Quarterly reports of principal investigators for July-September
Quarterly reports of principal investigators for July-September
Quarterly reports of principal investigators for July-September
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Environmental<br />
Assessment<br />
<strong>of</strong> the<br />
Alaskan<br />
Continental Shelf<br />
<strong>July</strong> - <strong>September</strong> 1975 quarterly <strong>reports</strong> from Principal Investigators participating<br />
in a multi-year program <strong>of</strong> environmental assessment related to petroleum<br />
development on the Alaskan Continental Shelf. The program is directed by the.<br />
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration under the sponsorship <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Bureau <strong>of</strong> Land Management.<br />
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH LABORATORIES / Boulder, Colorado / 1975
CONTENTS<br />
VOLUME I<br />
IAMMALS 1<br />
BIRDS 79<br />
PLANKTON, BENTHOS, LITTORAL 381<br />
iii4<br />
A
MARINE MAMMALS<br />
A
MARINE MAMMALS<br />
Research<br />
Unit Proposer Title<br />
Page<br />
13 James A. Estes<br />
USFWS<br />
14 James A. Estes<br />
USFWS<br />
34 G. Carleton Ray<br />
Douglas Wartzok<br />
Johns Hopkins U.<br />
67 Clif<strong>for</strong>d H. Fiscus<br />
Alton Y. Roppel<br />
NWFC/NMFS<br />
68 Clif<strong>for</strong>d H. Fiscus<br />
George Y. Harry<br />
NWFC/NMFS<br />
69 Clif<strong>for</strong>d H. Fiscus<br />
W. Bruce McAlister<br />
NWFC/NMFS<br />
70 Willman M. Marquette<br />
George Y. Harry<br />
NWFC/NMFS<br />
194<br />
229<br />
230<br />
231<br />
232<br />
240<br />
Francis H. Fay<br />
IMS/U. <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
Kenneth W. Pitcher<br />
ADF&G<br />
John J. Burns<br />
ADF&G<br />
John J. Burns<br />
Samuel J. Harbo, Jr.<br />
ADF&G<br />
John J. Burns<br />
ADF&G<br />
Karl Schneider<br />
ADF&G<br />
Behavior and Reproduction <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Pacific Walrus<br />
Distribution <strong>of</strong> the Pacific Walrus<br />
Analysis <strong>of</strong> Marine Mammal Remote<br />
Sensing Data<br />
Baseline Characterization: Marine<br />
Mammals<br />
Abundance and Seasonal Distribution<br />
<strong>of</strong> Marine Mammals in the Gulf <strong>of</strong><br />
Alaska<br />
Resource Assessment: Abundance and<br />
Seasonal Distribution <strong>of</strong> Bowhead and<br />
Belukha Whales - Bering Sea<br />
Abundance and Seasonal Distribution<br />
<strong>of</strong> Bowhead and Belukha Whales -<br />
Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea, Northeastern Chukchi<br />
Sea<br />
Morbidity and Mortality <strong>of</strong> Marine<br />
Mammals<br />
Biology <strong>of</strong> the Harbor Seal - Phoca<br />
vitulina richardi<br />
The Natural History and Ecology <strong>of</strong><br />
the Bearded Seal, Erignathus barbatus<br />
and the Ringed Seal, Phoca (Pusa)<br />
hispida<br />
An Aerial Census <strong>of</strong> Spotted Seals,<br />
Phoca vitulina largha<br />
Trophic Relationships Among Ice<br />
Inhabiting Phocid Seals<br />
Assessment <strong>of</strong> the Distribution and<br />
Abundance <strong>of</strong> Sea Otters Along Kenai<br />
Peninsula, Kamishak Bay and the<br />
Kodiak Archipelago<br />
7<br />
9<br />
11<br />
13<br />
19<br />
25<br />
29<br />
35<br />
43<br />
47<br />
57<br />
59<br />
65
Research<br />
Unit<br />
241<br />
243<br />
248<br />
249<br />
Proposer<br />
Karl Schneider<br />
ADF&G<br />
Karl Schneider<br />
Kenneth Pitcher<br />
ADF&G<br />
John J. Burns<br />
ADF&G<br />
Francis H. Fay<br />
IMS/U. <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
Lewis H. Shapiro<br />
Geophys. Inst.<br />
U. <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
MARINE MAMMALS - Continued<br />
Title<br />
Distribution and Abundance <strong>of</strong> Sea<br />
Otters in Southwestern Bristol Bay<br />
Population Assessment, Ecology, and<br />
Trophic Relationships <strong>of</strong> Steller Sea<br />
Lions in the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
The Relationships <strong>of</strong> Marine Mammal<br />
Distributions, Densities, and<br />
Activities to Sea Ice Conditions<br />
Page<br />
69<br />
71<br />
77
RU 13<br />
"Behavior and Reproduction <strong>of</strong> the Pacific Walrus"<br />
James A. Estes<br />
USFWS<br />
Field work to begin January 1976, no report at<br />
this time.
RU 14<br />
"Distribution <strong>of</strong> the Pacific Walrus"<br />
James A. Estes<br />
USFWS<br />
Field work to begin January 1976,<br />
no report at this time.<br />
9
RU 34<br />
"Analysis <strong>of</strong> Marine Mammal<br />
Remote Sensing Data"<br />
G. Carlton Ray &<br />
Douglas Wartzok<br />
Johns Hopkins Univ.<br />
Work just began -- no report at this time.<br />
11
SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT<br />
RU67 - Baseline Characterization -- Marine Mammal<br />
I. Task Objectives<br />
Identify the species <strong>of</strong> marine mammals occuring in the Bering Sea,<br />
determine seasonal distribution patterns, identify breeding and pupping<br />
rookeries, hauling grounds and feeding areas where oil spills may be<br />
critical to survival <strong>of</strong> species and obtain in<strong>for</strong>mation on numbers and<br />
seasonal abundance <strong>of</strong> animals.<br />
Summarize and evaluate existing literature and unpublished data on the<br />
distribution, abundance, behavior, and food dependencies <strong>of</strong> marine<br />
mammals.<br />
Other programs which will be coordinated with research unit 67 are the<br />
aerial walrus study <strong>of</strong> Estes (RU 14) and the aerial largha study <strong>of</strong><br />
Burns (RU 231) along and in the Bering Sea pack ice. Our proposed<br />
RU 69, Abundance and seasonal distribution <strong>of</strong> bowhead whales and<br />
belukha, extends the area <strong>of</strong> coverage north and westward into the<br />
approaches <strong>of</strong> the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Anadyr. The coastal survey <strong>of</strong> the Krenitzin<br />
Islands, and the north side <strong>of</strong> the Alaskan peninsula northward to Cape<br />
Newenham will be carried out cooperatively with sea lion surveys (RU 243)<br />
on the south side <strong>of</strong> the Alaskan peninsula.<br />
II. Field and Laboratory Activities<br />
1. Ms Nancy Severinghaus joined the staff 23 <strong>September</strong> 1975. She will<br />
make a survey <strong>of</strong> published and unpublished literature and data pertaining<br />
to marine mammals <strong>of</strong> the Bering Sea and prepare an annotated bibliography<br />
<strong>of</strong> these materials as a part <strong>of</strong> the Bering Sea Baseline Studies.<br />
2. The second aerial survey <strong>of</strong> the coast and islands between Cape Newenham<br />
on the north, south and westward along the north side <strong>of</strong> the. Alaska Peninsula,<br />
Unimak Island, the Krinitzen Islands, Unalaska, Umnak, Samalga and Bogoal<strong>of</strong><br />
Islands was carried out from 9 to 13 August 1975.<br />
a. The survey aircraft was a Gruman Widgeon, chartered from<br />
Peninsula Airways, King Salmon,Alaska. Flights were made from<br />
King Salmon and Dutch Harbor.<br />
13
2<br />
b. The scientific party included:<br />
Clif<strong>for</strong>d H. Fiscus National Marine Fisheries Service<br />
Marine Mammal Division<br />
Principal Investigator, RU 67<br />
Karl Schneider Alaska Department <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game<br />
Principal Investigator RU 243<br />
Don Calkins Alaska Department <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game<br />
c. Methods:<br />
Visual estimates were made <strong>of</strong> animals hauled out on shore and in the<br />
water. An attempt was made to photograph all marine mammal<br />
concentrations. Photos were taken from an open window, right side <strong>of</strong><br />
plane, or through a closed window aft. Two Nikon 35mm cameras with<br />
motor drive units were used with 105rmm or 135 mm lens.<br />
Slides taken duriig the survey are being examined and the best selected<br />
from which to make counts <strong>of</strong> animals. The slide is projected on white<br />
paper and individual animals marked. Photographic counts will then be<br />
compared with visual estimates.<br />
d. See introductory paragraph and Figure 1.<br />
e. Data Collected or Analyzed:<br />
1. Approximately 950 slides <strong>of</strong> marine mammal concentrations<br />
were exposed.<br />
2. The best slides <strong>of</strong> each group <strong>of</strong> animals will be selected and counts <strong>of</strong><br />
animals present will be made.<br />
3. Approximately 2600 miles <strong>of</strong> coastline was surveyed during the<br />
flights.<br />
f. Activities Planned <strong>for</strong> next 6 months:<br />
1. Photos and data obtained during June and August survey's will be<br />
examined and <strong>reports</strong> prepared.<br />
2. A third survey will be made in June 1976.<br />
3. Vessels operating in the Bering Sea area that recorded marine<br />
mammal sightings during the last quarter are listed below.<br />
14
3<br />
Vessels Dates <strong>of</strong> Operations<br />
M/V Tordenskjold 31 May to 10 August 1975<br />
Halibut Comm.<br />
NOAA FRV Oregon 8 June to 12 <strong>July</strong> 1975<br />
These date will be incorporated in the RU 67 report.<br />
4. Bird Observations made during the 17-20 June 1975 survey were<br />
<strong>for</strong>warded to OCSEP Project Office and interested Principal Investigators.<br />
5. Fall Aerial Survey Northern Bering Sea:<br />
A. Plans were made, equipment readied and personnel were<br />
assigned to carry out a survey in <strong>September</strong> to October 1975<br />
<strong>of</strong> the northern Bering Sea and with one or two transects in the<br />
southern Chukchi Sea north <strong>of</strong> Bering Strait.<br />
B. Flight delayed to 6-13 October 1975; and will be reported on<br />
in the next report<br />
6. Aerial Survey - Spring (April) 1976:<br />
Aerial surveys will be made in April 1976 <strong>of</strong> the ice front zone in the<br />
Bering Sea from Bristol Bay northwestward past St. Matthew Island and<br />
transects flown across the pack inside the ice front, to determine distribution<br />
and abundance <strong>of</strong> marine mammals. These flights can continue in to the<br />
northern Bering Sea and southern Chukchi Sea on bowhead-belukha surveys<br />
(RU 69).<br />
Counts will be made visually or from photographs taken during the<br />
survey flights, by experienced observers, transect lines to be determined<br />
after location <strong>of</strong> the ice front is known. Flights will be reflowin in March-<br />
April 1977, if warranted. These aerial surveys are compatible with<br />
marine mammal research units 14, 231, 232, 243 and will use the same<br />
plat<strong>for</strong>m. Observations made on flights will be utilized by appropriate<br />
<strong>principal</strong> <strong>investigators</strong>. Sightings will be computerized <strong>for</strong> BLM data bank and<br />
other users. A marine bird observer can be accomodated on flights.<br />
III. Results<br />
Literature search in progress and ground work <strong>for</strong> preparation <strong>of</strong> annotated<br />
bibliography with standardized <strong>for</strong>mat completed.<br />
Methods <strong>for</strong> recording data have been prepared and data card designed. Data<br />
will be entered on cards, on approval after the 16 October OCSEPData<br />
Management meeting.<br />
3
16<br />
Smooth Log Books <strong>of</strong> the 9-13 August aerial survey have been completed and<br />
preliminary breakdown <strong>of</strong> slides by frames to specific pods <strong>of</strong> animals has<br />
been completed.<br />
Species observed during the survey are listed below:<br />
Sea Otter<br />
Enhydra lutris<br />
Northern Sea Lion Eumetopias jubatus<br />
Walrus<br />
Odobenus rosmarus divergens<br />
Harbor Seal<br />
Phoca vitulina richardii<br />
Gray Whale<br />
Eschrichtius robustus<br />
Minke Whale<br />
Balaenoptera acutorostrata<br />
Harbor Porpoise Phocoena phocoena<br />
Some areas not surveyed in June because <strong>of</strong> fog were surveyed during the<br />
August survey. Areas surveyed only in August were southside Unalaska<br />
Island, south side Umnak and adjacent islets including Ogchul, Vsevid<strong>of</strong>,<br />
Samalga, Adugak, and Bogosl<strong>of</strong> Islands.<br />
IV. Preliminary Interpretation <strong>of</strong> Results<br />
None<br />
V. Problems Encountered/Recommended Changes<br />
Weather conditions - Fog, high winds, rain and other factors all affect the<br />
success <strong>of</strong> survey flights. When possible during flights, routing is changed<br />
to obtain the best weather conditions over each area to be surveyed. In<br />
future planning, sufficient time should be allowed <strong>for</strong> delays caused by<br />
weather.<br />
Tidal conditions - Tide tables should be examined well in advance <strong>of</strong> the<br />
survey and stage <strong>of</strong> tide taken under consideration when planning surveys <strong>of</strong><br />
species likely to respond to the influence <strong>of</strong> tide.<br />
Camera gear - The importance <strong>of</strong> a second camera taking duplicate photos<br />
<strong>of</strong> animal concentrations was clearly demonstrated during the August flights.<br />
Two photographers took identical photos <strong>of</strong> walrus concentrations on Round<br />
Island, north <strong>of</strong> Bristol Bay. The animals were uncountable on one series<br />
<strong>of</strong> slides due to underexposure, but countable on those <strong>of</strong> the backup photographer.<br />
We plan to use two cameras on future flights to obtain better series <strong>of</strong> slides,<br />
to use in counting animals.<br />
4
VI. Estimate <strong>of</strong> Funds Expended<br />
1 <strong>July</strong> to 30 <strong>September</strong> 1975<br />
R7120804<br />
Actual Expenses<br />
Photographic film<br />
Processing exposed film<br />
Camera and lens, etc.<br />
Aerial Survey 8-14 August<br />
Charter Peninsula Airways<br />
Fiscus, 8-14 August<br />
Per diem, etc. 300. 00<br />
Plane fare 322. 72<br />
17<br />
$ 551.25<br />
106.75<br />
1775.57<br />
3290.00<br />
622.72<br />
$6346.29
Figure 1. RU 67 -- Aerial ..
OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF ENERGY PROGRAM<br />
JUNEAU PROJECT OFFICE<br />
S P. o. BOX 1808<br />
Semi-Annual Report<br />
RU 68 -- Abundance and seasonal distribution o marine mamma1s in the<br />
Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
.N EGOA<br />
I. Task Objectives<br />
Provide in<strong>for</strong>mation on the species <strong>of</strong> marine mammals from the Gulf <strong>of</strong><br />
Alaska, their seasonal distribution, migratory patterns, critical habitats,<br />
and some indication <strong>of</strong> abundance.<br />
A literature search will be made to provide historic data on whaling and<br />
sealing in the area, catch statistics will be summarized, and records<br />
<strong>of</strong> historic seasonal distribution and abundance <strong>of</strong> species will be compiled<br />
where possible.<br />
We will continue to gather data on marine mammal distribution and abundance<br />
from NOAA vessels operating in the expanded area, Unimak Pass to Cross<br />
Sound, and from other vessels <strong>of</strong> opportunity. Ships <strong>of</strong>ficers will be<br />
trained to recognize and make sighting records <strong>of</strong> all marine mammals seen.<br />
Trained marine mammal observers may be placed on selected vessels<br />
cruising in areas <strong>of</strong> particular ihterest.<br />
II. Field and Laboratory Activities<br />
1. Ms. Nancy Severinghaus joined the staff 23 <strong>September</strong> 1975. She will<br />
make a literature search to provide historic data on whaling and sealing in<br />
the northeastern North Pacific Ocean. An annotated bibliography <strong>of</strong><br />
published and manuscript <strong>reports</strong> pertaining to the area will be prepared.<br />
Catch statistics will be summarized.<br />
2. Lt. Roger Mercer has designed data cards and <strong>for</strong>mat to reduce marine<br />
mammal observations to data cards <strong>for</strong> eventual computer printout and entry<br />
into the EDS data base. The program will begin soon after the Data Management<br />
meeting <strong>of</strong> 16 October.<br />
3. Designated ships <strong>of</strong>ficers, on NOAA vessels engaged in OCSEP programs,<br />
were trained to identify marine mammals and record sightings in logs<br />
provided by the Marine Mammal Division, Northwest Fisheries Center.<br />
A. Vessels recording observations during period:<br />
NOAA ship Surveyor Fairweather<br />
Rainier McArthur<br />
Davidson
B. Scientific Party:<br />
None<br />
Assigned Ships Officers: Ens. T. Baxter, Surveyor<br />
Ens. Kosinski, Fairweather<br />
Ltjg. R. Ellis, Rainier<br />
Ltjg. G. Sequr, McArthur<br />
Ens. M. Huestis, Davidson<br />
C. Methods:<br />
Observations <strong>of</strong> marine mammals are reported to the Marine Mammal<br />
Officer and recorded in Logs provided by the Marine Mammal Division,<br />
Northwest Fisheries Center. On receipt <strong>of</strong> Logs from vessels,<br />
Division staff examine and classify observations preparatory to carding<br />
data.<br />
D. All vessels listed under "A" are working at least in part in<br />
study area. Tracklines not currently available.<br />
E. Data Collected or Analyzed:<br />
NOAA Ship McArthur logs received from period 5 March to 17 August.<br />
F. Activities Planned <strong>for</strong> Next Six Months:<br />
1. An observer will be placed aboard the NOAA ship Miller<br />
Freeman <strong>for</strong> the period 9-30 November.<br />
2. Observers will be placed on other vessels during winter<br />
and early spring cruises in the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska and Bering Sea.<br />
3. Sightings will be coded and carded <strong>for</strong> species, number seen,<br />
location, behavior, direction <strong>of</strong> travel, weather and perhaps other<br />
in<strong>for</strong>mation. Computer printout <strong>of</strong> the data, a narrative report,<br />
and charts indicating location <strong>of</strong> sightings by month will be<br />
compiled.<br />
4. Distributional data will be examined through computer programs<br />
by month where sufficient sightings are available or by season<br />
(3 month periods). Sightings per unit <strong>of</strong> ef<strong>for</strong>t will be compared<br />
and displayed in a manner similar to that used in studies <strong>of</strong> pelagic<br />
fur seal distribution. When sufficient data have accumulated it will<br />
20
III. Results:<br />
be examined by the Post-stratified random sample method<br />
(Cochran, W. 1963. Sampling Methods. J. Wiley and Sons,<br />
N.Y. 415 pp.) to develope population indices. Since most<br />
ocean research is conducted in this area during late spring<br />
through early fall data on winter distribution and abundance<br />
will be minimal.<br />
See Section II.<br />
IV. Preliminary Interpretation <strong>of</strong> Results:<br />
None<br />
V. Problems Encountered/Recommended Changes:<br />
Minor changes will be made in Observation Log Sheets to simplify<br />
recording data.<br />
VI. Estimate <strong>of</strong> Funds Expended:<br />
See attached sheets.<br />
21<br />
3
n<br />
OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF ENERGY PROGRAM<br />
JUNEAU PROJECT OFFICE<br />
P. O, 80X 1808<br />
Semi-Annual Report JUNEAU, ALASKA 99802 E<br />
RU 69 -- Resource assessment, abundance and seasonal distribution<br />
bowhead and belukha whales - Bering Sea.<br />
1. Task Objectives<br />
NEGOA<br />
The bowhead whale and those belukhas that summer north <strong>of</strong> Bering Strait are<br />
thought to winter in northern Bering Sea along the ice front and in the open<br />
leads and broken ice associated with the front. Polynya's occur regularly in<br />
the northwest part <strong>of</strong> Bering Sea and may also be wintering locations <strong>for</strong> these<br />
species. Scammon (1874) in describing the bowhead fishery states that the<br />
whalers usually worked their way north about the first <strong>of</strong> May along the<br />
Siberian coast, staying near shore "in order to be on the best "whale-ground"<br />
and to avoid the ice. " Townsend (1935) plotted from whalers log books, the<br />
locations where bowheads were taken each month <strong>of</strong> the season. As indicated<br />
on his chart most whales were taken in the western and northern Bering Sea<br />
in May and June. The numbers <strong>of</strong> stock is unknown. The size <strong>of</strong> the belukha<br />
population that winters in Bering Sea is also unknown, but according to the<br />
ADF&G may exceed 15, 000 animals.<br />
Summarize and evaluate existing literature and unpublished data on the<br />
distribution, abundance, behavior, and food dependencies <strong>of</strong> marine mammals.<br />
The survey flights will be carried out in the spring <strong>of</strong> 1976 in conjunction with<br />
research units 67, 14, 23, and 248 and the same plat<strong>for</strong>m and aerial survey<br />
techniques with only slight modifications will be used. Project personnel<br />
will interchange and cooperate as needed.<br />
The 1976 survey may indicate the presence <strong>of</strong> wintering populations and provide<br />
some in<strong>for</strong>mation on distribution.<br />
II. Field or Laboratory Activities<br />
A. Ship <strong>of</strong> Field trip schedule<br />
1 scheduled <strong>for</strong> April 1976.<br />
B. Scientific Party:<br />
Tb be assigned<br />
C. Methods.<br />
1. Design <strong>of</strong> a survey plan is currently in progress. It will be based on<br />
the experience <strong>of</strong> the prinipal <strong>investigators</strong> projects 67, 14, 231,<br />
and in conjunction with biometricians <strong>of</strong> the NWFC, NMFS, and <strong>of</strong><br />
25
the Univers <strong>of</strong> Washington. Sampling strategy will be modified<br />
deemed as appropriate during the progress <strong>of</strong> the flights.<br />
D.Sample Locality<br />
Northwestern Bering Sea including the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Anadyr.<br />
E. Data Collected or Analyzed:<br />
None<br />
F. Activities planned <strong>for</strong> next six months:<br />
1. Literature search and preparation <strong>of</strong> annotated bibliography in<br />
conjunction with RU 67, 68, 70.<br />
2. Survey planning and design.<br />
3. Survey to be accomplished in April-May 1976 in conjunction with<br />
other OCS Research Units RU 67, 14, 23, 248.<br />
III. Results<br />
None<br />
IV. Preliminary Interpretation <strong>of</strong> Results<br />
None<br />
V. Problems Encountered/Recommended Changes<br />
Surveys in Northwestern Bering Sea will be discussed with our Soviet<br />
collegues at the US-USSR marine mammal sub-group meeting in January 1976.<br />
VI. Estimated Funds Expended<br />
1 <strong>July</strong> to 30 <strong>September</strong> 1975<br />
R7120807<br />
Supplies<br />
(see attached sheets)<br />
$60.00<br />
26-
Outer CONTINENTAL SHELF ENERGY PROGRAM<br />
BOX PO 1808<br />
<strong>Quarterly</strong> ReportJNEAU, ALASKA 99802<br />
NOV 06 1975<br />
RU 70 -- Abundance and seasonal distribution <strong>of</strong> bowhead whales and belukha.<br />
.NEGOA<br />
I. Task Objectives<br />
To Determine the effect oil spills might have on these species during critical<br />
periods we must determine if their spring migration is restricted, in the<br />
main, to the shore lead or if there are considerable numbers passing northeastward<br />
in <strong>of</strong>fshore leads. In<strong>for</strong>mation on the numbers <strong>of</strong> animals comprising<br />
these stocks is needed, and data on the migratory patterns both in spring<br />
and fall are necessary to determine times when the movement <strong>of</strong> vessel<br />
traffic and attendent dangers <strong>of</strong> oil spills will be the least dangerous to<br />
bowheads and belukha's.<br />
This project can share the same plat<strong>for</strong>m <strong>of</strong> Burns-Fay-Shapiro <strong>for</strong> the<br />
project "The relationships <strong>of</strong> marine mammal distributions, densities and<br />
activities to sea ice conditions in the Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea."<br />
II. Field and Laboratory Activities<br />
A. The first aerial survey <strong>of</strong> the Beau<strong>for</strong>t and northeastern Chukchi Seas<br />
was made from 2 <strong>September</strong> to 7 October. The survey aircraft was a<br />
DeHaviland Twin Otter provided by the Naval Arctic Reseaich Laboratory<br />
at Barrow, Alaska. All flights were made from Barrow.<br />
B. The scientific party included:<br />
Willman M. Marquette National Marine Fisheries Service<br />
, Marine Mammal Division<br />
Principal Investigator, RU 70<br />
Robert D. Everitt National Marine Fisheries Service<br />
Marine Mammal Division<br />
Ge<strong>of</strong>fry M. Carroll National Marine Fisheries Service<br />
Marine Mammal Division<br />
C. Methods:<br />
1. Flights were made on random transects over the survey area<br />
which included open water and various ice covers ranging from<br />
one eighth to solid ice pack. Photographs (135mm color slides) were<br />
made <strong>of</strong> the target species).<br />
29
2. Ms. Nancy Severinghaus joined the staff 23 <strong>September</strong> 1975. She<br />
will make a survey <strong>of</strong> published and unpublished literature and data<br />
pertaining to bowhead whales and belukha and prepare annotated<br />
bibliographies on these species as a part <strong>of</strong> the study . to determine<br />
the abundance and distribution <strong>of</strong> bowhead whales and belukha.<br />
D. See introductory paragraph and Figure 1.<br />
E. Data collected or analyzed:<br />
1. Twelve flights were made over the survey area.<br />
2. Approximately 30 slides <strong>of</strong> marine mammals were obtained.<br />
3. Approximately 3,300 miles <strong>of</strong> transects were flown over the<br />
