Dolphins of Hilton Head: Their Natural History

By Cara M. Gubbins

Book Overview

One population of a truly fascinating species

The Dolphins of Hilton Head introduces readers to the unique population of bottlenose dolphins that inhabits the warm water and brackish salt marshes of South Carolina's inland coastal waterways. Drawing on years of research in Hilton Head and the latest discoveries of scientists throughout the world, Cara Gubbins describes this atypical habitat and explains how the distinctive behaviors of Hilton Head dolphins distinguish them from other populations. She identifies their particular behavior patterns, vocalizations, behavioral ecology, and local traditions. Gubbins also offers practical suggestions on how best to view and understand these animals while visiting the island.

Framing her study with a general overview of dolphins and their habits, Gubbins explores the natural history, ecology, and evolution of free-ranging Atlantic bottlenose dolphins in South Carolina. She compares this population with others throughout the world to reveal the South Carolina dolphins' innovative foraging techniques, novel social system, and unconventional habitat use patterns. Gubbins debunks widely held myths about the animals, addresses conservation issues that will affect their future in South Carolina waters, and discusses environmental problems that threaten them worldwide.

While Gubbins looks specifically at the dolphins of Hilton Head, her guide helps readers understand these animals throughout the world. She offers advice not only for spotting dolphins but also for interpreting such specific behaviors as feeding, socializing, resting, traveling, and communication.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1570034583
• ISBN13: 9781570034589
• Release Date: July 2002
• Publisher: University of South Carolina Press
• Length: 96 Pages
• Weight: 0.60 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 6.0" x 9.1"

Customer Reviews

Their feeding, socializing, communication, and much more

The Dolphins Of Hilton Head: Their Natural History by ecologist and conservation biologist Cara M. Gubbins is an informed and informative introduction to the fascinating life and world of dolphins, studying their feeding, socializing, communication, and much, much more. Black-and-white photographs enhance the adventurous and detailed, "reader friendly" text, making The Dolphins Of Hilton Head a truly exciting account which is most especially recommended for marine wildlife students in general, and dolphin enthusiasts in particular.