no. 3609 DATA PROCESSING SEABIRDS KING, WATSON, GOULD 3 



specimens. The time of observation was recorded to the nearest 

 minute. Whenever possible, an actual count was made but large 

 flocks were only estimated within accuracy limits. The direction of 

 movement, if any, was recorded. Notes were made on behavior, 

 plumage, molt, age, sex, and any other data that appeared significant. 

 Descriptions were recorded in cases of uncertain identification. Stand- 

 ard marine meteorological observations were taken every six hours. 

 Bureau of Commercial Fisheries personnel took bathythermographs 

 and recorded weather conditions every one-half degree, hydrographic 

 stations every one and one-half degrees, and surface plankton tows 

 every evening. Ship's position was reckoned hourly and early morn- 



180° 



160°W 



150°W 



140°W 



Figure 1. — Replicate track in central Pacific Ocean followed during 15 monthly cruises of 



the Townsend Cromwell. 



ing; midday and evening celestial or LORAN fixes were taken, con- 

 ditions permitting. 



During the 15 months of the study, 13,080 sightings of 65,707 birds 

 were made in 3561.1 hours of observation covering 34,384 linear miles. 



Coding 



The quantity and complexity of data accumulated necessitated use 

 of an automatic data processing system for rapid and accurate sorting, 

 compilation of tables, and the plotting of distribution and density 

 charts. In addition, ADP made possible a sophisticated analysis of 

 the effects of many enviromental factors, both oceanographic and 