target area.<br />
F. Activities planned <strong>for</strong> next 6 months:<br />
1. Photos and-data obtained during <strong>September</strong> and October will be<br />
examined and rpports prepared.<br />
2. Data collected and reported by other agencies during the last<br />
quarter will be included in the RU 70 report.<br />
3. Other species observed druing the <strong>September</strong>-October 1975 aerial<br />
survey will be <strong>for</strong>warded to interested Principal Investigators.<br />
4. A second survey will be made in May 1976, in the Beau<strong>for</strong>t and<br />
Chukchi Seas.<br />
III. Results<br />
A. Literature search is in progress and ground work <strong>for</strong> preparation <strong>of</strong> an<br />
annotated bibliography with standardized <strong>for</strong>mat completed.<br />
B. Methods <strong>for</strong> recording data have been prepared and data card designed.<br />
Data will be entered on cards, on approval after the 16 October OCSEP Data<br />
Management meeting. No species code from Juneau.<br />
C. The following marine mammals were sighted on this survey:<br />
LIVE NUMBER<br />
Bowhead Balaena mysticetus 2<br />
Whale Unidentified (probably B.mstictus) 1<br />
Belukha Delphinapterus leucas 0<br />
30
LIVE<br />
3<br />
NUMBER<br />
Walrus Odobenus rosmarus divergens 462<br />
Bearded seal Erignathus barbatus 2<br />
Polar bear Ursus maritimus 2<br />
DEAD<br />
NUMBER<br />
Whales Unidentified 2<br />
Seal Unidentified 1<br />
Walrus Odobenus rosmarus divergens 3<br />
IV. Preliminary Interpretation <strong>of</strong> Results<br />
None<br />
V. Problems Encountered/Recommended Changes<br />
Fog, high winds, rain and other factors all affect the success <strong>of</strong> survey flights.<br />
When possible during flights, routing is changed to obtain the best weather<br />
conditions over each area to be surveyed. In future planning, sufficient time<br />
should be allowed <strong>for</strong> delays caused by weather.<br />
The OnTrac navigation aid in the Twin Otter Aircraft was not working<br />
properly and correct positions had to be obtained by use <strong>of</strong> radio beacons<br />
and Dewline station fixes upon our plane.<br />
31
VI. Estimate <strong>of</strong> Funds Expended<br />
A. Personnel<br />
SName Salary Travel Per diem Total<br />
Marquette N/C 410.44 1416.07 1826.51<br />
Everitt 730.24 410.44 842.00 1982.68<br />
Carroll 321. 20 145.40 428.00 894.60<br />
TOTALS 1051.44 966.28 2686.07 4703.79 4703.79<br />
B. Equipment and Supplied<br />
Camera Equipment 1914.52<br />
Binoculars, 3 each 480.00<br />
Cold Weather Clothing 125. 00<br />
TOTAL 2519.52 2519.52<br />
C. NARL Services<br />
Aircraft<br />
34 hours at $350 11900.00<br />
9 hours at $20 x 2 persons 360.00<br />
1/2 Laboratory at $ 5/day x 33 days 165. 00<br />
Clothing 15.00<br />
TOTAL 12440.00 12440.00<br />
32<br />
GRAND TOTAL 19663.31
<strong>Quarterly</strong> Report <strong>for</strong> Quarter Ending <strong>September</strong> 30, 1975<br />
Project Title: Morbidity and Mortality <strong>of</strong> Marine Mammals<br />
Contract Number: 03-5-022-56<br />
Task Order Number: 8<br />
Principal Investigator: Francis H. Fay<br />
Associate Pr<strong>of</strong>essor<br />
Institute <strong>of</strong> Marine Science and<br />
Arctic Biology<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
Fairbanks, Alaska 99701<br />
I. Task Objectives<br />
OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF ENERGY PROGRAI<br />
JUNEAU PROJECT OFFICE<br />
P. 0. BOX 1808<br />
JUNEAU, ALASKA 99802 ...<br />
1. To begin a survey <strong>of</strong> the biological literature <strong>for</strong> in<strong>for</strong>mation<br />
on occurrence <strong>of</strong> stranded marine mammals and<br />
causes <strong>of</strong> natural morbidity and mortality.<br />
2. To draft a dissection manual <strong>for</strong> identification and<br />
autopsy <strong>of</strong> marine mammals stranded in Alaska.<br />
3. To survey the coasts <strong>of</strong> the Alaska Peninsula (N side),<br />
St. Lawrence Island and Kotzebue Sound <strong>for</strong> stranded marine<br />
mammal carcasses and to determine the cause <strong>of</strong> death when<br />
possible.<br />
II. Field Activities<br />
The northern coast <strong>of</strong> the Alaska Peninsula was surveyed by<br />
Associate Investigator R. Dieterich via chartered aircraft from<br />
22 to 25 <strong>July</strong> covering the area from Bechevin Bay (C. Krenitzin)<br />
on the west to the mouth <strong>of</strong> the Naknck River on the east (Fig. 1).<br />
Ten landings were made along the way <strong>for</strong> more detailed examination<br />
and/or autopsy <strong>of</strong> the more intact carcasses. Additionally<br />
in this area, in connection with another project, the PI surveyed<br />
the eastern shore <strong>of</strong> Kuskokwim Bay between Chagvan and<br />
Jacknife Bays on 15 and 20 <strong>July</strong> via aircraft, and a smaller<br />
segment from C. Pierce to the southeastern part <strong>of</strong> C. Newenham<br />
on 18 <strong>July</strong> on foot.<br />
The coast <strong>of</strong> St. Lawrence Island was surveyed by the PI and<br />
field assistant from 4 to 23 August. About one-third <strong>of</strong> the area<br />
was covered on foot and one-third via chartered small boat<br />
(Fig. 2). The outlying Punuk Islands had been surveyed earlier<br />
35
-2-<br />
(18-23 June) by technician L. Shults in connection with another<br />
related project.<br />
The shores <strong>of</strong> Kotzebue Sound from Sheshalik to Point Hope and<br />
from Cape Espenberg to Wales were surveyed by L. Shults via<br />
chartered aircraft from 16 to 25 <strong>July</strong>. The area covered is shown<br />
in Fig. 3. Several landings were made on the beaches <strong>for</strong> closer<br />
inspection and collection <strong>of</strong> diagnostic samples from some <strong>of</strong> the<br />
carcasses.<br />
III. Results<br />
One hundred thirty titles <strong>of</strong> papers dealing with diseases,<br />
parasites, pathology and natural mortality <strong>of</strong> marine mammals<br />
have been accumulated thus far, and the search and review<br />
procedures are continuing.<br />
A first draft <strong>of</strong> an autopsy manual was developed <strong>for</strong> use and<br />
critique by project personnel during this quarter's field<br />
activities. Several modifications were indicated and will be incorporated<br />
into a second working draft in the next quarter.<br />
The Alaska Peninsula survey covered about 620 km (385 mi) <strong>of</strong><br />
coast, on which were found the remains <strong>of</strong> 12 whales (all<br />
apparently very young gray Eschrichtius gibbosus, and minke<br />
whales, Balaenoptera acutorostrata), 16 adult walruses (Odobenus<br />
rosmarus), 10 young and adult hair seals (Phoca spp.) and 3<br />
adult sea otters (Enhydra lutris). About one-fourth <strong>of</strong> these<br />
were old, dried and tattered remains left from previous years;<br />
three-fourths were judged to have stranded no more than 3 months<br />
prior to the survey. The degenerate condition <strong>of</strong> most <strong>of</strong> the<br />
latter precluded useful autopsy.<br />
The Kuskokwim Bay supplement which amounted to about 83 km<br />
(51.5 mi), yielded no carcasses at all, and the C. Pierce-C.<br />
Newenham segment <strong>of</strong> about 8 km (5 mi) yielded only 1 fresh<br />
carcass <strong>of</strong> an adult male Steller's sea lion (Eumetopias jubatus)<br />
and an assortment <strong>of</strong> much older remains <strong>of</strong> walruses (2 adult,<br />
2 subadult males), harbor seals (Phoca vitulina, 2 adults) and<br />
whales (1 each <strong>of</strong> gray and minke, I killer whale, Orcinus orca<br />
and 1 giant bottle-nosed whale, Berardius bairdii).<br />
About 267 km (167 mi) <strong>of</strong> the coast <strong>of</strong> St. Lawrence Island were<br />
surveyed, yielding 36 whales (30 grays and minkes, 4 bowheads,<br />
Balaena mysticetus and 2 finbacks, Balacnoptera physalus),<br />
36
-3-<br />
3 Steller sea lions, 96 walruses, 4 harbor seals, 4 bearded<br />
seals (Erignathus barbatus), 20 ringed seals (Phoca hispida)<br />
and 1 ribbon seal (Phoca fasciata). Three-fourths <strong>of</strong> the<br />
whales, half <strong>of</strong> the walruses and all <strong>of</strong> the sea lions had stranded<br />
more than 8 months earlier; the rest <strong>of</strong> the carcasses were judged<br />
to have stranded no more than 3 months prior to the survey. Two<br />
whales, 2 walruses and 1 seal were autopsied; the remainder had<br />
been excessively scavenged or was too advanced in autolysis <strong>for</strong><br />
diagnosis <strong>of</strong> cause <strong>of</strong> death.<br />
The Punuk Island supplement yielded 61 additional walruses, 7 <strong>of</strong><br />
which had lain there <strong>for</strong> about 6 months and the remainder <strong>for</strong> much<br />
longer. These tiny islands (total area about 1/4 sq mi) are noted<br />
hauling grounds <strong>for</strong> walruses during the southward migration in<br />
autumn, and a high natural mortality is a predictable annual event<br />
here. As yet, there has been little opportunity to determine the<br />
extent or the causes <strong>of</strong> that mortality.<br />
The survey <strong>of</strong> Kotzebue Sound covered 434 km (270 mi). About<br />
half <strong>of</strong> it was in the northern, Sheshalik-Point Hope segment which<br />
yielded only the carcasses <strong>of</strong> 3 hair seals (Phoca ssp.). The<br />
southern segment, C. Espenberg-Wales, however, yielded 10 whales<br />
(apparently all gray whales), 89 walruses, 3 bearded seals and 10<br />
ringed seals. Each <strong>of</strong> these probably had stranded no more than<br />
2 months prior to the survey. Practically all <strong>of</strong> the pinnipeds had<br />
been decapitated or had been shot in the head; all <strong>of</strong> the whales<br />
were awash in surf that was too deep to permit access <strong>for</strong> autopsy.<br />
Regretably little was learned <strong>of</strong> the natural causes <strong>of</strong> mortality in<br />
any <strong>of</strong> the areas sampled, <strong>principal</strong>ly due to the scarcity <strong>of</strong> intact,<br />
reasonably fresh carcasses. This points up the need <strong>for</strong> earlier<br />
surveys as had been scheduled originally but was not feasible this<br />
year (due to the delay caused by prolonged contract negotiations<br />
and the subsequent conflict with commitments to other projects). In<br />
general, it seems that most <strong>of</strong> the walruses and more than half <strong>of</strong> the<br />
seals and sea lions had died from gunshot wounds; the remainder<br />
and all <strong>of</strong> the whales and sea otters probably had died from natural<br />
causes. The causes, as determined by our autopsies, were as follows:<br />
Gunshot: Five walruses and four seals had definitely been shot<br />
in the head and killed.<br />
Trauma: One walrus calf at Punuk Island was found to have a<br />
broken neck.<br />
Predation: Two gray whales at St. Lawrence Island had been killed<br />
and partially eaten by killer whales,<br />
Hemmorhage:<br />
One sea otter had apparently died from excessive<br />
post-partum loss <strong>of</strong> blood.<br />
Probable Bacterial Infections:<br />
One - *t . I | ' i 'n I ' I I r lt ;<br />
37<br />
: ' ' i
IV. Problems Encountered<br />
-4-<br />
peritonitis and possible bacteremia arising from<br />
ascending infection <strong>of</strong> the urachus.<br />
One walrus had died from a severe pneumonia<br />
probably derived by inhalation <strong>of</strong> exudate from a<br />
large dental abcess.<br />
One sea otter showed enlargement <strong>of</strong> spleen and<br />
liver with possible lesions in the latter.<br />
