Mythical beasts have fascinated authors and artists throughout time, and these creatures are often inspired by the real-life wonders of nature. Thanks to J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter stories and the Fantastic Beasts films, we have followed Harry and Newt as they introduced us to all manner of magical creatures and fantastic beasts. With a wealth of legend and mystery behind them, and their links with remarkable animals of the natural world, the Wizarding World has joined up with some very special partners to deliver a new stand-out project.

In the UK in 2020, Warner Bros., the Natural History Museum, BBC, Bloomsbury Publishing and Pottermore Publishing will all be exploring the parallels between these magical creatures and how nature inspired the creative teams that brought them to life onscreen and on the illustrated page.

Here’s a taster of what’s in store...

BBC One is creating a new documentary, to be presented by Stephen Fry, which will dive into the fascinating history of some of the world’s most awe-inspiring beasts (we’ll have more news on when that will air soon, so watch this space).

In spring, the exhibition Fantastic Beasts: The Wonder of Nature will open at London’s Natural History Museum. An international tour will soon follow.

Both the documentary and exhibition will look at remarkable animal behaviours and abilities in the natural world, and explore the history as well as connections that inspired and helped bring to life the magical creatures of the Wizarding World. Beasts, both magical and Muggle, will have their stories told, from 11,000-year-old woolly rhinos to Erumpents and Zouwus. Through innovative storytelling, both teams hope to inspire visitors and viewers to help care for and protect the planet today, and in the future.

Bloomsbury, the original publisher of the Harry Potter books, will be working closely with the experts at the Natural History Museum to bring this exhibition to life on the page, as well as the Pottermore Publishing team, who will bring their digital and audiobook expertise to the project.

That’s all for now, more details will follow over the coming months.