Imagine if koalas, gorillas, or alligators were to suddenly disappear from Earth. Sadly, this is exactly what may happen. Many species of animals are now listed as being either threatened or endangered. This means that they may soon become extinct. Each book in the Endangered and Threatened Animals series examines the characteristics and habitat of a species at risk of extinction. The author also explains what people are doing to save these animals. The Report Links take the reader to the best Web sites, source documents, and photos related to the study and survival of each species. These books contain a message about the Endangered and Threatened Wildlife list, an animal facts page, chapter notes, a further reading list, and an index.

Author Chris Reiter examines the characteristics and habitat of the blue whale, the earth's largest animal. Topics discussed include the blue whale's migration patterns, breeding grounds, and the dangers of whaling. Reiter also discusses the role of the International Whaling Commission and the recovery efforts taken to protect these animals.