Inside Nature's Giants

Crocodile on autopsy bench

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This four-part science series uncovers the anatomical secrets of some of the animal kingdom's most extraordinary species

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  1. I don't normally watch television, but this show was excellent. An inspirational account of our evolutionary history produced in such a way to be simple enough for the layman while still delving into the facts without treating people like idiots. If nothing else, look how many God of the Gaps proponents it has provoked. Who knows how many were actually made to think for a change instead of simply regurgitating outdated explanations for natural occurences. This is one of those consciousness raising productions that our species needs. Please make more of these series. Lots more.
    Posted by Spearthrower on 31/10/2009 15:57:10
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  2. how do i watch this program??
    Posted by confuzed on 29/08/2009 14:31:31
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  3. Just thought i would post a comment about this outstanding show. I felt the pitching of the show was perfect both informative and easy viewing. It was Fascinating. Channel 4 more shows like this please. Is this going to be available to buy on DVD?
    Posted by Alex on 12/08/2009 13:57:50
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  4. This show was absolutely fascinating. Why can't there be more programmes like this on TV? To have Prof.Dawkins on the show as well was a real bonus. Although I'm a postgrad student in a completely unrelated field this show has inspired me to go and read upon the 'selfish gene' and 'origin of the species'etc. High school kids in the UK should get taught this kind of stuff in school to prevent them gorwing up into ignorant fools like some of the people posting on this board. Unbelievable in this day and age that there are still some people denying evolution by natural selection.
    Posted by Steve on 31/07/2009 02:55:58
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  5. Becca; please could you list your sources regarding the scientists who have proved against Darwinism, I would love to read them! I wonder if you actually have any qualifications or experience relating to Animal Care / Science? I find this unlikely. This show is fantasitic, even as an experienced and qualified Animal Scientist and Aniaml Welfare Researcher, I was enthralled! We must never kill animals to dissect them, but dissection is the most effective form of learning, thus leading to a better quality of life for future animals. I have never seen an elephant disected and I can honestly say that having worked with them, this programme helped to develop my understanding further. Well done to you C4!!!!!!!!!!
    Posted by Lellah on 29/07/2009 15:15:42
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  6. I find the programes great but some times to revealing of the animals as it is like cutting open a dead human as they should be respected as we would when we die they should berry them to preserve there bodys it is good how you learn a bit about the animals body. Abby from northwich
    Posted by Abigail Tighe on 28/07/2009 19:03:24
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  7. Excellent programme! Good work, Channel 4.
    Posted by Adam Thoroughgood on 27/07/2009 19:32:28
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  8. lol at the person whinging over the show. Personally, I found it extremely fascinating, I've always had an interest in evolution and how animals have adapted to cope in different habitats. Was itneresting when they showed how the crocodile produced its sound!
    Posted by Sarah on 23/07/2009 17:12:22
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  9. I love this programme. I find it very funny how most of the people that complain about this show on this message board find it difficult to string a proper sentence together. One person even admitted that, although they don't like this programme, they have never actually watched it. What is cruel about disecting an animal that is already dead, and died a natural death? Personally, I didn't think I would enjoy watching animals being pulled apart, but it was incredibly interesting. For those of you that think you are 'sticking up for the animals', or think it's cruel, or disgusting... why not start a facebook campaign or waste your time doing something else, like painting the underside of your floorboards. (But be sure to not paint it red, because that might make you a bit screamish). As for the Creation/evolution debate, all i'll say is some people live in a very strange world not too distant from Hogwarts School of Magic with people just being created one day... wow, magic. And then defend their theory of god by making similarities with that academy from X-Men saying 'evolution can't be true because how come I haven't evolved in the past 30 years of my life and grown wings to fly to work!?' Evolution takes many thousands, if not millions, of years to make a noticable change. Natural Selection of favourable genetic mutations is far more believable than any of the Creation theories. No doubt i've fuffled a few feathers in the religous camp, but I welcome a response. But remember, facebook groups and painting underside of floorboards BEFORE telling me all about how god loves me :p Great show, can't wait for the next installment!
    Posted by Chris on 23/07/2009 15:39:40
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  10. I thought this programme was great. Studying Animal Biology I thought it was very interesting, although I thought they could have done a lot more with the premise of the programme. It was extremely interesting to see how these animals had evolved due to natural selection of mutations, that had made the animal better adapted to the environment, and therefore survived to reproduce and pass on its superiorly adapted genes. Mother nature (note not an imaginary super-being) has been very clever over the millions of years that animals have been on the planet, with so many different types of adaptations to similar environments. Those who contest the theory of evolution buy saying you cannot see it happening now, this is because it takes millions of years for gene mutations to have any significant effect on the phenotypic characteristics of animals. Great series, thanks C4, I hope due to its success more of these programmes will be commissioned.
    Posted by Plinky on 22/07/2009 22:47:08
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  11. This series were fantastic, so fasinating. i loved it. they should do more.
    Posted by mint on 22/07/2009 21:32:53
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  12. they have conducted autopsies on tv. Dr Gunther did it a few years back on i think channel 4 aired it :)
    Posted by to SOMEONE WHO ACTUALLY CARES on 22/07/2009 18:59:00
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  13. Why must people turn this into a theological argument? I thought it was a brilliant series, and thoroughly enjoyed it. On the whole I don't watch tv, as I think that the majority of it is pointless, but this was amazing, so thank you.
    Posted by WOWO on 22/07/2009 15:05:06
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  14. I am a veterinary medicine student and therefore obviously intend to dedicate my life to prevent the suffering of animals. My question to those who oppose this series is: how are we supposed to learn about these amazing animals in order to do out best to protect and save them without full understanding of their anatomy. The series clearly explains that the animals used were not killed for this purpose but that they sadly died of natural causes. In some cases the dissections discovered previously unknown causes of death that could prevent the same fate befalling other animals. In my opinion this series is a fascinating insight into some breathtaking creatures which deserve to be understood and cared for to the best of our ability.
    Posted by Ellie Newall on 22/07/2009 15:03:08
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  15. This series was fascinating and brilliant. It wasnt gory, and I could watch this a lot more happily than usual nature programmes with animals killing others. I do hope this series returns and lets us become as fascinated by the animal world again
    Posted by mema on 21/07/2009 22:39:18
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  16. HI!I think the program was brilliant.My mum was fairly horrified at the thought of a crocodile that had something that felt like cheese in its stomach though.I said to my grandma one day ''whatch channel 4 every monday at 9.00pm...''but never said why.Joy R whith the whale fart symphony and using blubber as a slide on the fin whale was so funny, I laughed and laughed.It was humourous and very informative at the same time.But a whale with hind legs?!whatever next?but I thought it was a fantastic show, and I hope there is a second series.The facts are fascinating and is fantastic how everything is peiced together and another thing:Richard Dawkins is sure to be Charles Darwin!
