Discovery Networks International is to launch a high definition version of Animal Planet in Europe. The standalone channel will debut on the Canal Digital platform in Denmark, Sweden, Norway and Finland on February 3. It will be distributed from Telenor Satellite Broadcasting’s Thor 5 (1 degree West) and has been licensed by the UK communications regulator Ofcom.
“The launch of Animal Planet HD reinforces the strong appeal of the Animal Planet brand and further extends Discovery’s global leadership in the HD arena,” said Greg Ricca, President and CEO, Discovery Networks International. “We are committed to investing in new programming and services that serve the needs of affiliates around the world and enhance the viewing experience for consumers.”
The schedule will feature entirely native HD content, including In too Deep, a study of the world’s harshest climates and Pandamodium, profiling the battle to save one of the world’s most loved animals.
Animal Planet HD joins Discovery HD, which was launched in Asia in 2005, and was added to the Canal Digital HD tier in October 2006. It is the 12th HD channel for the Scandinavian operator that launched BBC HD on December 1, following it a month later with TV2 Film HD.
Animal Planet HD launched in the United States in September 2007.
