Robert wasn’t the only one alarmed by the terrifying sound. The herd of dinosaurs drinking by the stream panicked. They stampeded in all directions, causing mayhem, squealing and braying as they tried to gallop out of harm’s way.
Despite his fear, Robert knew he had to get a look at the creature that could produce a roar like that. He inched his way to a position, still half-hidden by fern fronds, where he could watch the drama unfold.
And then the beast appeared. On two legs, scaly and terrifying, the creature let out another bellow. His gleaming rows of razor-like teeth were making it clear to the smaller dinosaurs that they were most definitely on the menu! Robert couldn’t believe his luck. He had to remind himself to breathe. ‘I think this guy . . . this guy is an australovenator. It’s incredible to see him in the flesh. He’s called the Southern Hunter and he’s absolutely fearsome. He’s a carnivore. And I reckon it’s just about lunchtime. There’s no doubt about it. The smaller dinos know this and are running for their lives.’
The australovenator ran towards the group of smaller dinosaurs, causing them to scramble, some sprinting away from the creature and, strangely, some running straight towards it. It was like watching an unusual prehistoric game of chicken. The small ’saurs were much quicker than the hungry theropod, but the size of his claws made Robert believe the australovenator would not leave the river’s edge with an empty stomach!