    Posted by spud on 21/07/2009 20:12:25
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  17. i am 16 years of age and feel this program was intresting, the rest of my family enjoyed the program and i would love to see more exciting animals included in the show. This has captured my intrest in animals aswel as the subject of evolution.i thought the whole idea was creative and i would love to see more :) thankyou
    Posted by natalie0009 on 21/07/2009 20:06:50
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  18. They already did - look for anatomy for beginners. This show was fantastic, giving a well rounded account for comparative anatomical and physiological features of some of the most recogniseable animals on earth with a positive academic attitude and healthy goal for common understanding. I loved how it was pieced together with facts coming from the field, the theatre and the past, via Richard Dawkins no less! More like this please.
    Posted by LiaMMV on 21/07/2009 19:09:51
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  19. awesome! i never watch tv but couldnt miss this series,absolutely riveting!
    Posted by tracey on 21/07/2009 17:11:39
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  20. Really can not beleive this has been allowed on television! I have not acually watched any of the shows but the constent adverts are vile enough. I swear everytime I watch something on chanel 4 i'm reminded about how cruel some sick people are! Would they be able to cut up some dead human on national T.V!?! This show is sick!
    Posted by Someone who actually cares! on 21/07/2009 17:09:46
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  21. amazing. utterly fantastic series. informative, entertaining and eye opening... i mean a whale with a hind leg?? nuff said. and too those comments about creation over evolution...come on! the programne says over an over how every species began the same way in the same form...as fish yeah? even us. all from bacteria from water and the gravitational pull of the moon. that is, in every respect, miraculous. only a massive power of some sort could create such a thing, so whether it was God, Allah or the big bang, either way something made it happen. something gave us this earth and this programe just shows how we've adapted to the the world that was given to us. i'm a christian an im thankful for what He has given me. open your eyes and enjoy what he's given you, rather than being so defensive x
    Posted by jesser on 21/07/2009 15:02:53
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  22. This series was fantastic, more of this please.
    Posted by D on 21/07/2009 13:24:28
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  23. Thank-you for producing this excellent, educational and enjoyable show. It is well-paced and makes excellent use of its experts, including Joy Reidenberg and Richard Dawkins. Graphics and explanations are well done, and for once TV science does not treat us like idiots. I would love to see it available for download overseas, but failing that, get a DVD out quickly - I'd love to own it. Featured on Science Video Resources: http://sciencevideos.wordpress.com Well done, Channel 4!
    Posted by Stephen on 21/07/2009 12:59:53
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  24. I can't believe the amount of people complaining about this program. Don't watch it and preach somewhere else. It seems that a minority of the Great British public are unable to turn their telly's over until their completely disgusted. I doubt Jordan and Peter's last show got as many complaints and that is far more damaging to society! As for the over sensitive nonsense about "how dare you harm a fluffy wuffy animal", you'd be better off aiming you anger at the supermarket/consumer quest for cheaper and cheaper meat. I take it that every comment regarding the innocent slaughter of animals came from a vegan? If not, you hypocrite! All these animals died of natural causes and who knows, they may discover something to help more fluffy wuffy animals.
    Posted by Eggling on 21/07/2009 11:20:21
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  25. SY, listen to this right...There is no such thing as evolution! Wow, shocker! Ok, so there is actually more proof of creation than there is of evolution. It's speculation! Some humans just don't have the imagination to believe there is a God. Not everything has to be explained, but our human minds tell us that there must be an explination to everything! Even Darwin himself said that he believed in Creation and that The Big Bang Theory and Evolution were just that; A THEORY. Like MARY said, "Rather than accepting that there is a limit to their understanding of all the parts of this perfectly crafted animal by a master designer, GOD, they say it's not a smart design because they don't know it's use. Their knowledge is based on what they can see, yet they can't explain the essence of life in a sperm. Where did the millions of species come from? Big Bang Theory some would say but Hiroshima tells me only distruction can come from explosion. When would we humans start accepting that we don't know everything and that there is a MASTER DESIGNER CALLED GOD!" Just have the guts to think about that. Good show though!
    Posted by Emmo on 21/07/2009 10:45:22
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  26. For those still wondering about the ethics of dissecting animals that died naturally, do take note that the series presenter Mark Evans is the chief vet at the RSPCA... that should give you pause to think rationally about this. http://www.rspca.org.uk
    Posted by Dr Snugglebunny on 21/07/2009 09:23:38
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  27. WOW i really do think this programm i missed the elephant but i have watched all the other series. Whats happening next monday !"!!!!!!!!!!!!
    Posted by Sadie on 21/07/2009 09:03:58
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  28. I love this series, it's been amazing to watch and I have a huge interest in animal programmes. This show breaks the mold for me and I've learnt so much. It does annoy me that people comment about how it's cruel, etc. But when these animals die, especially untimely deaths, what happens on this show is carried out anyway... the only difference is that it's shown on TV. It's been a great series and I hope there will be another one!
    Posted by Ade on 21/07/2009 08:35:01
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  29. There is no master designer called god, its just an excuse religious people use when they dont understand how something works. Having something within the body that is not a 'smart design' means nothing, animals such as the giraffe have not finished evolving, and will more than likely continue to do so for hundreds of thousands of years to come. I have asked many people how can they believe creation over evolution, when the latter can be proven time and time again, whereas the alternative can not, their answer is as simple and ridiculous as it is an excuse, god wanted that way.
    Posted by sy on 21/07/2009 01:06:57
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  30. A fantastic series by CH4. Hope there are more to come. just a small remark to marys comment. the animals of today are evolving as i type this in both there behaviour and body structre, and will continue until they have reached the end of there line and when that happens they become extinct. And as regards to where did all the species come from, the answer is they all EVOLVED from 1 COMMON ANCESTER we are all linked just as DARWIN and countless other scientists have proven time and time again. Well done CH4 and hope to see another series soon.
    Posted by LUKAS Kingston upon Hull on 21/07/2009 00:39:26
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  31. Re: Giraffe Based on Darwins theory of evolution, the Giraffe evolved over billions of years. How come non of the animals today are evolving? The autopsy group talked about a nerve going all the way down to the diaphram and coming back all the way up when it could just cross over to the voice box and stated that it was not a smart design. Rather than accepting that there is a limit to their understanding of all the parts of this perfectly crafted animal by a master designer, GOD, they say it's not a smart design because they don't know it's use. Their knowledge is based on what they can see, yet they can't explain the essence of life in a sperm. Where did the millions of species come from? Big Bang Theory some would say but Hiroshima tells me only distruction can come from explosion. When would we humans start accepting that we don't know everything and that there is a MASTER DESIGNER CALLED GOD!
    Posted by MARY on 20/07/2009 23:36:02
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  32. I would like to say that this is a fascinating and informative programme. However the footage of the giraffes running was somewhat disturbing- was it really necessary to fly the helicopter so low as to purposely scare them into flight mode? Then to make it worse follow a mother with her infant to show how fast the baby can run. This was a terrifying moment for the animals and in my view was wholly irresponsible of the vet/presenter and his team.
    Posted by Emma Moth on 20/07/2009 22:28:18
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  33. I have been addicted to this show, I am studying Biology and I have loved piecing together information from the show from things I already have learnt. I really hope they do another series. I am shocked at how many comments there are regarding the acquiring of these animals, if these criticisers were to actually to watch the show it states that they are conducting the necropsies to find out the causes of the untimely deaths. I can imagine this is quite important for example if an animal had died of an infection that may threaten the other animals amongst other reasons. An excellent show.
