Notes

153 pages :

illustrations.

Summary: The list of native mammals of the New Zealand region is completely different from that of any other country in the world. There are no indigenous four-legged land mammals at all. Instead, there are just two living bats of unique and ancient descent, plus 57 species of seals, dolphins and whales. This book describes the history and diversity of these mammals; their influence on Māori culture; their ruthless exploitation by 19th century sealers and whalers; and their contemporary recovery.