The book you are holding is packed with fascinating pictures and information about all kinds of animal giants-truly incredible creatures that share the earth with us humans. But a word of caution! Just because these mammals, reptiles, insects and birds are giants, often big enough and sometimes mean and ugly enough to defend themselves, it does not always mean that their existence is guaranteed.

KINGGFISHER KNOWLEDGE takes readers into the heart of a subject. Stunning photographs and thought-provoking digital artwork capture the essence of each topic, while compelling text guides the reader through a wealth of information. Each chapter encourages the reader to discover more through links to websites, books and places to visit, and also suggests possible career opportunities.

KFK ANIMAL GIANTS is a thrilling journey into the animal kingdom. Marvel at the most magnificent and powerful animals ever to have inhabited the earth, from the  50-tonne Supersaurus of the Late Jurassic era, to the African elephant-the most immense creature to walk on land today. Glory at the graceful giants of the skies, including the soaring albatross, with its vast wingspan, and the enormous female Hercules moth. Find out why living in water has allowed the blue whale  to become the largest creature ever, and shiver at the sight of the unbelievable colossal squid, which lives in the deep-sea twilight zone and has yet to be seen alive as a fully grown adult.

Foreword

CHAPTER 1

 LARGEST ON LAND

 Giants of ancient lands

 The African elephant

 Bear facts

 Remarkable body parts

 Island giants

 Mighty serpents

 Outsize insects     

 Colossal creepy crawlies 

 The biggest birds    

 Summary

CHAPTER 2

 TITANS OF THE SKIES

 Giants of ancient skies

 The albatross

 Birds of prey

 Creatures of the night sky

 Butterflies and moths  

 Summary

CHAPTER 3

 GIANTS OF THE WATER

 Giants of ancient waters

 The blue whale

 Mammoth sea mammals

 Lurking crocodiles

 Amazing amphibians  

 Mega sharks

 Phenomenal fish

 Super-size squid

 Sea monsters

 Summary

 Glossary

Index

Acknowledgements