Ep 1. Lost World

In the first episode of Planet Dinosaur, titled "Lost World," viewers are taken on a journey through time to explore the mysterious and uncharted world of Antarctica during the Late Cretaceous period, approximately 71-75 million years ago.

The episode begins by introducing viewers to a variety of different dinosaurs that roamed the earth during this time—including giants like the Tyrannosaurus rex and smaller, yet equally fascinating species like the Troodon. As the narration explains, Antarctica was once connected to other landmasses and home to a thriving ecosystem of prehistoric creatures that were adapted to the harsh climates of the region.

However, as the episode unfolds, we learn that things are not quite as they seem. The Antarctic continent has drifted south, separating it from the rest of the world, and the once-thriving ecosystem is now at risk of collapse. As the ice sheets grow and temperatures drop, many of the smaller animals struggle to survive, forcing them to migrate to different regions in search of food and shelter.

Despite these challenges, a few of the larger and more resilient species continue to thrive in the frozen wasteland. We see examples of this in the form of the Cryolophosaurus, a carnivorous theropod that was well-adapted to the frigid climate, and the Glacialisaurus, a huge herbivore that grazed on the sparse vegetation that managed to grow beneath the snow.

Throughout the episode, we're treated to stunning artwork and computer-generated imagery that bring these creatures to life in vivid detail. The shots of the Cryolophosaurus stalking through the snow, teeth bared and ready to pounce on unsuspecting prey, are particularly striking.

But perhaps the most fascinating aspect of "Lost World" is the way in which it illuminates the interconnectedness of ecosystems—even ones that existed millions of years ago. As we learn, the dinosaurs of Antarctica were not isolated from the rest of the world, but were instead part of a larger web of life that spanned the globe.

For example, we see that the prehistoric penguins of Antarctica were not the cuddly flightless birds we know today, but were instead fierce predators that hunted in packs. Meanwhile, on the other side of the world, the Troodon was thriving in North America, adapting to a completely different set of environmental challenges and outcompeting other species for resources.

As the episode draws to a close, we're left with a sense of wonder and awe at the complexity of the natural world. Despite the fact that these creatures lived millions of years ago, their legacy is still with us today in the form of the fossils they left behind. And thanks to shows like Planet Dinosaur, we can learn more about their lives and habitats, gaining a deeper appreciation for the natural world in the process.

Overall, "Lost World" is a captivating and informative look at a fascinating period in Earth's history, and it sets the stage for an exciting and educational journey through the world of prehistoric life.