112 



ALASKA FISHERIES AND FUR INDUSTRIES IN 1919. 



computed on the several rookeries with a reasonable degree of 

 accuracy, providing the number of cows is ascertained for some of 

 them; and it is possible to determine fairly well about what the 

 average harem will be from the proportion of idle bulls found at the 

 height of the season. 



The enumeration of the bulls is conducted with increased difficulty 

 each year. It seems likely that unless some means arc devised 

 whereby the animals on the large rookeries can be brought within 

 view the work must be given up in a few years, except on the smaller 

 areas and sections. If the plans which are under consideration, 

 however, are carried out it is believed that in a few years it will be 

 possible to make this count accm'ately regardless of the growth of the 

 herd. In no other way is it believed possible to keep a sufficiently 

 accurate check on the herd to determine quotas for killing in advance 

 with the provision of just enough reserve for breeding purposes. 



Owing to adverse weather conditions it was not possible to make 

 a count of bulls on Sea Lion Rock (Sivutch Rookery). The number 

 was taken as the same as found in 1918 since this area being circum- 

 scribed by natural limits forbids any great amount of annual change. 



The following table shows the results of the count: 



Harem and Idle Bulls and Percentage of Idle Bulls to Harem Bulls 

 Compared to Average Harem, 1919. 



a Count of 1918. 



The most significant fact to be noted in the foregoing table is the 

 falling off of the number of bulls. This was greatly desired by all who 

 had the welfare of the herd in mind. Later counts showed that it was 

 accompanied with an increase in the size of the harem, not a great deal 



