B. IL DAY
PACIFIC SEABIRD GROUP
BULLETIN
Summer 1976
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No. 1
Vol. 3
PACIFIC SEABIRD GROUP
The Pacific Seabird Group (PSG) was formed in 1972 out of a need for
better communication among Pacific seabird researchers. The Group acts
to coordinate and stimulate the field activities of its members and to
inform its membership and the general public of conservation issues re-
lating to Pacific seabirds and the marine environment. Current activ-
ities include the development of standard techniques and reporting forms
for colony censusing, pelagic observat ions, ? and beached bird surveys.
Policy statements are issued on conservation issues of critical import-
ance. While the PSG T s primary area of interest is the West Coast of
North America and adjacent areas of the Pacific, it is hoped that seabird
enthusiasts in other parts of the world will join and participate in the
Group. Annual dues for membership in the Group are $5.00 and are pay-
able to the Secretary or Treasurer (addresses on back cover) . Members rec-
eive the PSG Bulletin.
PACIFIC SEABIRD GROUP BULLETIN
7116 Pacific Seabird Group Bulletin is issued in the spring or summer
and fall of each year and contains news of interest to PSG members. Re-
gional reports include a listing of current research and information on
seabird conservation. The Bulletin does not act as an outlet for the
results of scientific research but welcomes articles on seabird conser-
vation, seabird research, or other topics that relate to the objectives
of the Group. Articles should be submitted to the Editor. Back issues
of the Bulletin (starting with spring 1974) are available from the
Secretary for $2.50 each.
COMMITTEE COORDINATORS
Pelagic observations :
Gerald A. Sanger
U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service
800 A Street, No. 110
Anchorage, Alaska 99501
Beached bird surveys :
David G. Ainley
Box 8, Alder Road
Bolinas, California 94924
Colony Censusing :
David A. Manuwal
College of Forest Resources
University of Washington
Seattle, Washington 98195
Double-crested Cormorant
PACIFIC SEABIRD GROUP
BULLETIN
VOLUME 3 SUMMER 1976 . NUMBER 1
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CONTENTS
The Chairman's Page 1
Pacific Seabird Group News. . 2
Business Proceedings of the Second Annual Meeting ..... 2
Policy Statements 2
Working Committees and Projects • * 3
Duties of Office Holders 3
Meetings. . . 5
Treasurer's Report, 1975 5
New Officers. 5
Resolutions 6
Items of Interest 7
Next PSG Annual Meeting 7
Shorebird Symposium ........... 8
Southern African Seabird Group 8
Simposio Binacional: El Golfo: De California . 8
Arizona Sonora Desert Museum, Mexico Unit 8
Status of the Short-Tailed Albatross 8
New Director, Point Reyes Bird Observatory 9 *
Nominations for Regional Representative . 9
PSG Resolutions 9
New Census Techniques Manual 9
Regional Reports . 10
Alaska 10
British Columbia 11
Washington 12
Oregon 12
Northern California 13
Southern California 14
Mexico 14
Hawaii. 14
Non Regional Reports. 16
Abstracts of Papers Given, 1975 Annual Meeting 17
Symposium: Seabird Conservation Problems on the California Coasts 17
General Papers Session 20
Symposium: Marine Charadrii formes. 25
General Papers Session . 30
THE CHAIRMAN’S PAGE
Three years ago when PSG was first organized, W. R. P. Bourne told me
that if our organization followed the same path as the British Seabird
Group, there would be two distinct periods in our early years. There
would be an initial period of intense interest when people would be sur-
prised at the number of others with common interests in seabirds. Once
the contacts between these people had been made, the group would then
need to have well defined goals and programs in order to remain a viable
organization. PSG has gone through the first stage and is now entering
the period when we will have to guard against becoming stagnant.
I am sorry to say that there are already signs of stagnation! The
most serious is the failure of many of our original members to continue
to support PSG, now that we are collecting dues. A strong and viable or-
ganization depends upon both support through dues payments as well as mem-
bership participation.
Much of PSG's success has been due to the growing interest in the mar-
ine environment caused by the increase in offshore drilling and tanker
traffic resulting from the "energy crisis." (Our timing was so good that
our first organizational meeting was held on the first "gasless Sunday" in
December of 1973.) The recent wave of funding from the Outer Continental
Shelf Energy Program has brought a large number of people into seabird re-
search, and many of them have turned to the PSG to find out what studies
on Pacific seabirds are in progress. The group cannot hope to have such
good luck in the future. We will have to depend instead on a dedicated
and active membership. I urge you to help the PSG by informing your re-
gional representative of any new research or conservation issues in your
area so that these can be put into the regional reports. I also urge you
to inform me or any council member of ways in which the PSG can better
meet its goals and your needs. I urge all of you to encourage others to
become members of PSG, and I urge current members to keep their member-
ships up-to-date.
The 1977 meeting of the group will include a full-day symposium on
shorebirds. In the past, PSG meetings have been dominated by papers on
gulls and alcids, and it is hoped that this symposium will bring shore-
bird researchers into the group.
George J. Divoky
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PACIFIC SEABIRD GROUP NEWS
I. Business Proceedings of the Second Annual Meeting .
The 1975 meeting of the PSG Executive Council was held at Asilomar, Pacific
Grove, California on 11 December 1975. The meeting was called to order at 3:00 p.m.
by chairman J. Michael Scott. The general membership participated in this meeting
and is invited to continue to do so. The following- matters were discussed.
POLICY STATEMENTS - A number of Council mem6ers wondered if policy statements
were receiving adequate circulation, and it was decided to circulate all distribution
lists to each Council member for additions.
Methods of increasing press coverage were also discussed. One member suggested
releasing policy statements at annual meetings. This would allow the statements to
be released at press conferences, where questions could be fielded by the authors
of the statements. Photographs might also enhance the chances of a statement being
picked-up by the press.
The Council approved the following procedure for the generation of policy
statements:
(1) Possible topics for policy statements should be brought to the attention
of a Council member .
(2) The person suggesting the topic, or another appropriate person, will write
an informative background statement outlining the issue. If its? a potential
problem (such as a proposed lease) the date of possible impact should be
included. Every background statement will Include the name(s) of those who
have agreed to participate in writing the statement, if the Council votes
to proceed.
(3) All newly proposed and pending background statements will be sent to
members of the Council. Each Council member will rank the statements or
state which issues are inappropriate.
(4) Rankings will be sent to the chairman, who will compile the results for the
Council. Issues not clearly ranked will be further voted upon by the
Council, and the two most pressing issues determined.
(5) The chairman will contact the persons who have offered to write the two
statements selected. When the rough draft is completed, it will be
forwarded by the chairman to all Council members for review.
(6) When the statement is approved by a majority of the Council members. It
will be distributed to all persons and organizations involved, and it will
be included in the next issue of the PSG Bulletin .
Possible topics for future policy statements include: (1) OCS and oil develop-
ment, (2) 200-mile limit, (3) Hawaii bombing range, (4) Alaska Native Claims
Settlement Act, (5) Development In Puget Sound, (6) Aquaculture, (7) Beaufort Sea
Oil Development, and (8) log rafts in Southeast Alaska. Persons willing to write
statements on these and other issues will be contacted, or are urged to contact
Chairman Divoky. Policy statements should. offer constructive criticism and/or
alternatives rather than just pointing out problems. They should include: (1) a
statement of the problem, (2) data to show the severity of the problem, and
(3) suggested alternatives.
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WORKING COMMITTEES AND PROJECTS, Reports were given by committee coordinators:
Pelagic Censusin g - Gerald Sanger reported that little progress has been made,
but a booklet will be issued in the future.
Colony Censusing - David Manuwal reported that a booklet on techniques will be
issued in 1976.
Conservation - Kenton Wohl asked that this committee be abolished since he
believed the committee’s duties were being accomplished elsewhere in the PSG.
Seabird Journal - James Bartonek suggested a yearly seabird publication contain-
ing scientific papers. W. R. P. Bourne has suggested such a publication, and
has stated that he believes that with the growing number of seabird groups and
interest in seabirds, it would be well-received. The Council approved the idea,
but expressed reservations regarding quality control, publication lag time, and
financial feasibility. More specifics are needed.
Field Guide Project - Ronald LeValley has approached Council members concerning
PSG participation in the publishing of a field guide to eastern Pacific Seabirds.
The Council voted not to become involved because of the magnitude of such a
project and the chances of a poor-quality end-product without adequate funding.
J. R. Jehl suggested an alternative development of a series of species
accounts, written by persons most closely associated with each species. These
accounts can be mailed with the PSG Bulletin . Jehl will coordinate the early
phases of the project,
DUTIES OF OFFICE HOLDERS - A list of duties had been circulated in October of
1975 to Council members for consideration. These were discussed, amended, and
approved. This list is as follows:
Chairman
(1) Oversee all activities of the Group.
(2) Play a central role in the initiation, editing and distribution of
PSG policy statements.
(3) Act as official spokesman for the Group,
(4) Designate people to carry out certain tasks not covered by the duties
listed for other officers.
(5) Chair the meeting of the Executive Council.
(6) Inform the Executive Council of PSG activities.
(7) Keep abreast of conservation issues and inform council members
when appropriate.
(8) Write a Chairman’s Page for each PSG Bulletin.
Vice-Chairman
(1) Carry out duties assigned to him by the Chairman.
(2) Act as program chairman for the annual meeting by receiving and editing
abstracts and sending abstracts to the Coordinator of Local Committee for
inclusion in the program.
(3) Investigate locations for future annual meetings. The Vice-Chairman
should come to the council meeting with information on the location for
the next meeting and a choice of two or three sites for the meeting to
be held in two years.
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Secretary
(1) Receive membership applications, requests for Bulletins, etc.
(2) Keep listing of current members on address labels.
(3) Prepare bulk mailings of Bulletins, meeting announcements, etc.
(4) Take minutes at annual council meeting.
(5) Maintain a list of publications and organizations to receive notice of
PSG meetings and other activities.
(6) Serve as liaison to Coordinator of Local Committee.
T
Treasurer
(1) Maintain PSG funds in a financial institution.
(2) Receive receipts from persons authorized to spend PSG money and reimburse
them by check.
(3) Complete income tax statement and perform other duties relating to PSG’s
status as a tax-exempt group.
(4) Prepare a treasurer’s report for the annual meeting and Bulletin.
(5) Receive income from dues and sale of Bulletin.
Regional Representatives
(1) Contact seabird researchers in their region at least once a year and
report all current research in the regional report.
(2) Keep abreast of marine conservation issues in the region and report at
least one of the issues in each regional report. Send newspaper
clippings on important conservation issues to the Chairman.
(3) . Establish and maintain contact with local conservation groups so that
PSG is aware of their activities and they are aware of PSG’s.
