5-Year-Old Draws 99 Animals For Sir David Attenborough’s 99th Birthday

May 13, 2025

Today's good news story comes from Pembrokeshire, England.

When 5-year-old Max Evans-Browning learned that Sir David Attenborough was about to turn 99, he decided to celebrate in the most fitting way possible—by drawing 99 animals for the beloved naturalist's 99th birthday.

boy draws 99 animals for David Attenborough
Max | Credit: Samantha Evans-Browning

Max has been a devoted fan of Sir David “from the moment he could talk,” his mother, Samantha Evans-Browning, told the BBC. “He’s watched all of Sir David’s documentaries and has more animal encyclopedias than I can keep track of,” she added. At age three, Max even dressed up as Attenborough for World Book Day.

Determined to honor his hero, Max spent four days after school working on the ambitious project. His masterpiece spans eight A3 sheets of paper and includes dozens of carefully drawn creatures—many of which were chosen based on Attenborough’s known favorites.

From whales to beetles, Max’s card is a vibrant tribute to a man who’s inspired generations to love and protect the natural world.

boy draws 99 animals for David Attenborough
Credit: Samantha Evans-Browning

Samantha posted photos of Max’s drawings on Facebook, writing:

"Knowing that Sir David Attenborough is turning 99 tomorrow, Max decided a few days ago to 'make him a really special card with 99 animals on because he will be 99'. A mammoth task for a 5-year-old, but he's done it."

boy draws 99 animals for David Attenborough
Credit: Samantha Evans-Browning

Now, Samantha is asking the internet for help.

"The proud Mummy that I am, I would love to try and get it so the man himself gets to see this as it would be my little boys dream," she wrote. “Please share Max’s 99 animals for 99 years far and wide and see if we can get it to Sir David."

The response has been heartwarming—hundreds have already shared the post, and even the BBC picked up the story.