If you travel the open ocean anywhere in the tropics, you are very likely to see flyingfish. These beautifully colored “ocean butterflies” shoot out of the water and sail on majestic, winglike pectoral fins to escape from predators such as dolphins, swordfish, and tuna. Some can travel for more than six hundred feet per flight. Yet despite their prevalence in warm ocean waters and their vital role in the tropical food chain, surprisingly little is known about flyingfish—more than 60 species are said to exist, but nobody is sure of the number. This beautifully illustrated book presents flyingfish as you’ve never seen them before. It features more than 90 stunning color photos by renowned naturalist Steve Howell, as well as a concise and accessible text that explores the natural history of flyingfish, where they can be found, how and why they fly, what colors they are, what they eat and what eats them, and more.
The ideal gift for fish lovers, seasoned travelers, and armchair naturalists alike, this first-of-its-kind book provides a rare and incomparable look at these spectacular marine creatures.
- Presents flyingfish like you’ve never seen them before
- Features more than 90 stunning color images
- Explores the natural history of flyingfish, where to see them, how they fly, and more
- The ideal gift book for fish lovers, ecotravelers, birders, and armchair naturalists
"Ornithologist Steve Howell's engrossing natural history is embellished with 90 superb colour photographs of the ornate goldwing and other beauties among these 'ocean butterflies'."—Nature
"A mesmerizing natural history."—Scott Shalaway, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
"Beautiful. . . . Informative as Howell's book is, the best thing about it are the photographs. The pictures of the different varieties of flyingfish captured in flight are truly spectacular."—Asbury Park Press
"Charming. . . . [A] great book for any fan of natural history and anyone who still remembers they day they discovered some fish can fly!"—Gabriel Thoumi, Mongabay.com
"Watching flyingfish is one of my favorite things about pelagic trips. If you'd like to find out more about these strange fish, this tiny, but attractive, book is for you."—Grant McCreary, Birder's Library
"This slim book is filled with fascinating facts, interesting anecdotes and lovely photographs about a widespread family of fishes that are almost completely unknown. Fishkeepers, fishermen, globetrotters and nature lovers—whether an adult or a young person—will enjoy this book. Hopefully, it will help inspire both research and conservation efforts focused upon these essential animals."—Devorah Bennu, GrrlScientist
"Delightful. . . . Answers many questions about these interesting fish."—Gerry Rising, Buffalo News
"The Amazing World of Flyingfish . . . is amazing. Once I opened it I did not put it down. . . . I now have a strong urge to be back on the bow, looking at the deep blue water, waiting for that mysterious explosion of gossamer and silver. Fish enthusiasts, travelers, naturalists and photographers will love this book, so buy it for friends and family. Most of all buy a copy for yourself."—Roy John, Canadian Field-Naturalist
"I highly recommend this wonderful book to anyone interested in the diversity of life and/or sea creatures."—DRK, Wildlife Activist
"It is a beautiful little book."—DOB, Flying Fish
"This book is the kind of fare that, when consumed at a young age, can instill a lifelong fascination and concern for all things marine—perfect propaganda for seabird biologists to pass along to the nestlings on their gift list. It could easily be a book for children or adults. But make sure you take a look at it before you give it away—you may want to buy another copy!"—Robert Pitman, Marine Ornithology
"For those readers who have never ventured onto a tropical sea and don't yet believe that fish can fly, prepare to be dazzled by Howell's stunning photographs and to be amazed and charmed by flyingfish."—Robert L. Pitman, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