(4) Keep copies of all correspondence with seabird researchers and
conservation groups.
Editor
(1) Contact individuals and organizations concerning potential articles for
the Bulletin.
(2) Receive and edit regional reports, articles, bulletin board items, etc.
(3) Produce text for Bulletin, staple in covers and send to Secretary for
bulk mailing.
Non-Regional Representatives
(1) Represent the PSG in areas away from the west coast of North America.
(2) Report to the Chairman and the Council on conservation issues and research
away from the west coast of North America.
Coordinator of Local Committee
(1) Make arrangements for use of meeting facilities.
(2) Produce a meeting announcement , pre-registration form and call for papers
and send to Secretary for mailing.
(3) Form and coordinate Local Committee.
(4) Carry out activities outlined in PSG meeting instructions.
(5) Keep records of all money spent and received and generate a budget
statement after meeting.
Working Committee Coordinators
(1) Report to the council the activities and accomplishments of the working
group.
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Election Committee Coordinator
(1) Receive nominations for council seats.
(2) Hail ballots.
(3) Tabulate ballots and inform council members and the Editor.
MEETINGS - The Council agreed that more question-time was needed after papers
at PSG meetings, and that symposia should have narrower topics when possible.
The timing of annual meetings was found to be unsatisfactory to a number of
members, and some requested that meetings not always be held in December. The
Council recommended that the registration fee for annual meetings be higher in
order to bring funds into the treasury. A fee of $5.00 will be the minimum charged.
A number of locations for future (after 1976) meetings were discussed, and included
LaPaz, Baja, California; San Diego, California; and the Alaska ferry. The 1976
meeting will be held again at Asilomar (see announcement below) . Wayne Hoffman will
explore these and other possible sites.
TREASURER'S REPORT, 1975
Receipts
Dues $1548.00
Grant-in-aid from National Audubon 250.00
Contribution from LGL Ltd. 250.00
$2048.00
Disbursements
Annual meeting expenses $1030.22
PSG Bulletin '474.46
Office Supplies 77.76
Chairman's expenses 7.80
Miscellaneous 37 . 60
$1627.84
Excess of Receipts over Disbursements 420.16
Fund balance at beginning of year 114.02
Fund balance at end of year $534.18
George J. Divoky
NEW OFFICERS - The following officers were elected for 1976:
Chairman George J. Divoky
Vice-Chairman Wayne Hoffman
Secretary David A. Manuwal
Treasurer Kees Vermeer
A full list of new Council members is included on the back cover of this Issue.
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RESOLUTIONS - Four resolutions were adopted at the 1975 meeting:
Appreciation to the Local Committee
Whereas, the Pacific Seabird Groups Second Annual Meeting has to a large
measure been a success because of the efforts of the Local Committee.
Now, therefore, be it resolved that the Pacific Seabird Group extends its
appreciation to Paul Kelly, Chairman, Stephen Bailey, Alice Berkner, Ted Chandick
Thomas Harvey, Marilyn Kelly, John Luther, fiavid Smith, Vern Yadon, Bob Yutzy,
Carol Yutzy, and others for this effort which has reaped benefits to us all.
Marine Sanctuaries
Recognizing that the most critical requirement for the conservation and
management of marine birds is the preservation of habitat for breeding, feeding,
and resting during migration and,
Recognizing the 'existing requirements to conserve and manage marine bird
resources under the
(1) Convention for the Protection of Nature in the Western Hemisphere
(2) International bilateral agreements and
(3) National Legislation on marine sanctuaries and estuarine protection and
Recognizing the delays that have occurred in the implementation of measures
for habitat protection envisioned by these agreements and laws, the Pacific
Seabird Group resolves that;
(1) National governments and their respective sub- jurisdictions should take
immediate steps to identify areas presently in need of protection and
that
(2) Particular attention should be given to the protection of breeding
islands and estuarine feeding areas.
(3) National governments implement the required management to protect
identified areas and that
(4) Protection should Include control of visitation to protect breeding
areas and control of man’s activities including waste disposal,
recreational activities, and shoreline development.
The 200-mile Limit
Recognizing the need to control the impact of man’s activities on the
ocean environment and
Recognizing the need for a coordinated approach to the conservation and
management of the marine ecosystem and its living resources and
Recognizing the high probability of an extension of national jurisdictions
to 200 nautical miles and
Recognizing the past and present focus of national governments individually
and through the law of the Sea Conference on fisheries resources.
The Pacific Seabird Group resolves that national governments and the Law of
the Sea Conference should recognize that
(1) Seabirds are a resource of national and international value
(2) This resource can be significantly impacted by man's activities on
the ocean environment
(3) This resource should be conserved and managed. and
(4) This conservation and management should entail both national action
for resident species and international actions for highly migratory
species
Therefore, the Pacific Seabird Group recommends to the respective national
governments of its members Canada, Japan, Mexico, and the United States and to
. the Law of the Sea Conference that;
(1) Living resource conservation and management in any expanded national
jurisdiction explicitly include marine birds
(2) Marine birds in international waters be explicitly recognized as an
international resource to be conserved and managed
(3) The Single Negotiating Text of the Law of the Sea Conference be
modified to reflect these recommendations.
Alaskan Coastal Management
Whereas, the millions of seabirds inhabiting coastal Alaska are of high
esthetic, scientific, subsistence, cultural and ecological value to people of
the state, nation, and other countries.
Whereas, many of the coastal habitats of these marine birds are not under
permanent protection.
Whereas, human impacts on these habitats are expected to accelerate as a
result of resource development and human settlement along Alaska's coast.
Whereas, the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 provides an opportunity for
the State to develop a coastal management program and implement a State coastal
zone management act.
Whereas, such a coastal management act will establish a process whereby
Alaskans can effectively influence decisions affecting the outstanding resource
values along their coasts.
Therefore, be it resolved that the Pacific Seabird Group urges the State of
Alaska to continue to strengthen its coastal management program and to adopt
a coastal management plan at the earliest possible time.
Be it further resolved that the Pacific Seabird Group urges the State of
Alaska to identify critical seabird habitats in such a plan and to develop the
means by which long term protection is provided to these habitats.
II. Items of Interest.
jjf EXT PSG ANNUAL MEETING - The Pacific Seabird Group will hold its next annual
meeting on 6-9 January 1977, at Asilomar, Pacific Grove, California. Members are
urged to attend and to participate £n the presentation of papers. Meeting announce-
ments and calls for papers will be mailed out to members in early fall. A tentative
program will hopefully be published in the next PSG Bulletin .
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SHO REBIRD SYMPOSIUM - The next annual meeting of the PSG will include a symposium
on shorebirds in marine environments, to be held all day Friday, January 7. It will
emphasize shorebird research in marine environments along the Pacific Coast and In
Alaska, but reports of studies elsewhere concerned with basic aspects of the biology
and conservation of shorebirds will be included. Several contributions already in
prospect will deal with the ecology and distribution of migrating and wintering
populations. Breeding season information will also be offered if the habitats are
littoral or tidal. The program will include several reports on conservation and
management of coastal wetland habitats important to shorebirds. We hope to have
some review papers, also. One on orientation mechanisms in shorebirds is already
in prospect. Arrangements for publication of the symposium are being explored.
The program is being arranged by Frank A. Pitelka, Museum of Vertebrate Zoology,
University of California, Berkeley, California 94720. For additional information,
or if you have any suggestions, write to him. An advisory committee for program
and publication appointed by Chairman Divoky consists of James Bartonek, Joseph Jehl,
Frank Pitelka, and himself ex officio.
SOUTHERN AFRICAN SEABIRD GROUP - Another seabird group has been formed in South
Africa. PSG members are urged to support this new group, as they are anxious to have
overseas members. This group has been stimulated by similar, successful groups such
as the British, Pacific, and Australian Seabird Groups. At first, major interest
will be devoted to those seabirds (coastal and pelagic) on the southern Africa list.
It is not intended to include waders. Four broad fields of work will be emphasized
in the early stages: (1) beached-bird census, (2) breeding colong censuses,
(3) ocean observations, and (4) awareness. Further information can be had by writing
John Cooper, University of Cape Twon, c/o Southern African Seabird Group, Percy
Fitzpatrick Institute of African Ornithology, Ronde bosch, SOUTH AFRICA, 7700.
SIMPOSIO BINACIONAL: EL GOLFO DE CALIFORNIA - A symposium on the conservation
of flora, fauna, and unique areas of the Gulf of California was held at Bahia de
Kino, Sonora, Mexico on 5-6 March 1976. This was one of the first attempts to
encourage international awareness for the Gulf of California, and the symposium was
jointly sponsored by Instituto Mexicano "Matias Romero" de Estudio Diplomat icos,
Universidad de Sonora, University of New Mexico Law School, and American Society of
International Law. Political, legal, and biological aspects of Gulf resources were
discussed. For those interested, the papers will appear in the July 1976 issue of
Natural Resources Journal (Volume 16, Number 3).
ARIZONA SONORA DESERT MUSEUM, MEXICO UNIT - To promote conservation of the
fauna and flora of the Sonoran Desert, the ASDM in Tucson, Arizona formed in 1974 a
"Mexico Unit" under the direction of Carlos Nagel. Their program includes mostly
international promotion of environmental interpretation and natural history education
in the Sonora Desert Region. Seabirds of the Gulf of California are included in
their interests.
STATUS OF THE SHORT-TAILED ALBATROSS - In a letter to G. A. Sanger dated
16 January 1976, Y. Yamashina (Yamashina Institute for Ornithology, Japan) reports:
"For Torishima, the party from the N.H.K. (Japan Broadcasting Corpora-
tion) had landed on this Island on November 1973, and had counted the
adults and subadults of the Short-tailed Albatrosses, the total of which
were 62. Then in February 1974, the party from the N.H.K. again had landed
on this Island and recorded 11 growing young in the colony. Therefore, it
seems that there were 73 short-tailed Albatrosses on Torishima during the
season from 1973 to 1974.
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On Senkaku-Retto , Professor Sadao Ikehara had found 12 Short-
tailed Albatrosses on April 1971, but since then, Taiwan has been
asserting the property of these islands, and has been obstructing
the approach of the ships of Japan, so we are unable to find out
the present status.
This is all I know about the current status of the Short-tailed
Albatross. Please let me know if the Short-tailed Albatrosses are
found in the North Pacific areas."
NEW DIRECTOR, POINT RE YES BIRD OBSERVATORY - Jane P. Church, formerly the Head
Administrator from the Smithsonian's Pacific Project, was appointed the new Director
of PRBO in California. She replaces John Small.
