Supplement to NOTORNIS, .Val. 39, Part 1 March 1992 ISSN 0111-2686 OSNZ news Edited by PAUL SAGAR, 38A Yardley Street, Christchurch 4, for the members of the Ornithological Society of (Inc.) Please note that sightinas recorded in this Newsletter are subiect - to confirmation. No. 62 March, 1992 Note Deadline for the June issue will be 20th May. Pitcairn Island Scientific Expedition

Henderson Island, the expedition's base, nests (all petrel species are surface nesters The crakes proved to be confiding proved to be as extraordinary and at the Pitcaim Islands) and found kiore sign (though extremely difficult to catch) and fascinating as we had imagined. Its surface with freshly killed chick carcasses. were the main attraction at our base camp, is fossil coral, weathered into jagged ridges I collected 70 regurgitations from particularly as they chose to nest nearby and gulhes, and raised 30 metres above sea chicks on Ducie and Oeno, mostly from and to bring their chicks in for breakfast. level. It is clothed, for the most part, in Murphy's and Kermadec Petrels. Other Chuck Doersch (Nebraska) and I took the dense, low forest that offers food and work on the petrels included monitoring opportunity to study parental care by the shelter for the four species of landbirds and nests, collecting lice for Ricardo Palma, local pairs (including their breakfasts). We nesting sites for at least eight species of and tape recordings for Les McPherson. found that both parents feed and guard the seabirds. We also camped on the two atolls chicks and vigorously pursue kiore, but we of the group, Ducie and Oeno. Ducie, The three major landbird studies were also found that they leave even young which is a broken ring of mostly dead coral, an assessment of abundance of forest birds chicks unguarded at times. must be one of the most remote places on on Henderson Island, a study of the diet of the Henderson Fruit Dove in relation to The three islands have an important this planet and is the nesting place of tens bird fauna, but our observations have of thousands of petrels. Most of the world's foods available and their seasonal changes, and breeding and behavioural studies of the shown the vulnerability to predation of population of Murphy's Petrel breed there. both the seabirds and the landbirds. Oeno, which has more diverse vegetation Henderson Crake. We also logged the distribution and feeding activity of the Elsewhere in the Pacific, some of these than Ducie, is host to three species of species, or their close relatives, are in waders (Bristle-thighed Curlew, Henderson Lorikeet . Wandering Tattler, and Pacific Golden Plover), the Reef Heron, and the Spotless Crake as well as seabirds. Four species of gadfly petrels are recorded from Henderson Island (the Kermadec, Herald, Phoenix and Murphy's Petrels), but the expedition doubts the presence of Phoenix Petrel. Analysis of measurements, feather lice, and DNA should resolve whether the Herald Petrel occurs in two colour morphs or whether there are both Herald and Phoenix Petrels on the island. The expedition found that these light and dark colour "morphs" segregate in breeding pairs and favour different breeding sites on the island. My priority task was to collect stomach samples for Mike Imber's study of petrel foods. This work was curtailed on Henderson Island because the nesting of all petrels failed almost completely. Almost all losses were of young chicks, and as far as we were able to determine, the losses were due to predation by kiore. We witnessed predation by kiore during long vigils at Murphy's Petrel at its nest on Ducie Island, Pitcairns. (Photo. Jim Jolly)

1 nestlings. Later, he was very keen to see a memorial established to "Old Blue", the THE STAFF OF THE NEW ZEALANI Postal Auction key Black Robin in the recovery of that WILDLIFE SERVICE (1947-1987) FOE species, and to the Wildlife Officers THEIR COMMITMENT ANT involved in the programme. INGENUITY OVER THE YEAR! 1976-1987 IN RESCUING THE BLACE Before this aim was achieved, however, ROBIN FROM NEAR EXTINCTION Sir Charles died. The Fleming family asked that any recognition of Sir Charles by the THE ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY Ornithological Society be a one off occasion OF NZ rather than another perpetual award or AND THE FLEMING FAMILY something similar. The family suggested that perhaps the memorial plaque which Sir Charles had suggested could also make reference to his work and that this could & be erected on the Chathams. OSNZ, Falla Memorial Award A.T assisted by a generous contribution from Edgar Junior Award - 1992 the family, proceeded to prepare and erect Nominations are called for the abovc the memorial. The local County Council awards and should be with the Secretary were very happy to be associated with the P.O. Box 12397, , by 30 Junl erection of the memorial and suggested the 1992. Nominations should, be on th~ most appropriate site. standard form, which is obtainable fron Brian Bell also spoke about the RRS. importance of the Black Robin project, but All nominations will be considered b: stressed that this was the beginning of the Awards Committee and it active conservation in the Chathams. There recommendations will be forwarded tc The Otago region offers for postal was much more to be done with other Council for consideration at its sprinl auction an origd watercolour of the endangered species, problem animals, and meeting. NZ Kingfisher by Derek J. Onley. habitats to protect. There had been many changes since the Wildlife Service began A full summarv of OSNZ award Dimensions: the programme. The Service had been procedures was pubfished in OSNZ nez Mounted 45 x 34 cm. incorporated into the new Department of 58 (March 1991). Actual picture dimensions: RAEWYN EMPSON 33 x 20 cm. Conservation. More responsibility had Secretat: been given to local people through the Proceeds towards ornithology in Conservation Board. The opportunity is Otago. there for all to contribute our collective Bird book auction responsibility. Postal address for bids: Peter It has been proposed that a bird book Schweigman, 121 Maryhill Terrace, Mr Bell was followed by the Mr David auction be held in conjunction with Dunedin. Holmes, the elder statesman of the this years AGM in Masterton, Auction closes at midnight 14 May Chatham Islands. He paid tribute to Sir probably on the Saturday night (16 Charles' contribution to the birds of the May) at the conclusion of the dinner. 