GRID MAMMALS
As mentioned earlier in this report, mammals were noted in good numbers in
the grid. A total of 1312 individuals of three identified and four unidentified
species was recorded. The north section yielded the greatest number of sightings,
but, as emphasized earlier, it was this area in which we had calm seas and hence
better conditions for mammal sightings.
North section
The Otarids were not as common as on some earlier cruises. Seventeen
unidentified seals (most were probably Fur Seals) and one unidentified sea lion
were observed.
Cetaceans were recorded in good numbers. Most impressive were two schools
of the rare Right Whale Dolphin (Lissodelphis borealis). One school of over a
thousand was seen traveling north, and shortly after another group of 150, also
moving north, was recorded. Other Cetaceans in the north area included 7 Sperm
Whales (Physeter catodon), sixteen unidentified whales, and one whale or dolphin.
Central Section
Mammals in the central section were represented by two schools of
Baird's Dolphin (Delphinus delphis) totaling one hundred individuals. Several
swam ahead of the ship for varying lengths of time.
South Section
In the south area 12 Sperm Whales, seven Baird's Dolphin, and one unidenti-
fied whale were seen.