NOMINATIONS FOR REGIONAL REPRESENTATIVES - Nominations are now open for
Retional Representatives for Alaska, Washington, Northern California, Mexico, and
Hawaii. Duties of these members of the PSG Executive Council are listed in this
issue. Those interested in applying, or those knowing of some members willing to
serve as representative should send nominations to David Ainley, Box 8, Alder Road,
Bolinas, California 94924 before 15 October 1976 . This is your chance to become
involved .
PSG RESOLUTIONS - Proposed resolutions for each annual meeting should be brought
by members to the meeting and presented to the Chairman for consideration by the
Executive Council. If you will not be attending the meetings, your suggestions
should be mailed to the Chairman beforehand.
N EW CENSUS TECHNIQUES MANUAL - The Canadian Wildlife Service has recently
published a booklet entitled "Census Techniques for Seabirds of Arctic and Eastern
Canada" (D. N. Nettleship, Ocasional Paper No. 25, Canadian Wildlife Service, Ottawa,
1976). This excellent publication can be obtained by writing the author at CWS,
Ontario Region, 2721 Highway 31, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1A 0H3.
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Craveri's Murrelets
REGIONAL REPORTS
I. Alaska
The frenzy of field activity started by the Outer Continental Shelf Energy
Program in 1975 is continuing into 1976. A number of new projects have been
added to the program and Kotzebue and Norton Sounds are now receiving increased
attention. r
PELAGIC STUDIES - The U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service has a large study of
seabird distribution in all of the seas adjoining Alaska, Specific pelagic studies
include a shearwater ecology and behavior study by Guzman and Myres of the
University of Calgary; a study of community structure, distribution, and inter-
relationships of marine birds in the Gulf of Alaska by Wiens at Oregon State
University; Divoky of Alaska Fish and Game is studying the relationships of birds
to the pack ice.
BREEDING COLONY STUDIES - USFWS has personnel at a number of colonies
gathering information on breeding biology. Hickey and Craighead of the University
of Wisconsin are censusing seabirds breeding on St. George Island, Hunt of UC,
Irvine is conducting baseline studies of Pribilof Island seabirds. The evolution
and pathobiology of the Gulf of Alaska Herring Gull group is being studied by
Patten of The Johns Hopkins University. Drury of College of the Atlantic is
studying the colonial seabirds on the south side of Seward Peninsula and King and
St. Lawrence Islands. Roseneau of Renewable Resources is studying the bird
colonies at Capes Thompson and Lisburne.
COASTAL AND SHQREBIRD STUDIES - Shields and Peyton of the University of Alaska ,
are studying the birds on the south side of the Seward Peninsula. Michelson and
Schamel are studying the waterfowl and shorebirds in the area of Cape Espenberg in
Kotzebue Sound. Shorebirds in Arctic littoral habitats are being studied by
Connors of Bodega Harine Laboratory. Senner of the Alaska Cooperative Wildlife
Research Unit at the University of Alaska is studying the food habits of migrating
Dunlins and Western Sandpipers in the Copper River Delta. Arneson and Divoky of
Alaska Fish and Game are. mapping the coastal habitat throughout the state.
Studies are continuing in the Aleutian Island National Wildlife Refuge under
Byrd. These include work on colonial species on Buldir Island as well as census
work in other parts of the refuge.
George J. Divoky
Regional Representative
Alaska
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II. British Columbia.
CURRENT RESEARCH - Various projects are listed beloi^:
(1) A Ph.D. study on Black Oyster catchers on Cleland Island, West Vancouver
Island, British Columbia is in its third year of a four-year program.
The study is undertaken by Sarah Groves.
(2) A Master’s study on crow predation off Pelagic Cormorants has been
initiated this year by Robert Butler on Mittlenatch Island, Strait of
Georgia, British Columbia.
(3) Some aspects of the biology of Glaucous-winged Gulls, Strait of Georgia
are being studied by a master’s student under supervision of Jamie Smith.
(4) A transmountain pipeline, to transport oil from Kitimat, British Columbia
to Edmonton, Alberta has been proposed. A pipeline terminal may be
built at Kitimat. The terminal will receive tankers from Valdez,
Alaska. Oil will be transported to Juan de Fuca Strait, regardless
whether oil will be transported to Kitimat. Because of the potential
oil threat to seabirds nesting in the Queen Charlotte Islands and to
birds at sea at the approaches of the proposed pipeline terminal at
Kitimat, a pilot program is presently being initiated concerning itself
with the collection of baseline information on seabird colonies along
the west coast of the Queen Charlotte Islands. An inventory is also
planned this fall and winter on numbers, species, and distribution of
birds at sea in inlets and estuaries near Kitimat. Project leader of
the above investigations is K. Vermeer, Canadian Wildlife Service.
(5) A study has been initiated this summer on Rhinoceros Auklets and Tufted
Puffins on Triangle Island, situated at the northwest end of Vancouver
Island, British Columbia. The study will concern itself with inventories
on breeding numbers of those species, their breeding chronology,
reproductive success and nesting habitat preferences. Triangle Island
has the largest Tufted Puffin and Cassin Auklet breeding colonies in
British Columbia. Project leader is K. Vermeer, Canadian Wildlife
Service.
(6) A cooperate inventory on Double-crested Cormorant colonies is being
conducted in British Columbia and Washington State. D. A. Manuwal,
J. B. Foster, R. W. Campbell, and G. Hocutt are some of the investigators.
(7) A wall map of seabird colonies of Vancouver Island and vicinity will be
published in September of 1976. The Compiler is R. W. Campbell.
(8) The Canadian Environmental Protection Service produces an "oil counter
measures map series" showing a. o. bird concentrations at sea along
the British Columbia coast. The maps are valuable, as the title
indicates, in determining where seabirds will be most at hazard from
potential oil spills. Project leader is I. R. Poboitpun, Environmental
Protection Service.
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(9) R. H. Drent, R. W. Campbell, and C. J. Guiguet are in the process of
writing a book on the seabirds of British Columbia which will replace
an older existing catalogue on the subject, entitled: "A catalogue
of British Columbia seabird colonies" by R. H. Drent and C, J. Guiguet,
British Columbia 'Provincial Museum, Occasional Papers 12:1-73, 1961. The
new catalogue will also be published by the Museum in the Occasional Paper
series and is expected to be published by September 1976.
ITEMS OF INTEREST f
(1) A new region or division of the Canadian Wildlife Service has been
established on the Canadian West Coast since April 1,1976. The new
region encompasses British Columbia and the Yukon. The regional Canadian
Wildlife Service headquarters is at 5421 Robertson Road, Delta, British
Columbia. The director is Mr. Gordon Staines.
(2) An Institute of Ocean Sciences of the Canadian Department of the
Environment is presently being built at Patricia Bay, a 25-minute
automobile drive from Victoria, Vancouver Island. The new research
centre for marine sciences is expected to be in full operation by late
1977.
(3) Two coastal pelagic voyages, lasting two weeks each, were made on the
west coast of Vancouver Island January and November, 1975. Michael
< i Sheppard was in charge of those excursions.
(4) A 3-week course dealing specifically with seabirds will be taught f-rom
August 16 to September 4, 1976 at Bamfield Marine Station, a new marine
laboratory on the west coast of Vancouver Island. Instructors are
S. C. Sealy and R. W. Campbell.
(5) Canadian External Affairs Minister, A.MacEachen announced June 4, 1976,
that Canada will unilaterally extend its fisheries jurisdiction to
200 miles on January 1, 1977. The United States will extend its limits
next March 1 and Mexico has already extended the limit.
Kees Vermeer
Regional Representative
British Columbia
III . Washington . No report received.
David A. Manuwal
Regional Representative
Washington
IV* Oregon . No report received.
Wayne Hoffman
Regional Representative
Oregon
- 12 -
V. northern California .
CURRENT RESEARCH - Items of current research are listed below:
(D Offshore Surveys : Programs in central, northcentral and northern
California (California Department of Fish and Game and California
State University, San Jose; Point Reyes Bird Observatory; and
California State University, Humboldt, respectively) remain as
described in Bull . 2(2). ?
(2) Coastal and Estuarine Surveys : Studies in central California (Point
Reyes Bird Observatory) and Humboldt Bay (U. S. Fish and Wildlife
Service) continue, as described in the previous Bulletin . Morro
Coast Audubon Society, in conjunction with California Department of
Fish and Game, has been conducting regular censuses of birds in Estero
Bay, southcentral California.
(3) Beached Bird Surveys : The Point Reyes Bird Observatory project has
continued to expand and now includes about 60 beaches, regularly
censused, between Cape Mendocino and San Diego. With the help of
Chevron Research, Incorporated, the data are now being computerized and
programs for their analysis are being formed.
(4) Pollutants in Marine Ecosystems : In addition to work described in the
previous report (Bodega Marine Laboratories; Department of Wildlife and
Fisheries Biology, U. C. Davis), Richard Grau and Tom Roudybush
(Department of Avian Sciences, U. C. Davis) in cooperation with Point
Reyes Bird Observatory are initiating work on the effects of oil
in gestation on reproduction in seabirds.
(5) Trophic Relationships : Work continues as described earlier (Moss
Landing Marine Laboratories; Point Reyes Bird Observatory; Department
of Wildlife and Fisheries Biology, U. C. Davis; California Department
of Fish and Game).
(6) Behavior : Douglas Nelson (University of Michigan) has begun a study of
the behavioral taxonomy of aicids, working principally at the Farallon
Islands. Point Reyes Bird Observatory has begun an analysis of Black
Oystercatcher feeding behavior. Judith Hand (University of California,
Los Angeles) has yet to finish her work on vocalizations of Western Gulls.
(7) Taxonomy^ and Ho rpho lo gy : G. Victor Morejohn (California State University,
San Jose) continues his work on the fossil marine avifauna of the central
California region. Barbara Ilargolis (CSU, San Francisco) has been
studying the musculature of aicids. Diane Mathieson (CSU, San Jose) is
analyzing the bird material found in Indian middens of coastal central
California.
(8) Breeding Biology and Ecology: Point Reyes Bird Observatory continues
their work on the twelve seabird species breeding at the Farallon
Islands. Intensive observations on known-age populations of Brandt’s
Cormorants and Western Gulls have begun.
- 13 -
(9) R. H. Brent, R. W. Campbell, and C. J. Guiguet are in the process of
writing a book on the seabirds of British Columbia which will replace
an older existing catalogue on the subject, entitled: "A catalogue
of British Columbia seabird colonies" by R. H. Drent and CC J. Guiguet,
British Columbia -provincial Museum, Occasional Papers 12:1-73, 1961. The
ftew catalogue will also be published by the Museum in the Occasional Paper
Series and is expected to be published by September 1976.
ITEMS OF INTEREST f
(1) A new region or division of the Canadian Wildlife Service has been
established on the Canadian West Coast since April 1, 1976. The new
region encompasses British Columbia and the Yukon. The regional Canadian
Wildlife Service headquarters is at 5421 Robertson Road, Delta, British
Columbia. The director is Mr. Gordon Staines.
