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BCnature Winter 202230Book ReviewWhelks to Whales: Coastal Marine Life of the Pacific Northwest: third edition. Author - Rick M. Harbo Harbour Publishing, Madeira Park Soft Cover - $28.95 Book reviewer: Elise RobertsMost people enjoy being in nature, but do they know enough about it? This detailed and informative paperback field guide We all like to go to the beach for a swim and to enjoy the is a motivating resource for those with any level of expertise or depth of interest. From professional divers to parents who simply enjoy discovering little creatures at low tide with their children, Whelks to Whales encourages the reader to get out and explore marine life in a responsible way without disturbance. It promotes an appreciation, a sense of wonder for all living things in our cherished Salish Sea. Whelks to Whales describes over 500 marine species of the Pacific Northwest, from the tiniest snail to the largest whale, with concise details on species distribution, habitats and diversity, and how species live in their unique environments. It raises awareness about threats to biodiversity such as plastic pollution, climate change and invasive species. It illustrates relationships between organisms and their environment and includes stunning photographs and colour-coded sections for quick reference. “There are endless opportunities to learn about our rich and diverse marine life.” When I read about ancient glass sponge reefs, I wanted to learn more. These recently discovered reefs, found nowhere else in the world, were thought to be extinct millions of years ago. They are exceptionally fragile, very vulnerable to climate change and are critical habitat for juvenile rockfish and other species. warm water, but do we think about what that really means? It was so alarming when the ocean warmed to such an extent in 2021 that billions of mussels, usually adapted to endure higher temperatures at low tide, roasted in their shells. Whelks to Whales educates the general public about the very real impacts of a warming climate. Enhancing nature literacy in our shoreline communities plays an important role in promoting conservation as population growth in Metro Vancouver and elsewhere puts pressure on the environment. Don’t leave behind this book of wonder any time you go to the beach or for a trip on the Salish Sea. Ω Elise Roberts is a community organizer and has been writing and performing children’s interactive eco-puppet theatre for over two decades.The projects we fund are improving fish passage, conserving critical habitats, supporting endangered and at-risk species, restoring ecosystems for fish and wildlife, and filling important data gaps.fwcp.caThe FWCP is a partnership between BC Hydro, First Nations, the Province of B.C., Fisheries and Oceans Canada, and public stakeholders to conserve and enhance fish and wildlife in watersheds impacted by BC Hydro dams.Photo: iStock Schaef