The use <strong>of</strong> chartered aircraft with hired pilot presented some<br />
problems in that most <strong>of</strong> the autopsies required or would have<br />
been greatly facilitated by having a 2-man team approach. The<br />
aircraft required <strong>for</strong> beach landings can accommodate only the<br />
pilot and one passenger, and, frequently, the hired pilot was<br />
unwilling to participate in the autopsy thereby hampering, prolonging<br />
and increasing the cost <strong>of</strong> the work. We propose to<br />
remedy this in the future by charter or aircraft that can be<br />
piloted by project personnel (i.e. by Associate Investigator, R.<br />
Dieterich). This will accelerate as well as improve the quality<br />
<strong>of</strong> the work, and it will reduce the cost per hour thereby increasing<br />
the time available and the coverage in the surveys. (Charter<br />
rates are increasing rapidly and already are expected to exceed<br />
the budgeted rate by about 25% in 1976).<br />
At St. Lawrence Island where aircraft support is not feasible,<br />
surveys were undertaken via chartered small boat and on foot.<br />
The surveys via small boat were rather unsatisfactory <strong>for</strong> detection<br />
<strong>of</strong> any but the largest and most recent strandings due to<br />
limited visibility. Surveys on foot were by far the most effective<br />
but were inefficient because <strong>of</strong> the low speed (8-12 mi/da). The<br />
best alternative <strong>for</strong> future surveys in that area combining greater<br />
speed with nearly the visual effectiveness <strong>of</strong> a pedestrian survey<br />
seems to be the use <strong>of</strong> an All-terrain Vehicle (ATV), The<br />
possibilities <strong>of</strong> purchase or rental <strong>of</strong> such a vehicle are currently<br />
being investigated.<br />
V. Estimate <strong>of</strong> Funds Expended<br />
(6 months)<br />
Total Budget Expended* Remaining<br />
Salaries & wages 39,586.00 3,184.71 36,401.29<br />
Staff Benefits 6,700.00 541.40 6,158.60
-5-<br />
(continued) (6 months)<br />
Total Budget Expended* Remaining<br />
Equipment -0- -0- -0-<br />
Travel 6,000.00 244.35 5,755.65<br />
Other 16,300.00 408.88 15,891.12<br />
Total Direct 68,586.00 4,379.34 64,206.66<br />
Indirect 22,643.00 1,821.65 20,821.35<br />
Task Order Total 91,229.00 6,200.99* 85,028.01<br />
* Preliminary cost data, not yet fully processed.<br />
39
Fig. 1. The Alaska Peninsula and Kuskokwim Bay segments. Heavy line<br />
indicates the surveyed coastline.<br />
40
Fig. 2. The St. Lawrence and Punuk Island segments. Heavy lines indicate<br />
the areas surveyed.<br />
41
Fig. 3. The Kotzebue Sound segments. Heavy lines indicate the coastline<br />
that was surveyed.<br />
42
OCSEP - Research Unit #229 - Semi Annual Report - 1 November 1975<br />
NEGOA<br />
Title: Biology <strong>of</strong> the harbor seal, Phoca vitulina richardi - Gulf<br />
<strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
Principal Investigator: Kenneth W. Pitcher<br />
Alaska Department <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game<br />
333 Raspberry Road<br />
Anchorage, Alaska 99502<br />
344-0541<br />
I. Task Objectives<br />
RECEIVED<br />
NOV 17 1975<br />
1. To investigate population productivity <strong>of</strong> the harbor seal in<br />
the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska with emphasis on determining age <strong>of</strong> sexual<br />
maturity, age specific birth rates, age structure <strong>of</strong> the<br />
population and survival rates <strong>for</strong> various sex and age classes.<br />
2. To determine food habits and trophic relationships <strong>of</strong> the<br />
harbor seal in the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska.<br />
II. Field Activities<br />
A. Ship Schedule (Dates approximate)<br />
1. November 1975 MV "Montague" Prince William Sound area.<br />
2. February 1976 - MV "Resolution." Kenai Peninsula, outside<br />
coast.<br />
3. March 1976. MV "Resolution." Northern Kodiak, Afognak,<br />
Shuyak.<br />
4. April or May 1976. MV "Montague" or comparable charter<br />
vessel - Kayak Island, Controller Bay.<br />
5. May or June - charter vessel - Yakutat Bay, Icy Bay.<br />
6. June or <strong>July</strong> - charter aircraft - Tugidak Island, Southern<br />
Kodiak.<br />
B. Scientific Party<br />
1. Karl Schneider - Alaska Department <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game -<br />
P.I.#243.<br />
2. Donald Calkins - Alaska Dept. <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game - Co. P.I.<br />
#243.<br />
3. Kenneth Pitcher - Alaska Dept. <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game - P.I.<br />
#229, Co. P.I. #243.<br />
4. Various employees - Alaska Dept. <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game - Field<br />
Assistants.<br />
43
C. Methods<br />
1. Harbor seals are being collected systematically from<br />
different areas and habitat types throughout the year.<br />
2. Standard weights and measurements are taken from each<br />
collected animal including: total weight, blubber<br />
weight, standard length, curvilinear length, axillary<br />
girth, maximal girth, hind flipper length and blubber<br />
thickness.<br />
3, Ages are established <strong>for</strong> each animal from cementum annulli<br />
<strong>of</strong> canine teeth.<br />
4. The ovaries and uterus are taken from each female seal<br />
and preserved in <strong>for</strong>malin. Standard laboratory techniques<br />
<strong>for</strong> reproductive analysis are used through which the<br />
presence or absence <strong>of</strong> a conceptus in the uterus is<br />
determined and a partial reproductive history is reconstructed<br />
by examination <strong>of</strong> ovarian structures.<br />
5. Testes and epididymides from each male seal are collected<br />
and preserved. Weights and measurements are taken in the<br />
laboratory and a histological examination will be made <strong>of</strong><br />
a selected series. By correlating size and weight <strong>of</strong> the<br />
testis with presence <strong>of</strong> spermatozoa it should be possible<br />
to eventually establish potency by size <strong>of</strong> testis.<br />
6. Stomach contents from each seal are preserved in <strong>for</strong>malin.<br />
Weights and volumes are determined <strong>for</strong> all contents.<br />
Identifications <strong>of</strong> prey species are made by examination<br />
<strong>of</strong> recognizable individuals and skeletal materials <strong>of</strong><br />
diagnostic value. Frequency <strong>of</strong> occurrence <strong>of</strong> prey species<br />
is then determined.<br />
7. Intestinal contents from each seal are strained through<br />
mesh sieves to recover fish otoliths. Otoliths, which<br />
are diagnostic to specific level, are compared to a<br />
reference collection and identified.<br />
8. A literature review is being conducted to obtain available<br />
data on prey species' distribution and abundance.<br />
D. Sample Localities<br />
1. Prince William Sound<br />
2. Kenai Peninsula - outside coast<br />
3. Northern Kodiak, Afognak, Shuyak<br />
4. Kayak Island, Controller Bay<br />
5. Yakutat Bay, Icy Bay<br />
6. Barren Islands, Portlock Banks<br />
7. Tugidak Island, Southern Kodiak<br />
44
E. Data Collected<br />
III. Results<br />
As explained in the proposal and work statement this project<br />
is an expansion and continuation <strong>of</strong> research begun under<br />
contract to the Marine Mammal Commission. To date all sampling<br />
has been conducted with Commission support, however beginning<br />
in November (see field schedule) collecting will proceed with<br />
O.C.S. funding. The majority <strong>of</strong> harbor seal collecting must<br />
be conducted during winter months in order to determine pregnancy<br />
rates <strong>for</strong> the population productivity task.<br />
As <strong>of</strong> 1 October 1975, 147 harbor seals have been collected in<br />
the Prince William Sound - Copper River Delta area. Specimen<br />
materials from 22 seals collected in Prince William Sound in<br />
1973 are being included <strong>for</strong> analysis in this project. Weights<br />
and measurements have been taken <strong>for</strong> all collected animals.<br />
To date, 128 canine teeth have been decalcified, thin-sectioned,<br />
stained and mounted on microscope slides. Ages have been<br />
determined <strong>for</strong> these animals. All female reproductive tracts<br />
have been processed and the testes from males have been partially<br />
processed. Stomach contents have been rough sorted and tentative<br />
identifications made <strong>of</strong> the more common items. A series <strong>of</strong><br />
otoliths has been collected from intestinal contents and will<br />
be identified when a suitable reference collection is developed.<br />
While analysis <strong>of</strong> the reproductive material is not complete it<br />
appears that female harbor seals in the area sampled are attaining<br />
sexual maturity at 3-4 years. Pregnancy rates <strong>for</strong> mature seals<br />
appears to be high.<br />
Weight and measurement data have not yet been correlated with age<br />
data however our preliminary impression is that seals from the<br />
Prince William Sound area are smaller than animals from most other<br />
populations in Alaska. Seasonal body condition, as indicated by<br />
blubber thickness and blubber percent <strong>of</strong> body weight, shows a<br />
general pattern <strong>of</strong> increasing blubber from August through May with<br />
a rapid decrease during summer.<br />
Dominant food species identified to date include Alaska pollock<br />
(Theragra chalcogramma), herring (Clupea harengus), eulachon<br />
(Thaleichthys pacificus) and octopus (Octopus sp.). Other species<br />
identified include shrimp (Pandalus sp.), squid, salmon (Oncorhynchus<br />
sp.), sand lance (Ammodytes hexaptenus) and starry flounder (Platichthys<br />
stellatus).<br />
IV. Preliminary interpretation <strong>of</strong> results.<br />
None<br />
V. Problems encountered/recommended changes.<br />
None<br />
45
VI. Estimate <strong>of</strong> funds expended.<br />
Equipment:<br />
Binoculars and collecting rifle = $685.00<br />
VII. Recommendations <strong>for</strong> future research.<br />
A. All phases <strong>of</strong> the present research aimed at population<br />
productivity and trophic relationships should continue <strong>for</strong> a<br />
minimum <strong>of</strong> three years.<br />
B. I have several thoughts on potential harbor seal research<br />
which should be conducted in the Gulf.<br />
1. A series <strong>of</strong> aerial surveys should be conducted along the<br />
Gulf Coast from Cordova to Cape Fairweather to delineate<br />
areas <strong>of</strong> high harbor seal density, pupping areas and<br />
changes in seasonal distribution. This should include<br />
aerial photography <strong>of</strong> the Icy Bay area, in order to gain<br />
insight into population size.<br />
2. The feasibility <strong>of</strong> radio tracking both harbor seals and<br />
sea lions should be investigated. The successful employment<br />
<strong>of</strong> this technique would provide important data on movements,<br />
seasonal distribution, feeding areas, habitat selection<br />
and behavior.<br />
3. Tugidak Island, located south <strong>of</strong> Kodiak, has the largest<br />
known concentration <strong>of</strong> land breeding harbor seals, probably<br />
at times exceeding 10,000 animals. The area has numerous<br />
possibilities <strong>for</strong> research. One important factor which<br />
should be explored is natural mortality <strong>of</strong> pups.<br />
4G6
NOV 17 1975<br />
Semi-annual Progress Report<br />
Research Unit #230 N E G 0 A<br />
Title: The natural history and ecology <strong>of</strong> the bearded seal<br />
