Books
Whales:
Bernard, Hannah J. Field Guide to the Humpback Whale, Oceanic Society Expeditions and Earthtrust, 1993. This guide, which provides basic knowledge on whale biology, migration, conservation and history - is written for both novice and veteran whale watchers.

Clapham, Phil. Humpback Whales. World Life Library, Voyager Press, 1996. The topic is covered in clear, easy-to-read text. The book is lavishly illustrated with more than 50 full-color photographs that bring these animals to vibrant life. The author is a leading expert in his field.

Clapham, Phil. Whales of the World. Voyager Press, 1997. The two things that set this book apart are the 1) numerous and beautiful color photographs and paintings of whales, as well as 2) the author's expertise as one of the world's leading whale experts. As a whale biologist with the Smithsonian Institute, Phil Clapham teaches in this book about all the species of whales - their evolution, migration, complex interaction, communication and breeding. The book also cover the history of whaling and surveys images of whales found in legends and myths.

Coffey, D.J. Dolphins, Whales and Porpoises, an Encyclopedia of Sea Mammals, Collier Books, 1977. This is a wonderful encyclopedia of facts about 120 species and sub-species of sea mammals organized alphabetically and including scientists' description of sea mammals' intelligence, complex social orders, methods of communication and rearing of offspring. The color, black and white and historical pictures dispersed throughout each chapter are particularly nice.

McIntyre, Joan. Mind in the Waters: A Book to Celebrate the Consciousness of Whales and Dolphins, Scribner's Sons and Sierra Club Books, 1974. A sensitive and artistic book about whale myths, whale consciousness, whale life in the sea, discovery and response to the whale, and finally "calls to action" to save the whale - all via a compilation mix of poetry, account, essay, field observations, photography and other forms of expression about the whale.

Nicklin, Flip and Darling, Dr. James. With the Whales. NorthWord Press, Inc., 1994. A photographic portfolio of whale behavior and biology. The photos are unique and breath taking. The text is informative and inspirational.

Manatees:

Bonde, Bob and R. Reep. The Florida Manatee: Biology and Conservation. University Press of Florida, 2006. This book, put together by two leading manatee scientists, is a one-stop-shop for up to date manatee information. Easy to read and packed with personal insights into the sirenian world, this book comes highly recommended for anyone interested in knowing more about one of the most endangered marine mammals on Earth.
back to top