The Laser Bin

“Encyclopedia of Animals” in eight volumes. “Volume 1: Mammals I: Carnivores and Sea Mammals” (Pioneer Special Interests, LaserDisc Corp. of America, 60 minutes, color, two audio channels, $39.95).

This extraordinary series vividly brings to life the printed encyclopedias of animals so popular in most children’s libraries. But what is friendly on the printed page seems at times terrifyingly real when it darts and jumps and attacks on the video screen. This Japanese production is immaculate, with startling photography. Unlike Disney productions, “Mammals I” is far more realistic in its treatment of how animals live and survive (the killing and eating sequences may be a bit rough for small children). The straightforward English narration is provided by the UCLA Office of Instructional Development. This first volume includes 72 of the most familiar animals, from lions and tigers to raccoons and giant pandas, from foxes and bears to whales and sea lions. The full encyclopedia covers eight two-sided discs and more than 500 animals.