(Erignathus barbatus) and the ringed seal (Phoca hispida).<br />
Principal Investigators:<br />
John J. Burns - bearded seal Thomas J. Eley, Jr. - ringed seal<br />
Marine Mammals Biologist Marine Mammals Biologist<br />
Alaska Department <strong>of</strong> Fish Alaska Department <strong>of</strong> Fish<br />
and Game<br />
and Game<br />
1300 College Road 1300 College Road<br />
Fairbanks, Alaska 99701 Fairbanks, Alaska 99701<br />
I. Task objectives<br />
During fiscal year 1976 the following will be accomplished and<br />
reported on by 30 <strong>September</strong> 1976.<br />
1. Summarization and evaluation <strong>of</strong> existing literature and available<br />
unpublished data on reproduction, distribution, abundance,<br />
food habits and human dependence on bearded and ringed seals<br />
in the target areas.<br />
2. Acquisition <strong>of</strong> large amount <strong>of</strong> specimen material required <strong>for</strong> an<br />
understanding <strong>of</strong> food habits in these two species (see report<br />
<strong>for</strong> project #232).<br />
3. Identification <strong>of</strong> the major food items utilized by ringed and<br />
bearded seals in the Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea (see report <strong>for</strong> project<br />
#232).<br />
4. Initial assessment <strong>of</strong> regional differences in density and<br />
distribution <strong>of</strong> ringed and bearded seals in relation to<br />
geographic areas and, to a lesser extent, in relation to<br />
major habitat conditions.<br />
5. Determination <strong>of</strong> population structure <strong>of</strong> bearded and ringed<br />
seals as indicated by composition <strong>of</strong> harvest taken by Eskimo<br />
subsistence hunters.<br />
6. Acquisition <strong>of</strong> additional data on productivity and fetal<br />
growth rate.<br />
7. Acquisition <strong>of</strong> additional in<strong>for</strong>mation on seasonal migrations.<br />
8. Acquisition <strong>of</strong> base line data concerning parasite loads.<br />
47
II. Field and Laboratory Activities<br />
A. Schedule<br />
Dates Location Activity<br />
April to Bering Sea and Collection <strong>of</strong> specimens<br />
June, 1975 Bering Straits from native hunters -<br />
ADF&G funded.<br />
June 1975 Barrow Aerial survey <strong>of</strong> ringed<br />
seal - ADF&G and OCS<br />
funded<br />
August, 1975present<br />
Fairbanks Office and laboratory<br />
analysis <strong>of</strong> ringed seal<br />
data.<br />
B. Methods<br />
This project is dependent upon a sampling program which<br />
is to continue, intermittently, throughout the year involving<br />
the acquisition <strong>of</strong> biological specimens <strong>for</strong> laboratory analysis<br />
and field observation <strong>of</strong> undisturbed seals. In anticipation <strong>of</strong><br />
project approval a major sampling program was conducted at Eskimo<br />
hunting sites in the Yukon-Kuskokwim region, St. Lawrence Island<br />
and Bering Strait (funded by Alaska Department <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game).<br />
Methods <strong>of</strong> analysis during this first project year are as follows:<br />
1. Existing literature and unpublished data are being received<br />
and summarized in the traditional manner including abstracting<br />
pertinent papers and <strong>reports</strong>, and analyzing data already<br />
in hand (dating back at least 1962).<br />
2. Acquisition <strong>of</strong> large amounts <strong>of</strong> specimen material required<br />
<strong>for</strong> an understanding <strong>of</strong> the natural history and ecology<br />
<strong>of</strong> these two species is continuing at major hunting<br />
villages. We have emphasized the collection <strong>of</strong> jaws and<br />
claws (<strong>for</strong> age determinates), reproductive tracts, and<br />
stomachs. When possible weights and all standard measurements<br />
are taken.<br />
3. The preliminary analysis <strong>of</strong> food habits <strong>of</strong> bearded and<br />
ringed seals will involve volumetric measurement <strong>of</strong> total<br />
stomach contents, separation and identification <strong>of</strong> major<br />
food items, and determination <strong>of</strong> frequency <strong>of</strong> occurrence<br />
and volume <strong>of</strong> prey species (see report <strong>for</strong> project #232).<br />
48
4. Regional differences in seal density and distribution are<br />
being assessed through aerial and shipboard surveys. The<br />
first aerial survey was conducted in June, 1975 from<br />
Barrow and was jointly funded by Alaska Department <strong>of</strong><br />
Fish and Came and OCS. A shipboard survey will be conducted<br />
at the ice edge from 15 March to 1 May 1976, hopefully<br />
aboard a Soviet research vessel.<br />
5. Population structure <strong>of</strong> ringed and bearded seals is being<br />
assessed through sex and age determination <strong>of</strong> samples<br />
obtained at coastal hunting sites and in the course <strong>of</strong><br />
shipboard work.<br />
6. Species productivity is being determined through laboratory<br />
examination <strong>of</strong> all female reproductive tracts. Correlation<br />
<strong>of</strong> these data with age <strong>of</strong> each specimen will provide<br />
in<strong>for</strong>mation on age specific productivity. Fetal growth<br />
is based on size correlated with time when samples are<br />
collected.<br />
7. Seasonal migration patterns are being determined through<br />
observations at coastal hunting sites, shipboard and<br />
aerial survey.<br />
III. Results and Preliminary Interpretation<br />
The results and their preliminary interpretations are considered<br />
tenative and are not to go outside the Project Office.<br />
A. Specimens<br />
During the 1975 hunting seaon 122 ringed seals and 81<br />
bearded seals were processed at 5 villages (Table 1). Measurements,<br />
jaws, claws, stomachs and reproductive tracts were<br />
obtained from most specimens. In addition, partial data are<br />
available from about 600 additional specimens collected from<br />
1962 to 1974. These specimens are being processed as rapidly<br />
as possible.<br />
Table 1. Ringed seal specimens exaMined in, the field, April-<strong>July</strong>, 1975.<br />
49
Table 2. Bearded seal specimens examined in the field April-<strong>July</strong>, 1975.<br />
among<br />
Rate<br />
seals."<br />
Habits<br />
relationships<br />
phocid<br />
"Trophic<br />
<strong>of</strong><br />
Food Growth<br />
report<br />
B.<br />
Fetal inhabiting semi-annual<br />
See<br />
ice<br />
C.<br />
A knowledge<br />
<strong>of</strong><br />
lessen<br />
development.<br />
productivity<br />
hopefully, shelf<br />
the<br />
and,<br />
affecting continental<br />
assess,<br />
to<br />
outer<br />
factors <strong>of</strong><br />
needed<br />
the<br />
is<br />
<strong>of</strong><br />
impacts<br />
seal a<br />
<strong>of</strong><br />
adverse<br />
ringed<br />
the<br />
possible<br />
Productivity<br />
species<br />
we <strong>of</strong><br />
array age. one by<br />
is<br />
level fecundity<br />
an<br />
species. be<strong>for</strong>e growth appear<br />
August<br />
fertility<br />
by<br />
1) continuous<br />
seal<br />
rates.<br />
<strong>of</strong><br />
breeding<br />
this mid-April a<br />
<strong>for</strong>mation<br />
proximal to delay followed<br />
in<br />
as from<br />
ultimately<br />
a<br />
influenced<br />
ringed affect: rate in approximately<br />
implantation<br />
unknown.<br />
the is<br />
on<br />
is the <strong>of</strong><br />
month the<br />
survival which<br />
<strong>of</strong> from<br />
determined which<br />
differentiation<br />
pup<br />
fertility 1/2<br />
are growth<br />
is<br />
However,<br />
considered required<br />
B. Food Habits<br />
2) factors and 3<br />
affect period<br />
See semi-annual report produced and <strong>of</strong> the "Trophic are impregnated relationships among<br />
ice inhabiting phocid seals."<br />
ova various<br />
development<br />
influence usually<br />
implantation,<br />
Growth<br />
that Impregnation<br />
be<br />
C. Fetal Growth Rate<br />
parameters).<br />
the fetal is<br />
viable in<br />
fetal<br />
produced; which differentiation<br />
during to precise<br />
A knowledge <strong>of</strong> the factors affecting the productivity <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>of</strong><br />
pup. be<strong>for</strong>e<br />
the ringed seal and is needed to assess, and, hopefully, lessen<br />
and factors<br />
possible adverse specimens<br />
pups impacts <strong>of</strong> outer the continental shelf development.<br />
slow<br />
Productivity <strong>of</strong> a species the is determined ultimately by fecundity<br />
(number<br />
synergetic<br />
(number<br />
<strong>of</strong><br />
interested <strong>of</strong> viable<br />
development<br />
the ova produced appear which is influenced by an array<br />
<strong>of</strong> synergetic parameters parturition.<br />
parameters). early <strong>of</strong> months seal However, on a proximal level we<br />
are embryonic interested growth in the various factors which affect: 1) fertility -<br />
number to albeit but<br />
number<br />
the<br />
<strong>of</strong> pups produced; and 2) pup survival to breeding age.<br />
The<br />
<strong>of</strong><br />
The embryonic and fetal seals development <strong>of</strong> the ringed seal is one<br />
<strong>of</strong> the parameters birth 3-1/2 which influence fertility in this species.<br />
demonstrate<br />
zygote<br />
differentiation<br />
Embryologic to development is usually considered as a continuous<br />
process <strong>of</strong><br />
the<br />
growth to and differentiation from the <strong>for</strong>mation <strong>of</strong><br />
the zygote up to Additional<br />
ringed parturition. Growth and differentiation appear<br />
continuous, albeit slow during the 3 1/2 month delay be<strong>for</strong>e<br />
implantation,<br />
<strong>of</strong><br />
and after determine<br />
but the factors that affect the rate <strong>of</strong> growth<br />
and differentiation are unknown.<br />
Female ringed seals appear to be impregnated in mid-April<br />
soon<br />
delay to<br />
soon August. <strong>September</strong> after the birth <strong>of</strong> the pup. Impregnation is followed by<br />
a delay <strong>of</strong> up to 3-1/2 months be<strong>for</strong>e implantation, approximately<br />
in August. Additional seal specimens are required from August<br />
and <strong>September</strong> to demonstrate the precise period <strong>of</strong> implantation<br />
and to determine early fetal growth rates.<br />
50<br />
-
Thus far, 44 ringed seal fetuses have been examined and<br />
measured. A 1:1 fetal sex ratio (22 males and 22 females) has<br />
been found. The fetal growth curve <strong>for</strong> length (Fig. 1) closely<br />
resembles those from ringed seals in Canada (McLaren, Fisheries<br />
Research Board <strong>of</strong> Canada Bulletin 118:1958). The growth curve<br />
<strong>for</strong> weight is similar to those <strong>for</strong> most mammals. The relative<br />
growth <strong>of</strong> length to weight (Fig. 3) is highest during early<br />
pregnancy. The growth in weight is more rapid in mid-pregnancy<br />
with relative growth rates leveling <strong>of</strong>f in late pregnancy.<br />
No differences in growth rates <strong>of</strong> males and females were<br />
detected, however the sample size was small.<br />
D. Aerial Survey<br />
See semi-annual report <strong>of</strong> "The relationships <strong>of</strong> marine<br />
mammal distribution, densities and activities to sea ice."<br />
E. Parasite Studies<br />
A total <strong>of</strong> 17 marine mammals were necropsies at Wainwright,<br />
Alaska, during <strong>July</strong> 1975. Necropsies were per<strong>for</strong>med by Mrs.<br />