    Posted by Cat on 20/07/2009 22:20:42
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  34. no they dont kill the animal zoos or people that find dead animals tell them and they will go over with there film crew and show u how it died and find out some misteries and all that lisa they dont kill the animals they are not that crewl
    Posted by jess on 20/07/2009 22:10:13
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  35. I Love The Programe Ive Been Watching It Every Week. Im Delighted That This Has Been Put On Tele As I LOVE Animals And Have Done My Whole Life. I 16 And Want To Be A Vet, So For Me This Is REALLY Educational And It Is Giving Me Knowlegde To Use In The Future. Thank You I Hope Theres Another Series. With Not Just Giants But All Different Types Of Animals. That Would Be Brilliant Ox
    Posted by rebekahpattz on 20/07/2009 22:07:35
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  36. There not killing this animal for this program, they died of natural causes! There not cruel, its nature!
    Posted by Paris on 20/07/2009 22:07:10
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  37. Hi does anyone know what the organ music is, played at the end of tonights episode (giraffe)? Thanks...
    Posted by tim on 20/07/2009 22:06:50
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  38. Once again, i switched the channel on to be exposed to the remains of a severred girraffe, i am generally upset about this.
    Posted by Bethh on 20/07/2009 22:02:29
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  39. On the programme when the skeletal frames are shown, they seem to be in some kind of museum, could you please inform me where this is? Many thanks
    Posted by zeb on 20/07/2009 21:53:33
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  40. really enjoying the series but getting ever more annoyed with richard dawkins and his biased opinions. loved it in the giraffe show when the scientist said 'design' and then had to correct himself and then next clip was richard dawkins giving an example of how the giraffe could not have been designed. Doesnt seem a fair representation of what modern scientists believe, whether athiest or not, scientists are learning more and more that goes against darwins theories.
    Posted by becca on 20/07/2009 21:52:25
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  41. I really do love animals . . but this is just CRUEL!!. . . .its absolutaly volgar that you are allowing poor animals to be cut up like what did they ever do to use . . .where do use put al that stuff you bring out of them anyways? . . im sorry but im jst very against it ! . .
    Posted by Amanda on 20/07/2009 21:34:14
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  42. This has been such an astoundingly phenomenal series and will be so much help to stundets of animal management that study biology, evolution, anatomy & physiology and nutrition. Please do more of these covering birds, reptiles. Please, please, please - the graphics are just brilliant - It would have been a great experience for my students to see it live!
    Posted by emilyj on 20/07/2009 21:30:34
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  43. i find your programme very interesting and was wondering if you will be doing any more inside natures giant programmes??
    Posted by holly on 20/07/2009 21:25:51
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  44. this is amazing - i am hooked!! it is answering all of the questions that i had and also many that i didnt know i had. i do hope that this continues in the future. do you have to be a part of the Royal Veterinary College to be in the audience?
    Posted by Debbie on 20/07/2009 21:23:57
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  45. i think inside nature giants is wonderful for children to learn about animals but please tell sky that it is on to late but it is great for adults as well and it is very upsetting to see dead animals but i love it .
    Posted by ayda yates on 20/07/2009 21:14:26
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  46. Its amazing i love it i know loads about all these animals Thanx Yazz
    Posted by yasmin on 20/07/2009 21:06:59
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  47. i find your program very interesting and educational and i watch it every week i am only 16 and you have inspired me but there is one thing i wounder every week .... and that is DO YOU EVERY FEEL GUILTY FOR CUTTING THE ANIMALS UP? i am a big animal lover and it has help me with work from school but could you please inform me that the animals died of natural causes please i would be greatful thank you
    Posted by kelly on 20/07/2009 19:14:18
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  48. I am complety hooked on this series since I saw the elephant dissection in my science class. I am taking Triple science for GSCE next year and this series has provided me with some useful biology knowledge. My particular favourite episode was the Whale as I wish to become a marine biologist!
    Posted by ELLYNC on 20/07/2009 16:35:13
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  49. This is one of the most astounding programmes I have seen. The program shows quite amazingly how each of these animals has evolved to it's own habitat to be the most perfect being it could be. I find this program to be far more interesting than any other natural history program. The transitions from "here is muscle x or fat wad y" to footage of how those parts work is fantastic. Far better to be shown the tool then see it used than just have someone describe it to you. I only hope that they have the chance to make another series of this program.
    Posted by Nik Shaw on 18/07/2009 23:54:39
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  50. I think this a exellent show, it shows how these animals evolved over years. the skelital system is fantastic! Well done!!
    Posted by Nav on 18/07/2009 14:48:07
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  51. Evolution and 'Natural Selection'. I am confused. I hardly ever hear the term 'mutation' when talking about 'Natural Selection'. Have the changes that have taken place over millions of years been due to 'mutations' or 'adaptations' or both? I thought Lamarckism, the inheritance of acquired characteristics, has been disprooved. Will someone please explain. Many thanks.
    Posted by Bravo on 17/07/2009 10:52:21
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  52. For those worried that animals were killed for this programme. I wrote to the programme and received the following reassuring response. Thank you for contacting Channel 4 Viewer Enquiries regarding INSIDE NATURE'S GIANTS. The series is a collaboration between Channel 4 and the Royal Veterinary College, the oldest and largest veterinary college in Britain. The Royal Veterinary College carries out post mortems on zoo animals inorder establish or confirm the cause of death, add to knowledge about suchspecies and pathology and train veterinary students. This is a standard procedure, and regarded as best practise, as part of good management of zoological collections. No animals were killed or injured during the making of this series of films.The animals featured died of natural causes, or were euthanised for health or welfare reasons. Where relevant, the decision to euthanise the animals was an independent decision made by their owners and keepers, and was notconnected with the inclusion of the animals in the TV series. Thank you again for taking the time to contact us here at Channel 4 and for your interest in our programming.
    Posted by LouiseG on 16/07/2009 23:35:19
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  53. Watched a mirrored video of the whale episode elsewhere on the tubes. This show/series is so amazing I can't stand it. I live in America and shows like this are never shown. Please stream to other countries!
    Posted by Matthew on 16/07/2009 23:07:48
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  54. when i first saw this programe advertised i thought no i'm not watching that, as i don't like medical programes, but thought hay i'd give it a go. and i'm glad i did it was amaxing and i wish there were more in the series. it has been very interesting to find out about the animals, and it is amazing to get to the bare bones of the animal and to see how it all goes together.pleases please let there be another series as this is was fantastic viewing. well done channel four and well done to the show makers and the team of vets. jolly good viewing and a real treat to watch.
