SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION UNITED STATES NATIONAL MUSEUM WASHINGTON 25. D. C. November 12, 1964 Progress Report # 3 ---- ATF # 6 From November 1 to November 12 three islands, Phoenix, Birnie and Enderbury, were visited in the Phoenix group. An at sea watch was maintained from Pago Pago to Phoenix Island although it wasn't possible to collect any specimens. Phoenix Island The party landed here at 1700 on the 3rd and departed at 0800 on the 7th. The usual studies were continued on birds, mammals ad plants. 16,926 birds were banded with 1,038 returns recorded. 150 blood samples were taken (40 from rabbits). A complete absence of moon lit nights made this our most productive visit to Phoenix. Birnie Island Landed at 1500 on the 7th and departed at 0800 on the 9th. Usual studies with 884 birds being banded and 507 returns being recorded. 65 blood samples were taken (5 from Rattus exulans). The blood sampling of rats proved difficult at first but it was finally possible to pool three rats to produce approximately 3cc of blood. The 25 gauge needles worked very well but clog rapidly and one therefore goes through a minimum of three per sample. With a sufficient supply of needles and our present experience it should be possible to take 7-8 pooled samples an hour including catching of rats. On this island it became necessary to shift to a midnight to dawn working schedule in order avoid the moon. Enderbury Island Landed at 1300 on the 9th and departed at 0800 on the 12th. 2708 birds banded with 678 returns. 100 blood samples taken. No mammals observed on the island. Party starting to feel the effects of nine straight days and nights of work including setting up and breaking three camps. Three day break before landing on Jarvis should provide time to catch up on records, specimens and packing.