After being hunted nearly to the point of extinction, the cetaceans have now become a symbol of the need for marine conservation. Today, dolphins and whales are featured in numerous books and television documentaries, which has allowed people to connect with them. Bringing together the most recent research on cetaceans, this volume provides a scientific grounding to our feelings for these distant relatives of ours. Filled with splendid photographs and drawings, the book describes in realistic detail the fascinating biology and behavior of dolphins and whales. Cetaceans returned to the sea about 60 million years ago, and today, represented by 81 species, they have colonized nearly all the world's oceans and some big rivers in South America and Asia. Dolphins and whales have been the subject of many legends, and so this book begins with the history of how humans have viewed these creatures, and then it explains their evolution. The special features that enable these mammals to live like fish, sometimes being able to swim extremely fast (certain dolphin species travel over 31 mph) or dive unusually deep (sperm whales can dive to depths of 9900 feet) are also discussed, along with such topics as echolocation and language. At the end, readers will find an illustrated guide to the various species. A useful tool as well as a visual delight, Dolphins and Whales will be a valued addition to all ocean-lovers' libraries.