Publications Archive

The distribution and behaviour of the seabirds observed from New Zealand to the Ross Sea are described. Information was obtained in December 1970 from an eight day traverse of the USCGC Staten Island which covered 39 degrees of latitude. Seabird distributions appeared to be governed by such hydrological features as the Antarctic Convergence and the 0°C sea surface isotherm (northern pack-ice edge). Analysis of published data indicate a progressive breakdown in the zonal distribution of seabirds from early to late summer. Summer warming leads to both the increased southward penetration of some subantarctic species, and the increased northward spread of some Antarctic species.

The technique of using recorded calls in order to induce territorial blue duck to show themselves is described. Its value as a census tool is discussed. On the last night of experimenting the blue duck mated, possibly caused by the stimulus of ‘rival pair’ sounds.

Two distinct colour phases of the little owl occur in New Zealand. A comparison of a specimen of each with large series of European and British skins shows that the New Zealand birds cannot be separated from either the West German or the English specimens. The status of the subspecies of the little owl and their European distribution is given with particular reference to the colour phases present. It is considered futile to ascribe a specific status to the New Zealand population before a thorough revision of the European forms of Athene noctua is under taken.