EAC 5, Shearwater, March 1967
Page 280
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Transcription
most logically explained by a migratory movement. No Herring Gulls were identified in the southern section during this cruise, and a sharp decline was noted in the central section; An increase was noted in the north section. A noticeable decline in the western section also suggests that a movement towards the breeding islands is occurring. Age composition in various sections was again recorded. In the north 83% (N=107) of the Herring gulls were adults, while 91% (N=19) were adults in the central area. In the eastern half 81% (N=98) were adults, and 95% (N=19) were adults in the west. Gonad condition on three adult females were slightly advanced with the largest ova measuring 3mm. All had moderate fat and moderate body molt. The yellowness of the bills on all specimens was noticeably brighter than on previous surveys. Black-legged Kittiwake (Rissa tridactyla) 29 Like the other species of gulls, the Kittiwakes showed a sharp decline of numbers. All sightings were in the north section, with two thirds being in the eastern half. Adults comprised 91% of the birds for which age was determined. In the east 45% (N=18) were adults, while in the west 90% (N=10) were adults. Rhinoceros Auklet (Cerorhinca monocerata) 4 All sightings were in the northeast portion of the grid. Horned Puffin (Fratercula corniculata) 1 One bird was well observed in the northeast section.