Publications Archive

An analysis of 122 recoveries of banded royal albatrosses of both subspecies, indicates a dispersal of non-breeding birds, with prevailing westerly winds from the breeding localities to winter feeding areas and then back to the breeding grounds. Evidence is given to show the progressive longitudinal movement of known age birds during the first twelve months of flight and the full circumpolar movement of this species in an easterly direction.

The history, distribution, and description of the Fijian race of the peregrine falcon, Falco peregrinus nesiotes, is given. Based on observations made on Joske’s Thumb, a 1430 ft mountain rising from a rugged rainforest area a few miles inland from the south coast of Viti Levu, detailed statements are made on the behaviour of this species, including daily routine, nesting, and food. An analysis of pellets is tabulated and a list is added of other species of birds seen in the area, including many taken by the peregrines as food. This is the first detailed confirmation of the breeding status of the peregrine in Fiji.

A population of spur-winged plover (Lobibyx novaehollandiae) in Southland was studied from 1965 to 1969. Nest areas and nest building are described and breeding territories discussed. Average clutch size was 3.74. Clutch size was not affected by rainfall. Incubation was shared between male and female by day. Laying began in June and ended in November, with peak laying occurring in August. Re-nesting occurred after nest or brood loss. There was one record of double brood. Incubation period was 30 to 31 days. Excessive incubation, laying pattern and hatching pattern are discussed. Hatch success in fully incubated nests was 73.99%; 50% of unhatched eggs contained early dead embryos; 49.83% of nests produced live chicks. Causes of nest loss are discussed. Chick mortality in the first fourteen days was high. 17.45% of chicks were known to fledge, but the true survival rate was probably of the order of 25%. Mean hatch weight was 20.5 grams. Chick growth rate is demonstrated. Fledging age was 7 to 8 weeks. Post-fledging dependence is discussed. Fledged juveniles remained with parents until 7 to 8 months old. The breeding cycle occupied the successful breeders for 11 months. Females could breed when one year old; males could breed in their second year, and may have done so when one year old. There was evidence that some pairs did not effectively part until the death of one of the pair. One bird was still breeding at 9 years 11 months, another at 8 years.