sacp 
lii'i-Ci 1 lours FROM THE TJEFUBLISIE3D SPECIES ACCOUNTS OF A. WSTMOHB ** WAKE ISIA11D 
Sula oiscator (i.e. sula ) 
July 27~August 4, 1923 : The red-footed looby is nest to the noddy the most 
abundant species of bird here as it numbers at least 5,000 perhaps many more. 
The birds are so scattered through the trees that it is difficult to get a true 
idea of their number. They are distributed everywhere but are most common around the 
shores of the lagoon where they gather during the day in parties on the open limbs 
of ambulla (sp?) trees in companies. Preferred perches are those exposed to the 
gentle sweep of the east trade winds. The birds preen or sleep here or rest 
quietly in the sun. When approached in the open they usually fly when I am some 
distance away but when I come on them suddenly in the bushes they seem wholly 
unconcerned. Ho occupied nests have been found but many of the adults have chosen 
nest sites among the trees and are beginning mating antics. One rests below the 
other and utters a neculiar drawn out wheezing call while it throws the head up 
a 
nd the neck back and waves (it) around in the air. At other times the two rest 
near 
one another uttering loud clucking calls 
At evening bands of the boobies come in from the sea toward the southwest 
beating steadily toward the island. Many are intercepted by frigate-birds and often 
\ 
are forced to disgorge. Other boobies flying low and swiftly gain shelter of the 
t 
rees find then the frigate gives up the pursuit. The broad winged tyrant flaps 
s 
teadily along above its victim following its twisting flight with the greatest 
ease. If the booby does not give up forthwith, it is usually seized by the 
tail and shaken while it squawks protestingly. 
