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Famed in story as "the great leviathans," sperm whales are truly creatures of extremes. Giants among all whales, they also have the largest brains of any creature on Earth. Males can reach a length of sixty-two feet and can weigh upwards of fifty tons. With this book, Hal Whitehead gives us a clearer picture of the ecology and social life of sperm whales than we have ever had before. Based on almost two decades of field research, Whitehead describes their biology, behavior, and habitat; how they organize their societies; and how their complex lifestyles may have evolved in this unique environment. Among the many fascinating topics he explores is the crucial role that culture plays in the life of the sperm whale, and he traces the consequences of this argument for both evolution and conservation. Finally, drawing on these findings, Whitehead builds a general model of how the ocean environment influences social behavior and cultural evolution among mammals as well as other animals. The definitive portrait of a provocative creature, Sperm Whales will interest animal behaviorists, conservationists, ecologists, and evolutionary biologists as well as marine mammalogists.
Dive into Earth's oceans and discover the world of the sperm whale! Stunning, full-color photos show these large-headed whales above water and below. A range map reveals where these special sea creatures can be found. A labeled diagram helps readers identify flukes, flippers, and more. The sperm whale's size, habitat, senses, threats, diet, reproduction, and unique behaviors are also introduced. Plus, find out about the spermaceti organ that gives these whales their name. Learn about the long, deep dives sperm whales are capable of, and discover how they communicate. A facts page, bolded glossary terms, and an index support the engaging, easy-to-read chapter text. Checkerboard Library is an imprint of ABDO Publishing Company.
Over the past several decades, Richard Ellis has produced a remarkable body of work that has been called "magnificent" (Washington Post Book World), "masterful" (Scientific American), "magical" (Men's Journal), and a "dazzling tour de force" (Christian Science Monitor). Ellis's new book-a fascinating tour through the world of the sperm whale-will surely inspire more such praise for the author heralded by Publisher Weekly as "America's foremost writer on marine research." Written with Ellis's deep knowledge and trademark passion, verve, and wit-and illustrated with a wide array of images including his own signature artwork-his study covers the full spectrum of the sperm whale's existence from...
Discusses sperm whales, their characteristics and habitat, and what is being done to save this endangered species.
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