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 beforeFeatures more than 90 stunning color imagesExplores the natural history of flyingfish, where to see them, how they fly, and moreThe ideal gift book for fish lovers, ecotravelers, birders, and armchair naturalists

WHAT IS A FLYINGFISH?......Page 14
WHERE DO FLYINGFISH LIVE?......Page 18
HOW MANY KINDS ARE THERE?......Page 20
HOW BIG ARE THEY?......Page 23
HOW DO THEY FLY?......Page 25
WHY DO THEY FLY?......Page 32
WHAT COLORS ARE THEY?......Page 40
HOW CAN I IDENTIFY THEM?......Page 47
A NOTE ON THE PHOTOS......Page 52
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS......Page 54
REFERENCES......Page 56
INDEX......Page 58