Zoologist Megan was presenting the BBC show with her stepfather, naturalist Chris Packham, when she had to apologise for making a few slip-ups while talking about the marine mammals. While explaining the difference between two species of seal, the 26-year-old admitted, “I don’t know what’s happening with me today,” after calling them squirrels several times.
Megan began: “From the fiercely fabulous to the utterly divine and adorable – because just this morning I went out to go and see some seals.”
She continued: “Now, we have two species of seals around the UK, most of them I have to say make their home up in Scotland.
“40 percent of grey seals are up here, but these are common seals, they’re having a bit of a rest.”
Describing footage shown on the screen, she went on: “[They are] hauled out after lots of activities – diving, eating and playing in the water.
“Absolutely incredible animals, but a lot of people often ask what’s the difference between common and grey squirrels -“
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Noting her error, she corrected herself: “Squirrels? Seals – what’s the difference?”
The conservationist added: “Because often they can be quite confusing, especially when in the water.
“But this is what to look out for…” she added as two pictures on the screen showed the subtle differences between the two types of seal.
Megan detailed how the snouts are slightly different, explaining: “The grey squirrel – seals – have got elongated snouts and the common seals are much shorter.
“I don’t know what’s happening with me today, I really don’t, but in 2021 there were lots and lots of reports of seal disturbances.”
Viewers picked up on the slip-up, with Marilyn on Twitter writing: “Not a lot of difference between squirrels and seals! #Autumnwatch.”
Pete Jones commented: “#Autumnwatch Squirrel. . . . . . . . . Seal.”
Jarlath Flynn shared: “Grey seals are not Grey Squirrels …Grey Seals are not Grey Squirrels. Now write it out 100 times
@MeganMcCubbin @ChrisGPackham @michaelastracha @gillians_voice @BBCSpringwatch #Autumnwatch.”
“Squirrel and Seal #Autumnwatch,” echoed Daren Leonard.
Many also praised Megan for her presenting on the show as she follows in the footsteps of her stepdad Chris, who has been presenting wildlife shows throughout his career.
Tony P wrote: “@MeganMcCubbin and @BBCTwo Well presented! So impressed with the last joint outing. Now proved you are great on your own.”
Steve Whalley penned: “Terrific job on #Mull as a stand-alone presenter @MeganMcCubbin. Informative and a model of clarity without too much dumbing down.”
“She’s also an excellent young presenter,” commented Jules Cox.
Autumnwatch continues on tomorrow at 8pm on BBC Two.