'Whales, Dolphins, and Porpoises' by Mark Carwardine

'Whales, Dolphins, and Porpoises' is a beautifully illustrated field guide that combines in-depth description of cetacean families (such as rorquals whales, sperm whales, and river dolphins) as well as details about individual species. The text is supplemented with clear diagrams and full-color drawings that will help you identify cetaceans based on key features.

'Whales, Dolphins, and Porpoises' includes the following chapters:

• Introduction (What is a Cetacean, Anatomy of a Cetacean, Cetacean Behavior, How Cetaceans are Studied, Conservation, Stranding, Identification Key)
• Families and Species (Right and Gray Whales, Rorqual Whales, Sperm Whales, Narwhal and Beluga, Beaked Whales, Blackfish, Oceanic Dolphins, River Dolphins, Porpoises)
• Supplemental Information (Glossary, Further Reading, Useful Addresses)

The book's introduction includes an overview of cetacean behavior, conservation, and identification tips. The main body of the text provides illustrations, facts, descriptions and identification tips. The book also includes supplemental information such as a glossary, reading list, and usefull addresses for cetacean oriented organizations.

"Lobtailing describes the forceful slapping of the flukes against the water; while most of the animal lies just under the surface; it is also known as tail-slapping." ~ 'Whales, Dolphins, and Porpoises', page 15

This field guide is well designed and easy to understand. The species and family descriptions are carefully organized with information about classification, habitat, conservation status, population sizes, and threats in tabular format across the top of the page. There are large, well labeled diagrams for most species and descriptive text that highlights key identification features of each animal.

I recommend this book to anyone interested in cetaceans as well as readers who are new to whales, dolphins, and porpoises. It is the perfect guide to take along on a whale watching trip. The binding is durable and the cover tough enough to withstand the occasional splash of sea mist. The book is meant for a beginner- or intermediate-level audience and as such it provides a good introduction to a large number of cetacean species. If you're looking for advanced information about cetaceans, this might not be the book for you. But if you're looking for a good field guide to add to your library, this is a wonderful option.