Carol Nielsen. Field results <strong>of</strong> these necropsies are indicated<br />
on the following page.<br />
IV. Problems and changes<br />
No major problems have been encountered thus far and no changes are<br />
recommended at this time.<br />
We do encourage the development <strong>of</strong> a functional data bank which can<br />
be utilized to integrate in<strong>for</strong>mation concerning the physical and biological<br />
aspects from other studies, which may relate to the biology <strong>of</strong> marine<br />
mammals.<br />
V. Expenditures<br />
B. Travel $287.40<br />
C. Contractual Services -0-<br />
D. Commodities 553.45<br />
51
MARINE MAMAL NECROPSIES<br />
done by Carol Nielsen at Wainwright, Alaska <strong>July</strong> 24 - August 1, 1975<br />
Total animals examined: 17 Erignathus barbatus- 9<br />
Phoca (Pusa) hispida - 6<br />
Odobenus rosmarus - 1<br />
Phoca vitulina largha - 1<br />
Organs examined <strong>for</strong> each animal:<br />
l.heart, valves, pericardium<br />
*2.pulmonary artery, aorta<br />
3.1ungs<br />
4.trachea & bronchi<br />
5. diaphragm<br />
**6.liver<br />
7.spleen<br />
***8.kidneys<br />
**9.gallbladder, bile duct<br />
*10.esophagus<br />
*****.stomach (mucosa & contents)<br />
12.duodenum (mucosa & contents)<br />
*****13.small intestine - first 10 ft. (mucosa & contents)<br />
14.1arge intestine (mucosa & contents)<br />
* not examined <strong>for</strong> 1 Odobenus rosmarus<br />
** not examined <strong>for</strong> 1 Erignathus barbatus<br />
*** not examined <strong>for</strong> 6 Erignathus barbatus<br />
**** to be examined in conjunction with invertebrate foods contents study<br />
***** not examined <strong>for</strong> 2 Erignathus barbatus<br />
Specimens collected from animals <strong>for</strong> later laboratory analysis & study:<br />
E. barbatus P.hispida P.v.largha 0.<br />
A. Normal tissue<br />
rosmarus<br />
1. liver slice (chemical 9 6 1 1<br />
analysis)<br />
2. caecal lymphoid tissue<br />
3. ilium mucosa<br />
4. bile duct entrance<br />
5. thymus<br />
6. duodenum mucosa<br />
7. lung<br />
2<br />
1<br />
1<br />
1<br />
-<br />
-<br />
-<br />
-<br />
-<br />
-<br />
1<br />
1<br />
-<br />
-<br />
-<br />
1<br />
-<br />
-<br />
-<br />
-<br />
-<br />
-<br />
-<br />
-<br />
B. Pathological tissue<br />
1. diaphragm 9 6 1 1<br />
2. liver 1 4 1 -<br />
3. duodenum mucosa 2 1 -<br />
4. small intestine mucosa 1 1 - -<br />
5. large intestine mucosa - 2 - -<br />
6. lung - - 1 -<br />
C. Parasite specimens<br />
1. mouth & esophagus 4 1 1 -<br />
2. duodenum 8 4 1 1<br />
3. small intestine 7 4 1 -<br />
4. large intestine 5 6 - 1<br />
5. fecal specimen from rectum 8 6 1 -<br />
6. gallbladder & bile duct 52 8 - - 1
Figure 1. Fetal growth in length in relation to month <strong>of</strong> collection.<br />
53
Figure 2. Fetal growth in weight in relation to month <strong>of</strong> collection.<br />
54
Figure 3. Fetal growth <strong>of</strong> length in relation to weight.<br />
55
RU 231<br />
"Aerial Census Spotted Seals, Phoca vitulina largha"<br />
John J. Burns &<br />
Samuel J. Harbo<br />
Alaska Dept. <strong>of</strong> Fish & Game<br />
Work to be done in Spring 1976, no report at this time.<br />
57
Semi-annual progress report Project No. 232<br />
NOV 17 1975<br />
Title: Trophic relationships among ice inhabiting phocid seals N E G 0 A<br />
Principal Investigators:<br />
John J. Burns Lloyd F. Lowry<br />
Marine Mammals Biologist Game Biologist<br />
Alaska Department <strong>of</strong> Fish Alaska Department <strong>of</strong> Fish<br />
and Game and Game<br />
1300 College Road 1300 College Road<br />
Fairbanks, Alaska 99701 Fairbanks, Alaska 99701<br />
I. Task objectives<br />
The investigation <strong>of</strong> trophic relationships among ice inhabiting<br />
phocids will proceed in several stages as outlined below:<br />
1. Summarization and compilation <strong>of</strong> existing literature and<br />
unpublished data on food habits <strong>of</strong> ringed seals Phoca (Pusa)<br />
hispida; bearded seals Erignathus barbatus; spotted seals,<br />
Phoca vitulina largha; and ribbon seals, Phoca (Histriophoca)<br />
fasciata is now underway. In addition, available in<strong>for</strong>mation<br />
on distribution, abundance and natural history <strong>of</strong> potentially<br />
important prey species is being compiled.<br />
2. Collection <strong>of</strong> specimen material <strong>for</strong> stomach contents analysis<br />
has been underway since April 1975 and will continue throughout<br />
the project. Sampling is being integrated with other ongoing<br />
seal biology projects.<br />
3. Analysis <strong>of</strong> stomach contents, including identification and<br />
quantification <strong>of</strong> major items contained commenced on October<br />
22, 1975. When this phase <strong>of</strong> the task has progressed further<br />
we plan to be able to identify the major prey items <strong>of</strong> each<br />
seal species as well as to analyze <strong>for</strong> temporal, geographical<br />
and age, sex and species related dietary differences. This<br />
phase <strong>of</strong> the project will receive major emphasis until the<br />
present backlog <strong>of</strong> samples is processed, then will continue as<br />
more samples are collected.<br />
4. This phase <strong>of</strong> the project, comparison <strong>of</strong> observed stomach<br />
contents with distribution and abundance <strong>of</strong> key prey species,<br />
will be largely dependent on results <strong>of</strong> other OCS projects<br />
currently underway. Such comparisions will allow a determination<br />
<strong>of</strong> prey specificity and food resource utilization pattern <strong>for</strong><br />
each seal species, which, when integrated with life history<br />
in<strong>for</strong>mation <strong>for</strong> key prey species, will give an evaluation <strong>of</strong><br />
the sensitivity <strong>of</strong> seal populations to OCS development.<br />
59
5. The final phase <strong>of</strong> the project, which will not be initiated<br />
be<strong>for</strong>e <strong>September</strong> <strong>of</strong> 1976, will involve an energetic evaluation<br />
<strong>of</strong> the relationships <strong>of</strong> seal populations to the surrounding<br />
marine environments. This will involve supplementary sampling<br />
<strong>of</strong> seal populations to determine rates <strong>of</strong> feeding and calorific<br />
values <strong>of</strong> major prey species, which, when compared to observed<br />
productivity <strong>of</strong> the seals and their prey will give a picture<br />
<strong>of</strong> the energy flow in one <strong>of</strong> the major trophic webs in the<br />
Arctic coastal ecosystem. Such a perspective is crucial in<br />
evaluation <strong>of</strong> possible effects <strong>of</strong> large scale ecosystem<br />
disruptions as may accompany OCS development.<br />
II. Field and Laboratory Activities<br />
Table 1 summarizes the results <strong>of</strong> a shore-based sampling carried<br />
out between April and August 1975. The villages from which samples were<br />
collected are included on Figure 1. Sampling was carried out by John J.<br />
Burns and Thomas Eley, both Marine Mammals Biologists with the Alaska<br />
Department <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game, and other ADF&G employees. When seals were<br />
killed and available <strong>for</strong> examination, the sex and where possible weight<br />
<strong>of</strong> the animal was determined and a series <strong>of</strong> standard measurements<br />
taken. As <strong>of</strong>ten as practical, jaws, claws, reproductive tracts and<br />
stomachs were collected, labeled, preserved in <strong>for</strong>malin and shipped to<br />
the Department <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game <strong>of</strong>fice in Fairbanks.<br />
Table 1. Stomachs collected in shore-based sampling program<br />
April 22, 1975-August 11, 1975.<br />
Laboratory analysis <strong>of</strong> stomach collections began on 10/22/75 and<br />
has been done by Lloyd F. Lowry, Game Biologist, Alaska Department <strong>of</strong><br />
Fish and Game. Each stomach has been weighed intact, then cut open and<br />
the contents put into a 2mm mesh Tyler screen and thoroughly but gently<br />
washed. The stomach was then reweighed and stored <strong>for</strong> later reference<br />
and examination. The total volume <strong>of</strong> stomach contents was determined by<br />
water displacement and the material was then transferred to finger bowls<br />
and petri dishes <strong>for</strong> examination and sorting. Parasites were separated<br />
from food items and the food materials were identified and sorted to the<br />
lowest possible taxonomic level depending on the type and condition <strong>of</strong><br />
the material. The volumes <strong>of</strong> the sqrted fractions were then determined.<br />
To date, 6 stomachs <strong>of</strong> Phoca (Pusa) hispida and 1 stomach <strong>of</strong> Erignathus<br />
barbatus, all from the Wainwright collection, have been analyzed.<br />
60
Figure 1. Locations <strong>of</strong> villages from which samples were collected
III. Results<br />
Since April 1975, 93 stomachs have been collected, 28 from the<br />
Bering Sea, 18 from the Bering Strait, 46 from the Chukchi and Beau<strong>for</strong>t<br />
Seas. A breakdown <strong>of</strong> samples by collection site, species and sex is<br />
given in Table 1.<br />
The contents <strong>of</strong> the six Phoca (Pusa) hispida stomachs so far<br />
examined varied considerably. For example the stomach <strong>of</strong> specimen WS-<br />
23-75, a 14.2kg male pup, contained 2 amphipods (Gammarus wilkitakii)<br />
and I isopod (Saduria entomon), all intact, with a total volume <strong>of</strong><br />
0.8ml. Specimen WS-47-75, a 27.2kg male, had eaten 10 mysids (Mysis<br />
litoralis) and 1 shrimp (Eualus gaimardii belchri) with a total volume<br />
<strong>of</strong> 1.7ml. Contents were intact and readily identifiable. The stomach<br />
<strong>of</strong> specimen WS-29-75, a 25.4kg male, contained the following: 15 shrimp<br />
(Sclerocrangon boreas, 12.4ml), 1 mysid (Mysis sp., 0.2ml), 4 amphipods<br />
(1.2ml), 17.2ml <strong>of</strong> unidentifiable crustacean remains (perhaps mostly<br />
Sclerocrangon boreas), 0.3ml <strong>of</strong> algae and 1.6ml <strong>of</strong> fish bones and flesh,<br />
probably from an arctic cod (Boreogadus saida). Invertebrates appeared<br />
in all stomachs examined, accounting <strong>for</strong> 89 percent <strong>of</strong> the total contents<br />
volume. Of this, amphipods comprised 8 percent, mysids 6 percent,<br />
shrimp 67 percent, cumaceans, isopods and pycnogonids 0.4 percent apiece<br />
and unidentified arthropod remains 9 percent. Eighteen percent <strong>of</strong> the<br />
total contents was fish remains and 1 percent was algae.<br />
The single Erignathus barbatus stomach opened (WS-38-75) came from<br />
a 201.3 cm standard length male. The total volume <strong>of</strong> contents was<br />
980ml, 60 percent <strong>of</strong> this attributable to foot portions <strong>of</strong> an as yet<br />
unidentified bivalve. The remainder consisted largely <strong>of</strong> crab stomachs<br />
and legs, gastropod remains (mostly operculae), and shrimp. The sorting<br />
and identification <strong>of</strong> contents from this stomach is incomplete at this<br />
time.<br />
IV. Interpretation <strong>of</strong> results<br />
It would appear from our limited observations that during the<br />
summer at Wainwright, Phoca (Pusa) hispida is utilizing mostly crustaceans<br />
as food, with shrimp, amphipods and mysids most important. However due<br />
to the small size <strong>of</strong> these organisms relative to fishes, this impression<br />
