The Bottlenose Dolphin - by John E Reynolds & Randall S Wells & Samantha D Eide (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

"This excellent introduction on the biology of the bottlenose dolphin also provides a review of conservation issues and outlines current knowledge of dolphins in general. . . . for students, professionals, and anyone interested in the bottlenose dolphin."--Charles W. Potter, National Museum of Natural History

The Bottlenose Dolphin presents for the first time a comprehensive, colorfully illustrated, and concise overview of a species that has fascinated humans for at least 3,000 years.

After reviewing historical myths and legends of the dolphin back to the ancient Greeks and discussing current human attitudes and interactions, the author replaces myths with facts--up-to-date scientific assessment of dolphin evolution, behavior, ecology, morphology, reproduction, and genetics--while also tackling the difficult issues of dolphin conservation and management.

Although comprehensive enough to be of great value to professionals, educators, and students, the book is written in a manner that all dolphin lovers will enjoy. Randall Wells's anecdotes interspersed throughout the work offer a first-hand view of dolphin encounters and research based on three decades working with them. Color photographs and nearly 100 black and white illustrations, including many by National Geographic photographer Flip Nicklin, beautifully enhance the text.

Readers of The Bottlenose Dolphin will better appreciate what dolphins truly are and do, as well as understand some of the controversies surrounding them. While raising compelling questions, the book provides a wealth of information on a legendary species that is loved and admired by many people.

From the Back Cover

"Probably the most comprehensive single piece of work ever done on bottlenose dolphins, the book represents a milestone for all those who are interested in the cetacean. . . . Stands as an essential reference."--"Marine Mammal Science""It is hard to imagine a better resource."--"Aquatic Mammals""Clear and compelling."--"Publishers Weekly""Comprehensive overview of the species, its evolution, place in ancient and modern myth, behavior, ecology, reproduction, and genetics."--"Florida Times-Union" "A concise overview of a species that has fascinated humans for at least 3,000 years."--"Biology Digest" "Covers everything from the historical myths about dolphins to their daily lives."--"EcoFlorida""This excellent introduction on the biology of the bottlenose dolphin also provides a review of conservation issues and outlines current knowledge of dolphins in general."--Charles W. Potter, National Museum of Natural History

About the Author

John E. Reynolds III, senior scientist at the Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota, Florida, and former chairman of the United States government's Marine Mammal Commission, is the author or editor of twelve books, including Mysterious Manatees and Biology of Marine Mammals. Randall S. Wells is Senior Conservation Scientist and Director of the Chicago Zoological Society's Sarasota Dolphin Research Program where he conducts the world's longest running study of a wild dolphin population. Samantha D. Eide, former field leader for the Eckerd College Dolphin Project, currently resides in Florida.