(2) An Institute of Ocean Sciences of the Canadian Department of the
Environment is presently being built at Patricia Bay, a 25-minute
automobile drive from Victoria, Vancouver Island. The new research
centre for marine sciences is expected to be in full operation by late
1977.
(3) Two coastal pelagic voyages, lasting two weeks each, were made on the
west coast of Vancouver Island January and November, 1975. Michael
Sheppard was in charge of those excursions.
(4) A 3-week course dealing specifically with seabirds will be taught from
August 16 to September 4, 1976 at Bamfield Marine Station, a new marine
laboratory on the west coast of Vancouver Island. Instructors are
S. C. Sealy and R. W. Campbell.
(5) Canadian External Affairs Minister, A. MacEachen announced June 4, 1976,
that Canada will unilaterally extend its fisheries jurisdiction to
200 miles on January 1, 1977. The United States will extend its limits
next March 1 and Mexico has already extended the limit.
Kees Vermeer
Regional Representative
British Columbia
III. Washington . No report received.
David A. Manuwal
Regional Representative
Washington
IV. Oregon . No report received.
Wayne Hoffman
Regional Representative
Oregon
- 12 -
V. Northern California.
CURRENT RESEARCH - Items of current research are listed below:
(1) Offshore Surveys : Programs in central, northcentral and northern
California (California Department of Fish and Game and California
State University, San Jose; Point Reyes Bird Observatory; and
California State University, Humboldt, respectively) remain as
described in Bull . 2(2). *
(2) Coastal and Estuarine Surveys : Studies in central California (Point
Reyes Bird Observatory) and Humboldt Bay (U. S. Fish and Wildlife
Service) continue, as described in the previous Bulletin . Morro
Coast Audubon Society, in conjunction with California Department of
Fish and Game, has been conducting regular censuses of birds in Estero
Bay, southcentral California.
(3) Beached Bird Surveys : The Point Reyes Bird Observatory project has
continued to expand and now includes about 60 beaches, regularly
censused, between Cape Mendocino and San Diego. With the help of
Chevron Research, Incorporated, the data are now being computerized and
programs for their analysis are being formed.
(4) Pollutants in Marine Ecosystems : In addition to work described in the
previous report (Bodega Marine Laboratories; Department of Wildlife and
Fisheries Biology, U. C. Davis), Richard Grau and Tom Roudybush
(Department of Avian Sciences, U. C. Davis) in cooperation with Point
Reyes Bird Observatory are initiating work on the effects of oil
ingestation on reproduction in seabirds.
(5) Trophic Relationships : Work continues as described earlier (Moss
Landing Marine Laboratories; Point Reyes Bird Observatory; Department
of Wildlife and Fisheries Biology, U. C. Davis; California Department
of Fish and Game).
(6) Behavior : Douglas Nelson (University of Michigan) has begun a study of
the behavioral taxonomy of aicids, working principally at the Farallon
Islands, Point Reyes Bird Observatory has begun an analysis of Black
Oystercatcher feeding behavior. Judith Hand (University of California,
Los Angeles) has yet to finish her work on vocalizations of Western Gulls
(7) Taxonomy and Morphology : G. Victor Morejohn (California State University
San Jose) continues his work on the fossil marine avifauna of the central
California region. Barbara Uargolis (CSU, San Francisco) has been
studying the musculature of aicids. Diane Mathieson (CSU, San Jose) is
analyzing the bird material found in Indian middens of coastal central
California.
(8) Breeding Biology and Ec o logy: Point Reyes Bird Observatory continues
their work on the twelve seabird species breeding at the Farallon
Islands. Intensive observations on known-^ge popvil nHons of Brandt* s
Cormorants and Western Gulls have begun.
“ 13 -
v:m
J ii.
CONSERVATION NOTES - The proportion of oiled seabirds found on California
beaches in 1975 remained at the 18-19 percent level reported for 1974, but
1975 data did not include several hundred birds oiled in spills off San
Mateo County (Point Reyes Bird Observatory).
David G* Ainley
Regional Representative
^orthern California
Southern California . No report received.
Joseph R. Jehl, Jr.
Regional Representative
Southern California
Mexico . No report received,
Bernardo Villa- Ramirez
Regional Representative
Mexico
Hawaii .
CURRENT RESEARCH - Recent research on Hawaiian seabirds has been limited,
for the most part, to long-standing projects, such as the National Park
Service population studies in the Dark-rumped Petral Colony in Halaeakala
National Park. Fred Zeillemaker, of the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service,
has also been recording population data on several seabird species at the
Kilauea Lighthouse on Kauai. The only permit issued for research on the
offshore islands in recent months involves a study of influenza virus
transmission in seabirds by Dr. Alan Granoff visiting professor at the
University of Hawaii. The study originates from his home institution,
Saint Jude Childrens Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. He and his
staff sampled Sooty Terns, Noddies, Shearwaters, Boobies, and petrels in an
ittempt to identify as many different strains of virus as possible. He
hypothesizes that frequent changes in human influenza that cannot be
explained by mutation are possibly the result of new strains transmitted
from birds, particularly migratory species. He hopes to identify several
avian strains, and will probably sample albatrosses at Midway next year.
CONSERVATI O N NOTES - Three issues of significance to seabird conservation
in Hawaii are now being debated. The state Division of Fish and Game has
recently issued a proposed revised regulation (REG 7) for public comment
that would establish the "Hawaii State Seabird Sanctuary." Several offshore
islets in the Main Islands are nesting sites for as many as 15 species of
seabirds, but only a few are currently well protected by law. This revised
regulation would expand protection to 37 "State owned or controlled islands,
islets and rocks." There are many restrictions in the proposed regulation,
but the most controversial one is the prohibition of camping on these
islets, A few have been used for years by fishermen and weekend campers,
but the tremendous increase in use, and resultant disturbance to birds, has
prompted this regulation change. The issue is now being debated at public
hearings and will probably be decided during the summer.
- 14 -
As in the past, permit applications for scientific and educational use of
the sanctuary islets will be reviewed by the Board of Land and Natural
Resources. It appears that research work will be encouraged where compatible
with the wildlife conservation objectives.
Another issue, still very much undecided, is the fate of the current boundary
dispute in the Hawaiian Islands National Wildlife Refuge (Leeward Isles).
The congressional decision regarding wilderness designation for this area is
still held up by the boundary dispute. Sfate and Federal officials are still
not in agreement regarding the advisability of commercial fishing within
inshore waters of the Refuge, It now appears that the dispute will lead to
a joint research program to investigate the potential for commercial fishing
in the Refuge and the impact of fishing on other resources. It is expected
that National Marine Fisheries will also be involved. A preliminary trip
was taken into the Refuge during Hay 1976, to begin planning for a more
comprehensive study.
An issue of indirect significance to Hawaiian seabirds involves current
dispute regarding the return of Kahoolawe Island to the State. The island
has been used as a military bombing target for many years, and military
officials are protesting its return to the State on the grounds that target?
such as Kahoolawe are critical to combat training. Kahoolawe itself is of
little significance to seabirds, but Kaula Island, near Niihau, is very
important as a nesting site. A portion of this island has also been
utilized as a bombing site in recent years, and biologists are concerned
that a return of Kahoolawe to the State under tremendous public pressure
would then lead to intensified military use of Kaula Island, as an alternative r
The impact of expanded bombing on Kaula could be serious, and the issue is
being watched closely by conservationists in the State.
ITEMS OF INTEREST
(1) Members of the Hawaii Audubon Society are producing a cassette/record
of Hawaiian birds, including seabirds, and would like to know of persons
who have high quality sound recordings of these species, that would
permit use of their tapes for this production. Wherever possible, we
would like to have information about sound equipment, conditions of
recording and bird behavior. Anyone interested in contributing to this
endeavor, please contact Dr. Robert Shallenberger, c/o Ahuimanu
Productions, P. 0. Box 1166, Kailua, HI 96734.
(2) A revised edition of the field guide, "Hawaii's Birds," prepared by the
Hawaii Audubon Society, is now available for mail order sale. This
full color guide has just been updated, and sells for $3. Orders should
be sent to the HAS, P. 0. Box 5032, Honolulu, HI 96814.
Robert J. Shallenberger
Regional Representative
Hawaii
-15
IX. Nonregional Reports
CURRENT RESEARCH (JAPAN) - All the studies listed below are being conducted
through Hokkaido University in Hakodate, Hokkaido, Japan:
(1) Morphology and feeding ecology of alcids are being studied from 3 June
to 10 August 1976 in the Bering Sea by the RV Habomai Maru No. 21.
Principal Investigator: H. Ogi.
?
(2) Heavy metal concentrations (Cd, Zn) in seabirds of the Bering Sea.
Principal Investigator: T. Hamanaka.
(3) Relationship between seabird distribution and neuston in the northern
North Pacific. Principal Investigators: M. Kamba and H. Ogi.
Harou Ogi
Regional Representative
At-Large
CURRENT RESEARCH (CENTRAL- SOUTHERN ATLANTIC COAST) - An opportunity has
developed to census the seabirds on the continental shelf waters in coopera-
tion with oceanographic work of the National Marine Fisheries. This has
grown out of the NOAA environmental assessment program for the Gulf of Maine.
Hopefully these studies will bring our knowledge of the numbers distribution
and movements of seabirds up to the level achieved by the Canadians.
The Fish and Wildlife Service, cooperating with a number of local groups,
is continuing the program begun in 1975 to define the distribution of and
to census colonial wading birds from Maine to Florida. This year the
program has been expanded to include censusing of colonial seabirds by
personnel of the Cooperative Wildlife Research Units.
The Fish and Wildlife Service’s Patuxent group in continuing detailed studies
of colonial nesting wading birds as potential indicators of industrial
pollution. This work includes cooperators from several conservation
organizations, colleges, and universities.
The National Audubon Society Staff is continuing its long-term study of
Wood Storks looking forward to formulating a management program.
The Cornell University Laboratory of Ornithology is gathering data on present
and historical distributions and numbers of wading species. These data will
be entered into a computer archive - The Colonial Bird Register.
William H. Drury
Regional Representative
At-Large
Yellow-footed Western Gull
-16-
?
ABSTRACTS OF PAPERS GIVES: 1975 ANNUAL MJIIIMG
I * Synpoalun, Seabird Conservation Problems on the California Coas ts: Daniel W.
Anderson, Chairman; 8:10-12:00 am, 12 December.
OIL AMD CALIFORNIA SEABIRDS: PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE
John Small t
Point Reyes Bird Observatory, Bolinas, California
Abstract: In recent years the California coast has witnessed at least
three major oil pollution incidents resulting in damage to seabirds.