    Posted by helen lloyd on 16/07/2009 15:06:05
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  55. I have managed to catchthe whale & croc episodes as an aussie visiting Britain and thought they were some of the best tv I have ever seen. The whale one in particular was just brilliant. Please sell this series to Oz, SBS or ABC are the only 2 channels with the intelligence and commitment that could do justice to this series. Can I watch them on your website in Oz? I cant watch bbc's iplayer in oz as its UK only. Anyway congratulations on what I think in years to come is a series which will be regarded as milestone television. Genius. Kind Regards Dave Land
    Posted by Dave land on 16/07/2009 10:29:57
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  56. i really like these programs and it is very educational to see how the giants on this planet evolved and how they lived and i really hope that these animals used in the programs died from natural causes and not slaughtered by us humans for the programs the information they give us is very good and is better than the teachers tell us at school and how they live also how their digestive systems work and how they died these are very good information i hope there is more to come because it is a very educational program and by the way you carnt get told off by your parents for watching television so it is good in that espect aswell love your programs XXXXX
    Posted by Sharliiee on 15/07/2009 19:35:36
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  57. me and my daughter found it fantastic and intresting. more of the inside natures giants series would be wonderful.
    Posted by karren davis on 15/07/2009 19:24:58
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  58. An absolutely outstanding programme - the best I've seen on Channel 4 in a very long time. The treatment was informative and exploratory. Joy Reidenberg is particularly good - her enthusiasm is infectious and does real justice to her subjects.
    Posted by Clare on 15/07/2009 12:35:11
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  59. WOw! something totally different and compeltely absorbing to watch! beats watchin reruns again and agains specially in the evening. Love the fact that I can also watch it on 4od. I have my brother and my cousins hooked on the program too. Cant wait for the giraffe episode!
    Posted by H on 15/07/2009 10:13:59
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  60. this show is very interesting and i think that you should do one on the human body because we must have adapted to live in the environment that we live in because it has changed so must compared to the environment that we lived in in the cave men ages
    Posted by ToM on 14/07/2009 23:17:15
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  61. i hope those animals died of natural causes and not killed for the programme. if they were it is an awful waste of god's creatures-just for nosy humans
    Posted by annie on 14/07/2009 21:44:12
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  62. Thank you Channel 4 for this show. It gives me a greater appreciation of these wonderful creatures and nature in general. Seeing the scale of these animals and their inner workings is amazing. A series could be made on each animal, I'm always left wanting more and there is just so much that is fascinating about them! While it is sad that these animals have died, at least some good comes from it in diagnosing what caused their deaths and by furthering our appreciation of them. Thank you again.
    Posted by Gavo on 14/07/2009 21:06:16
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  63. i have watched the whole series so far and have found it fascinating. i have a son who is nearly three and while he was up late i allowed him to watch this with me. it was far more interesting for him and appropriate for children as there is no blood and 'nasties'. my son found it amazing to see where the food goes and travels through the body. i have found this series so explanatory the presenter could not have done a better job to make it understandable for people of all ages. if this comes out on dvd i shall definitely be buyin a copy for my son and my nephew. thank you for such a great series.
    Posted by vixie on 14/07/2009 18:43:45
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  64. Excellent - totally absorbing and so informative, with the various team members explaining its anatomical features from their own area of expertise. It came near to the groundbreaking programmes by Prof. Gunther von Hagen on human anatomy, presented by Krishnan Guru-Murthy 2 or 3 years ago. I'd have been interested to see the size of the croc's brain, and to have had it compared to its own body size, and to the brain/body ratio in the other subjets. Great stuff - it puts the total fleeting history of mankind into proper perspective. Our brains are hugely bigger, but will we be around in 100 million years?
    Posted by Dave Cowling on 14/07/2009 18:25:13
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  65. "Question How in Darwin evolutionary terms does a crocodile produce a fully connected second aorta direct to the stomach? This evolutionary advantage would only work when finalised. Seems hard to believe in chance." If you are imagining the evolutionary starting point to be a creature with a single aorta, as we have, then yes, it is hard to imagine. But, double aortic arches are a feature of amphibian anatomy and fish may have several branches of the aorta. These supply the whole body, including the stomach, with blood, as they would have done in the ancestors of modern crocodiles. From this network, the arterial connections from the second aorta would have been reduced over evolutionary time to provide a supply to just the stomach, thus giving the advantage of being able to create an extremely acid environment for digesting the stomach contents. By being able to digest a wider range of prey, the animal would have been more successful in surviving and passing on his genes to future populations. And it all happened without an end plan. An excellent programme, in an excellent series. Informative and educated, and based in fact.
    Posted by Starfish on 14/07/2009 17:17:03
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  66. This series has been outstanding. I was a little concerned at the thought of seeing these dead creatures being dissected but the experts have done it tastefully and explained what they are doing and why and it has been addictive viewing. The presenters and the experts have all been facinating and their enthusiasm has made these programmes totally enthralling. Wonderfully done - my congratulations to the whole team.
    Posted by Rachel Moore on 14/07/2009 16:01:13
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  67. I am thoroughly enjoying this series. The perfection of the design and execution of these beautiful creatures is astounding, and it's fitting that a wide audience should appreciate them. However the evolution bias is irksome. Couldn't you say "Many scientists believe....." or some such statement instead of presenting theories; about which there is much debate; as fact. Mr Dawkins has an unashamedly Atheist agenda, and it is unfortunate that religious undertones detract from such an excellent science program. Can't wait for the Giraffe; it is something else !
    Posted by Peter Law on 14/07/2009 12:44:04
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  68. Superb series, so informative and I learnt alot. Yet again channel goes where others seem scared to and produce excellent television that keeps my watching. Nice one.
    Posted by Luke Bennett on 14/07/2009 10:59:47
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  69. Excellent work channel four.What a fantastic programme. Only four episodes, im hoping there'll be more in the future.
    Posted by s gordon on 14/07/2009 10:45:11
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  70. what a wonderful and informative series and well presented without trying to shock,it explained in easy to understand language the remarkable ways nature has made adapted and given species the perfect systems to survive through evolution, and the end diagnosis of why the animal died, again many thanks to mark evans and the team for this fantastic series
    Posted by marie on 14/07/2009 09:37:45
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  71. This is by far the best science programme I've ever watched. It's very well made and highly informative. Well done channel 4. Looking forward to the rest of the series and hopefully the next one too.
    Posted by Tom harcourt on 14/07/2009 06:27:22
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  72. I'm offended by the frequent sight of a dead animal ready to be cut open and explored on this programme. I choose not to watch the programme but the trailer for the next instalment is forced upon me during advert breaks of the programmes I am watching on channel 4. I don't wish to see the dead animals, I'm particularly disturbed by the sight of the dead giraffe. I can't wait for this series to end and get off my screen.
    Posted by upset channel 4 viewer on 13/07/2009 23:48:36
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  73. What an absolutely fantastic programme, very educational and completley fascinating from start to finish. It is amazing what you can learn in a 60 minute programme. Please channel 4 bring out more! To the people who have wrote comments of their dislike of the programme need to grow up, it is neither CRUEL or HARSH.
    Posted by Aimee on 13/07/2009 23:33:03
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  74. All i can say to you is well done, it is clear that you have done lots of research on this and its is very well presented, and the graphics are great too. when the program is finished i just cant wait for next monday to watch the next one. i have not felt like this about tv for ages. well done, i hope you carry on with this.
    Posted by kerrie ellison on 13/07/2009 23:08:53
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  75. excellent work channel four. sensitive, and respectful to the majesty and awesome nature of these wonderful creatures. i love the way that this deals with the creatures from an evolutionary perspective as the best way to educate people (especially the people that still deny evolution) is to present them with the clear evidence. hooray for the gory details.
