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Table V - Species Composition of Waterfowl North from Churchill to Tavani_ 

Species ‘Number Percent 
Mallard 5 3.8 
Black duck 16 12.1 
Pintail 33 25,0 
Greater scaup 6 4.5 
Old squaw 52 39.4 
Eider and Scoter 20 15.2 

Pintail, black duck, greater scaup, and mallard were observed only as far 
north as the Thaane River Delta. Of.this group the pintail was most abundant 
(49.2 percent), and the black duck next (23.9 percent), in abundance. North of the 
Thaane River, both on the mainland and on Southampton Island, the only ducks 
observed were old squaws, scoters and eiders. 
Canada geese were observed breeding in numbers in Thaane River Delta 
and in the vicinity of Tavani (6 broods were recorded). Two large breeding colonies 
of snow and blue geese were observed during this survey. One was the colony 
located in the delta of the McConnell River just below Eskimo Point and estimated 
to number about 15,000, The second colony was observed in the delta of the Boas 
River on Southampton Island and the number was estimated at 25,000. In both areas 
many broods were observed, indicating a successful hatch, 
During the course of the survey 51 breeding swans were recorded on 
Southampton Island. One brood and a nest containing 5 eggs were also observed. 
Four sandhill cranes were seen between Churchill and Tavani but none were observed 
north of this point. 
Maise Lake, above Tavani, marked the beginning of the caribou herd. From 
this point north along the Wilson River to a point just west of Gibson Lake caribou 
were present by the thousands. A total of only 12 wolves were observed attending 
this herd, and judging by the number of calves present, production had been good, 
From the observation and experience obtained on this survey it appears _ 
that systematic sampling of this area would be very difficult and hazardous because 
of ice, weather, and refueling problems. Certainly only the best equipment should 
be used. Ducks which contribute to hunters' kill are confined to the coast and occur 
in comparatively small numbers as far north as the Thaane River. Although geese 
occur in large numbers they are no easier to cnesus by present methods here than 
they are on the wintering grounds. 