1992. Late offers accepted after this date at islands and to the Ornithological Society's Many people have bird books involvement. He expressed the hope that the AGM in Masterton until they no longer require. These books, midnight 16 May 1992, with a beer the reserves - South East, Mangere, and however, could be of value to others, Pitt Islands - would prosper and that particularly new and younger for the auctioneer. species such as the Chatham Island Pigeon members and the auction could be a The Successful bidder will be able to would increase again. practical way of bringing this about. collect the painting the next Mr Alfred Preece spoke briefly about morning, 17 May 1992, upon paying We propose to charge a the accepted sum. Sir Charles, saying he was an instigator in commission comparable with the well being of wildlife and that he was commercial book auctions and a giver not a taker. Mr Preece then unveiled proceeds from this would go towards the plaque and the ceremony ended with completion of the OSNZ Bird Slide a Maori hymn and blessing. Library. This way vendors will not The plaque reads: lose out. However, if vendors so wished, all the money received for a Bird banding in Western Australia, 1992 THIS PLAQUE WAS ERECTED TO book could go to OSNZ - this is COMMEMORATE purely optional. A number of CSIRO Division of Wildlife & Ecology is OLD BLUE members will be asked to act as studying bird populations in remnants of 1970-1983 celebrity auctioneers and this should vegetation in the wheat belt of Western FEMALE BLACK ROBIN add to the entertainment if not the Australia. Dr Denis Saunders is in charge PETROICA TRAVERI takings. of the research programme while Perry de SAVIOUR OF HER SPECIES A request is made on the Rebeira is the Senior Technical Officer registration form for information on running the bird banding project within the SIR CHARLES ALEXANDER any books people may wish to sell. major programme. FLEMING 1916-1987 WHO Please complete this as fully as REDISCOVERED THE BLACK Qualified banders, trainees or possible as it will allow US to interested birdwatchers, or students ROBIN ON LITTLE MANGERE catalogue the books beforehand. ISLAND 2 JANUARY 1938 AND wishing to acquire or extend their bird STRESSED THE UNIQUENESS - AND TENICK DENNISON banding experience are invited to join Perry PLIGHT - OF THE CHATHAM on banding trips to the study area near ISLAND BIOTA. Kellerberrin. Field trip dates for the rest of 1992 are: combinations for our studies of NZ 11-15 May, 15-19 June, 13-17 July, 14-18 Dotterels, we recently added bright orange September. colour bands to the range we use. There Transport and accommodation on field are now six possible colours, namely 0 = trips is provided free of charge. A Field orange, R = red, B = blue, Y = yellow, Allowance of A$10 per day will be paid to G = grgen, and W = white. volunteers. The maximum number of Please report sightings of any banded volunteers per trip is three. NZ Dotterels to the Banding Offick, Enquiries should be directed to : Perry Science & Research Division, Department de Rebeira, CSIRO, LMB PO, Midland, of Conservation, P.O. Box 10420, WA 6056, Australia. Wellington, who will pass them on to me. PERRY DE REBEIRA Please remember that all birds have a metal band (although it may be quite hard to see) and that band combinations should be Cape York - Iron Range recorded left leg first and top to bottom e.g. OM-WG is orange above metal on the It is proposed that we organise a tour of bird's left leg, white above green on it's Cape York Peninsula, Australia for a right. 2-week period in AugustISeptember 1993. JOHN DOWDING It would be organised in conjunction with Bert Bolton Outback Track Tours. An experienced Australian ornithologist would Masked Booby. (Photo Alan Tennyson) lead the trip. Up to340 species have been recorded in the area. The Masked Booby (also known as the The cost of approximately A$l3OO Mystery Bird # 6 Blue-faced Booby) is widespread, breeding on islands in the Indian, Pacific and includes all travel, meals, camping gear Last issue's large, mainly white- (except sleeping bag), and fee$. This does Atlantic Oceans and the Caribbean Sea. In bodied, exceptionally longwinged, soaring New Zealand, it breeds in small numbers not include return airfare to Cairns - we mystery bird can only be a few New would organise a group booking for this at the Kermadec Islands. It is a rare Zealand seabird species of the straggler to mdand New Zealand. part of the trip. gannetlbooby group. The bird's We need a year's lead time to set up appearance roughly resembles that of an ALAN TENNYSON the tour, which would involve either I5 albatross, but the large wedgeshaped tail, people for the Toyota Coach or 28 people pale leading edge of the underwing, and for the Volvo. relatively small head eliminate this group Those interested please contact either from contention. Christine McRae or Jim Hamilton at P.O. Three species of gannet and booby Box 755, Hastings or phone (06) 879 9136, occur in New Zealand- Australasian by end .of July 1992. Gannet, Masked Booby and Brown Booby. CHRISTINE MCRAE Unlike mystery bird # 6, Brown Booby adults have a brown neck and throat extending down to the breast, and juvenile Migratory waders colour marked Brown Boobies are speckled brown over their underparts. Juvenile Masked Boobies in NZ and Australasian Gannets have a lot of RAOU Column brown plumage and are speckled with On 22 Dec. 1991, the Miranda Banders This year will see a number of changes in conducted a successful cannon netting white. Mystery bird # 6 could not be a juvenile of these species because their dark the RAOU. Our image is being revamped operation at Jordan's on the Kaipara with a new logo to broaden our appeal to Harbour. The catch included 85 Pied colouring would be clearly visible in the photograph. everyone, not just ornithologists and the Oystercatchers, 77 Bar-tailed Godwits, and more serious birdwatchers. The Five-year 102 Lesser Knots. These totals included There are two characteristics of the Forward Plan has been approved by several retraps of birds originally banded underparts which readily distinguish Council and various far-reaching objectives by the group, plus 2 Lesser Knots banded between an adult Australasian Gannet and are now being implemented. These include in Australia. a Masked Booby. The darkness around the a membership drive and the relocation of In addition to a numbered metal band, face of the booby, which gives the bird its Headquarters. With 11 people working a white leg flag was attached (on the right name, is different to the white throat and full-time the converted suburban house tibia) to 67 of the Bar-tailed Godwits and yellow crown and nape of the gannet. The that is our head office is now far too small, 101 of the Lesser Knots. Members are dark face of our mystery bird is clearly although it served its purpose adequately asked to check carefully any of these visible in the photograph, therefore it can when it was first purchased. A species that they see and report sightings be safely ident5ed as a Masked Booby. subcommittee has ben formed to find of colour marked birds to the Banding The totally dark tail feathers of mystery suitable new premises with adequate work Office, Science & Research Division, bird # 6 are also characteristic of the booby. and storage space and extra room for our Department of Conservation, P.O. Box Adult Australasian Gannets normally have growing library and sales activities. the outer four pairs of tail feathers white, 10420, Wellington. Projects, both old and new, will ADRIAN RIEGEN although this varies to some extent and the occasional individual has all 12 tail feathers continue to be a major part of RAOU black (Sibson, R.B. 1988. Notomis 35: activities in 1992. Volume 2 o the NZ Dotterels go ORANGE 261-264). The Cape Gannet, which may Handbook ofAustralian, New Zealah and straggle here, also normally has a totally Antarctic Birds will be completed on No, this has nothing to do with breeding dark tail. schedule and is due for publication early plumage. In order to give us more band in 1993. BHP Petroleum purchased the TABLE 1. Localities where more than 1000 waders were counted in NovlDec 1990 andlor 1991. nc, not covered. Location 1990 1991

