Raising the Dinosaur Giant

In Patagonia, on the southern tip of South America, a huge thigh bone that is some eight feet long has been discovered—a rare find that belonged to a dinosaur known as the Titanosaur, possibly the largest animal ever to walk the Earth. This PBS/BBC production directed by Charlotte Scott and hosted by Sir David Attenborough, takes a look at this immense creature that lived in the Cretaceous period, ate plants, grew swiftly in its early years, and possibly lived up to 50 years. The Titanosaur, which had an elongated neck and a heart up to six feet in circumference, weighed about 70 tons—equal to at least 10 elephants. The documentary draws comparisons with modern animals, including elephants, giraffes, ostriches, and Komodo dragons. Like the modern day "dragons," the dinosaur could swing its back tail for efficient movement in spite of its fearsome size, although this plant-eating giant was probably no great threat (unless it stepped on you). Of course, it did have to contend with other prehistoric predators. Researchers here assemble a team of skeleton builders who work to bring this gigantic prehistoric creature to life. Providing a fascinating picture of this little-known giant that is sure to appeal to modern fans of "bigger, better, more teeth" Jurassic Park dinosaurs, this is recommended. Aud: J, H, C, P. (S. Rees)