could change drastically if fish appeared in the next few stomachs<br />
examined. Organisms found indicate <strong>for</strong>aging just above the bottom and<br />
in the upper detrital layer. Not much can be said from cursory examinations<br />
<strong>of</strong> one Erignathus barbatus stomach except the types <strong>of</strong> organisms found<br />
were very different from those found in P. hispida and are largely <strong>of</strong> a<br />
more infaunal nature. These speculations are very tenative at this<br />
time.<br />
V. Problems encountered/recommended changes<br />
The main problem impeding progress in this project so far is the<br />
lack <strong>of</strong> sufficient man hours available <strong>for</strong> laboratory analysis <strong>of</strong> specimens.<br />
The ringed seal stomachs so far encountered have been nearly empty.<br />
Time required <strong>for</strong> rough sorting has ranged from a few minutes to three<br />
62
hours. The difficulty involved in intitial identification <strong>of</strong> organisms<br />
depends on their type and condition and the availability <strong>of</strong> suitable<br />
keys. Even after familiarity is gained with the species involved, some<br />
types <strong>of</strong> organisms (<strong>for</strong> example amphipods and mysids) will require<br />
elaborate microscopic examination <strong>of</strong> each specimen. Determination <strong>of</strong><br />
volumes <strong>of</strong> sorted fractions has so far been a tedious process. Volume<br />
determination may soon be replace by wet weights.<br />
The single bearded seal stomach examined required 6 hours <strong>for</strong> rough<br />
sorting. Identifications <strong>of</strong> organisms will be subject to the same<br />
problems as with ringed seals, with the fragmentary nature <strong>of</strong> many items<br />
making identifications more difficult and in some cases impossible.<br />
Allowing 5 hours <strong>for</strong> complete processing <strong>of</strong> a ringed, spotted or<br />
ribbon seal stomach and 12 hours <strong>for</strong> a bearded seal, the material in<br />
hand represents just over 100 man days <strong>of</strong> laboratory work. It is hoped<br />
that by the end <strong>of</strong> fiscal year 1976 the amount <strong>of</strong> specimen material<br />
collected will be at least doubled. Since it is obvious all <strong>of</strong> the time<br />
<strong>of</strong> the <strong>principal</strong> <strong>investigators</strong> cannot be spent in the laboratory, it is<br />
suggested that some <strong>of</strong> the funds earmarked <strong>for</strong> contractual identification<br />
<strong>of</strong> food items be used to hire a laboratory technician to do rough sorting<br />
and aid in identifying and quantifying contents. It would be most<br />
useful if this person could be full time or nearly so until the present<br />
colleciton <strong>of</strong> samples is processed, then available at intervals thereafter<br />
when more samples are collected.<br />
VI. Estimate <strong>of</strong> funds expended<br />
B. Travel $1,228.10<br />
C. Contractual Services 460.12<br />
D. Commodities 1,083.78<br />
63
OCSEP - Research Unit #240 Semi Annual Report, 1 November 975 NOV 17 1975<br />
Title: Assessment <strong>of</strong> the distribution and abundance <strong>of</strong> sea otters<br />
along the Kenai Peninsula, Kamishak Bay and the Kodiak Archipelago.<br />
Principal Investigator: Karl Schneider, Research Coordinator<br />
Alaska Department <strong>of</strong> Fish & Game<br />
333 Raspberry Road<br />
Anchorage, Alaska 99502<br />
344-0541<br />
I. Task Objectives<br />
To determine the distribution and relative abundance <strong>of</strong> sea otters<br />
around the Kenai Peninsula, the Kodiak Archipelago and in Kamishak<br />
Bay.<br />
II. Field Activities<br />
A. Field Trip Schedule<br />
Between 1 October and 7 October 1975 a helicopter survey <strong>of</strong><br />
the Kenai Peninsula and the northern part <strong>of</strong> the Kodiak Archipelago<br />
was made.<br />
Future work will be done in conjunction with surveys scheduled<br />
under Research Unit #243.<br />
B. Scientific Party<br />
1. Karl Schneider - Alaska Dept. <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game - PI -<br />
Forward observer.<br />
2. Donald Calkins - Alaska Dept. <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game - Observer,<br />
recorder, photographer.<br />
3. Warren Ballard - Alaska Dept. <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game - Offshore<br />
observer.<br />
4. Kenneth Pitcher - Alaska Dept. <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game - Offshore<br />
observer.<br />
C. Methods<br />
A Bell 206B helicopter was used as a survey plat<strong>for</strong>m. A <strong>for</strong>ward<br />
observer sat next to the pilot on the left side, an <strong>of</strong>fshore<br />
observer sat behind the pilot and an observer-recorder sat<br />
behind the <strong>for</strong>ward observer. The helicopter was flown along a<br />
track that paralleled the shoreline, circled all rocks and<br />
islets and areas <strong>of</strong> shallow water at an average -altitude <strong>of</strong> 150<br />
feet an average airspeed <strong>of</strong> 70 mph. All sea otters sighted and<br />
their locations were recorded. Large pods were photographed<br />
so that numbers could be determined more accurately.<br />
65
Other marine mammal sightings were also recorded. Special<br />
emphasis was placed on gathering in<strong>for</strong>mation on sea lions. This<br />
in<strong>for</strong>mation is covered under Research Unit #243.<br />
The survey started and ended at the town <strong>of</strong> Kenai, the home<br />
base <strong>of</strong> the helicopter. Homer, Seward and Kodiak were used<br />
as bases <strong>of</strong> operation. The helicopter was refueled at fuel<br />
caches that had been placed at Rocky Bay, Yalik Bay, Harris<br />
Bay and Shuyak Island.<br />
D. Aircraft Tracklines<br />
The trackline covered the entire coastline from the mouth <strong>of</strong><br />
Kenai River to Cape Puget with the exception <strong>of</strong> McCarty Arm;<br />
portions <strong>of</strong> the coastline <strong>of</strong> Marmot Bay from Spruce Island to<br />
King Cove; all <strong>of</strong> the coastline and all <strong>of</strong>fshore rocks from<br />
King Cove to Point Banks, including Marmot Island; and selected<br />
areas from Point Banks to Ban Island. Detailed maps <strong>of</strong> the<br />
trackline will be presented when analysis <strong>of</strong> the survey results<br />
is completed.<br />
E. Data Collected<br />
III. Results<br />
Data from the survey have not been completely compiled. Photos<br />
<strong>of</strong> pods <strong>of</strong> sea otters have not been counted. A total <strong>of</strong> 38.4<br />
hours <strong>of</strong> flying time was logged. The data collected are visual<br />
counts <strong>of</strong> sea otters recorded by time <strong>of</strong> day, location, and<br />
visibility conditions.<br />
Complete results <strong>of</strong> the survey will be presented once the data<br />
have been compiled. The following is a general discussion <strong>of</strong> preliminary<br />
findings that appear to be <strong>of</strong> significance.<br />
A total <strong>of</strong> 540 sea otters were sighted around the Kenai Peninsula.<br />
This number is an unknown precentage <strong>of</strong> the total population inhabiting<br />
the area. Comparative counts in the Aleutian Islands indicate<br />
that there may be at least 1.5 to 4 times as many sea otters in<br />
an area as are seen on helicopter surveys. Many factors may<br />
influence the proportion seen including visibility conditions, type<br />
<strong>of</strong> habitat and distribution <strong>of</strong> animals. Since viewing conditions were<br />
generally less than favorable and in most areas the sea otters were<br />
scattered, the percentage <strong>of</strong> sea otters seen was probably comparatively<br />
low.<br />
Between Seldovia and Cape Puget sea otters appeared distributed according<br />
to the availability <strong>of</strong> suitable habitat. Scattered individuals<br />
were seen between Seldovia and Anchor Point and none were seen between<br />
Anchor Point and Kenai.<br />
In the Kodiak Archipelago somewhat less than 2000 sea otters were<br />
counted in the areas surveyed. The exact number will be determined<br />
66
when photographs <strong>of</strong> pods are examined. Since survey conditions were<br />
quite good in much <strong>of</strong> the area and many <strong>of</strong> the sea otters were resting<br />
in pods, the proportion <strong>of</strong> sea otters seen was probably much greater<br />
than that seen along the Kenai Peninsula.<br />
Only scattered individuals were seen in Marmot Bay however sea<br />
otters densities around the north side <strong>of</strong> Afognak Island and Shuyak<br />
island from Marmot Strait to Fowl Bay were high.<br />
IV. Preliminary Interpretation <strong>of</strong> Results<br />
The results <strong>of</strong> the survey appear to indicate several things.<br />
1. Repopulation <strong>of</strong> the outer Kenai coast appears to be complete.<br />
There may be an increase in numbers in some areas but it is<br />
unlikely that major shifts in distribution or relative abundance<br />
will occur.<br />
2. Repopulation <strong>of</strong> Kachemak Bay and lower Cook Inlet is now occurring.<br />
Sightings <strong>of</strong> sea otters in Kachemak Bay have been rare but<br />
have increased steadily in the last two years. The number <strong>of</strong><br />
sea otters occupying Kachemak Bay is still low and there do<br />
not appear to be any significant concentrations but there<br />
appears to by a typical pattern <strong>of</strong> range expansion by the<br />
population currently concentrated on the outer Kenai coast.<br />
Small numbers now occur north <strong>of</strong> Homer. It is not known how<br />
far north sea otters originally occurred in Cook Inlet so it<br />
will be interesting to watch the growth <strong>of</strong> this population.<br />
3. Sea otters were observed in many <strong>of</strong> the small lagoons near the<br />
heads <strong>of</strong> major bays on the Kenai Peninsula including some<br />
recently <strong>for</strong>med by receding glaciers. Such areas are different<br />
from "typical" sea otter habitat although use <strong>of</strong> similar areas<br />
has been observed in Prince William Sound.<br />
4. The sea otter population inhabiting the northern end <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Kodiak Archipelago has been established <strong>for</strong> many years however<br />
growth and range expansion <strong>of</strong> this population appeared to be<br />
very slow. This survey indicated that the population has<br />
grown considerably in the past 15 years and that range expansion<br />
is occurring, perhaps at an accelerating rate.<br />
V. Problems Encountered/Recommended Changes<br />
The survey required more flight time than predicted. Because the<br />
areas surveyed were considered the most important, the decision was<br />
made to devote most <strong>of</strong> the available funds to this survey. This<br />
will <strong>for</strong>ce us to reduce our ef<strong>for</strong>ts in the southern Kodiak, Barren<br />
Island and Kamishak Bay areas. We hope to be able to gather in<strong>for</strong>mation<br />
from these areas as well as supplemental in<strong>for</strong>mation from the<br />
67
VI.<br />
surveyed areas during surveys and collecting trips planned in<br />
conjunction with Research Units #229 and 243. A major gap that<br />
should be filled this year is the delineation <strong>of</strong> the southwestern<br />
edge <strong>of</strong> the northern Kodiak population's range. We were <strong>for</strong>ced to<br />