Manukau Harbour 46261 42089 Farewell Spit 34868 26854 Parengarenga Harbour nc 19364 Kaipara Harbour 3936' 17401 Firth of Tharnes 11505 7743 Whangarei Harbour 6432 9750 Rangaunu nc 6379 Tauranga Harbour 4236 6246 OhopeIOhiwa 3680 4848 Houhora nc 4097 4228 3441 Wairnea Estuary 4608 2701 Avon-Heathcote Estuary 1682 2515 Motueka Estuary 3878 2190 Lake Ellesrnere 2153 1860 Golden Bay 1154 1652 1948 1603 Lake Wairarapa 1305 1254 Nelson Haven 992 1145 Maketu EstuarylKaitune Cut 1101 1139 lnvercargill Estuary 6284 nc Riverton Estuary 1014 nc North Kaipara only counted Lesser Knots made up the majority of the birds counted and the order of abundance of the top 5 migratory waders remained the same as in most previous counts i.e. Bar- tailed Godwit, Lesser Knot, Turnstone, Golden Plover, and Red-necked Stint. Mystery Bird # 7 North, South Kaipara Harbour, Taranaki Numbers of Bar-tailed Godwits have remained above average, following the Identlfy this bird. Answer next issue. and Wanganui; 1991 - no reports from Taranaki, Wanganui and Southland. Bad record high of 101 701 in 1988. The count weather during November thwarted the of 85 666 in 1991 is the second highest for plans of Southland members and prevented this species in this series of counts. There them completing their usual efficient was a record count of Lesser Knots (67 National Wader Counts - counts. The Southland count was 367) in November 1991, topping the 1990 & 1991 eventually completed in February, but this previous high of 65 102 in 1988. The low When intially conceived it was envisaged was considered to be too far outside the count of 42 799 in 1990 is probably a that the National Wader Count project count period for the rest of the country to reflection of the lack of coverage in the Far would run for 5 years and then perhaps be included here. Such variations in North and at South Kaipara that year. undergo some change of emphasis. coverage make year-to-year comparisons of Tuinstone numbers have decreased However, such has been the enthusiasm wader numbers diff~cultand only relatively markedly over the past 2 years. The counts from members throughout the country that high counts of particular species may be of 2394 and 3099 in 1990 and 1991 the project has continued well beyond the compared with any degree of confidence. respectively are the lowest on record - the original life expectancy. Totals of 153 256 and 177 188 waders previous lowest count was 4216 in 1988. In In Nov/Dec 1988 and June/July 1989, were counted during Nov/Dec 1990 and both 1990 and 1991, the totals for Golden we completed the sixth summer and winter 1991 respectively. The increase in total Plover and Red-necked Stint fell within the national wader counts respectively (OSNZ numbers from 1990 to 1991 was due to the ranges of counts obtained in previous years. news 57). Although counts have continued, inclusion of counts from the Far North and Most NZ-breeding species would still the national coverage has faltered a little South Kaipara Harbour. be widely dispersed over their breeding and some counts were completed outside Distribution: Localities where more than ranges during the period of these counts, the established time frame. The project was 1000 waders were counted are listed in and so only a proportion of the total discussed at the Society's June 1991 AGM Table 1. As found in all previous counts populations of these would have been (OSNZ news 61) and this resulted in a the general pattern in summer is that most included in the surveys. return to almost full national coverage for waders are concentrated in the north the November 1991 count. (Parengarenga to Kawhia, and the bay of Species distribution: As in previous years, Here I present a preliminary report on Plenty and Nelson regions). Bar-tailed Godwits and Lesser Knots the national wader counts conducted favoured the harbours and estuaries of the For the second time during this series Far North, Northland, Auckland, South during 1990 and 1991. Thanks to all those of counts, more than 10 000 birds were who responded so promptly to my requests Auckland, the Bay of Plenty and Nelson counted at Parengarenga - due to the regions. Highlight of the Lesser Knot totals for the additional information which made exceptionally large nuymbers of Lesser this report as complete as possible. was the large concentration of 13 500 at Knots (see below). Otherwise, the pattern Parengarenga in November 1991, which Summer was the same as in all previous counts with was almost twice the previous highest total As for previous .summer counts, Manukau Harbour, Farewell spit, Kaipara (7220 in Nov. 1989). participants were asked to pay particular Harbour and the Firth of Thames attention to migratory waders from the comprising the top 5 localities in the Turnstones were concentrated at Northern Hemisphere and, whenever country for waders. Parengarenga - 500 (1991), Rangaunu - possible, also to count NZ-breeding 230 (1991), Kaipara Harbour - 195 (1991), Total numbers: Summaries of wader totals Manukau Harbour - 338 (1990) & 342 species. (1991), Firth of Thames 110 (1991), Coverage for the counts was as follows: by region and year are given in Tables 2 - 1990 - no reports received for the Far & 3. Once again, Bar-tailed Godwits and Tauranga Harbour - 170 (1990) & 200 (1991), Farewell Spit - 608 (1991), Lake - Grassmere - ZOO+ (1991), Invercargill TABLE 2 - Waders counted in New Zealand, November - December 1990. - Estuary - 800 (1990), and, Fortrose BOP Estuary - 133 (1990). - Pied Oystercatcher 1WO 122 Golden Plovers favoured Parengarenga Variable Oysler:atche~ 104 207 - 60 (1991), Rangaunu - 70 (1991), Golden Plover 136 110 Spur-winged Plover - 126 whaqani Harbour - 104 (1990), Kaipara NZ Dolterel 30 110 Banded Dotterei 8 35 Harbour - 32 (1990) & 19 (1991)) Manukau Mongolian Dotterel - Harbour-80 (1990) & 35 (1991), Maketu Black-Ironled Dolterel - Wrybill 3 1 EstuarylKaitune Cut - 41 (1990) & 40 Far Eastern Curlew . Asiatic Whimbrel (1991)) Little Waihi - 56 (1990)) Whimbrel sp. ; Ohope/Ohiwa - 13 (1990)) Ahuriri Bar-lailed Godwit €057 8747 Hudsonian Godwit - Estuary - 22 (1990) & 20 (19911, Manawatu Black-tailed Godwit - Marsh Sandpiper Estuary - 39 (1990) & 26 (1991)) Lake Terek