Gould, P. J. 
1964 
(Sooty Tern) 
3 
February 3- -Pacific Ocean, 1st day out Oahu, Hawaiian I. 
21 total individuals in groups of 7^6, 3,2,2 , and 1. The flock of 6 were 
feeding on small fish (not Hying fish). The small groups were all flying to the N, 
NW, or NE, probably towards Oahu. 
February 4 --Pacific Ocean, 2nd day out Oahu, Hawaiian I. 
Ill total individuals in groups of 63, 11, 11, 9 222, and 12 singles. Two 
birds were seen in association with 1 Fairy Tern. In general most appeared to 
be heading HE. 
February 6- -Pacific Ocean, 4th day out Oahu. 
2 flocks, 1 of 40+ and 1 of 100+ birds. The flock of 100+ had about 50+ Red- 
footed Boobies in wit them and 1 Masked Booby. These were actively feeding. As 
ship approached this flock it essentially split into two groups of 40-50 birds each. 
Upon pressing these flocks the Sooties finally all rose into air and then departed 
from area. Many of the birds became scattered into smaller groups. 
February 7--Pacific Ocean, 1 day SE Johnston Island 
One flock of 7 feeding at 0708 with 1 Red-footed Booby. 
February 12 - -Pacific Ocean, near Johnston-Sand Island 
A total of 363 seen between sunrise and sunset. Thousands 
were seen over Sand Island proper. From l600 hours on through 2400 hours these birds 
were constantly abou t the ship, most heading in towards Johnston Island. A vast 
majority of these birds seen flying toward Johnston Island (ca. 340+) were flying 
very low over the water (ca. 5-10 ft.). They were at times accompanied (3 times) 
by Red-footed Boobies. 
At 2305 hours there were ca. 10 birds flying about the ship in a heavy rain squall. 
The rain appeared to have no effect on them although the lights we used appeared to 
scare ;them away. Several appeared to be confused by the lights. No feeding activity. 
was noticed. 
