72 Dangerous Animals: Australia Season 1 Episode 3 Dead or Alive
- September 16, 2014
The show 72 Dangerous Animals: Australia season 1 episode 3, titled "Dead or Alive" takes viewers on a journey through some of the deadliest and most terrifying creatures that reside in Australia. In this episode, the focus is on the venomous creatures that can kill a person within minutes of making contact.
The episode begins with a warning about the dangers of Australia's creatures and the importance of being aware of their capabilities. The first segment features the most venomous snake in the world, the Inland Taipan. Scientists and snake wranglers demonstrate and explain how the snake's venom attacks the nervous and cardiovascular systems and why it's considered extremely dangerous. With footage of the Inland Taipan in the wild, viewers get a glimpse of just how elusive and naturally camouflaged this creature is.
Next is a segment on the Box Jellyfish, also known as the "Sea Wasp". The host meets with researchers who are studying the jellyfish at a facility and explains how the jellyfish's venom can cause paralysis, heart failure, and even death within minutes of contact. We learn about the different stages in the jellyfish's life cycle, including the complex process of reproduction. We're also introduced to survivors of Box Jellyfish venom attacks and shown footage of the healing process, which is not always successful.
The third segment highlights the Cone Snail, which carries venom that is potent enough to kill an adult within hours. The host speaks with a renowned expert on Cone Snails, who explains the workings of the venom and how to safely handle the creature. We also learn about the Cone Snail's hunting techniques and how it tracks down its prey underwater. Footage of Cone Snail venom being extracted and tested in a lab demonstrates just how potent the toxin is.
The episode then shifts gears to focus on creatures that aren't necessarily venomous but still dangerous in their own ways. The first is the Saltwater Crocodile, notorious for being one of the largest and most aggressive reptiles on the planet. The host encounters a croc wrangler who talks about his experiences with these beasts and explains how to minimize the risk of injury or death when in their territory. We're also given insight into the crocodile's mating habits and how they establish dominance over their territory.
The final segment features the Great White Shark, considered the apex predator of the ocean. The host spends time with a shark researcher who is studying the migration and feeding habits of these animals. We learn about the shark's incredible sense of smell and how they can track prey from miles away. The host even goes diving with the sharks to get a firsthand look at their behaviors.
Throughout the episode, we're exposed to stunning footage of these incredible creatures in their natural habitats. We're also given important information about how to stay safe when in areas inhabited by these animals. "Dead or Alive" is a fascinating and insightful exploration of some of Australia's most dangerous animals, showcasing the beauty, power, and lethalness of these incredible creatures.