Long, C. R. 1964 5 9. Messerschmidtia - small, stunted shrub used by perching noddies - found on the south shore. 10. Sicyos sp. - on central part of island, no flowers or fruit. Red-tailed Tropicbird nestling observed in a nest under a clump of Eragrostis. On the east spit of the island Lepturus is found growing in beach sand with Lepidium in the narrow central portion. Stunted Messerschmidtia plants were observed along the south shore. Noddies perching in large numbers in the stunted, flat-topped Messerschmidtia and Scaevola shrubs. Adult and yearling seals observed on the beach. September 17, 1964 - South North Island The following species were observed: 1. Tribulus - patches on west end, young plants found on most of the area. 2. Boerhaavia - light lavender colored flowers, many young plants. 3. Lepturus - semi-prostrate, clumps flattened from the center. 4. Messerschmidtia - in flower and fruit, small stunted shrubs but leaves are healthy green in color. Two fruits of Cocos were observed, one on the north beach and one on the south beach. On trip back to Southeast Island raised sand bare in the lagoon were observed covered with algae. South North Island has been cited as "intermittent." The plants present growing in coral gravel and sand are probably all bird introduced. Since the noddies use the Scaevola and Messerschmidtia as perches there is a suggestion that this species may be responsible for the transportation of the species found on this island. The numerous perching noddies are reminiscent of the Cook Island, Christmas Island. No evidence of shearwater burrows on South North was found although the substrate would allow burrowing. This information suggests that there is a periodic inundation during storms and that the species found on South North are being reintroduced constantly by birds which alight on the sand to rest. The burrows on North Island