The Lives and Minds of the Dolphins of Monkey Mia
In 1982 US psychobiologist Rachel Smolker began what would become a 15-year study of the dolphins of Monkey Mia in WA. Monkey Mia is now a major tourist attraction, but at the time it was a remote place known only to a few. Smolker and her team of fellow scientists undertook a study of the area's wild dolphins that is unequalled anywhere in the world. By 1990 they could recognise and chart the behaviour of 250 individual dolphins.
This book is a stunning insight into Smolker's work and it answers so many of the questions that almost everyone who has encountered a wild dolphin has asked themselves: How much do these creatures understand? Are they as intelligent as they seem? And just how much intelligent interaction is possible between species?
Far from being a dry academic text, the book is filled with anecdotes and cameos that bring the dolphins fully to life. It is an up-close look at the magnificent creatures, at their society and at the diverse individuals who make it up. Yes, there are silly dolphins and there are moody dolphins. Once you've come to know them this way you will never forget the dolphins of Monkey Mia.
