LatAM Animal Planet.

Discovery Network Latin America/Iberia announced that Animal Planet is distributed to more than 10 million subscriber households throughout Latin America, reaching a key milestone in one of the world’s most competitive television markets. The channel also enters 2002 with impressive ratings growth in key markets including Mexico, where it now ranks as the fastest-growing factual network.

“With a combination of enormously successful special events and compelling new look, Animal Planet really came into its own in 2001,” said Stephen Friedman, vice president, marketing, Discovery Networks Latin America/ Iberia. “And this year’s spectacular slate of series and specials is sure to build on the growing momentum of Animal Planet; we are certain it will continue its strong affinity with Latin American viewers and clients.”

Driven by special programs throughout the year, Animal Planet showed exceptional ratings successes throughout Latin America:

· In Mexico, Animal Planet was the fastest-growing pan-regional entertainment channel in 2001. Animal Planet grew 18% for the year, and was one of only three channels in the entire grouping to show year to year growth. Animal Planet’s success in Mexico was fueled in 2001 by events like Adopt a Wild Animal Day, which placed the network in the top five pay-TV networks.

· In Argentina, Animal Planet is second only to sister brand Discovery Channel for all of 2001. This ratings success was due in large to its 39% surge in viewership over the first nine months of the year.

*IBOPE Mexico, Year 2000 vs. 2001, primetime
*IBOPE Argentina, Jan. – Sept. 2001, primetime Cable Households