* ✓ 
t 
- 5 - 
Decembdr 1966. High winds which drastically affected observations through¬ 
out the grid period could account for the low numbers recorded because they 
are easily missed over rough seas even at close range. 
Red-bailed Tropichird ( 5 ) 
Expected low numbers were found. This species is not presently ne ting 
on Howland. • The few scattered grid birds might be from any of the Line 
or Phoenix Islands populations. 
blue-faced Booby (197 + 1 nocturnal) 
9 
Density is very close to that recorded during the December cruise ana 
the number of birds utilizing Howland remained approximately the sane. 
Although a considerable changeover of individuals utilizing Howland from 
month to month exists^ the bulk of the population at any one time 
near Howland (30-35 miles distant) with most birds returning each b. 
Grid sight ngs dropped sharply beyond 50 miles from Howland. None re 
recorded on 19 January at the extreme western sections of the grid. "he 
usual large numbers of Howland Llue-streamered birds were again recorded 
near the island. 
Brown booby (U) 
The usual low number of birds was again recorded during the present cruise: 
All four were noted south of Baker. 
Red-footed Booby (5 + 2 nocturnal) 
Low numbers in the grid are a reflection of the low population now 
present on Howland. Sightings of single individuals are low throughout 
tne majority of grid surveys and when larger numbers (10+) are noted, these 
t 
are invariably associated with mixed feeding flocks. 
& 
Treat frigate bird (U) 
♦ 
Lesser frigate bird (22) 
