Whale hunting with gun and camera A naturalist's account of the modern shore-whaling industry, of whales and their habits, and of hunting experiences in various parts of the world

Over eight years of travel take listeners from the icy waters of Alaska to the tropical seas of Borneo, where a museum naturalist recorded the day‑to‑day rhythm of shore‑based whaling stations. He describes the tools of the trade—harpoon guns, floating factories, and the sturdy shore stations that process the catch—while sharing the sights and sounds that greeted him on distant coasts. The narrative balances personal adventure with a clear-eyed view of an industry that was then at its height.

Interwoven with vivid field notes are the author’s observations of the cetaceans themselves: how humpbacks surface, the social habits of pilot whales, and the remarkable size of the blue giants he photographed. His camera work, a novelty at the time, brings those living creatures into focus, offering listeners a rare visual record that complements the scientific details. The account also touches on the friendships forged with ship captains and local officials, revealing a world where science and commerce intersect.

The result is a compelling portrait of early twentieth‑century whaling, rich with natural history, travel anecdotes, and a genuine curiosity about the ocean’s most majestic mammals.