Synopsis of Eastern Grid Survey #18 During 732 miles of diurnal observations (68.6 hours) 73 albatross plus 676 birds of other species were recorded. Total linear density (birds per linear mile) was 1.02 with albatross, and 0.924 without albatross (see Black- footed Albatross species account). The density with albatross should be used if this parameter is to be of any value. Four sightings totaling 18 marine mammals were recorded in the Grid. Highlights: 1) Increasing numbers of immature Black-footed Albatross in Grid area. 2) Near random dispersion of winter resident; i.e., not yet showing limited distribution as was first noted in January of this year. 3) Presence of non-migrating Sooty Shearwaters. 4) North section continues to show highest density. Two feeding flocks, one consisting of 20+ Leach Petrels; the other of 20+ Herring Gulls, 5 Jaegers and 10+ Sooty Shearwaters, were recorded in the northeast section of the Grid. SPECIES ACCOUNTS Black-footed Albatross Maximum counts: December 3: 6 4: 24 5: 6 6: 10 7: 3 8: 15 9: 9 10: (1) Total 74 (Mean) Average 9.2 Distribution by sector | | 24 | 6 | 11 | |---|---|---|---| | | 10 | 8 | 9 | | | 9 | 15 | 1 | Albatross are omitted from the sectional breakdown analysis in Tables 2 and 3 because of confusion generated by birds following the ship from one sector to the next, and thus being counted twice. The distribution of albatross during the survey was not random. - - - - - - - - - etc. - - - - - - - -