    Posted by david smith on 13/07/2009 23:05:03
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  76. Apparently there are only 4 episodes? That's really upsetting :( I can understand how loads of work and preparation goes into each episode, but you can't just get us hooked on it and take it away! Whatever programme that's going to replace this has some pretty big shoes to fill!
    Posted by on 13/07/2009 22:59:15
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  77. This is a novel, superbly researched, well-structured, seriously presented programme with outstanding graphics. It is the complete antithesis of dumbed-down television and I am doubtless one of a huge band of very appreciative viewers. Thank you.
    Posted by mary macdougall on 13/07/2009 22:30:03
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  78. This programme is fantastic and I was thoroughly engrossed throughout. To those who may think it is cruel, autopsies are carried out on humans and animals upon death to discern the cause of death thus they would be getting dissected anyway. Without such investigation we would not be in the position we are today to take care of animals. Doctors and veterinary surgeons learned how to treat humans and animals and perform life saving surgery through such investigation. Thanks again to the BBC for showing such a fascinating programme.
    Posted by Nic on 13/07/2009 22:25:40
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  79. Fantastic, absolutely fantastic. It's so wonderful to see reliable, scientific broadcasting on Channel4 - the other terrestrial channels don't seem to know what the word 'true' means. This is good exposure for our nation's children - they are, too often, mollycoddled into superstition about bodies/cadavers which stifle their understanding of biology and evolution. Surgery Live and now Inside Nature's Giants - keep up the good work, everybody at Channel4. A suggestion - More Dawkins please.
    Posted by Thomas Royston on 13/07/2009 22:25:27
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  80. I love this program and am very dissapointed that there are only four episodes, im hoping there'll be more in the future. Its really interesting and has made me think about more career options in the animal world. (im just going into sixth form) An amazing program, way to go channel 4!
    Posted by Kirsty on 13/07/2009 22:20:03
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  81. this programme is brilliant, i am totally fascinated by this programme, even tho i dont like blood etc i like the way they look into how the animals have envolved over the years. Does anyone know how many more episodes there are?? iv just watched the croc one and was amazed by the protection there skin gives them and how they digest there food. brilliant programme top marks
    Posted by sarah on 13/07/2009 22:19:20
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  82. To those voicing their concerns regarding the origin of the animals being dissected in the program, if you had paid attention you would see the program actually reveals the potential cause of death in these creatures. Obviously, they were not killed for use on the show. And in regards to a lack of respect being shown towards the animals, i can only imagine this is due to them being 'cut open'?? It is of course opinion, but i do not see how a lack of respect is being shows. I thought the shows were educational, as well as being executed in a way that was both informative and in offensive. The only way i can see someone getting in anyway irate is the view that this is proof of evolution. Christians are generally less than accommodating of non believers views and i can imagine Channel4 have received numerous complaints, despite the glaring, obvious facts present.
    Posted by Daniel Waterhouse on 13/07/2009 22:18:11
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  83. I was very impressed with tonight's episode, which was the first I have seen in the series. It is a relief to have some programming to contrast with the tripe that is Big Brother. Inside Nature's Giants appears to be an example of reality TV with a purpose. Congratulations...go and make more!
    Posted by JBL on 13/07/2009 22:12:56
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  84. I am really enjoying this programme. I find it absolutely fascinating especially the whale last week. It is so refreshing to have a nature programme that can show you how these creatures evolved and their 'inner workings'. Looking forward to the giraffe!
    Posted by jude on 13/07/2009 22:12:14
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  85. this show has shown me how intelligent and complex the anatomy of these animals. a quote from a younger audience mentioned "the poor animals have past away and your chopping them up!" well to be fair some animals in captivity, if they die from unknown causes have something called an autopsy, to investigate why and how they died...and try to prevent this from happening again. also mentioned "whn you die wld you like me to chop u up to see how you work? nooo soo why do it to thm!" To be fair, many people when they die also get chopped up, either for science, autopsy or organ donor, so are you saying you wouldnt like to be cut open and save someone else just because you dont want to be cut up? Selfish. and this show is exactly the opposite, because its teaching people, and helping people understand and increase their knowledge on the animals in this world. By the way are you a vegetarian? or a vegan...if not...hipocrite runs in my mind? Channel 4, thank you for this chance to see and learn about these astonishing animals.
    Posted by swisschelc on 13/07/2009 22:11:34
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  86. Absolutely fantastic insight into the animal world, the experts talking through the dissection is an invaluable. The background information on the animals and the behavior really bring the programme to life. Well done Channel 4, will the series be able on Blu-ray ?
    Posted by Kennyboy7 on 13/07/2009 22:10:35
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  87. Absolutely fantastic insight into the animal world, the experts talking through the dissection is an invaluable. The background information on the animals and the behavior really bring the programme to life. Well done Channel 4, will the series be able on Blu-ray ?
    Posted by Kennyboy7 on 13/07/2009 22:10:35
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  88. Question How in Darwin evolutionary terms does a crocodile produce a fully connected second aorta direct to the stomach? This evolutionary advantage would only work when finalised. Seems hard to believe in chance. What do you reckon?
    Posted by Glynis Lawson on 13/07/2009 22:10:09
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  89. Very interesting and impressed with the educational content, however, nothing has been mentioned of the brain whose evolutionary development gives strong indications to the intelect of animals - would have been interesting to see this
    Posted by Rokermark on 13/07/2009 22:09:46
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  90. i don'tlike this show at all it is crowl they mite be dead but it dosent give you the rights to cut them up how would u like it if you where dead and someone cut you up to see what you look like inside its horrible i thin you are very very crowl i want this show to STOP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
    Posted by jill on 13/07/2009 22:07:08
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  91. Absolutely fantastic programme! Its great to see a proper scientifically based programme that shows in depth workings of the animals. I love all animal programmes, needless to say the documentary genre on my sky box is always visited. I have to say this is the best one i have see in a long time. I like the way it describes the anatomy of the animal to explain how it works rather than just telling you "it kills things twice as big as itself" I hope they continue this programme with another series! Hopefully we'll get a Great White Shark and maybe a Black Rhino or one of the big cats!
    Posted by Bexyd on 13/07/2009 22:05:48
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  92. This is by far the best science programme I've ever watched. It's very well made and highly informative. Well done channel 4. Looking forward to the rest of the series and hopefully the next one too.
    Posted by Tom harcourt on 13/07/2009 22:05:13
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  93. I think this is the worst programme ever shown, i just accidentally switched it on and saw a dead, cut up giraffe, this show makes me feel physicaly sick to think that you think anybody would atch this. I find it truly horrible.
    Posted by Beth on 13/07/2009 22:03:40
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  94. This programme is class! I do hope there will be more made. Jessica who commented on 10th July - firstly, if you don't like the programme don't watch it. Secondly, dissections of animals have been happening for years - how do you think vets and biologists learn about the animals they are supposedly studying? How do you think doctors learn about human anatomy - they dissect human bodies that have been donated to them. As I said if you don't like it - don't watch it.
    Posted by Leona on 13/07/2009 22:03:09
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  95. I'm wondering what happens to the animal's bodies after they have been dissected. ???