Sandpipe- Wairarapa - 65 (1990) & 53 (1991), and Sibelian :alter Taller sp. Lake EUesmere - 12 (1990 & 1991). Red- Sanderling necked Stints were to be found mainly at Turnstone 200 66 Parengarenga - 18 (1991), Manukau 1 Harbour - 23 (1991), Farewell Spit - 22 (1991), Lake Ellesmere - 40 (1990) & 80 i Pied Still 494 (1991)) and Awarua Bay - 29 (1991). Black Stilt - Among the rarer waders favoured sites -1022 were: Curlew Sandpipers - Parengarenga - 39 (1991) and Lake Ellesmere - 27 (1991); * Spur-wnged Plmw am numenus and wldep-ead in he . and so :his specles nos not included ill South Island totals Far Eastern Curlew - Manukau Harbour - 19 (1990) & 9 (1991) and Farewell Spit - 7 (1991); whimbrel - Firth of Thames - 12 (1990) & 15 (1991), Kawhia Harbour- 13 (1991) and Farewell Spit - 20 TABLE 3 - Waders counted in New Zealand, November - December 1991. N'LaM Aueklmd WalMlo BOP (1991). Shk ... and Winter Pied Orjtercatcher ~dcenPlow The 7th and 8th national winter wader Grey Plover Spur-winged Plover counts were completed during June and the NZ Dodterel first week' of July in 1990 and 1991 Banded Daterel Black-fronted Donerel respectively. Coverage of these counts was Wrybill the same in both years, with no reports Far Eastern Curlew i 1 Asiatic Whimbrel being received for the Far North, South Whimbrel sp. Bar-&!lad Godw~t Kaipara Harbour, Taranaki and A.Black-tailed Godwit Wanganui. In 1991, the Southland count Ted Sandpiper Slberian Tattler was completed in late July. This will have Sanderling Turnrme affected the numbers of NZ-breeding Lesser Knot species, which would have been lower than SharptSandpiper Pectoral Sandp~per if the count had been completed earlier. Curlew Sandpiper Red-necked Slint However, the totals for Northern Pied St~tt Hemisphere species &odd have been BlacldHybrid Stilt relatively unaffected. TOTAL As in previous years, members were asked to record the numbers of NZ- nc. not counled; ' Spur-winged Plovers are numerous and widespread in the South Island. and so thisspecies is not lncluded in South Island totals. breeding species (most of which are concentrated at coastal sites at this time of year) and those of overwintering migrants. TABLE 4. Localities where more than 1000 Total numbers: Summaries of wader totals The following is a preliminary report on waders were counted in June/July by region and year are given in Tables 5 the results of these counts. 1990 andlor 1991. & 6. Following the record high of 87 868 These national winter wader counts Location Pied Oystercatchers counted in 1989 we resulted in 119 725 and 123 819 waders acieved a record low count of this species being counted in 1990 and 1991 Manukau Harbour (70 190) in 1990; the 1W1 count was about respectively. Firth of Thames average. However, previous winter counts Farewell Spit have shown that substantial numbers of North Kaipara Harbour Localities where more than Avon-Heathcote Estuary Pied Oystercatchers are likely to have been 1000 waders were counted are hted in Whangarei Harbour in rhe Far North and South Kaipara Table 4. As in all previous winter counts Motueka Estuary Harbour, and so would not have been Kawhia Harbour counted during 1990 and 1991. In both the general pattern of distribution was that Waimea Estuary most waders were concentrated at 4 main Golden Bay years the numbers of Pied Stilts were locations - Manukau Harbour, Firth of Tauranga Harbour within the range of previous counts. As Thames, Farewell Spit, and Kaipara Lake Wairarapa with the Pied Oystercatchers, totals for OhopeIOhiwa Banded Dotterels and Wrybills were low, Harbour. Manukau Harbour supported Aotea Harbour about twice the number of waders of any Otago Harbour but many Banded Dotterels in particular other location in the country. lnvercargill Esluary overwinter in the Far North, while some Wrybills favour South Kaipara Harbour, In 1990, the Auckland/South Auckland and Nelson regions supported about 56% and 18% respectively of the national total TABLE 5 - Waders counted in New Zealand, June - July 1990. of Pied Oystercatchers, and in 1991 - - comparable figures were 53% and 21%. BOP wan The highest counts of Pied Oystercatchers - >asl were at Manukau Harbour - 27 395 (1990) Pled Oystercatcher 583 636 Variable Oystercatchel 369 33 & 28 224 (l99l), Firth of Thames - 12 150 Golden Plover (1990) & 13 253 (1991), North Kaipara Spur-winged Plover HB NZ Donerei 151 Harbour - 4775 (1990) and 3996 (1991), Banded Dotterel 714 I24 Mongolian Dotterel 1 Kawhia Harbour - 2160 (1990) & 2560 Black-fronted Dotlerel 3 (1991), Farewell Spit - 7328 (1990) & Wrybill 92 Far Easterrn Curlew 7342 (1991), Waimea Estuary - 2711 Asiatic Whimbrel 1 Whimbrel sp. (1991), Motueka Estuary - 2873 (1990) & Bar-talled Godwit 1505 41 3083 (1991), and the Avon-Heathcote Hudsonian Godwil Siberian Tatller Estuary - 2847 (1990) & 4022 (1991). Tattler sp. Turnslone Some 45% and 54% of the Pied Stilts Lesser Knot counted were located in Auckland/South Sharpt. Sandpiper Red-necked Slint Auckland regions during the 1990 and 1991 Pied Stilt 838 110 BlacklHybrid Stilt counts respectively. Further north, - - Northland supported 12% and 11% of the TOTAL 4375 744 national total. The highest counts of Pied - - Stilts were at the North Kaipara harbour :Spur-winged Plovers are numerous and widespread in the South Island, and so this species nis not included in Soulh Island totals - 1534 (1990) & 1319 (1991), Manukau Harbour - 2460 (1990) & 4697 (1991), Firth of Thames - 5026 (1990) & 4671 (1991). Banded Dotterel numbers were fairly TABLE 6 - Waders counted in New Zealand, June - July 1991. evenly distributed in the North and South - - Islands. Favoured sites for this species were BOP west - ->as1 Whangarei Harbour - 368 (1990) & 204 Pied Oystercatcher 1053 802 (1991), Manukau Haibour - 660 (1990) & Variable Oystercatchel 316 63 591 (1991), Kawhia Harbour 480 (1990) Grey Plover - Spur-winged Plover 129 & 260 (1991), Tauranga Harbour - 416 NZ Dotterel 137 Banded Dotterel 845 29 (1991), Farewell Spit - 935 (1990) & 925 Large Sand Dotterel 1 (1991), Lake Ellesmere - 389 (1990) & 305 Black-lronted Dolterei 5 Wrybill 51 (1991), and the Invercargill Estuary - 353 Far Eastern Curlew Asiatic Whimbrel (1990). Wrybills were almost solely Whimbrel sp. confined to AucMand/South Auckland, Bar-tailed Godwit 1797 54 Terek Sandpiper where 1081 (1990) and 1330 (1991) were Tattler sp. counted at Manukau Harbour and 2500 Sanderling Turnnone 17 (1990) and 1303 (1991) at the Firth of Lesser Knol Sharp-1. Sandpiper Thames. Curlew Sandpiper Red-necked Stint Footnote: Pied Stilt 1101 83 BlacWHybrid Stilt Now that the National Wader Counts are - - back on schedule and with full national TOTAL -1031 coverage we have a solid base for :Spur-winged Plovers are numerous and wtdespread in Ihe South Island, and so this specles is not included In South Island totals. comparing species totals between years. To continue with this national coverage, however, requires the participation of a large number