Fleet, Robert R., 1963-1965
Page 50
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Transcription
RRJ (3) Manana Island (2) The crater is roughly circular and about 1200' from rim to rim. We estimated the Wedgetail population within the crater to be 3000 birds, all nearly fledged nestlings. This gives a total nesting population at this time of 4050-4500. An estimated 2000 Common Noddys were roosting on the inside of the crater rim and up the ridge to the peak. The moon was full and they proved to be extremely difficult to capture. We were able to band 10 Common Noddys. We continued onto the crater floor banding Wedgetails. All were late stage nestlings apparently having been deserted by the adults. These birds were found sitting singly or in groups on the surface. From a few of these birds could fly and did so if launched from a slope. All individuals were infested with Hippoboscids and burrow entrances would contain 50 to 100 of these insects. Large Cockroaches (3in) were abundant. Banded 500 Wedge tails and retired for night. Next morning banded an additional 100 Wedgetails before leaving. A mix-up as to time of departure prevented us from visiting Black Is (1).