Thxs problem is at least 70 years old and the eyecatching drama of the
larger episodes tends to obscure the constant attrition from day-to-day
pollution. J
This paper examines the loss to seabirds from major and minor
incidents in California, draws a profile of the oil-vulnerable species,
and evaluates the potential danger from future oil installations and
tanker traffic along the California Coast. It draws from the experience
of the Point Reyes Bird Observatory T s Beached Bird Census which was
begun after the 1971 San Francisco oilspill and has developed into a
statewide operation.
PROTECTION AND MANAGEMENT OF THE CALIFORNIA LEAST TERN:
RECOVERY TEAM APPROACH
ENDANGERED SPECIES
Ronald Jurek
California Least Tern Recovery Team, California Department of Fish and
Game, Sacramento, California
Abstract : The Endangered Species Act of 1973 directs the Secretary of
the Interior and the Secretary of Commerce, in cooperation with the
United States and other Federal entities, to carry out a national program
or e conservation of species of fish, wildlife and plants facing extinc-
tion. Regional directors within the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the
ea agency in this conservation effort, have appointed recovery teams to
prepare, coordinate, and implement plans for endangered species restoration
programs.
The California Least Tern (Sterna albifrons browni) Recovery Team was
formally appointed in April 1975. The team compriSiFleven biologists from
Federal, State, County and academic affiliations. All members are
experienced in Least Tern research and management. This team coordinated
nest site enhancement and protection for the 1975 tern breeding season and
coordinated a breeding population survey.
The team is charged with the task of preparing a California Least Tern
Recovery Plan. This plan will serve as a guide for an orderly approach in
preserving this endangered bird. A Recovery Plan is a formal presentation
of the problem; it sets management goals and provides a list of necessary
actions and a timetable for completing them. A recovery plan for the Least
Tern will be maintained and updated yearly until complete recovery has been
achieved and this subspecies is returned to nonendangered status.
- 17 -
BLii BASELINE STUDIES IN EVALUATING IMPACT OF OCS DEVELOPMENT IN SOUTHERN
CALIFORNIA
Herb Hyatt
Bureau of Land Management, Los Angeles, California
Abstract : The Bureau of Land Managements involvement in the marine
environment has come about with the requirement to obtain information
regarding the existing environment of the f outer continental shelf (OCS).
The need for this information has a high prioity at the present time due
to the increased emphasis on extraction of petroleum resources from the
country T s OCS areas. In general, the information collected fulfills three
basic requirements: 1) it provides input data for the environmental
assessment required by the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969,
2) it provides information that may modify the offshore leasing program
in order to protect the environment, and 3) it provides information to
be used in the decision-making processes with respect to tract selection,
tract leasing, and special tract-use stipulations.
The Environmental Studies Program of BLM has been designed to insure
that environmental Studies are conducted to provide the information
required before OCS development occurs. The Environmental Studies Program
initiates up to four phases of data acquisition over the period of pre-
drilling to oil-field depletion. The first phase consists of a summary of
OCS environmental kaowledge, which assembles all known and pertinent OCS
information. This process allows a determination on existing data gaps to
be made. The second phase is the baseline sampling which establishes an
environmental benchmark, thus allowing detection of changes which may occur
in the future. Primary emphasis is placed on the chemical indices (hydro-
carbons and tract metals). The third phase is termed special studies, which
includes study programs which are important to the program. Examples of
special studies might Include toxicity studies, or pollutant trajectory
models. The fourth phase is the monitoring study which allows the detec-
tion of environmental changes relative to the benchmark data of phase two.
In southern California, phase one has been completed, and phase two
is currently in progress. In addition, a special study (which augments
the phase two data) is also being completed. The study is designed to
determine the location and abundance of marine mammals and sea birds around
the Channel Islands. Phases one and two are expected to begin off central
and northern. California, and Oregon and Washington within one year.
SEABIRD CONSERVATION PROBLEMS IN MEXICO, EMPHASIZING RASA ISLAND
Bernardo Villa-Ramirez
Universidad Nacional Auto noma,
Instituto Biologia, Laboratorio de Mastazoologia,
Mexico City, Mexico
Abstract: None submitted.
-18
HUMAN IMPACT ON SEABIRDS OFF BAJA, CALIFORNIA: AN INTERNATIONAL CONSERVATION
PROBLEM
Daniel W. Anderson
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Davis, California
Abstract : Judging mainly from studies on Brown Pelicans ( Pelecanus
occidentalis ) and Heermann’s Gulls (Larus heermanni ) , disturbances by
tourists, fishermen, and scientists can be seriously disruptive to breeding
seabirds in colonies off Baja, California. ? The problems of human disruptive
are far from unique off Baja, California, and similar cases are documented
throughout the world. The increasing human-seabird contacts in the waters
of the Gulf of California and West Coast of Baja, California however, raise
serious questions and immediate concern for the future preservation of nesting
colonies in that area. The Pacific Seabird Group has already expressed a
position of concern on this issue, and here I want to renew this concern by
presenting more data on the problem and its potential effects.
California
Brown
Pelican
- 19 -
II. General Papers Session ; Paul R. Kelly, Chairman;
1:30 - 5:10 p.m. , 12 December
SEXUAL AND GEOGRAPHIC VARIATIONS IN BODY WEIGHT, CULMEN LENGTH,
WING LENGTH, AND TARSUS LENGTH FOR COMMON MURRES IN THE BERING SEA
Haruo Ogi and Tokimi Tsujita
Research Institute of North Pacific Fisheries,
Faculty of Fisheries, Hokkaido University,
Hakodate, Hokkaido, Japan
Abstract : Morphological measurements were made on body weight, culmen,
wing, and tarsal length of the Common Murre (Uria aalge) . All these
structures are essential for foraging behavior. A total of 636 Common
Murres that were captured accidentally with gill-netted Pacific Salmon
in the Bering Sea in 1973 were examined in this study. Murres were taken 1
at 43 of 71 sampling stations. Common Murres were sampled mainly on the
continental shelf and adjacent areas and not from the central part of the
Bering Sea.
The results obtained are summarized as follows:
1. There was no significant difference in mean body weight between
males and females. There was no sexual dimorphism in body weight at each
sampling station. But the differences in the mean body weight were sig-
nificant between stations. There was a general decrease in body weight
at the sampling stations from north to south. There was sexual dimorphism
in culmen length, but no geographical variation.
2. Neither sexual dimorphism nor geographic variation were found in
wing length or tarsus length.
FOOD HABITS AND FOOD NICHE OVERLAP OF PISCIVOROUS MARINE BIRDS
WINTERING ON MONTEREY BAY, CALIFORNIA
Donald M. Baltz
Graduate Group In Ecology ,
University of California, Davis California
G. Victor Morejohn
Marine Laboratories ,
Moss Landing California
Abstract: The stomach contents of 164 birds belonging to 17 species
were examined. Commercially Important species of fish and squid were
found to be dominant items in the diets of most of the predator species.
The Northern Anchovy (Engraulis mordax) and the Market Squid ( Loligo
opalescens) were preyed upon by all but two of the predator species
studied. Measures of food niche overlap (CA) ranged from a low of
0.0041 to a high of 0.9689. High values of food niche overlap were
mitigated by spatial and temporal segregation of congenerics. Low
values of overlap between congenerics were related to predator size
and trophic level. Intermediate values of food niche overlap were
found between species which were not segregated by time, space, or
trophic level.
- 20 -
FORAGING AND BREEDING ADAPTATIONS TO DIFFERENT FOOD REGIMES
AMONG THREE SEABIRDS: THE ROYAL TERN, COMMON TERN, AND BLACK
SKIMMER
R. Michael Erwin
Department of 2oology, University of Maryland,
College Park, Maryland
(Present Address: Massachusetts Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit,
University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts)
f
Abstract : Aspects of the foraging and breeding ecology of the Royal
Tern (Sterna (Thalasseus) maxima) , Common Tern (IS. hirundo) , and Black
Skimmer (Rynchops niger ) were compared in light of the food resource.
Field studies conducted in 1973 and 1974 on two Virginia barrier
islands revealed species differences in foraging range and habitat
use, flocking tendencies, and colony structure and distribution.
These behavioral and ecological differences were examined in relation
to different regimes of food predictability.
Analyses of inshore (<1.5 km) and offshore (>3.0 km) fish collec-
tions were conducted for several areas along the Delaware-Virginia
coast. Spatial variability (between-sampling, site) in fish abundance
is much greater in offshore than inshore waters, indicating greater
"patchiness 11 of fish.
In relation to this food distribution, the more "offshore"-
feeding Royal Terns (1) foraged both solitarily and in flocks over
surfacing fish, and (2) were the most "colonial" of the three species
in regard to nest density, colony size, and colony distribution along
the coast. In contrast, the strictly inshore-feeding Black Skimmer
showed no flocking tendency and, in general, had smaller, more diffuse
breeding colonies. Common Terns, which foraged both inshore and off-
shore, were intermediate in the * degree of coloniality 1 . The
suggestion by Horn (1968), Ward and Zahavi (1973) and Emlen (1975) con-
cerning the advantages of food-finding among colonial birds are dis-
cussed in relation to the results.
ANTI -PREDATOR DEFENSE IN TWO SPECIES OF CORMORANT
Sherman Douglas Causey
Dept, of Ecological and Environmental Biology, University of California,
Irvine , California
Abstract : The anti-predator defense of the Double-crested Cormorant
(Phalacrocorax auritus) and the Pelagic Cormorant (P . pelagicus) was
observed on Mandarte Island, British Columbia, Canada. Approxi-
mately 500 Double-crested Cormorant nests and 150 Pelagic Cormorant
nests were watched from 1 April to 1 August for a total of 250 hours of
observation. The absolute location of nests on the island and the rela-
tive location of nests to each other were measured, as were nest
dimensions, habitat parameters , and intrusions into the cormorant
colonies by the Glaucous-winged Gull (Larus glaucescens) and the
North-Western Crow (Corvus caurina) . Preliminary results Indicate
that cormorants nesting in the colony positions that receive the highest
frequency of predator intrusions are the most aggressive in that colony.
Defense aggression in the cormorant colonies seems to be directly
related to the frequency of intrusions, regardless of the predator or
the mode of intrusion.