of members. So don't leave so this probably accounts for these results. appears to be doubling every year (D. it to others to have all the enjoyment and Geddes, pers. comm.) satisfaction of contributing to an important Of the remaining NZ-breeding species, project with international interest (don't the numbers of Variable Oystercatchers Record counts of overwintering Bar- forget that the results of this project are also and NZ DottereIs were well below previous tailed Godwits and Lesser Knots were incorporated into a review of migratory counts, but once again this probably made in 1989 (17 170 and 7145 wader populations throughout the East reflects the lack of coverage in the Far respectively), so it is no surprise that totals Asiflest Pacific Flyway) - contact your North and South Kaipara rather than any for these species declined in both 1990 and RR or local organiser of wader counts and population decline. Totals for these species 1991. Turnstone numbers in 1990, put your name down to participate in the should not be taken as indications of however, were at a new low (83) and the June/July counts. population size as these species do not previous low count of 292 in 1985 was only PAUL SAGAR congregate at estuaries and harbours to the just matched by the 1991 count of 293. Coordinator, National Wader Counts same extent as other species, and some Where were the Nelson and remain widely spaced on sandy beaches Auckland/South Auckland flocks of Fiordland Crested Penguin near which generally are not covered during this Turnstones in 19902 New Plymouth series of counts. Species distribution: As in all previous A noteworthy count of 119 Black- winter counts the harbours and estuaries The Fiordland Crested Penguin in the fronted Dotterels was achieved in of the Auckland/South Auckland and photograph was found ashore at Perth Canterbury. AU these birds were on the Nelson regions were the most important Road, near Okato, on 21 NOV.1991. It had Ashburton River, where the population wintering grounds for Pied Oystercatchers. an injured foot and flipper. It was

Spoonbills in the Catlins summer, but higher numbers than usual Kareta (Auckland) during Nov./Dec. were seen in Hawkes Bay and Otago. In Coots appear to be well established at Royal Spoonbills show persistence in Hawkes bay there were 3 at Waitahgi on Western Springs Lake (Auckland). Over extending their range southwards. On 7 23 Nov., 2 at Cape Kidnappers the next 30 adults and several young were present Jan. 1992, one of our tour parties spotted day, and 10-12 off Awatoto on 2 Jan. Six during spring. a spoonbill incongruously battling a stiff Arctic Skuas were identified off Waitangi southerly to round the Nugget Point A pair of Scaup also spent the summer on 7 Dec. and at Karitane (Otago), up to at Western Springs and others were seen lighthouse. Two days later another party 10 Arctics were present in late Dec. - early was thrilled to see three spoonbills feeding at new sites at Puterere (Hawkes Bay) and Jan. A Southern Skua also appeared at at Totara (Otago) - where they produced in the Tahakopa Estuary, just above the Karitane on 4 Jan. Papatowai Bridge. 5 young. FERGUS SUT%ERLAND Fuponga Farm Pond at the base of Herons etc Farewell Spit produced a couple of surprises -a Chestnut-breasted Shelduck in Recent Reports The Little Egret at E. Clive (Hawkes Bay) Jan. and a White-eyed Duck. New arrivals was still there on 20 Nov. and 1 at Mangere from Australia? These reports cover the months Nov. to (Auckland) stayed into Jan. 1 was present A Blue Duck survey in inland Hawkes mid Feb., but I have included some of the at the Waidea Estuary (Northland) in late Bay found only 4 on the tributaries of the more important records from the ill-fated Jan. and another was seen at Be~wick Mohaka and Ngruroro Rivers and arrived spring contributions. (Otago) in late Aug. at an estimate of 35-37 birds for the N. Please send records for the June OSNZ Several groups of Cattle Qrets stayed Ruahine Ranges. In Jan., 2 were found at news to me at 49 Bernera Street, RD 1, well info the summer. In Hawkes Bay, 9- 10 a new site in the Ahimanawa Range, south Waikouaiti, to arrive by 20 May. remained at FernhiU until late Nov. and 7-8 of Te Haroto. Pl&e note that some of the following were in full breeding plumage atPoukawa records have yet to be assessed by the Rare in the 2nd week of Dec. In Jan., 3 were Birds Committee. in the Hope area (Northland) and 12 at Waders Many thanks to all contributors. Stirling (Otago) . NZ Dotterels had a good breeding season Only 1 Reef Heron was found in a around Whangarei, where 25 chicks were Seabirds survey of 215 km of coast from Gisborne banded. The slow expansion south around Few birdwatchers went boating over the to Hicks .Bay (E. Cape) and the birds East Cape appears to be continuing - 3 summer, and when they did there was not breeding on the islands around Whangarei pairs and 2 single birds were counted from much to see. 'On a trip from Whitianga to (Northland) had a hard time when Hicks Bay to Gisborne, and the pair that Cuvier I. on 27 Nov. and 4 Dec., Flesh- predators took at least 1 adult, 3 chicks and bred at Oraka last year had returned by 2 footed Shearwaters were by far the most 4 eggs. In Otago, a pair was found nesting Nov. Further south, in Hawkes Bay, 2 numerous birds; thhe was also the odd on Maukiekie I. on 7 Dec. were seen at Porangahau Estuary on 10 Giant Petrel, Diving Petrel, Sooty Two Royal Spoonbills reached the Nov., with 1 on 17 Nov. This is the tird Shearwater and Fluttering Shearwater. A Three Kings Is in Oct. - either from successive year that NZ Dotterels have Grey-faced Petrel and a White-faced Storm Northland or Australia. The flock at been recorded in Hawkes Bay. A colour Petrel visited birdwatchers in Hamilton, Mangere declined from a high of 47 on 9 banded bird at the Ohau Estuary the first in early Oct. and the latter in Jan. Oct. to 8 by 15 Nov. and 0 in Jan. The (Wellington) on 24 Aug. was subsequently seen at on 14 16 Oct. A moulting Yellow-eyed Penguin at winter flock at the Ahuriri Estuary - Motunau (North Canterbury) on 21 Jan. (Hawkes Bay) reached 42 over winter, with The small population of Black-fronted was further north than usual, as were 2 2 remaining until early Nov. and 4 at the Dotterels on the lower Taieri River (Otago) Fiordland Crested penguins on the nearby Tukituki Estuary on 17 Nov. The continues to intrigue, with 2 unbanded Northland east coast and the boatshed on first sightings at the Otago breeding sites birds in a flooded paddock in late Sept. Kapiti I. Further south than usual was a were 2 at Maukiekie I. on 12 Aug. and 6 at Green I. on 11 Oct. Two Grey Plovers appeared at their Little Black Shag at the Avon Heathcote usual site, Farewell Spit, in Sept. More Estuary (Canterbury) on 10 Dec.; a first Booming Bitterns were heard at unexpected were 2 Golden Plovers at record for this location. Wairau and Korito Lagoons (E. Cape) and Maungawhio Lagoon (Gisborne/Wairoa) The