Dolphins of the World - Hardcover

Wilson, Ben

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0896584003 ISBN 13: 9780896584006

Publisher: Voyageur Pr, 1998

Synopsis

This top-selling series introduces the wild creatures of the world and examines the natural world. Good general introductions for ages 10+, these volumes contain the knowledge, personal experiences, and research of leading naturalists and scientists, accompanied by stunning photography.

About this title

Review:

As the author notes, dolphins "bear many similarities to sharks but elicit an entirely different response in us." Maybe it's because dolphins don't eat humans--but most sharks don't eat humans either. Maybe it's because of the "dolphin smile," that trick of nature that gives dolphins a friendly countenance. Whatever the reason, many humans love dolphins, and those who do will certainly enjoy Dolphins of the World, written by marine zoologist Ben Wilson. Introductory chapters about the dolphin's evolution, physique, and lifestyle are followed by sections devoted to the three major dolphin classifications: oceanic dolphins like the bottlenose and the clymene; coastal dolphins like the dusky and the Chilean; and river dolphins like the tucuxi and the Irrawaddy. Wilson's writing is learned but not overly dry. He is at his best when he turns to subjects very near his heart, such as dolphin conservation and research. One brief chapter entitled "Getting to Know a Wild Dolphin" recounts his eight-year study of Kess, a dolphin who lived off the northeastern coast of Scotland. Wilson concludes the book with suggestions for further reading and information on how you can support research and conservation efforts. A full-color diagram of 30 of the dolphin species displays their diversity of shape, size, and color--from the reddish-pink boto to the huge, grey Risso's dolphin. Nearly 70 beautiful photos of many of these species accompany the text and help make this handsome book a treat for dolphin fans. --C.B. Delaney

From the Back Cover:

In Dolphins of the World Ben Wilson gives an overview of dolphins from the perspective of a biologist whose life has been immersed in theirs. He describes the characteristics common to all dolphins, then divides them into three groups according to the environments that shape them: dolphins as oceanic wanderers, coastal dolphins, and dolphins that have left the sea and now make their home in the world's greatest rivers. The final chapter explores the future of dolphins, including scientific discoveries, opportunities for the public to see and experience dolphins, and our responsibility for the dolphin's fate.

From legend to science, exploitation to conservation, Dolphins of the World introduces readers to the beauty, biology, and mystery of dolphins.... This volume describes not only dolphins' differences but the way humans fit into their lives. The latest scientific research, personal experiences, and stunning photographs combine to create an awe-inspiring portrait of these fascinating creatures.

About this edition

• Publisher: Voyageur Pr
• Publication date: 1998
• ISBN 10: 0896584003
• ISBN 13: 9780896584006
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 132