    Posted by Emma on 13/07/2009 21:49:39
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  96. It's nice to see a science programme on prime time TV that tackles complex subjects head on, without reducing everything to the lowest common denominator, or making some spurious contentious 'journey' of it, or using a 2nd rate and unqualified comedian to present it (yes, once-proud-Horizon, I'm looking at you)
    Posted by Brian Agnew on 13/07/2009 21:07:51
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  97. Someone elses comments: "The hampering on about its evolutionary journey from being a land mammal to being a fish lacked so much sensitivity. It would be professional if the makers of the programme were objective enough to the viewers". To me this is a nonsensical comment, asking the creators of the programme to aviod highlighting facts and logic in case someone may be offended because they choose to believe in something that has no scientific basis is more insensitive than talking about evolution. Whilst i respect your right to believe in what you choose, and i myself would fight for you to do so, i find it extremely unreasonable for you to ask that a programme not include the whales evolutionary origins so as not to offend a minority of people and deny the majority of people of scientifically based theory (which the majority of the public deal in) totally unreasonable. great programme.
    Posted by HST on 13/07/2009 19:55:06
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  98. I have a great passion for the study of animals and have found your programme riveting. I love whales so found the previous weeks programme the most interesting also i liked the linkage between hippos and whales and there ancestory. I can't wait to watch the rest of the series. Please keep me updated with any extra information via my email address. Bravo Samantha :)
    Posted by Samantha Styles, Whitehaven on 13/07/2009 14:25:10
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  99. Congratulationy from Germany! I am fascinated by this certainly daring approach to educate TV viewers about the beautiful world around them. I already learned so much and I'm excited for what is still in store for me. On a side note I must say that one thing bothered me, which is the obvious agenda to not just educate but to also proselytize the creationists out there. This in itself is fine with me. But the obviousness with which this agenda is carried out, especially in the off-comments in the animated bits, is not very elegant. At times I almost feel as if I'm not part of the target audience just because there's no convincing to do with me.
    Posted by sasi on 12/07/2009 08:09:00
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  100. this is really good. my friends hate all the guts but i love it propbably cos i love all the groos stuff. i cant wait for the croc next time. i want to see them do a great white they are amazing.
    Posted by RobynParlett14 on 10/07/2009 19:07:55
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  101. Im currently studying Evolution and find this programme useful. Congratulations Channel 4 and makers of this programme - excellent! Before people comment that this type of TV is "harsh or there is no respect for the animals" involved they should remember that it is only thro scientific research that we learn. There is no cruelty involved and if people dont like to see blood they should turn it off! To love and respect animals you have to understand their physical make up and behaviour - not just look at the fluffy bits! If everybody had the attitude "oh you cant look inside a body" then we would have no doctors, no vets and no knowledge or cures for illness and disease. Human Anatomy, Surgery live, Natures Giants - Great Documentaries channel 4! Thankyou.
    Posted by Dizzychin on 10/07/2009 18:01:02
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  102. the animals would have been dissected even if it hadn't been recorded for television. They were cut up as part of autopsy, just as you would be if the cause of death needs to be found. The information gathered from these dead animals can be used to look after and treat the living more effectively, preventing other animals suffering or death. You need to look at the wider picture of things. You are obviously still welcome to you opinion but just take more care before you judge.
    Posted by tf00a on 10/07/2009 17:47:57
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  103. this show is harsh. the poor animals have past away and your chopping them up! this makes me feel sick upset and really angrey. and as a 16year old girl who loves animal thinks this prgrams rong and should have never been made! itss harsh, whn you die wld you like me to chop u up to see how you work? nooo soo why do it to thm!
    Posted by Jessica on 10/07/2009 08:55:26
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  104. These shows always work in theory, the inside of a dead body almost always just looks like grey mush to me and its the cg or diagrams that make it clear whats happening, but a show with only cg and diagrams would be pointless, so ... that must mean its fun to look at dead grey mush?
    Posted by Bennybenny on 10/07/2009 08:26:06
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  105. i havnt been able to watch the programme, i missed it on tv and presumed i could watch it online- i was then told i cannot watch it online because i live in IRELAND, i couldnt believe channel 4- which does broadcast in ireland wont show their programmes online to the irish people. What then made me even more angry was when i read the what show was actually filmed in ireland. I think its ridiculous that channel 4 wont allow the people of ireland view a programme filmed in our country.
    Posted by ricky on 10/07/2009 03:30:50
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  106. Absolutely entralling! I have just watched the first two episodes back to back on 4od online, and I am hooked. If Biology lessons were like this at school, you would have students falling over themselves to study in these areas. And perhaps a much greater respect for the truly magical nature and variety of fauna and flora that we are blessed with on this amazing planet. This is the kind of TV that makes all the other dross pale into comparison.
    Posted by Happycamper35 on 08/07/2009 14:07:06
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  107. Somebody wrote: I hope they haven't killed these animals just for the programme' Can people please make the effort to read the summaries of the episodes before complaining? It states quite clearly that they died prematurely and the dissection etc. looks into the reason of their death amongst other things. For those who don't want the programme advertised: You don't have to watch it!!
    Posted by maf on 08/07/2009 12:40:42
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  108. I would like to congratulate everyone involved in making this documentary series. I greatly appreciate this brave approach towards exploring the annatomy of the earth's largest creatures through disection and ortopsy. I personally feel that there is no greater teaching aid where animal biology is concerned than the methods used in this series. I especially enjoyed the graphical representations accompanying the disection process. For me this enhanced my understanding of the animal structures and organs examined. Especially when such representations were taken further still to explain the theorys behind evolution. My thanks to channel four for providing a programme for the viewer who seeks a more in depth and thoughtful programme.
    Posted by David Cargill on 07/07/2009 21:00:27
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  109. Someone else's quote: "i was disgusted at how little respect they had for the animal i have already written a complaint". To me this seemed very odd indeed. I would expect to read that kind of remark in the 2nd century when Galen carried out animal dissection but not today! Its not a lack of respect the programme is showing, it's a sensitive and informative one. The body of a dead animal or human just a shell. It would be criminal not to take advantage of this amazing opportunity to learn so much from these fascinating animals. Perhaps we can learn something from the explorations into the carcass which could aid in preservation.
    Posted by claire-mb on 07/07/2009 16:00:49
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  110. Someone else's quote: "i was disgusted at how little respect they had for the animal i have already written a complaint". To me this seemed very odd indeed. I would expect to read that kind of remark in the 2nd century when Galen carried out animal dissection but not today! Its not a lack of respect the programme is showing, it's a sensitive and informative one. The body of a dead animal or human just a shell. It would be criminal not to take advantage of this amazing opportunity to learn so much from these fascinating animals. Perhaps we can learn something from the explorations into the carcass which could aid in preservation.
