjoyed making it.”