Secrets of the Bees

Hornets, honeybees and field knowledge

Michael J. Trout contributed as a hornet consultant to Silverback Films’ Secrets of the Bees. His repeated work with Susumu Tokunaga and experience filming Japanese honeybee bee-balling behaviour helped bring field knowledge to the production.

The series premiered on National Geographic on 31 March 2026, followed by Disney+ on 1 April. Availability varies by region.

From the field to the screen

The official trailer offers a first look at the series. A behind-the-scenes journal will grow with selected field photographs, production memories and material cleared for publication.

For a new production involving giant hornets or Japanese honeybees, send Michael your brief.