Ep 34. Great Big Stomping Dinosaur Feet! / Hornucopia

Buddy and Tiny explore the wide world of dinosaur feet in the episode "Great Big Stomping Dinosaur Feet!" The Pteranodon family's adventure begins when world-famous paleontologist Dr. Scott, a sandy-colored Velociraptor, shows up at the Train Station to take them on a tour. Dr. Scott teaches Buddy, Tiny, and their siblings about different shapes and sizes of dinosaur feet as they travel the Dinosaur Train through various environments.

The first stop on their journey takes them to a desert region, where they encounter a Giganotosaurus, whose tiny, sharp talons provide excellent traction for running across the loose sand. Dr. Scott also shows the Pteranodons how the Omeisaurus, a long-necked sauropod with round, flat feet, is perfectly designed for walking on muddy terrain without sinking.

Next, the group travels to a forest, where they observe the Velociraptor's agile feet and long, curved claws for gripping tree bark while hunting prey. They also learn how the Ankylosaurus' big, blunt feet allow it to stomp through the underbrush, and the Compsognathus' small, delicate toes are better adapted for scrambling up trees.

Finally, they visit a beach, where Dr. Scott explains how the Spinosaurus' large, webbed feet help it paddle through water, while the Stegosaurus uses its broad, flat feet to anchor itself in the tidepools while searching for food.

In the second part of the episode, "Hornucopia", Mr. Pteranodon takes Buddy and Tiny on a picnic to search for a particular plant that only grows on the mesa. The plant produces a fragrant, fruity horn shaped like a trumpet, which is a traditional gift of thanks in the Pteranodon family. As they travel, they encounter many different species of dinosaurs, including Triceratops, who have sharp, pointed, and horned faces.

Along the way, they discover a hidden canyon filled with cactus and lizards, climb a steep mesa covered in ferns, and leap over a rushing river. They finally find the plant they've been seeking — a towering, flowering tree that exudes a sweet perfume. They pluck the fragrant horn-shaped fruit and return to the Train Station just in time for dinner.

Overall, "Great Big Stomping Dinosaur Feet!" and "Hornucopia" showcase the show's engaging blend of science literacy and imagination. Children who are fascinated by dinosaurs will love learning about the different shapes and functions of dinosaur feet, while the concept of gratitude and thankfulness is woven into the story of the Pteranodon family's quest. The show teaches children about dinosaurs and the natural world around them in an entertaining and educational way.