This is the first comprehensive photographic guide to the marine mammals of the North American Pacific (from Baja California in Mexico to southeast Alaska), featuring stunning color photographs of all 39 species of whales, dolphins, and porpoises, as well as 6 species of seals and sea lions, and the sea otter. Provides detailed information on all 39 species of whales, dolphins, and porpoises, the 6 species of seals and sea lions, and the sea otter, focusing on identification, behavior, and distribution Includes 45 remarkable color plates showing typical views of marine mammals as most people see them--from land or from a boat. These have been produced using the latest digital image technology, and include photographs of some species that have never before been published Features a comprehensive section on behavior, packed with amazing photographs, which aims to help the reader get more out of their whale-watching experience than ever before Also includes detailed sections on where, when, and how to go whale watching, and four accounts by leading experts of outstanding days on the water Easy-to-use format helps whale-watchers identify any species they encounter, whether they are a beginner or an expert

The innovative, easy-to-use format aims to help whalewatchers identify any species they encounter, whether they are beginners or experts.

The eighty-nine cetacean species that swim our seas and rivers are as diverse as they are intelligent and elusive, from the hundred-foot-long, two-hundred-ton blue whale to the lesser-known tucuxi, ginkgo-toothed beaked whale, and diminutive, critically endangered vaquita. The huge distances these highly migratory creatures cover and the depths they dive mean we catch only the merest glimpses of their lives as they break the surface of the water. But thanks to the marriage of science and technology, we are now beginning to understand their anatomy, complex social structures, extraordinary communication abilities, and behavioral patterns. In this beautifully illustrated guide, renowned marine mammalogist Annalisa Berta draws on the contributions of a pod of fellow whale biologists to present the most comprehensive, authoritative overview ever published of these remarkable aquatic mammals. Opening with an accessible rundown of cetacean biology—including the most recent science on feeding, mating, and communication—Whales, Dolphins, and Porpoises then presents species-specific natural history on a range of topics, from anatomy and diet to distribution and conservation status. Each entry also includes original drawings of the species and its key identifiers, such as fin shape and color, tooth shape, and characteristic markings as they would appear both above and below water—a feature unique to this book. Figures of myth and—as the debate over hunting rages on—figures of conflict since long before the days of Moby-Dick, whales, dolphins, and porpoises are also ecologically important and, in many cases, threatened. Written for general enthusiasts, emergent cetacean fans, and biologists alike, this stunning, urgently needed book will serve as the definitive guide for years to come.

The field guide is designed to assist the layman in identifying the whales, dolphins, and porpoises he sees in the eastern North Pacific, including all the area north of the equator and east of 180 degrees W longitude. The animals described are grouped not by scientific relationships but by simularities in appearance in the field. Photographs of the animals in their natural environment are the main aids to identification. (Author).

Fully updated, with new images, revised artwork, and the latest distribution data, this comprehensive photographic guide to whales, dolphins, and porpoises now covers coastal southwest Ireland and the Celtic Sea as well as the English Channel and the Bay of Biscay. Designed for easy use at sea or when watching from land, it covers all 18 regularly seen species and the 13 rarities that have also been recorded. It includes details of status and behavior, as well as introductory sessions to help you get the most from your whale watching in the region. An introduction to cetaceans, the region, and information to help you get the most from your whale-watching experience Illustrated profiles of the 18 regularly occurring and 13 rare cetaceans of the region Annotated surfacing sequence illustrations and scaled comparison charts Superb photographs and illustrations showing the key features and highlighting comparisons between similar species Distribution maps based on the latest information Charts showing the best times of year to observe each species Full description of typical behavior and facets leading to identification Pocket-sized for convenient use on board or on land-based observatories

No one ever says 'I can't remember if I've seen a whale.' A close encounter with one of the most enigmatic and remarkable creatures on the planet is a life-changing experience. This comprehensive and authoritative guide covers everything you need to know about where, when and how to watch whales, dolphins and porpoises in North America. Packed with useful information and top tips to help you get the most out of your trip, it includes a thorough account of whale-watching opportunities in some of the world's hotspots, from Hawai'i and Vancouver Island to the Gulf of Maine and Baja California, as well as detailed accounts of every cetacean species found in North America. Whether you want to watch Blue Whales in Monterey Bay, Killer Whales in the San Juan Islands, Narwhals in the high Arctic or North Atlantic Right Whales in the Bay of Fundy, this is an ideal companion.

The eighty-nine cetacean species that swim our seas and rivers are as diverse as they are intelligent and elusive, from the hundred-foot-long, two-hundred-ton blue whale to the lesser-known tucuxi, ginkgo-toothed beaked whale, and diminutive, critically endangered vaquita. The huge distances these highly migratory creatures cover and the depths they dive mean we catch only the merest glimpses of their lives as they break the surface of the water. But thanks to the marriage of science and technology, we are now beginning to understand their anatomy, complex social structures, extraordinary communication abilities, and behavioral patterns. In this beautifully illustrated guide, renowned marine mammalogist Annalisa Berta draws on the contributions of a pod of fellow whale biologists to present the most comprehensive, authoritative overview ever published of these remarkable aquatic mammals. Opening with an accessible rundown of cetacean biology—including the most recent science on feeding, mating, and communication—Whales, Dolphins, and Porpoises then presents species-specific natural history on a range of topics, from anatomy and diet to distribution and conservation status. Each entry also includes original drawings of the species and its key identifiers, such as fin shape and color, tooth shape, and characteristic markings as they would appear both above and below water—a feature unique to this book. Figures of myth and—as the debate over hunting rages on—figures of conflict since long before the days of Moby-Dick, whales, dolphins, and porpoises are also ecologically important and, in many cases, threatened. Written for general enthusiasts, emergent cetacean fans, and biologists alike, this stunning, urgently needed book will serve as the definitive guide for years to come.