THE WHALE WATCHERS HANDBOOK: A Field Guide...

THE WHALE WATCHERS HANDBOOK: A Field Guide to the Whales, Dolphins and Porpoises of North America by David K. Bulloch (Lyons & Burford: $13.95; 114 pp., illustrated, paperback original). In addition to the familiar gray whale, several large species visit Southern California waters, including blue, fin, sei and sperm whales, as well as a variety of dolphins and porpoises. This brief guide explains how to identify different types of whales by their fins, heads, flukes and other physical characteristics. Bulloch also shows how individuals can keep a log of their observations to help cetologists track the movements of whales. This handy book would add interest to a sailing expedition to the Channel Islands or just an ordinary trip to beach.