The Naturalist in La Plata, W. H. Hudson, 1912
In The Naturalist in La Plata, W. H. Hudson recounts his experiences and observations from the Pampas region of Argentina, focusing on the behavior, ecology, and character of South American wildlife. The book blends detailed naturalistic study with storytelling, capturing unusual and sometimes violent animal behaviors—such as parasitism, predation, and mimicry—with philosophical reflections on nature’s cruelty and wonder. Topics range from wasp intelligence to the habits of armadillos and the deaths of birds in storms. While scientific in approach, the tone is personal and reflective, showcasing Hudson’s unique ability to blend empirical detail with poetic insight.
William Henry Hudson (1841–1922) was an Anglo-Argentine naturalist, ornithologist, and author, celebrated for his vivid nature writing and romantic prose. Born in Quilmes, Argentina, to U.S. settlers of English descent, Hudson developed a deep appreciation for the South American landscape and its birdlife. He emigrated to England in 1874, where he became a founding member of the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds. Although best known for his novel Green Mansions (1904), Hudson's enduring reputation rests on his lyrical works of natural history. He combined scientific observation with literary elegance, influencing both ecological thought and nature writing.
The Naturalist in La Plata, by W. H. Hudson, F.Z.S. Illustrated by J. Smit.
Published by J.M. Dent & Sons, Ltd., London 1912. Fifth edition (first published 1892).
A good green cloth hardback with blind stamped printed black bird design to front cover and gilt titles to spine. Covers bumped and worn to extremities and there is some give in the spine. Inner hinges intact, but weak. First blank endpaper has been removed. Some offsetting to half title and mild spotting to prelims.
The text block in itself is bright and clean throughout, with some spotting to vertical edge of text block. With title vignette. Top edge gilt.
Text in English.
x (including frontispiece) + 394pp + 5 additional Plates. All plates present as called for.
Dimensions: approximately 215mm tall x 158mm wide x 35mm deep )approx.
Weight: approximately 931g (unpacked).