the closely approaching ship. Numbers on the 26th represent the first influx of the wintering population. Phalaropes Eighty-seven on the 16th vs. none on the 26th probably resulted largely from differences in weather and observing time, but may also re- fect the passing migration. Gulls Numbers recorded on the 16th represent many individuals and groups sighted up to considerable distances on each side of the ship, some travelling with the ship, some not, but very few if any following closely behind. Numbers for the 26th represent maximum estimates of the large flock which followed steadily at one to two shiplengths astern, with a smaller flock over the bow. Most of the other gulls sighted on the 26th had either just left one of these flocks, or were en route to join them. The flock began in early morning with six gulls joining seven albatross in hovering over garbage just dumped. Numbers gradually grew to a maximum in late morning of 150+ in the stern flock and 40+ at the bow. The bow flock was directly over the port railing just behind the bow, riding the updraft from the strong wind coming from about 10 degrees off the port bow. It was impossible to keep track of individuals joining and departing from these flocks, so that total gulls in the area during the day were cer- tainly much greater than the figures given. Species composition of gulls on the two days was significantly dif- ferent. Westerns, first, and Californias, second, comprised the over- whelming majority on both days. On the 16th other species recorded were Bonaparte, Sabine, and Heerman, all smaller gulls which (except possibly for Heerman) seldom follow ships. On the 26th other species recorded were Glaucous-winged, Herring, and Ring-billed, all of them strictly winter visitors with strong ship-following tendencies. One or two Glaucous- wingeds were seen on the 16th near Golden Gate Bridge before official ob- servations began. On both dates well over half of the gulls were in im- mature or subadult plumage. Alcids Forty-three on the 16th vs. one on the 26th probably resulted largely from differences in weather and observing time. Most of the 27 recorded as "small alcids" were probably Cassin Auklets.