Gannet colony at Farewell Spit Kopuatai Swamp (Waikato) during spring. that showed several characteristics of the (Nelson) held at least 3000 adults with 841 The odd bird.was reported from Puketapu American species. Single Large Sand chicks in early Feb. - and a Brown Booby Ponds and West shore (Hawkes Bay) in Dotterels were seen at Farewell Spit, and on 8 Jan. Sept. and Oct., and at the Kaikourai Tapora and Parengarenga (Northland) over Estuary (Otaga) on 29 Oct. summer. Two Mongolian Dotterels were All reports of Gloosy Ibis came from also at Parengarenga in Jan. and 1 was at Gulls & Terns the South Island, where 1 was at the Miranda (S. Auckland) in mid Oct. Six pairs of Fairy Terns attempted to nest Waimea Estuary (Nelson) during Terek Sandpipers were reported from in Northland, fledging 6 chicks to date and Nov./Dec., 5 have frequented L. Ellesmere Whangarei, Muriwai Beach, Miranda, in the Auckland area 3 pairs nested at (Canterbury) for the past 8 months or so, Manawatu Estuary, and Farewell Spit over Mangawhai and 1 unsuccessfully at 6 were at Washdyke lagoon (Canterbury) summer, but there was only 1 report of Papakanui, South Kaipara Head. Little on 7 Feb., and 4 were at All Day Bay Pectoral Sandpipers - from the Ahuriri Terns arrived as usual in late spring, with (Otago) on 22 Feb. Estuary (Hawkes Bay) on 1 & 7 Dec. - 2 at the Tukituki Estuary (Hawkes Bay) and , a Marsh Sandpiper - from Farewell and 4 at the Waimea Estuary (Nelson). Spit in Sept. and early Feb. Ducks & Grebes etc Grey Ternlets were reported from the Even the Otago Daily Times and Poor Knights Is (Northland) and the Coastal records of Crested Grebes in winter Timaru Herald picked up the story of the regular Wellington Crested Tern are not that unusual, but a juvenile at Broad-billed Sandpiper at the Manawatu frequented from mid Sept. Tomahawk Lagoon (Otago) on 13 Sept. Estuary (which was how I heard about it!). Surprisingly, no skuas were reported was exceptional. A pair of Australasian This is the 10th record in NZ, but equally from the Canterbury coast over the Little Grebes nested unsuccessfully on L. as rare, and not reported in.the ODT, was a Common Sandpiper at Whangarei. Rarer The first of these was a White-browed Auckland still was a Reeve at L. Ellesmere, the 6th Wood Swallow at Miranda on 14 Sept - One of the region's ongoing projects, the or 7th for the country. the first record since 4 spent a summer in regular six-monthly survey of the birds of In contrast to last year, ~nly2 Otago during the early 1970s. On 20 Sept., Tiritiri Matangi Island, was carried out Hudsonian Godwits were seen - 1 at the a Fan-tailed Cuckoo was found in an over the weekend of 16-18 November; the Wade River (Auckland) on 4 Nov. and the aircraft hangar at Wanaka while another newly arrived Takahe were a major other at Lake Ohia, Karikari (Northland) was seen at Karikari Peninsula (Northland) attraction. It will be interesting to note also in Nov. There were 2 Asiatic Black- in Oct. These are the 2nd and 3rd YZ their longterm relationships with the big tailed Godwits at Farewell Spit in early records. Two more regular vagrants numbers of Pukeko on the island. The Feb. and 3 at Lake Ellesmere over the appeared later on- a Spine-tailed Swift at Brown Ted had six well grown ducklings, summer. The largest numbers of Far Cuvier I. in late Nov. to early Dec., and and Little Blue Penguins were making Eastern Curlew occured, as usual, at 2 Tree Martins at Farewell Spit during good use of the nest boxes around the Farewell Spit and 1 or 2 were also seen at Dec. and Jan. shoreline. Black-backed Gulls had over 40 Omaha (Auckland), Waimea Estuary DEREK ONLEY nests with eggs on the north point, but no (Nelson), and the Avon-Heathcote White-fronted Terns were recorded. Estuary, all in Jan. Bellbird numbers seemed to be down, but Northland seems to be a good place for Regional Roundup this may be due to the increase in whimbrel; 52 "Asiatics" were counted at Noahland vegetation which makes them harder to see. Parengarenga and there were 15 more at The barbecue and beach patrol held to It had been a better than average breedmg Whangarei. The Farewell Spit count in mark 20 years of beach patrolling on the season for the Saddlebacks, with many early Feb. was 26; which included 1 of the Northland West Coast in December went being transferred to Mohoia Island in Lake American subspecies. Elsewhere, there was very well apd we covered the beach from Rotorua. only 1 at Moa Pout (Wellington) on 14 Maungandi Bluff to the Causeway (74 km). Over the weekend of 23-25 November, Nov. and 2 at Shearer Swamp (Westland) Several of the original beach patrollers Ken Bond led a small group to Oputere, in late Sept. came to the barbecue held on the beach at on the east coast of Commandel Peninsula. Knot numbers were exceptionally high Mahuta. The fact that Northland is stiU They stayed in the Youth Hostel, which is at Parengarenga - 13 500 were counted in lumped in with Auckland as Auckland East handy to everything, bush and coast. A Nov:, but this had declined to 10 000 by and Auckland West for beach patrol survey of the beaches found 37 NZ Jan. On a smaller scale, a count of 132 in purposes was discussed and it was decided Dotterels (incluc$ng juveniles), about 61 Hawkes Bay was 3 times the usual number. to buy Auckland out with the funds from Variable Oystercatchers, and one Reef the "Christmasn cards and call them South Heron; 4 Banded Rails were seen in the ... and the Rest Northland! estuary. Brown sign was found near the There has been a good variety of birds The December meeting was a purely Makino Hut, N. Kawekas (Hawkes Bay) on the beach patrols these past three social gathering, with plenty of wine and on 13 Dec. Kakas were also recorded there months, with the most interesting being a fabulous supper. Everyone enjoyed and from Mt Holdsworth in the tararuas several Black-winged Petrels, a White- Michael Taylor's ornithological quiz, even in Jan. At the Blowhard Reserve in the S. chinned Petrel, and an Arctic Skua. A if some questions were difficult and others Kawekas, Robins were noted on 16 jan. Hector's Dolphin found in December just plain ridiculous. A good time was had and Fernbirds were seen on the Plateau. north of Omamari was a most unusual find by all. Fernbirds were also recorded from Pollen though, being quite a long way out of its The new year started with a talk by I. at the head of Waiternata Harbour normal range. Nan Rothwell and Kathy Barrow about (Auckland) on 6 Feb., and from Waihau Richard Papish organised another their time on St Kilda, in the Outer Beach, East Cape, where they are Hebrides; so far north that it takes about surprisingly uncommon. Fairy Tern survey in December, when six pairs were found and subsequent 24 hours to get there from mainland A group of 6 Banded Rails was obligingly monitoring found six nests from which six Scotland in a converted fishing boat. We conspicuous in the estuary at Wenderholm chicks were fledged. Richard