    Posted by claire-mb on 07/07/2009 15:31:57
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  111. I am quite impressed with this documentary but with a lot od reservations. As a christian, the documentary actually strengthens my faith in God and the majesty of his creatorship. Last night, watching this 60 ton brought on so much awe to me. The hampering on about its evolutionary journey from being a land mammal to being a fish lacked so much sensitivity. It would be professional if the makers of the programme were objective enough to the viewers. Their belief in evolution may no t be accepted by all viewers. The details seem to be imposed on viewers withiut thinking of teh variety of peoples' view on evolution or creation. The whale posibly is similar to the 'fish' swallowed by Jonah in the Bible which gave him lots of room to pray, move about and be vomitted after 3 days without dying. The whale's ability to draw on oxygen from 2000 litres of water indcates the abundant supply of oxygen that JOnah alive while in the belly of the 'fish'. It takes 600 people averagely weighing 100kg to equate th weight of the whale. It is really amazing that Jehivah in his abundant power created a massive creature whi is able to live under water without a hindrance to the environment. Its heart - the weight of a toddler, its rib cage similar to a balcony, its eye with little ice cube like blocks which functions as a magnigfying glass, the endless fleshy which possibly serves as great source of protein. Why can't honour be given to whom it is due without the fancy subscription to evolution
    Posted by jay on 07/07/2009 12:49:00
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  112. This was a really interesting program, I have had several requests from my science teachers to get a copy of the series, will it be available on DVD?
    Posted by science technician on 07/07/2009 11:30:36
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  113. I found this programme gripping. The part about the thigh bones still existing inside the whale was amazing. To see such clear evidence of evolution is really fascinating.
    Posted by Claire MB on 07/07/2009 10:01:16
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  114. brill
    Posted by peter1 on 07/07/2009 08:41:15
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  115. Excellent - I have to say I have found this programme very interesting and informative. Great work.
    Posted by alice on 07/07/2009 07:59:55
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  116. I have been thoroughly fascinated with the series thus far. I think this is a fantastic opportunity for those intertested, and possibly a once in a life time one. Personally Im looking forward to the giraffe. I also watched the human autopsies which were equally astounding. Its great that Channel 4, as they advertise, offer a variety of ground braking shows that educate and encourage people to be inquizitive. Im bored of political correctness and taboos. I feel that for all those willing to be inspired this is an opportunity not too pass up. For those making 'formal complaints' etc....lighten up! Cheers for inspiring me further Channel 4!
    Posted by Kizi on 06/07/2009 23:11:10
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  117. I have to say that so far I have found both episodes very impressive. As a student of biology I find the show very facinating. As far as anyone who finds this shows offenceive, nobody forces you to watch, and it is after the watershed. Also the idea that these animals are killed just so they can be used on the show is completly rediculus.
    Posted by CW on 06/07/2009 22:27:04
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  118. i have throughly enjoyed both of the programes so far they have been very informative both from a parents point of view (i've been watchin these with one of my daughters) and informative from the point of some one who is a student thank you so much for such an informative series
    Posted by pauline on 06/07/2009 22:17:06
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  119. The autopsy of a human has been televised.
    Posted by Liz on 06/07/2009 22:03:53
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  120. The trailer was enough for me with the comment "crucial evidence for natural selection". I realise the creationist hater Richard Dawkins was let loose with this but NO ONE is disputing natural selection!! Are we really that stupid that we dont know the difference between natural selection (ie all the short haired dogs died out in Alaska cos it was so flippin cold - even selective breeding done by humans as seen by the many varieties with various traits selected...) and bat to cat/fish to philospher evolution where lots of NEW genetic infornation has to be added ie a dog with wings would prove that evolution happened. Please dont treat the viewers as complete idiots - theres is a world of difference between evolution and natural selection - lets see some scientific proof that the animal was once a different species!!!!!!
    Posted by tarumhorse on 05/07/2009 12:33:41
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  121. As an RVC student, I've just flicked through some of the posts below and and delighted that most of them are so positive. There's a quote from a review online that ends with; '... but as an educational tool this one was worth her weight in textbooks.' I think that sums it up nicely. I've helped out in many zoo PMs and not only have they benefited my training but they also benefit individuals of that species remaining in zoos (whether or not you think zoos should exist is an entirely different discussion). Could this show help as a conservation tool? With habitat destruction on the increase we need to get people interested in conservation,but such displays at zoos or tv shows can be too laden with info and a bit boring, especially for younger people. Instead of hitting them with the daunting stats, I think we need to show them how amazing these animals are. Spark and interest and maybe then they will look further?
    Posted by Me on 04/07/2009 23:53:07
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  122. JANEFREE: I would just like to point out that channel 4 did a series of Autopsy's, which I would like to point out were shown when I was at school in biology (we had the choice to watch it if we wanted) and I found it facinating. When I first saw 'Inside Natures Giants' advertised it first didnt appeal to me but just like 'Autopsy:life and death' and 'The Operation:Surgery Live' I came across it from flicking the channels and was absolutly hooked. There was moments where I had to look away due to me being over squeamish but other than that I have found the programmes absolutly facinating and I am frankly amazed at the scale of these beautiful giants. Channel 4 hasnt failed to impress me.
    Posted by Eoysa on 04/07/2009 16:45:12
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  123. I have been an admirer of the elephant for a considerable number of years. In fact I am an adoptive parent for the Care For The Wild organisation. I was lucky enough to "meet" some of Daphne Sheldrick orphans in Nairobi and several more in 2000 in Amboseli. The vision of which I am still traumatised.Thought I'd died & gone to elephant heaven!!!The tears flowed. I am assuming that the autopsy on the Asian elephant in your programme was almost identical to what would have been on one of their African cousins, apart from the tusks.I would be very interested to know how the two species became quite different tho your programme seemed to indicate that the African elephant was the same. There was not too much film of Asian elephants. Whatever, this is a most incredible animal, Asian or African. I am astounded to learn how, almost, human they are in their regard to family, better than some of us I think. Apart from the chopping up of my beloved creature, I fully appreciate what it was all about and I wish I had been in the Theatre with all the other students. I feel I have lost my vocation somewhere along the line and now it is too late. Never mind. I feel I have seen more than most and thankyou for the programme.
    Posted by Sylvia on 04/07/2009 12:57:39
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  124. Inside Giants- the elephant, this was a definitely a ground-breaking new direction for natural history programming and gave an interested, inquisitive audience the chance to observe an aspect of such a majestic creature which would otherwise only been the premise of those involved in vetinary profession. However, I can’t help but feel that it stopped someway short of fulfilling its potential and although I accept programme makers have a commitment to make the programme accessible to a wide range of individuals I feel it was %u201Cdumbed down%u201D and those with a scientific background didn’t profit educationally. I watched it for the comparative anatomy but where was the comparison? There was a brief mention for the caecum and molar teeth (elephant Vs human). I would have liked to have known more regarding the following; the pathologist present talked of the 3 layers of the abdominal wall. Do the muscles (External/Internal oblique & Transversus Mm) run in the same direction as in humans or is it different as humans are bipedal? Can elephants suffer an inguinal hernia? Is it rare? With regard the gastrointestinal (GI) tract of the elephant, how does it sit within the abdominal cavity in vitro? How does this compare to bipedal creatures or ruminants (re 4 chamber stomach)? As for the accessory glands (liver/pancreas) of the GI do they sit in a similar position? How is there function different/similar to us re: diet digestion & enzymes? We were demonstrated %u201Cnatures band aid%u201D (the omentum) but what of the mesentry the folds of a covering with lines the abdominal cavity which carry blood vessels to and from the gut wall? What is the attachment of the root of the mesentry? Is the GI tract divided into fore-, mid- and hind-gut with a divisible blood supply to each (as in humans)? The comparative anatomist of the team demonstrated the masseter muscle but never named it for the audience nor the structure running across it (?parotid gland duct or ?facial nerve). Is the parotid gland responsible for the start of chemical digestion as in humans (re salivary amylase)? Moreover the trunk dissection was none existent and I felt a wasted opportunity to demonstrate its complexity. Instead of removing the skin and subcutaneous tissue to reveal the underlying musculature arising from the skull it was simply butchered open to reveal the nasal passage on the right which I am sure the audience could have extrapolated without seeing but I don’t think they could imagine (like myself) the interlocking musculature which makes this limb so dextrous. If anyone knows of websites which may address these questions please tell me. I have had a look but its not been promising.
