Ep 2. Graveyard Of The Giant Beasts

Graveyard of the Giant Beasts is the second episode of the sixteenth season of Secrets of the Dead. This episode takes us on a journey to a remote desert in Southern Peru where a team of archaeologists and scientists has made a stunning discovery. The team has uncovered a graveyard of enormous prehistoric beasts, some of which have never been seen before.

The creatures found are known as "mega-fauna" and include a two-tonne giant sloth, a llama-like creature standing up to 7 feet tall at the shoulders, and a terrifying saber-toothed cat that could weigh up to half a tonne. These animals roamed the earth more than 10,000 years ago during the last Ice Age. It is believed that these animals disappeared from the earth around the same time as humans started to hunt them for food, making this discovery a possible glimpse into when humans and these mega-fauna once roamed together.

The scientists believe that their bones have been found in such a high concentration because they were probably trapped in a waterhole during a drought and died of starvation or dehydration. They also speculate that the site was then buried by a mudslide, undiscovered for thousands of years.

The show explores how the bones of these incredible creatures tell us about life during the last Ice Age, allowing scientists to build up a picture of what the environment was like. By looking at the tooth enamel of the creatures found, researchers can determine their diet during their lifetime. For example, some of the creatures that have been found have been herbivores, which tells us that the area where they lived was once filled with vegetation. This can then tell us about the climate, and how it has changed over time.

The show also uncovers the story of the people who once lived alongside these mega-beasts. The archaeologists at the site discover evidence of human activity, including stone tools and animal bones that have human butchery marks. Through examining these artifacts and pieces of evidence the team can create an idea of how the people of this time lived, how they hunted, what they ate and how they interacted with the animals.

The episode provides a unique opportunity to see the process of discovery that goes on behind the scenes, showing how the bones are unearthed and prepared. It is an amazing insight into a world that is often hidden and inaccessible, giving the viewer a sense of the excitement and wonder of scientific discovery.

The show combines modern science and technology with traditional archaeology, as the researchers use new techniques like 3D modeling and CT scanning to reveal the secrets hidden in the bones. This is a fascinating look into how science can unlock the mysteries of the past and connect us with our history.

Overall, Graveyard of the Giant Beasts is a fascinating and engaging episode of Secrets of the Dead. It combines scientific exploration, historical discovery, and a sense of wonder that is sure to captivate audiences of all ages. The episode gives us a window into the past, and a sense of connection with the people and the animals that lived there.