- 21 -
NESTING ECOLOGY OF THE ARCTIC LOON
Margaret R. Petersen
Division of Wildlife and Fisheries Biology, University of Caifornia,
Davis, California
Abstract : Reproductive success of the Arctic Loon (Gavia arctica
pacifica L.) was studied on the delta of the ‘Yukon-Kuskokwim Rivers,
Alaska in 1974 and 1975. Snow and ice mejft was earlier than normal
in 1974 and later than normal in 1975, and resulted in differences in
dates of arrival of loons on ponds and in nest initiation. The numbers
of nesting pairs and proportions hatching eggs varied markedly between
years. Nesting pairs increased from 18 in 1974 to 59 in 1975. Nesting
failure was substantial (94.4% in 1974 and 67.2% in 1975). Egg loss
was attributed primarily to Red Fox ( Vulpes fulva) , jaegers ( Stercorarius
spp.), and Glaucous Gulls (Larus hyperboreus) . Predation peaked
immediately after the hatch of goose nests which had served as a major
source of eggs for those predators. Only the earliest initiated loon
nests were successful and those hatched at the time of last hatching of
goose nests; all others were destroyed. Selection for island nest sites
was an important factor in hatching success in 1975. 61.1% of the nests
that hatched were island nests. These comprised only 36.2% of the total
nests.
RESTORATION PROGRAM FOR ENDANGERED ALEUTIAN CANADA GEESE
G. V. Byrd
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Adak, Alaska
P. F. Springer
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Areata, California
Abstract : Aleutian Canada Geese ( Branta canadensis leucopareia) once
nested in the Aleutian Islands, Alaska and in the Commander and Kurile
Islands of the Soviet Union. Predation by Arctic Foxes ( Alopex lagopus )
introduced to the breeding islands was primarily responsible for
reducing the bird to a single breeding population of approximately 800 birds
The program to restore the bird to a safer level is discussed.
The project includes a study of the breeding population of geese on
Buldir Island, Alaska, the remote volcano where the geese still breed;
captive propogation of geese; removal of introduced predators from
selected islands and release of captive-raised birds; determination
of migration routes and wintering areas and the study of geese in
migration and wintering areas.
A summary of the results of studies to date is given and plans
for the future are discussed.
THE SPRING BIRD MIGRATION AT PT. BARROW
Warren L. Flock
University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado
22
Abstract : Previous radar studies of bird migration at Pt. Barrow
did not provide good coverage of the spring migration, but this 1
deficiency was largely remedied in the spring of 1974. Two types
of migration are depicted by the radar record. Some species,
especially eiders presumably, follow along the edge of the shore-
fast ice to the northeast from Pt. Barrow. Other species overfly
the area without following the shoreline or edge of the shorefast
ice very closely. A complication is that normal spring migration
is to the east for some birds and to the w£st for others, each of
these two groups tending to move when winds are favorable.
SEABIRDS OF THE NORTON SOUND AREA OF ALASKA
William H. Drury
Joint Scientific Staff, Massachusetts and National Audubon Societies
Abstract . The species of seabirds in the Norton Sound area contrast
with that of the rest of the northern Bering Sea both in the predominance
of Common Murres (Uria aalge) over Thick-billed Murres (Uria lomvia) and
in the absence of Auklets. The contrast exists even between Sledge Island
and King Island which are within sight of each other.
Differences in the physical characteristics of the breeding
sites available do not seem to explain the sharp contrast. Some specu-
lations are made about the characteristics of water masses which may
be relevant.
A possible technique is described for measuring breeding success
in Kittiwakes (Rissa sp.) from a small airplane. If effective,, this may
supply an efficient bio-assay for monitoring the "health** of a seabird
c olony.
OBSERVATIONS ON SEABIRD DENSITIES IN THE NORTHWESTERN PACIFIC
OCEAN AND THE BERING SEA IN JUNE 1975
Terence R. Wahl
Bellingham, Washington
Abstract : Seabirds were observed on 127 transect periods of 15-60
minutes on a research/ training cruise from Hokkaido to the Bering
Sea and Kodiak.
Records of species and numbers within a set transect width, sea
surface temperature, salinity and other environmental conditions were
acquired and relationships of species and densities in the sub-artic
convergence, the central north Pacific and the pelagic waters of the
south central Bering Sea studied.
Some comparisons of records from this cruise and published records
of other cruises in the general north Pacific area and comments on the
distribution of various pelagic species are offered.
- 23 -
INFLUENZA VIRUS INFECTIONS IN ALASKAN SEABIRDS
B. C. Easterday, Susan J. Hyland and Jeanne A. Alexander
Department of Veterinary Science, University of Wisconsin,
Madison, Wisconsin
Abstract: Seventeen species of birds, mostly seabirds, were
examined for the presence of influenza viruses and/or influenza
virus antibodies in the summer of 1975 on J?t. Paul Island and at
Point Barrow. Both live trapped and dead birds were examined. Type
A influenza viruses were recovered from 4 species. Soviet colla-
borators have reported similar results in the western Pacific and
Bering Sea. The significance of the finding in the ecology of
influenza viruses is discussed.
1 - „ ' ' ’ /
Blue-footed Boobies
- 24 -
XII. Symposium , Marine Charadriiformes ; Joseph R. Jehl, Jr., Chairman,
8:10 - 12:00 a.m. , 13 December
SYMPATRY AND INTERBREEDING ' OF HERRING & GLAUCOUS-WINGED GULLS
IN SOUTHERN ALASKA
Samuel M. Patten, Jr.
Section of Ecology and Comparative Behavior, Dept, of Pathobiology,
School of Hygiene and Public Health, The John Hopkins University,
Baltimore, Maryland *
Abstract : The Glaucous-winged Gull (Larus glaucescens ) which breeds
along the coast from Washington to the Aleutians, is quite closely
related to the Herring Gull ( Larus argentatus) which is a common and
widely distributed species at the southern periphery of its coastal
breeding range at Glacier Bay, Alaska. The Herring Gull replaces
the Glaucous-winged Gull in interior Alaska, British Columbia, and
the Yukon. The Glaucous-winged Gull is morphologically similar to
the Herring Gull except that the black pigment on the tips of the
primaries is replaced by a light grey that matches the rest of the
mantle. Conversely, the iris of the Glaucous-winged Gull is darker
than that of the Herring Gull. These two gulls are considered separate
species in the A.O.U. Checklist of North American Birds (1957), but
the ecological and taxonomic relationships between the two species have
not been clearly defined. In some areas hybrids are common.
Rand (1948) suggests several populations of gulls may have been
separated during Pleistocene glaciation. While these gulls may have
shared a common gene pool at one time, enough evolution has occurred
to account for certain observed morphological differences, e.g,, the
amount of melanin in the mantle plumage, primary feather pigmentation,
iris and orbital ring color. The gulls are now expanding their ranges
from Pleistocene ’'refuges' 1 and where populations are in contact,
hybridization occurs.
Williamson and Peyton (1963) collected a series of specimens
intermediate in plumage characters between the Herring Gull and the
Glaucous-winged Gull from the Cook Inlet region near Anchorage,
Alaska. They suggested that sympatry between , breeding Herring and
Glaucous-winged Gulls occurs in southeastern Alaska. This paper will
present interim results of research on sympatry and interbreeding of
Herring and Glaucous-winged Gulls in south-central and southeastern
Alaska, and will be illustrated with slides of mixed pairs, nesting
habitat selection, and collected specimens.
Glacier Bay is recently deglaciated (less than 200 years) . Gene
flow between previously isolated populations in this area must be as
recent as the deglaciation. Herring and Glaucous-winged Gulls have
been found nesting in at least three colonies in Glacier Bay. The ;
colonies are found on (1) a near vertic cliff; (2) a flat low gravelly
island; and (3) sloping grassy hillsides. During the summer of 1971,
suspected intermediates were observed at a cliff colony. These gulls
showed intergradation from one form to the other in primary feather
pigmentation. During the following two summers, mixed, conspecific
as well as "intermediate" to Glaucous-winged Gull pairs were observed
on North Marble Island in a colony of 500 pairs. Relative numbers
- 25 -
of Herring Gulls were low. The mixed, apparent backcross and "pure"
pairs successfully fledged young. Some individual birds proved im-
possible to categorize. Primary feather pigmentation varied in both
amount and pattern. Iris color varied apparently independently of
primary feather pigmentation.
Dry Bay, Tongass National Forest, 75 km south of Yakutat, con-
tains 500 paris of argentatus and glaucescens nesting sympatrically
on low gravel bars at the mouth of the Alsek River . Dry Bay has
apparently never been glaciated but may have been the location of
catastrophic flooding within the last 1000 years from glacially dammed
lakes in the interior Yukon. The Alsek River is a known migration
route connecting coastal with interior populations of vertebrates through
the St. Elias Range (15,000 -19,000 ft.) Collections of specimens in
June 1974 and 1975 revealed both Herring Gull and Glaucous-winged Gulls
are considerably higher in Dry Bay than Glacier Bay.
Haenke Island lies off Yakutat in Disenchantment Bay and has
about 200 pairs of Glaucous-winged Gulls nesting on a 100 m grassy
cliff. The St. Elias Range and the Malaspina Glacier prevent influence
of interior conditions in the area. The gull population is more limited
In primary feather pigmentation than Dry Bay. Haenke Island is located
near the active front of the Hubbard Glacier; vegetation Is dominated by
alders, indicating a relatively recent deglaciation. Specimens collected
in June 1974 indicate possible introgresslon from Dry Bay.
Apparently the largest Larus glaucescens colony in the northeast
Gulf of Alaska is located on Egg Island near the mouth of the Copper
River near Cordova. About 10,000 -12,000 gulls nest on this relatively
large but low sandbar island composed of meadow-covered dunes. Gull
specimens collected in the summer of *75 show a limited range of vari-
ability. The large number of glaucescens may serve to "swamp" argentatus
type genes. Very recent earthquake activity ('64) is important in
determining the structure of the island and the plant communities upon which
gulls nest.
N.G. Smith (1966) suggests there are insufficient isolating
mechanisms between the Herring and Glaucous-winged Gulls. Field
evidence from this study indicates that the Larus argentatus - Larus
glaucescens species group is In an exceptionally fluid state evolution-
arlly, with populations at least partially isolated by glaciation and
mountain ranges now interbreeding where in contact and producing a
variety of morphological types In a rapidly changing environment.
Study is continuing to establish the extent of variation in the Glaucous-
winged Gull, in the intermediate populations, and to document the full
extent of the sympatric zone In the Gulf of Alaska.
HYBRIDIZATION BETWEEN WESTERN AND GLAUCOUS WINGED GULLS;
IMPLICATIONS FOR SPECIATION THEORY
Wayne Hoffman
Department of Zoology,
Oregon State University
- 26 -
Abstract : The extent and frequency of hybridization between Western
(Larus occiden tails ) and Glaucous-winged Gulls (Larus glaucescens )
were studied on Destruction Island, Washington, in 1971-74 and were
surveyed on the rest of the Washington and northern Oregon Coasts in 1975.
Hybridization was regular and common over most of that range.
