day. Thus, what data which were collected in the eastern two-thirds of the grid 
would sin gest that for some reason Sooties were present at night but not during 
th r day. However, the writer feels that there is also a possibility that 
Sooties may be present during the day, but are not being seen. Reasons for this 
suggestion are not well verified, but follow for what th^y are worth. First, it 
has been noted on occasion that a single Sooty i e often difficult to see (as 
opposed to a flock). If for some reason, Sooties do not flock in the * rid 
during the "winter" season, they would appear to be present in low numbers. The 
writer does not intend to imply that the population is at a "normal" level; it 
is quite probably at a very low level and comprised of single birds. That they 
travel as single birds seems to be quite possible in view of the observations 
suggesting the lack of concentrated food sources at this season in the grid. 
The main numbers have apparently moved to another area. But it is quite probable 
that scattered individuals remain in the grid area. These single birds very 
* 
possibly may avoid ships during the day (a behavior frequently noted in flocks./ 
That they shy from a ship during the day does not mean that they avoid them at 
night. In fact, the data collected to date would suggest that they are in 
fact attracted to the lights of a ship. 
The above discussion is not intended to deny that there may be directional 
•. . ' _ .'Jy' 
nocturnal movement through the grid from November through February, but “isT 
intended to present a possible alternative. More data and survey are needed 
surply an answer. 
Common Noddy Tern 
A total of 9 birds was seen in three sightings. One group of seven in a 
j-pygfj feeding flock on 20 November was unusual. Last year none were seen in 
November in the grid. 
Fairy Tern 
A total of three was recorded, two of which were in mixed feeding flocks 
on the 23rd. 