    Posted by MD 77 on 03/07/2009 16:32:16
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  125. I know the sound recordest for this series and can confirm that these animals all died of natural causes OR were put down due to serious illness. There were many months of waiting around for these animals to die.
    Posted by EDDIE123 on 03/07/2009 08:55:22
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  126. This is barbaric. How dare you?
    Posted by jilly simmons on 01/07/2009 20:52:25
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  127. Great show; minor quibbles: -the tusks of elephants are incisors, not canines! Got it wrong there. -the show confused Asian and African elephants a bit; African elephant females do have large tusks, it's Asian females that don't so much. -I seriously doubt that elephant was only 4 years old. It was adult; probably >20 yrs. A 4 yr old would be much smaller. BUT a historic documentary and they nailed the respectful tone that the delicate subject deserves.
    Posted by Dr_Snugglebunny on 01/07/2009 06:29:15
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  128. lol at lucas. this was a great program, highly educational, interesting and original. keep up the good work
    Posted by Campbell Martin on 30/06/2009 23:55:52
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  129. i was disgusted at how little respect they had for the animal i have already written a complaint
    Posted by lucas on 30/06/2009 16:39:15
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  130. What a fantastic programme, a belter of a show that delved into the anatomy as well as the physiology of natural selection. As a zoo curator and having seen numerous necropsy being performed, its good to see that certian TV stations are not "dumbing down" on such a vital part of normal practices that go on in the vet and animal care industry. Well done Cnannel 4...
    Posted by bigcat specialist on 30/06/2009 15:39:34
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  131. Fascinating - at last a programme full of information and which didn't suffer from the usual dumming down and wasn't filmed to make this purposely gory either - with sensible and itelligent presenter too.I look forward to the next episode.Just wonder how many more people are going to ask "did they kill the animals for this programme?" Can you honestly believe in you wildest dreams they would purposely kill an animal for this show? Animals do die you know.
    Posted by Twitchet. on 30/06/2009 10:39:27
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  132. I must state this evening’s programme with utterly spellbinding due to the in-depth knowledge and passion portrayed from those involved. I advise everyone to watch this programme as you will be truly dumbfounded at the intelligence of Mother Nature. The producers have created a super programme of which I eagerly anticipate the next episode.
    Posted by Ashley on 29/06/2009 23:49:03
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  133. cant belive you've put this on tv?! its actually sick? yes you want to know how an elephant works and things, but too cut it up and put it on tv, in my opinion is absolutly discusting!!!!!
    Posted by lovess. on 29/06/2009 22:55:42
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  134. What an absolutely fantastic programme - I think it is so important to understand all living things - because who knows how long we all have on this fragile planet? If programmes like this can show future generations just how animalkind, and in turn humankind, has evolved, then all the better. Well done to the producers and all involved in this series - I look forward to watching the rest of the series.
    Posted by Shelly Hughes on 29/06/2009 22:09:02
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  135. Brilliant and fascinating show. Thoroughly enjoyed it. Most educational and amazingly inspiring in understanding elephants and valuing the species. Thank you Channel 4
    Posted by jubeida on 29/06/2009 22:09:01
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  136. why do so many people accept a 100000000000 1 chance of things and many things just evolving to produce life, and even adapt. why if you experts say the elephant evolved a trunk to reach out and drink etc, why did the girrafe not do the same, i hope the so called experts who seem so sure are just as ready to accept creations explanation when its time for there reconning.
    Posted by john tomas on 29/06/2009 21:51:43
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  137. OMG this programme is AMAZING, nice to see an animal history and dissection than a human one for a change. missed the first 4 minutes. can't believe the size of the elephant's abdominal cavity. will be watchin the other 3 episodes
    Posted by Shona on 29/06/2009 21:40:25
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  138. I must just say i was there as part of the audience as im studying at the RVC, this elephant was euthanased as it was losing weight and had a poor quality of life due to a long term illness which was causing this animal a great amount of distress and discomfort. Like someone else said on here every animal that dies in a zoo must have a post mortem just like a human does. this is benefical to the rest of the herd and can assist veterinary surgeons promote health and develop an understanding on the species. This was a great oppertunity to be part of such an intereasting show. And i hope everyone enjoys watching it as alot of work and time went into producing it!
    Posted by Student :-P on 29/06/2009 21:29:06
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  139. Im watching it just now - i think i missed it, how did it die?
    Posted by Maria on 29/06/2009 21:11:15
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  140. Hmmm... my guess is that within the first 30 seconds they'll address where the body came from. And it won't have been put down for this show, it's 2009, that kind of thing would happen. It would cause too much uproar for the channel.
    Posted by Anticelebrity on 29/06/2009 18:36:07
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  141. Having worked in the field, yes, a necropsy is done on every animal that dies in a zoo's "collection." No animal would be purposely euthanized for this show.
    Posted by zedrick on 29/06/2009 17:26:30
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  142. I read somewhere (BBC News I think) that the elephant died of natural causes at Blackpool Zoo and was given to the TV Producers to make this programme.
    Posted by felix19 on 29/06/2009 14:16:19
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  143. to be honest i think its good that we are seeing these creatures from a different perspective.
    Posted by MATT on 29/06/2009 10:28:09
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  144. There's a great review of this programme by the normally acerbic TV commentator Charlie Brooker who was just blown away by how good it was: http://www.guardian.co.uk/culture/2009/jun/27/charlie-brooker-screen-burn-natures-giants
    Posted by Darwon on 27/06/2009 19:24:15
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  145. I don't think they would kill an elephant to make this programme - it would be pretty outrageous as elephants are a protected species. Animals that die of natural causes are routinely dissected for veterinary purposes, apparently. This allows us to better understand the reasons they die and factors contributing to their death, their general state of health, etc.
    Posted by Chuck on 27/06/2009 10:08:07
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  146. This show is absolutely fascinating. Is there any chance that it will be available to air in Sydney Australia (or online after broadcast? And in reply to Lisa, these animals were already dead and I understand that a post mortem is a standard procedure for large exotics in zoos.
    Posted by Ele Girl on 27/06/2009 02:16:04
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  147. Please don't tell me they killed these beautiful creatures just to cut them open on TV. With CGI there are ways of making tv programmes about natures giant beasts and investigating the same issues without killing them.
    Posted by Lisa on 26/06/2009 21:22:07
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