Analysis of 1974 nesting success on Destruction Island indicates
that pairs including at least one intergr^de laid more eggs and
hatched a higher percentage of their eggs than pure Western or pure
Glaucous-winged Gull pairs . . . , . , .
. . ) . , . ' - ?* . j «
The patterns of mate choice at Destruction Island were analyzed
with a hybrid index and also by a multivariate method using Manhatten
distance. Both indicated that the mating patterns were ‘Strongly
associative. , ’ * ? '
> .1 1 ; ’ '
The results of the nesting success analysis indicate an evolution-
ary force tending to Increase ; the r^te of hybridization, and the mating
pattern analysis indicates a force decreasing the rate of hybridization.
This suggests that a dynamic equilibrium involving the maintenance of
an intermediate hybridization may exist.
‘ f ■ ‘ '***•
Present speciation theory does not recognize such a possibility.
Preliminary results of a simulation of the system indicate that such an
intermediate equilibrium exists.
COLONY TURNOVER AND HYBRIDIZATION IN SOME CANADIAN ARCTIC GULLS
Brian Knuds en
Department of Zoology, University of Manitoba,
Winnepeg, Manitoba
Abstract ; Some data were collected in mid- June 1975 on the location
and composition of 5 gull colonies in Home Bay, Baffin Island. In the
14 years since these colonies were last studied, at least 5 colonies
apparently have been abandoned, 3 new colonies, have been formed, and
1 colony has been reduced to 4 pairs.
Four collected gulls appear, on the basis of measurements, iris
colours, and plumage patterns, to be hybrids between Larus thayeri and
It- glaucoides . Mixed pairs of these two species were also seen. <
Seven pairs of L. argentatus (1 specimen: collected), a species
formerly reported to nest only on, level ground in this area, were nesting
on a vertical cliff in the same colony \ith L. thayeri , L. glaucoides , and
L. Hyperboreus . f
ABNORMAL PAIRING IN WESTERN GULLS
George L. Hunt Jr. and Molly W. Hunt
Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology,
University of California, Irvine ,
- 27 -
Abstract ; During the breeding seasq&s of 1972-1975 approximately
10-15% of; Western Gull (Larus occid entails) nests on Santa Barbara s
Island, California, contained four, five or six eggs, up to double the nor-
mal clutch size. The supernormal: tLbtches .are >attributedi.to pairs i in. vhihh
both individuals are female and both lay eggs. Of 12 pairs and 10 indivi-
dual birds trapped incubating supernormal clutches and sexed by laparotomy
or dissection, all but one bird wer,e female. Fertility was very low in
these dutches, the eggs were smaller than those produced ly male-female
pairs, and the laying sequence Indicated? that eggs must 'have been laid by
two birds. Prior to egg laying, members of female-female pairs spent less
time at the territory than male-female pairs, were less aggressive In
territorial defense and were not observed to engage* in courtship feeding
or copulation with each other. Fertilization of a few eggs probably took
place in "extramarital" matings.
Analyses of egg contents for pesticide residues indicated that levels
of DDE and PCB*s were not abnormally a nd no differences were found in
residue levels between normal 'and supernormal clutches. The reasons for
the abnormal female-female pairing In Western Gulls are not presently
known.
A DISCUSSION OF THE TAXONOMY AND EVOLUTION OF SOME DARE-BACKED GULLS
OF THE GENUS LARUS
Ron LeValley
Biology Department*
Humbolt State University, J
Areata, California i /*
Abstract : Recent investigations by myself and others have indicated
that the Yellow-footed Western Gull (Larus occiden tails livens) of the
Gulf of California may be more closely related to the Kelp Gull (L.
dominicanus ) of the southern hemisphere than to the Western Gull (L.
occidentalis ) . This assumption has proposed some questions concerning
the evolutionary relationships of these large dark-backed gulls with each
other and with other large gulls of the genus Larus . As a result I have
been examining the plumage sequences and distribution of the Greater
Black-backed Gull (L. marinus) and the Lesser Black-backed Gull (L.
fuscus) as well as the forms mentioned above.
Consideration of such factors as plumage sequence, size, distribu-
tion and general ecology has revealed that the Kelp Gull is not closely
related to the Greater Black-backed Gull as has been suggested by some
authors. Based on these considerations, a discussion of the evolutionary
relationships of these dark-backed' gulls should be Instructive.
MORPHOLOGICAL VARIATION, SPECIES LIMITS, AND EVOLUTION IN THE MURRELET
GENUS ENDOMYCHURA
Joseph R. Jehl, Jr. and Suzanne I. Bond
Natural History Museum,
San Diego, California
- 28 -
Abstract : Species limits in Endomychura have been a matter of dispute.
Recent field studies in Baja California have shown that the probable
breeding ranges of two of the three currently recognized taxa are more
extensive than has been realized, and that all three taxa occur on the
San Benito Islands during the nesting season. Morphological data
indicate that Craveri's Murrelet (E. craveri ) is acting as a distinct
species with respect to both forms of Xantus 1 Murrelet (E. hypoleuca) .
Endomychura h. hypleuca and E. h. scripps ^ are exceptionally well-marked
forms and differ significantly in size and plumage characters. They
apparently hybridize on the San Benitos, but the limited data suggest
that interbreeding is not random, that gene flow between the two is
reduced. Possible isolating mechanisms are discussed. Trends in body
size in this genus are clinal, and the Ancient Murrelet (Synthiloboramohus
antiquus ) , which is closely related to Endomychura , also fits into the
general picture of morphological variation.
THE BREEDING BIOLOGY OF THE XANTUS MURRELET
Aoe Eppley, Doug Schwartz, Sandy Anthony and George L. Hunt
Department of Ecological and Environmental Biology,
University of California, Irvine '
Abstract ; During the spring of 1975, the breeding biology of the
Xantus Murrelet (Endomychura hypoleuca) was studied on Santa Barbara
Island, California. Fifty-four Xantus Murrelet nests were observed
from 18 April until they were vacated. Habitats selected for nests
were recorded and the distance of nests from the water measured.
Observations of parent-chick interactions were made on one nest for
18 hours. Nine nests were observed at night to document chick depar-
tures. Hatching success in 33 nests was 54% and of 29 chicks hatched,
100% were believed to have successfully left the island. Mouse pre-
dation on Xantus Murrelet eggs was found to significantly reduce the
number of young produced.
THE FOSSIL RECORD AND ALCID EVOLUTION
G. Victor Morejohn
Moss Landing Marine. Laboratories,
Moss Landing, California % .
. i V r . - *
Abstract : The western north Pacific coastal region apparently has
been the area of origin of many of the species of Alcidae. Few of
the living taxa of the north Pacific and north Atlantic regions have
fossil representatives earlier than Pleistocene. Several alcid
species became extinct prior to Pleistocene times, notably the
flightless Lucas auks (Mancalla spp.) of the Pliocene that had evolved
from late miocene ancestors (Premancall a) • Recent discoveries in Santa
Cruz reveal two species of southern California Pliocene Lucas auks, a
rhinocerus auklet (Cerorhinca) , and a new larger species of late
Miocene Premancalla . Based on present distribution of living alcids
and site localities of known fossils of the north Pacific and north
Atlantic coastal regions, a tentative phylogeny of alcids is presented.
- 29 -
IV. General Papers Session ; Paul R. Kelly, Chairman;
2:45 - 5:45 p.m,, 13 December
SEX ROLES, SOCIAL STRUCTURE AND THE ROLE OF ENVIRONMENT IN THE WESTERN
GULL
Raymond Piero tti
Department of Biological Sciences, *
California State University, Sacramento
Abstract : The evolution of social strucutres and the selective forces
favoring those structures have long been the source of controversy
and the subject of considerable research. Recently there have been
some noble efforts to place the evolution of sociality in a theoretical
framework (Trivers 1972, Alexander 1974). These models, though elegant
in formulation, have not been adequately tested in the field.
It was decided, therefore to test these theories by comparing
separate breeding colonies of the Western Gull (Larus occidentalis ) .
Time and energy budgets were taken for male and female gulls to
evaluate their respective roles in parental care. These in turn were
compared with various environmental parameters that might effect social
behavior such as food supply, predation, and available space for nest-
ing. Finally the social systems observed in the different colonies
were evaluated in terms of the models of Trivers and Alexander.
COMPARISON OF VOCAL DIFFERENCES IN THE LONG CALL OF SELECTED POPULATIONS
OF EASTERN PACIFIC GULLS (L , OCCIDENTALIS , L. DOMINICANUS , L. GLAUCESCENS)
Judith Latta Hand
Biology Department,
University of California, Los Angeles
Abstract : There is evidence that male passerines respond selectively
to the vocalization (songs) of males of their own species. There is
accumulating indirect evidence that female passerines are equally
discriminating and that female choice based on recognition of con-
specific song is a mechanism of species Isolation. M.P. Harris (1970)
felt that his data from a study in which mating choices of cross fostered
young of L. argentatus and L, fuscus were recorded, are best explained
by a mechanism based on female choice, presumably determined by
imprinting on key features during early stages in the nest. R.G.B.
Brown (1567), In a study of these same two species, concluded that
mantle color was used as a species-distinguishing feature by females,
bub also left open the possibility that females might distinguish species
tfn the basis of vocal differences in the Long Call as well.
Sonograms of the Long Call notes of Larus occidentalis occidentalis
(S.E. Farallon Island), L. occidentalis wymani (Catalina Island), JL;
occidentalis livens (Gulf of California), L. glaucescens (Mandarte Island,
B.C.) and L. dominicanus (Chile) were made. Only two populations, that of
L. £. occidentalis and L. £. wymani show any close similarities. The
voice of L. £. livens is as different from wymani and occidentalis as
either of those two populations are from L. glaucescens or L. dominicanus .
- 30 -
This marked difference in voice of L. £. livens from both L. £. wymani
and h, £• occidentalis is a trait which strongly distinguishes the former
populations from the latter, and suggests the possibility that the
vocalizations may serve as an isolating mechanism.
OCCURRENCE AND MIGRATION OF THE LONG-TAILED JAEGER IN NORTH AMERICA
Philip Unitt
San Diego, California ^
Abstract : A study was made of the distribution of the Long- tailed
Jaeger (Stercorarius longicaudus) in North America away from its breeding
grounds involving an analysis of the records in the literature. The
evidence suggests the existence of an overland migration route at high
altitudes in both spring and fall. Most spring records are interior;
there is very little spring migration on the Pacific coast from California
to British Columbia. In fall, migration takes place both through much
of the interior and offshore along the Pacific and Atlantic coasts.
There is no unequivocal evidence for winter occurrence in or near North
America.
