Whales, Dolphins, and Porpoises of the Western North Atlantic: A Guide to Their Identification

A field guide published in the mid-20th century. The book serves as a comprehensive tool for identifying various cetaceans found in the western North Atlantic, including regions like the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. It organizes these marine mammals based on visual similarities rather than scientific classification, making it practical for observers at sea or those encountering stranded specimens. The opening of the guide outlines its purpose and the context of its creation, highlighting the need for a user-friendly identification tool following the success of a similar guide focused on the Eastern North Pacific. It explains how oceanographers and the general public can contribute to the understanding of cetacean populations by identifying and reporting their sightings. The guide emphasizes the importance of detailed observation of characteristics like size, shape, and behavior to differentiate between species in dynamic marine environments, ultimately fostering greater public interest and involvement in marine conservation efforts.