The National Audubon Society Guide to Marine Mammals of the World describes in fascinating detail all 120 species of the world's whales, dolphins, porpoises, seals and sea lions, manatees, Marine and Sea Otters, and the Polar Bear.

Written by a team of experts and featuring more than 320 illustrations, 418 photographs, and 123 maps, this new guide offers more authoritative, up-to-date, and accessible information than any book previously published on the subject.

Organized by the four major groups of marine mammals -- marine fissipeds, pinnipeds, cetaceans, and sirenians -- the species descriptions include:

* Full-color paintings, some depicting males and females, juveniles, subspecies, or special features.

* Color photographs showing appearance in the wild and illustrating typical behaviors.

* Life history data, including length and weight at various life stages, and life span.

* Range and habitat text and a full-color range map based on the most current information.

* Facts about social organizations, surface behaviors, swimming, and diving.

* Information on mating behavior, breeding, and the rearing of young.

* Details about food items and foraging techniques.

* Estimates of populations in the wild, plus current and historic threats.

A general introduction outlines and evolution and taxonomy of marine mammals, distribution, migration, watching guidelines, identification techniques, organizations and laws that protect marine mammals, and more.

Introductions to groups include comparative size illustrations, discussion of behaviors particular to the group, and other unique features.

A useful illustrated glossary of terms and an index of species names complete the guide.

Exquisitely detailed illustrations, stunning photographs, and clearly written text combine to make this an indispensible reference source for marine mammal watchers and anyone interested in the natural world.

About the authors:

Pieter A. Folkens, artist, is one of the finest contemporary illustrators of marine mammals.

Randall R. Reeves, contributing author, is the Chairman of the Cetacean Specialist Group of the World Conservation Union (IUCN).

Phillip J. Chapham, contributing author, is a Research Associate with the Smithsonian Institution. He directs a program of research on large whales in Woods Hole, Massachusetts.

James A. Powell, contributing author, is the Director for Aquatic Programs of the Wildlife Trust in Sarasota, Florida.

National Audubon Society Guide to Marine Animals of the World - nidottu, Englanti, 2006