EL Karlstrom 1955 Buffer Boreez Feb. 22 "Rot Island", 4 mi. W San Rafael, Marin Co., Calif. The confining nature of the small island, lack of adequate brush cover, contributes to its reluctance to flee from a brush. Song sparrows also very reluctant to leave brush cover at quadrant C. If flushed, they moved usually to join oak at B, but returned. The point on the mainland due SE of island. Estimated 90 yards. Almost vertical 12-16' cliffs around the point but a shallow beach in 150 yard large cove to NW of the jutting point. 10:30 a.m. current running SW along the SE side of island 10 feet in 18 seconds. Levin claims a swift tidal current operates here. Island wholly den with sandstone and topsoil above, except for two places A + I where slope 40°, rough exposed sandstone. Higher angle (60° ±) den upper 2-4 feet of these slopes. It is quite conceivable that toads could swim or be carried by current to this island and finally work their way up to the top, but circumstances would have to be just right. What the toads are breeding on this pile of dirt and rock is hard to believe - unless the rodent burrows might retain rain water?? The problems faced by this "population" are intriguing. A few nights spent on the island would be worthwhile. Levin suggest use of Sherman mammal traps.