Publications Archive

Activities during the Bay of Plenty study course of 8–15 January 1978 are described. 94 species seen during the course are listed, with notes on 27 other species not recorded during the course, but known to have occurred along this coastline in recent years.

The past and present distribution of the North Island kokako is determined from reported observations for four periods: pre-1900; 1900–1939; 1940–1959; and 1960–1970. Changes in distribution are described for nine geographical districts. Since the late 19th century distribution has contracted in areas to the north and south of the central Volcanic Plateau. This is attributed mainly to the removal of suitable forest habitat. The kokako is a weak flier and, with continued deforestation, populations are further isolated from one another and the survival of the species is threatened.

Eighty-six New Zealand dotterel (Charadrius obscurus) have been individually banded with metal and colour bands between 1950 and 1977 in the Auckland district. Subsequent sightings of banded birds show that some move considerably within a limited range and that others are fairly sedentary. The recovery history of the most interesting cases is given in outline. The oldest-known bird, a male, is over 26 years. A female was recorded breeding within her first year.

Seabirds seen during a yacht voyage from Auckland, New Zealand, to Lautoka, Fiji, between 30 April and 7 May 1977, and during the return voyage to Whangarei between 22 May and 1 June are listed. Field characters of Pterodromas and storm petrels are illustrated.