SOUTHERN GRID 
PRELIMINARY REPORT AT-SEA SURVEY NO. 6 
6-11 April 1966 
This report is based upon the observations and collections made within 
the Southern Grid during the period 6-11 April 1966# The cruise track for 
April was entirely different from those followed during past surveys (Fig, 1)# 
Due to shorter overall distances involved, there was.ample time to stop the 
ship and drift during the nights. Hence, practically the entire grid pattern 
was covered by diurnal observations. 
Tne Smithsonian survey party included Richard Crossin (Biologist in Charge) 
Max Thompson, Dayle Rusted, Brian Harrington, Norman Heryford, James Lewis, 
Frank Smith, Philip Shelton, Kenneth Balcomb and David Hoff. The grid cruise 
was made aboard the U.S.N.S. SHEARWATER (T-Ag 177). Excellent cooperation 
and assistance were received from the officers and crew members. 
A total of 494 miles and 73 hours of diurnal observations was completed 
during the grid period (Table 1). During this time 4,062 birds of 26 species 
were recorded and 134 birds of 12 species were collected. 
Nocturnal observations were maintained from sunset to sunrise each night 
during the grid period (5-6 --- 11-12 April). A total of 312 miles and 83 
hours were completed during nocturnal operations. A total of 798 birds of 
17 species were recorded and 20 birds of 9 species were collected (Tables 1 
and 4). Of interest among these were 3 Mottled Petrels and a Tahitian Petrel. 
Two Leach's Storm Petrels and a Christmas Island Shearwater were captured 
alive, banded and released. 
