M.Thompson 
Field notes 
from SIC 12 
H 
Howland Island - 6 April 
We arrived off Howland Island at 1930 and put the skiff ashore to collect Sooty Terns. 
I retunned to the ship at 2300. While I was gone they collected on board. These 
specimens were taken for nasal mite samples. 
Howland Island - 7 April 
A 30 1 survey was made offshore this morning at 0630. Most of the birds had left the 
vicinity by that time. The actual departure times were not noted due to an error in 
records. 
Enderbury Island - 13 April 
Arrived at the island at 0900. Tje Sooty Terns were swirling over the island but 
werent on the ground to stay. Other birds werent present in any numbers except 
frigatebirds. The central lagoon was about 6-12" lower than it was in March. 
However the vegetation was green indicating continuing rainfall. We banded Lesser 
and AGreater Frigatebirds, Red-footed Boobies and a few Gray-backed Terns and Noddies. 
Enderbury Island - l4 April 
After looking over the situation we decided to pull out this morning and head for 
Phoenix Island. Departed at 0900. 
Phoenix Island - 14 April 
Arrived at 1300 on the island. Lots of birds but Sooty Terns werent on the ground. 
They have just finished breeding (See Sooty aTerns). We worked the island for blood 
samples and banded several species of birds. The central depression had about 5 acres 
of water. Vegetation is luxuriant and two small rain showere fell today. Winds are 
NE and a very low surf provided ideal landing conditions. 
Phoenix Island - 15 Apri1 
This monring I sent the blood to the ship about O83O and we then took the nest 
survey and shorebird count, at least Six Erolia were seen on the count including 
melanotos and acuminata . Gnererally speaking there were very few nests and lots 
of curlews. 
Hull Island - l6 April 
Arrived here about 1100. We went in and surveyed the island but no Sooty Terns 
so departed about 1400 
McKean Island - 17-18 April 
Arrived here about 1100. Nice calm landing. Vegetation on the island was very 
dense compared to last year in March. The Sida around the ruins is so dense the 
Sooty Terns could get down. We had rain this evening, ae general rain and 
not just a shower. Probably 100,000 Sooty Terns over the island. The central 