also banded were entertained with slides and stories of Reserve (Auckland) on 1 Feb. In Otago, Reef Herons at known sites this summer. the seabirds and the interesting history of FaIcons were reported from Flagstaff Hill, At the February meeting, Ross Sinclair the island. Dunedin, Akatore, and the Rock & Pillar (Brian Ellis) range at 1140m a.s.1. A new colony of talked about his work over the for the Rooks at Clinton, established in 1990, now Department of Conservation, monitoring Waikato contains over 100 birds. and protecting NZ Dotterels and Fajl Terns. Two offshore island visits have been the Regular sightings of Barn Owls in the highlights of recent field trips. The mt, Christchurch area over the last few years, Only one Royal Spoonbill was found in December, was to Cuvier Island where have prompted a search of the Takamatua on the Waitangi Day survey and that was we joined some Whitianga Polytech. Valley, Akaroa, where reliable reports on the Kaipara. The rest had left us. students to help DOCdismantle one of the suggest that a bird has been present for up Finally, a colour banded Prue Cozens lighthouse keepers houses; now redundant to 5 years. has been sighted recently in Whangarei. since the automation of lighthouses around Sightings of Nankeen Kestrels in the This species often disappears for a month New Zealand. Red-crowned Parakeets and Te Mata Peak area of Hawkes Bay have or so over Christmas. It was banded in Saddlebacks were abm-dant, but we did not followed a similar pattern to the January this year at its feeding grounds on see any . It was exciting to watch Christchurch owls and suggest a small the Chatham Islands, very close to the a Spine-tailed Swift circling above the resident population. The latest report was Taiko breeding site, and was recorded cliffs. of 1 on 8 Oct., slightly further north than feeding on Blue Cod at the time. There was Kapiti island was our destination in usual. A male kestrel at Te Koopuru, a white band on the right from hand to February, where again Saddleback (and Pouto Peninsula (Northland) in Oct. may elbow with a much narrower steel band on Stitchbid) band combinations were a the left. It had travelled over 1200 km from major interest. The high point was seeing have been around for a while or could have the banding site. been connected with what appeared to be a , but the most a small influx of Australian vagrants in (Pat Miller) surprising sighting was surely the spring. Fiordland Crested Penguin which had taken up residence in the boatshed for its the removal of rats, rabbits and goats. Wairarapa annual moult. Some of our members had A couple of visits have been made to Planning for the AGM (15-17 May) is well assisted DOC in catching Kokako in the the Maketu Estuary, both at low tide to underway and is occupying quite a lot of King Country for transfer to Kapiti and it wander among the feeding waders on the our time over this quarter. The Wairarapa was good to learn from Ron Moorhouse mudflats. The first, on 2 Jan. 1992 with College venue provides a comfortable and that the three birds with transmitters had Barrie Heather and visiting Englishman conveniently central site. The major field all been traced since their release. On our Richard Bradbury, and the second on 4 trip will be to the National Wildlife Centre way north to the Waikato we visited the Jan. with Phil Battley. Between us we on the Saturday morning. On the Sunday Manawatu Estuary to see the Broad-billed considerably altered the wader census morning the options are either mistnetting Sandpiper which was making headlines in figures for the area - sightings included 6 passerines in a Te Ore orchard or visits to the local papers. This area is wonderful for Red-necked Stints, 7 Sharp-tailed Henley Ponds and Homebush Oxidation seeing a great diversity of waders actively Sandpipers, 5 Curlew Sandpipers, 1 Grey- Ponds. A series of short presentations feeding at close quarters. tailed Tattler, about 200 Lesser Knot, 5 followed by the AGM will occupy the Paul Cuming was invited to Maud Asiatic Whimbrel, 2 Far Eastern Curlew, Saturday afternoon. Island to assist with this year's Fluttering and 1 Little Tern. The summer wader count on 17 Nov. Shearwater project. Beach patrolling over spring and again showed how important the Lake A day trip to White Island had to be summer 199111992 produced little but Blue Wairarapa wetlands are for Pacific Golden cancelled because of bad weather. For the Penguins, and there have been quite a few Plovers, with a count of 53. same reason, we had to postpone the of these. Very few Sooty Shearwaters were Another successful Twitchathon was Kawhia and Aotea Harbour counts until 10 found, largely because of the prevailing carried out on 1 Dec. Four teams were Dec. However, 9 whirnbrel, 3 Turnstone westerlies. involved and last year's defending and 2 Little Tern added interest to the Bill Sloan has found Spotted Doves in champions Shane Wilkinson, David Bell count and we were glad to locate 12 NZ Opotiki (a big jumplfly from Te Puke), so and Hugh Robertson triumphed again, this Dotterel on Kawhia and 5 on Aotea. they are now well established in the region. time with a tally of 70 species. This very At the November meeting, Betty The doves were eating Bill's windfallen creditable effort was up 7 on last year's Seddon presented a very well illustrated grapefruit! Len Buchanan reports Banded total. In all, 74 species were recorded by and informative talk about her recent Rail, Spotless Crake and Fernbird, all seen the four teams-compared with 75 last birdwatching trip to Alaska. We shared her during walks along the edge of the year. The day finished with 41 people delight in seeing some of "our" Arctic Waikareao Estuary, right in the middle of attending the barbecue which was followed migrants on their breeding grounds in the Tauranga. by an interesting illustrated talk by Mike tundra. (Paddy Latham) Imber on the birds of the Chatham Islands. Our final function for the year, All inall it was a very enjoyable end of year organised jointly with South Auckland, was Hawkes Bay function. a Christmas barbecue weekend at Miranda. The National Wader Count was carried Colin Scadden, Matthew Wong and I Auckland and Volcanic Plateau members ouyt at the beginning of November. joined Brian Bell and his highly trained also attended; an excellent way for Sightings of interest included an increase home grown teefor a banding exercise members of the different regions to get to in the number of migrant waders, on Onoke Spit on 22 Dec. Colin Scadden know one another. Waikato held a tally including Lesser Knots, Turnstones and had hoped we would be able to band the hunt (twitchathon) on the way and the Red-necked Stints. Porangahau Estuary juvenile Caspian Terns, but all these had winning team scored 47 species. was notable for the 2 NZ Dotterels and fledged. However, the Black-backed GulIs 13 Pied Stilts were banded this season. Bar-tailed Godwit numbers were up by Brian had come for were there in force and Most of them were young birds as adults 100. in a remarkably short time over 300 birds proved extremely trap shy. An adult We finished the year with a meeting were banded. One couldn't help but admire banded at Mangawara on 8 Sept. was and a barbecue; due to bad weather we had the energy, enthusiasm and thoroughness recovered on a farm at Ngatea on 3 Nov. to cancel our plans for a bird spotting exhibited by the Bell team. They are a - it had been brought in by the farmer's cat. competition. credit to Brian's training and few birds, if It would be interesting to know if it had January saw members depart in any, escaped their attention. been nesting when caught by the cat! Tony different directions for holidays - the (Tenick Dennison) Habraken reports locating a Hamilton bird Chatham Islands and Werribee (Victoria , at the Waiuku sandspit and another at Port Australia) being just two of the Wellington destinations. 