Although regular seasonal migrations are well documented for birds, data 

 available from this study suggest that migration patterns for mammals and turtles are 

 poorly understood. In all survey subunits, more mammals and turtles were observed in 

 August than in November. Some taxa which were conspicuous in one season were not 

 observed during the other. The geographic limits and seasonality of these movements are 

 not known at present. 



Distinct patterns were noted for the spatial occurrence of birds, mammals, and 

 turtles in relation to water depth and distance from shore. These data are particularly 

 pertinent to consideration of OCS development. 



The results of the Pilot Study illustrate the dynamic complexity of marine 

 vertebrate faunas. The study provided the basis for development, testing, and 

 implementation of a study plan which encompasses the collection, analysis, and 

 interpretation of data within OCS areas. The data base of ultimate utility must 

 encompass seasonal, geographical, environmental, and annual variation to allow detailed 

 analyses. Such information is critically important to the conservation and management 

 of endangered and vulnerable marine animals and the OCS planning. 



Many trends and conclusions are apparent in the data presented herein. However, 

 the limitations of the data set must be considered. Two comparable surveys were made 

 on a three month cycle. In the absence of data collected on a more frequent schedule 

 and encompassing the entire annual cycle, correlations with seasonal, geographic, and 

 environmental factors are difficult to distinguish from superfluous associations. The 

 present discussion of the Pilot Study results was prepared to show the depth and 

 complexity of the investigation. It also serves to elucidate the value of data on 

 important vertebrate species to OCS planning and development, and the need for long- 

 term studies. 



Aerial surveys are dependent upon qualified observers and statistically 

 documented data. The quality of the observers improves with experience and time, and 

 consequently, so does the data. In part, informational gain is additive with all previous 

 information relevant to the interpretations of current data. As a consequence, further 

 studies in the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean off of the southeastern United States 

 promise to contribute significantly to the understanding of the animals studied and their 

 ecology. Such an understanding is essential to planning and development if the effects of 

 OCS activities are to be minimized. 



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