19 Non-Grid Observations R. L. Pyle Diurnal observations were conducted en route from San Francisco to point Ash on October 16, and again October 26 returning to San Francisco along essentially the same track. Virtually calm winds and smooth sea on the 16th were very favorable for observing birds at a distance and on the water. However, strong headwinds and choppy sea on the 26th, par- ticularly in the morning, severely hampered observation of most species, but probably were a significant reason why albatross and gulls followed the ship closely in large numbers on the 26th but not on the 16th. On the 16th observations were recorded continuously for six hours up to sunset. On the 26th recorded observations were limited to one hour in the early morning, one hour in midmorning, and three-fourths hour in the early afternoon, because of the strong winds and preoccupation of ob- servers with Grid data analysis and other end-of-cruise chores. Occasional spot observations between these periods confirmed the general picture, but were not officially logged. Because of differences in weather conditions and observing time, far more birds other than gulls were recorded on the 16th (195 gulls, 256 others) than on the 26th (200¹ gulls, 18 others). Table 4 summarizes the non-Grid observations. Comparisons between the two dates are discussed in the species accounts which follow. Black-footed Albatross None recorded on southbound leg. On northbound leg, seven were fol- lowing when observations began in early morning, three were still follow- ing during the midmorning observation period, and none were recorded in the afternoon. Records of previous trips between San Francisco and the Grid should be checked for the possibility that albatross tend to be re- corded farther north when following northbound ships than when following southbound ships. Shearwaters and Petrels Recorded in good numbers on the 16th but virtually absent on the 26th. Beside winds and observing time, this decrease probably also re- fects the disappearance of fall migrating birds, as was experienced in the Grid. Of the 32 Pink-footed Shearwaters recorded on the 16th, 28 were in one group sitting on the water. On the 26th, four probable storm petrels together were reported by the bridge officer, but not officially recorded. Fulmar The single bird on the 16th was on the water, and may have been in abnormal condition as it did not flush but only fluttered aside to avoid