1991 ended with two very successful field (Stella Rowe) 13 members travelled to the Kapiti days. The first was a beach patrol from Coast to spend an enjoyable week staying Pekapeka to Te Horo, with identification assistance given by. Ralph Powlesland. This Our annual barbecue and get together was at Tatum Park and venturing out to various places. Kapiti Island was a highlight with was followed in the afternoon with nest held at the home of Paddy & Rosemary spotting on Peter Bull's property. Peter Latham on 7 Dec. 1991. Some 15 sightings of most of the native birds. Other ports of call included Taki Forks, seemed to know the location and status of members, plus others, attended and all every nest on his 10 acres and, armed with enjoyed a good time in brilliant weather. Mangahao Dams, Nga Manu, Manawatu Estuary, Lake Horowhenua, Lake a ladder, he led the group on a "nest crawl". On 28 Dec. 1991 we had a trip to Papaitonga, Akatarawa Road across the In December we held our first Whale Island, a first for many of us. It was ranges from Waikanae to Upper Hutt and Twitchathon - a great success for all who a wonderful calm, fine warm day and some to Staglands. 74 species were recorded participated. Four teams took part, 30 bird species were noted - Red-crowned during the week. identifying a total of 76 species, which is Parakeet and Arctic Skua being the A coastal survey of the region, in not bad for Wellington. The Bell family highlights. An unusual and sad find was a "Bellbirders" were the winners, with 68 dying Brown Quail chick. NZ Dotterels conjunction with DOC, was held over the weekend of 15-16 Feb. species see,. closely followed by the and Variable Oystercatchers had chicks in (Christine McRae) "Silverstream Silvereyes" with 62, and the small area of dunes behind the landing bringing up in the rear were the "Valley beach. Regeneration and a good deal of Vdtuxes" and the " 5 Musketeers" with 47 planting has transformed the island since and 44 respectively. We all congregated at somewhat sparse. Gipsy Point Lodge the Nga manu Bird Sanctuary for an During 1991, the Yellow-eyed Penguin I' evening picnic to end the very enjoyable Trust purchased a promising piece of land day. on the Otago Peninsula - promising in the The quarterly counts of Kapiti Island sense that this area, now known as the Okia birds continued in January. The Long- Reserve, will soon be teeming with tailed Cuckoos had well and truly arrived breeding Yellow-eyed Penguins. OSNZ and noisily announced their presence. has offered to carry out an extensive census Large numbers of Tuis and Kakas were of the area. This time not only birds, but busy feeding in the rata. Saddlebacks mammals and reptiles are also on the seemed more widespread. Some people wanted list. Cats, stray sheep and seals stayed up late to see the Little Spotted were recorded during the first count, in Kiwis, and the Takahe chick was seen by December. most of the group. At the head of beautiful Under the leadership of John Darby Mallacoota Inlet, the Lodge . We have a good line-up of speakers we once again have been involved in provides a relaxing, comfortable already for our meetings this year and a lot counting Yellow-eyed Penguins. The of interesting and exciting activities to look December count extended from 09:OO until base from which to explore a forward to. It should be a good year! dark, but it was split into 3 time zones. It unique, unspoiled aqa rich in bird and plant life. Package holidays for (Ros Batcheler) appears that this breeding season has been good for Yellow-eyed Penguins. bird observers and field naturalists. Nelson (Peter Schweigman) I I For the ninth year, members have banded I First class, all-inclusive I Black-backed Gull chicks on the Nelson I accommodation. Boulder Bank; 238 were caught this year, I with the nests being over a much shorter ) Gipsy Point Lodge I distance of the Bank. This total is certainly I Gipsy Point, Victoria 3891 I better than our stilt total. Apart from not Australia having large numbers nesting that we can Telephone: (051) 58 8205 I find, all the birds that do nest are ! I interrupted by high tides, flooding, Harriers, and general human and dog disturbance. Even the increased numbers of stilts that are now appearing on the WILD BIRDS estuaries have very few young birds with them. UNDER More frequent census work is being TOURS FOR BIRDOS 1992193 done on Farewell Spit and passerine New Guinea May 31 - June 14 banding is also done on these trips NORTHERNAUSTRALIA- whenever possible. The Kimberleys July 2 - 16 In January, Henk Heinekamp and Darwin & Kakadu July 17 - Aug 1 Kelly Quayle went to Maud Island to help CairmsIAtherton Tableland Aug 15 - 29 with the Fluttering Shearwater project. Cairns To Cape York Sept 4 - 19 At our Christmas meeting, George NEW ZEALAND - Southern NZ & Stewart Is. Oct 9 - 18 Wilkinson told us about .birds and Wild Birds NZ-wide Oct 31 - Nov 14 conservation in Pakistan, and other members showed slides ranging from THE ENDS OF THE EARTH - Nelson to Argentina. Stewart Island Dec 13 - 19 Chatham Islands Jan 18 - 26, 1993 Frequent watching around the Waimea Estuary by Willie Cook, Alvin AUSTRALIA - The South East Mar 6 - 21, 1993 Brett, Margaret Grew and Gail Quayle has Sydney & The Bush Mar 27 - Apr 11 produced Little Egret, Long-billed Curlew, Glossy Ibis, Royal Spoonbills, Send for individual itineraries to:- whimbrels, and several oversurnmering Cattle Egrets. WILD BIRDS DOWN UNDER A footnote to the Cattle Egret count Box 1, Tarras, Andy Anderson owx~, Ph 64-3-445 2825 report in the last OSNZ news - Nelson New Zealand Fax 64-3-443 8876 members contributing to this survey were Alvin Brett, Wllie Cook, Margaret Grew and Gail Quayle. (Jenny Hawkins) Otago In November, Dunedin members and friends made themselves familiar with surveying a semi-braided river, the Manuherikia, near Alexandra, Central Otago. Unfortunately, not many braids were left due to extensive growth of willow DEADLINE FOR THE JUNE ISSUE IS 20 MAY and broom; consequently, birdlife was