BREEDING BIOLOGY OF THE CALIFORNIA LEAST TERN
Barbara W. Massey
Long Beach, California
Abstract : The California Least Tern (Sterna albifrons browni Mearns)
heeds on beaches and saltflats, close to estuaries in southern California
and Baja California, Mexico. Severe loss of habitat has reduced the
subspecies to approximately 600 breeding pairs in the United States.
It was placed on the endangered species list in 1970.
The breeding biology and behavior of the California Least Tern
were studied for several nesting seasons in Orange County colonies.
The demography of a nesting colony was documented, including number
of nests, clutch size, weights and measurements of eggs. Courtship
displays, nest-making, egg-laying, incubation, hatching, growth and
development of chicks, first flights of chicks, and vocalizations of
adults and chicks were all studied. Banding of newly hatched chicks
was m essential part of the program. Data gathered in this study
have been valuable in subsequent efforts to protect the California
Least Tern as a breeding bird in the United States.
EVIDENCE OF SURVIVAL TO RECENT TIMES OF THE EXTINCT FLIGHTLESS DUCK,
CHENDYTES LAWI
G. Victor Mbrejohn
Moss Landing Marine Laboratories
Moss Landing, California
Abstract : Skeletal remains of the extinct Pleistocene diving duck,
Chendytes lawi , were discovered at two northern California Indian
midden sites. This bird was known to live on the Channel Islands
off southern California to at least 33,000 years ago. Carbon 14 dates
of midden shell and aspartic acid racemization of the Chendytes bones
showed that this species lived into the Holocene and became extinct
-31—
sometime after; 3780 years ago. The remains of Chendytes lavi bones
from these northern California middens and a newly discovered Pleistocene
tibio tarsus from the Port Orford Formation (lower Pleistocene) of Oregon
extend the known range of Chendytes law! from the Channel Islands off
southern California northward some 450 miles. The high frequency of
occurrence of bones of this species at one Indian midden clearly
implicates early California aboriginal man as playing an important role
in its extinction.
SOME PRELIMINARY FINDINGS IN THE ANALYSIS OF BIRD BONES FROM SELECTED
CALIFORNIA INDIAN MIDDENS : \
Diana G. Matthiesen
Museum of Birds and Mammals, Biology Department,
San Jose State University, San Jose California
Abstract : Analysis of non-human vertebrate remains from Indian
habitation sites has been a somewhat neglected aspect of the study
of prehistory. In this age of increasing environmental awareness,
the value of these remains for reavealing geologically recent
environmental change is becoming rapidly evident. With this in mind,
bird, as well as fish, mammal , and molluscan remains, from a number
of sites are currently being studied.
Presented here are the results of work done on avian remains at
the Laguna Creek Indian midden (SCr-7) on the central California
coast. The site is described in terms of its geological history,
probable mode of formation, past and present avian assemblages, and
importance. Some inferences are drawn as to dietary preferences and
possible hunting techniques from the kind and condition of the remains.
Notable findings include the abundant remains of the now extinct
flightless scoter, Chendytes lawl , the nearly extinct Short-tailed
Albatross, Diomedia albatrus , and the endangered Clapper Rail, Rallus
longirostris . The Laguna Creek remains are then compared temporally
and ecologically with those of six other California middens.
It is clear from these comparisons that major environmental changes
have occurred in some of these areas. Most of these changes are not
surprising, and the causes for them are obvious; but other present an
enigma to the researcher and call for more Intensive investigation on a
broad interdisciplinary front.
THE COLONIAL BIRD REGISTER
Donald A. McCrimmon
Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology, Ithaca, New York
Abstract : Throughout North and Central America and the Caribbean,
more than 70 species of birds nest in colonies. Colonial birds are
heavily dependent on a variety of wetland habitats that are ex-
tremely important to man and under considerable pressure for develop-
ment. Numerous agencies and individuals have long been interested in
monitoring and protecting colonially nesting birds, but before the
establishment of the Colonial Bird Register the information collected
was not centralized for convenient access and effective use.
- 32 -
The National Audubon Society and the Cornell Laboratory of Orni-
thology organized the Colonial Bird Register to establish a computerized
data base for the collection and dissemination of information concern-
ing colonial birds. Individual and agencies working with colonially
nesting species are asked to contribute to the success of the program
by submitting, to the Register, field survey forms detailing the loca-
tion of colonies, their sizes, species composition, habitat, disturbance
factors, and other information.
*
BREEDING AVIFAUNA OF THE BARREN ISLANDS, ALASKA
Edgar Bailey
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service,
Anchorage, Alaska
Abstract : The Barren Islands, located at the entrance of Cook Inlet
180 miles southwest of Anchorage, were visited in July 1974 and 1975.
All seven islands were surveyed by both boat and at least partly afoot
during the 3 weeks in the islands.
The main purpose of the survey was to determine species com-
position, distribution, and abundance of mammals of the islands, a
proposed National Wildlife Refuge.
A total of 55 species of birds, including an estimated minimum of
500.000 nesting seabirds, was recorded among the island which comprise
10.000 acres of land. Tufted ( Lunda cirrhata ) and Horned Puffin
( Fratercula corniculata ) , Common Murre ( Uria aalge ) , Black-legged
Kittiwake ( Rissa tridactula ) , Glaucous-winged Gull ( Larus glaucescens ) ,
Forked-tailed storm Petrel ( Oceanodroma furcata) , Parakeet Auklet
( Cyclorrhynchus psittacula ) , and Red-faced Cormorant ( Phalacrocorax
urile) , were the most common nesters. Sooty Shearwaters ( Puf f inus
griseus ) and Northern Phalaropes ( Lobipes lobatus ) were abundant well
offshore.
Greatest seabird numbers exist on East Amatuli Island where a
small Northern Fulmar ( Fulmarus glacialis ) colony also was found and where
Kittlitz T s Murrelet ( Brachyramphus brevirostre ) apparently nests. Approxi-
mately 500 pairs of Rhinoceros Auklets ( Cerorchinca monocerata ) , the only
colony described outside of Southeast Alaska, were discovered on Sud
Island. Introduced foxes evidently have reduced bird populations on
Ushagat Island, the largest of the Barrens.
THE BIRDS OF B0G0SL0F ISLAND: A RECENTLY ACTIVE VOLCANO
C. V. BYRD
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Adak, Alaska
G. J. Divoky
Alaska Dept, of Fish and Game,
Fairbanks, Alaska
Abstract : Bogoslof Island, located in the southeast Bering Sea, is a
recently active volcano that first rose from the sea in 1796. Visits
to the island have been frequent enough to ascertain approximate dates
of colonization and estimates of numbers of breeding birds. A visit
in 1973 showed 15 species of birds nesting on the island.
-33-
Thick-billed Murres ( Uria Lomvia ) colonized the island soon after its
appearance and were much more abundant 50 years ago than now because erosion
of cliffs has decreased nesting space. Pigeon Guillemotes ( Cepphus columba )
were abundant in the early 1800’s but the erosion of the boulder beaches they
used for nest sites has reduced the population to one or two pairs.
From the 1930 ’s to the present time vegetation has covered much of the
island and by providing nesting material h^s resulted in an increase of
Glaucous-winged Gulls ( Larus glaucescens ) . * Stabilization of soil by vege-
tation has provided burrowing habitat for Fork-tailed Storm-Petrels
( Oceanodroma furcata ) and Tufted Puffins ( Lunda cirrhata ) , both of which
have increased greatly in the past 30 years. Red-legged Kittiwakes ( Rissa
brevirostris ) were not known to nest on the island before 1973 when approx-
imately 100 pairs were found. Colonization of the island by other seabirds
is discussed.
SEABIRD SURVEYS ON MONTEREY BAY, OCTOBER 1973 TO THE PRESENT
Robert Gill and Bruce Elliot
Wildlife Management Branch,
California Department of Fish and Game
Abstract : Between 17 October and the present, biologists from the
State of California’s Moss Landing Marine Lab and the Department of
Fish and Game have conducted on-going cooperative seabird surveys on
Monterey Bay. Fifteen regular 30-mile transects, plus eleven supp-
lementary trips covering a portion or portions of the former route,
and totaling over 800 cruise miles and approximately 156 hours of
observation time have permitted observations of seabird migration
patterns, feeding assemblages, and wintering distribution patterns
on waters over and around the Monterey Submarine Canyon. Records
spanned every month of the year, but emphasized late autumn, winter
and early spring, those portions of the year for which seabird data
in this area is particularly scarce. Data on water depth, tempera-
ture and local weather were gathered for correlation with observational
data and food habit information gathered from specimen. General patterns
of distribution and abundance are outlined and summarized, indicating
that patterns of distribution even in this limited area are more complex
than originally suspected and not firmly related to local weather factors
or other factors analyzed to date.
Magnificent Frigatebird
-34
Heermann's Gulls
Editor’s Note : Costs for most of the printing of this issue were provided
by the Division of Wildlife and Fisheries Biology, University of California,
Davis. We are grateful to Dale F. Lott for authorizing this support.
The sketches found in this issue were drawn by Irene Trautt Anderson, and
they represent some of the commonly found seabirds of marine habitats in
the Gulf of California.
D. W. A.
30 July 1976
PACIFIC SEABIRD 6R0UP
DEDICATED TO THE STUDY AND CONSERVATION OF PACIFIC SEABIRDS
AND THEIR ENVIRONMENT
f
EXECUTIVE COUNCIL
1976
Chairman : George J. Divoky, Alaska Dept, of Fish and Game,
1300 College Road, Fairbanks, Alaska 99701.
Vice-Chairman : Wayne Hoffman, Dept, of Zoology, Oregon
State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331.
Secretary : Kees Vermeer, Canadian Wildlife Service, 5421
Robertson Road, Delta, British Columbia V4K 3N2.
Treasurer : David A. Manuwal, College of Forest Resources, .
University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195.
Other Council Members :
David G. Ainley, Pt. Reyes Bird Observatory, Box 8, Alder
Road, Bolinas, California 94924.
William H. Drury, College of the Atlantic, Bar Harbor,
Maine 04609.
Joseph R. Jehl, Jr., San Diego Natural History Museum, P.
0. Box 1390, San Diego, California 92112.
C. Eugene Knoder, National Audubon Society, 9250 West 5th
Avenue, Lakewood, Colorado 80226.
Harou Ogi, Research Inst, of North Pacific Fisheries, Fac.
of Fisheries, Hakkaido Univ. , Hakodate, Hokkaido 040 Japan.
Robert J. Shallenberger , Ahuimanu Productions, P. 0. Box
1166, Kailua, Oahu, Hawaii 96734.
Bernardo Villa-Ramirez, Lab. de Mastazoologia, Apartado
Postal 70-233, Mexico 20, D. F. Mexico.
Editor , PSG Bulletin : Daniel W. Anderson, Division of Wild-
life and Fisheries Biology, Univeristy of California, Davis,
California 95616.
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