Publications Archive

Factors causing predation of the clam Paphies (Mesodesma ventricosa), the well-known ” toheroa,” by Black-backed gulls are described. Counts of Black-backed gulls made at approximately monthly intervals along a 23 kilometre stretch of beach between January 1970 and January 1971 and in December 1972, together with further observations between 1968 and 1975 show that Black-backed Gulls are important predators of toheroa.

Results are given of a monthly survey of birdlife in the subalpine Lake Harris basin, north-west Otago Alps. Fluctuations over a year, from May 1976 to April 1977, were tallied by species and by numbers of individuals. Comments are made on effects of climatic conditions and resources available to birds at such altitudes in the Southern Alps along the Main Divide. Arising from observations made so far, it is suggested that the Rock Wren (Xenicus gilviventris) may hibernate during harsh winter months.

During 1976, 2,826 kilometres of coast were patrolled by 151 members of the Ornithological Society of New Zealand and their friends. 5,990 dead seabirds were found. There were no major wrecks. A number of minor wrecks involving Blue Penguins (Eudyptula minor), White-headed Petrels (Pterodroma lessoni), Sooty Shearwaters (Puffinus griseus) and Fairy Prions (Pachyptila turtur) are recorded. White-faced Storm Petrels (Pelagodroma marina) were found in higher numbers than ever before particularly on Canterbury South beaches. Patrols of Mason’s Bay, Stewart Island, were the major factor contributing to the highest ever total of Mottled Petrels (Pterodroma inexpectata). The Grey Ternlet (Procelsterna cerulea) found is a second record and the Black-fronted Tern (Chlidonias hybrida) a new record for beach patrolling. The Christmas Island Shearwater (Puffinus nativitatis) found is a new record for the New Zealand region.