terminate the survey be<strong>for</strong>e this was accomplished.<br />
It may be necessary to seek additonal funding <strong>for</strong> fixed wing aircraft<br />
surveys to fully attain the objectives <strong>of</strong> the project. These<br />
problems are fairly minor and at the present time the project can<br />
be considered successful.<br />
Helicopter charter $ 8,732<br />
Travel and Per Diem 750 approx.<br />
Fuel and fuel transportation 800 approx.<br />
Recommendations <strong>for</strong> Future Research<br />
$10,282<br />
Sea otters are generally believed to be the most vulnerable <strong>of</strong> all<br />
marine mammals to the effects <strong>of</strong> oil. A number <strong>of</strong> expanding populations<br />
occur along the north Pacific rim from southeast Alaska to the eastern<br />
Aleutians. Many are adjacent to proposed lease areas. It is a critical<br />
period <strong>of</strong> the recovery <strong>of</strong> a species that almost became extinct as the<br />
result <strong>of</strong> man's activities. At the present time <strong>of</strong>fshore oil development<br />
and tanker traffic present the only significant threat to continued<br />
recovery. A knowledge <strong>of</strong> the status and distribution <strong>of</strong> sea otters may<br />
be important <strong>for</strong> <strong>for</strong>mulating stipulations on oil and gas development.<br />
There are several areas in addition to those being addressed in this<br />
project where our knowledge is inadequate. These are the area from<br />
Kayak Island to Cape Spencer, Middleton Island, portions <strong>of</strong> south side<br />
<strong>of</strong> the Alaska Peninsula including the Semidi Islands and the eastern<br />
Aleutian Islands. These areas should be surveyed. Through careful<br />
coordination with other marine mammal studies and the use <strong>of</strong> fixed wing<br />
aircraft it should be possible to adequately assess the status <strong>of</strong> many<br />
<strong>of</strong> these populations at a relatively low cost.<br />
68
OCSEP - Research Unit #241 Semiannual Report - 1 November 1975<br />
NOV 17 1975<br />
Title: Distribution and abundance <strong>of</strong> sea otters in southwestern<br />
Bristol Bay.<br />
N E G A<br />
Principal Investigator: Karl B. Schneider, Research Coordinator<br />
Alaska Department <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game<br />
333 Raspberry Road<br />
Anchorage, Alaska 99502<br />
344-0541<br />
I. Task Objectives<br />
To estimate the size <strong>of</strong> the population <strong>of</strong> sea otters which inhabits<br />
the waters north <strong>of</strong> Unimak Island and the Alaska Peninsula.<br />
II. Field or Laboratory Activities<br />
A. Field Trip Schedule - This task will be accomplished on a single<br />
survey using a Dept. <strong>of</strong> Interior P2V or equivalent. The survey<br />
will be conducted in either spring or summer <strong>of</strong> 1976. Coordination<br />
with marine bird surveys in the area will determine the exact<br />
dates.<br />
The <strong>principal</strong> investigator participated in two aerial surveys<br />
conducted under research unit #67 which provided in<strong>for</strong>mation<br />
useful in planning this task. These surveys covered portions<br />
<strong>of</strong> the area on 18 and 20 June 1975 and 11 and 13 August 1975.<br />
B. Scientific Party - See Research Unit #67<br />
C. Methods - See Research Unit #67<br />
D. Aircraft Tracklines - See Research Unit #67<br />
E. Data collected or analyzed - See Research Unit #67<br />
III. Results<br />
See Research Unit #67. These surveys were primarily designed to locate<br />
other species <strong>of</strong> marine mammals. Coverage <strong>of</strong> sea otter habitat<br />
was incomplete, survey conditions were frequently poor <strong>for</strong> sighting<br />
sea otters and no attempt was made to delineate concentrations <strong>of</strong> sea<br />
otters unless they were encountered on the regular trackline. A<br />
minimum <strong>of</strong> 225 sea otters were seen in June and 2,345 were seen<br />
in August. The numbers seen are not particularly important but<br />
the distribution <strong>of</strong> the population is <strong>of</strong> considerable interest.<br />
On both surveys the majority <strong>of</strong> the sea otters seen were between<br />
Cape Liesk<strong>of</strong> and Cape Mordvin<strong>of</strong>. Only a few stray otters were<br />
seen northeast <strong>of</strong> Cape Liesk<strong>of</strong> even though four tracklines were<br />
flown through the area. Bechevin Bay contained concentrations <strong>of</strong><br />
sea otters both times it was surveyed.<br />
69
IV. Preliminary interpretation <strong>of</strong> results<br />
The results <strong>of</strong> the June and August surveys indicate that the<br />
distribution <strong>of</strong> the population has been altered significantly in<br />
recent years, probably as a result <strong>of</strong> severe sea ice conditions in<br />
1971, 1972 and 1974. At the present time most <strong>of</strong> the otters are<br />
confined to a relatively small area.<br />
V. Problems encountered/recommended changes<br />
If the distribution <strong>of</strong> the sea otter population remains restricted,<br />
it may be beneficial to concentrate the census between Cape Liesk<strong>of</strong><br />
and Cape Mordvin<strong>of</strong> with only superficial coverage <strong>of</strong> other areas.<br />
This would permit a more accurate estimate <strong>of</strong> that portion <strong>of</strong> the<br />
population inhabiting that area. Since only a small percentage <strong>of</strong><br />
the population lives outside <strong>of</strong> this area, it should be possible to<br />
make a more accurate estimate <strong>of</strong> the population as a whole than<br />
previously expected.<br />
VI. Estimate <strong>of</strong> Funds Expended - $0<br />
70
OCSEP - Research Unit 24 - Semi Annual Report - 1 November97<br />
NOV 1 7 1975<br />
Title: Population assessment, ecology and trophic relationships <strong>of</strong><br />
Steller sea lions in the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
Principal Investigator: Donald G. Calkins<br />
Alaska Department <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game<br />
333 Raspberry Road<br />
Anchorage, Alaska 99502<br />
344-0541<br />
I. Task Objectives<br />
1. To determine numbers and biomass <strong>of</strong> Steller sea lions in the<br />
Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska. To establish sex and age composition <strong>of</strong><br />
groups <strong>of</strong> sea lions utilizing the various rookeries and hauling<br />
grounds. To determine patterns <strong>of</strong> animal movement, population<br />
identity and population discreteness <strong>of</strong> sea lions in the Gulf.<br />
To determine changes in seasonal distribution (Task A-2).<br />
2. To investigate population productivity and growth rates <strong>of</strong><br />
Steller sea lions in the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska with emphasis on<br />
determining; age <strong>of</strong> sexual maturity, overall birth rates, age<br />
specific birth duration <strong>of</strong> reproductive activity and survival<br />
rates <strong>for</strong> various sex and age classes (Task A-3).<br />
3. To determine food habits <strong>of</strong> Steller sea lions in the Gulf <strong>of</strong><br />
Alaska with emphasis on variation with season and habitat<br />
type. An ef<strong>for</strong>t will be made to relate food habits with prey<br />
abundance and distribution. Effects <strong>of</strong> sea lion predation on<br />
prey populations will be examined (Task A-3).<br />
4. To incidentally collect in<strong>for</strong>mation on pathology, environmental<br />
contaminant loads, critical habitat and fishery depredations.<br />
II. Field Activities<br />
A. Field Schedule<br />
1. <strong>July</strong> 9 through <strong>July</strong> 13. Sea lion pup branding at Sugarloaf<br />
Island, 1 day vessel charter - Sea Mac out <strong>of</strong> Kodiak.<br />
2. <strong>July</strong> 14 through <strong>July</strong> 17. Sea lion pup branding at Marmot<br />
Island.<br />
3. Sept. 11-12. Survey <strong>of</strong> Middleton Island sea lion hauling<br />
area. Twin engine aircraft charter from Chitna Air<br />
Service, Cordova; and Winship Airservice, Anchorage.<br />
71
4. Oct. 1 through Oct. 17. Survey <strong>of</strong> sea lion rookeries and<br />
hauling areas in the northeast Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska and followup<br />
check on branding.<br />
B. Scientific Parties<br />
1. <strong>July</strong> 9 - 13<br />
Donald G. Calkins - Alaska Dept. <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game<br />
Al Franzmann - Alaska Dept. <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game<br />
Roger Smith - Alaska Dept. <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game<br />
Roger Alabaugh - Alaska Dept. <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game<br />
(Temp.)<br />
Fred Woelkers - Alaska Dept. <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game<br />
(Temp.)<br />
2. <strong>July</strong> 14 - 17<br />
Same as (1) above<br />
3. Sept. 11 - 12<br />
Donald Calkins, Alaska Dept. <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game<br />
Karl Schneider, Alaska Dept. <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game<br />
4. Oct. 1 - 17<br />
Donald Calkins, Alaska Dept. <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game<br />
Karl Schneider, Alaska Dept. <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game<br />
Ken Pitcher, Alaska Dept. <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game<br />
Warren Ballard, Alaska Dept. <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game<br />
C. Methods<br />
1. & 2. Hot iron cattle type brands were applied to the left<br />
front shoulder <strong>of</strong> sea lion pups. The pups at Sugarloaf<br />
were branded with an "X" brand measuring 4.5 by 8 cm and<br />
the Marmot Island pups were branded with an "0" brand<br />
measuring 4 cm by 7.5 cm. The length <strong>of</strong> branding time<br />
varied per animal depending on the size <strong>of</strong> the animal and<br />
the amount <strong>of</strong> moisture in the fur. Generally the average<br />
brand time was about 5 sec. Weights and measurements<br />
were recorded on pups at both Marmot and Sugarloaf Islands.<br />
3. & 4. Photographs <strong>of</strong> animal concentrations were taken from<br />
low-flying aircraft using a Nikon 35 mm motor-driven<br />
camera with 105 mm lens and high speed Ektachrome film.<br />
D. Sample Localities<br />
1. Sugarloaf Island 152°4'W, 58°54'N<br />
2. Marmot Island 151°50'W, 88°11'N
III. Results<br />
Sea lion rookeries and hauling areas with visual estimates made on surveys<br />
Oct. 1975.<br />
Rookery Visual Est. Rookery Visual Est.<br />
1. Pinnacle Rock Not surveyed at 21. Seal Rock 155<br />
2. Fish Island this time (Kenai Pen.)<br />
3. Latouche Island " 22. Outer Island 6300<br />
4. The Needle " 23. Nuka Point 0<br />
5. Seal Rocks " 24. Gore Point 2<br />
(Pr. Wm. Sound) 25. East Chugach Isl. 0<br />
6. Porpoise Rocks " 26. Perl Island 70<br />
7. Fox Point " 27. Sugarloaf Isl. 4588<br />
8. Glacier Island " 28. Nagahut Rocks 1<br />
9. Knowleshead " 29. Cape Elizabeth 69<br />
10. Perry Island " 30. Flat Island 0<br />
11. Pt. Eleanor " 31. Latax Rocks 625<br />
12. Danger Island " 32. Tonki Cape 0<br />
13. Pt. Elrington " 33. Sealion Rocks 125<br />
14. Cape Puget 0 34. Marmot Island 7997<br />
15. Cape Junken 0 35. Sea Otter Isl. 290*<br />
16. Barwell Island 0<br />
17. Rugged Island 0<br />
18. Hive Island 0<br />
19. Chat Island 0<br />
20. Chiswell Island 3251<br />
* Not previously identified as sea lion hauling area.<br />
IV. Preliminary interpretation <strong>of</strong> results<br />
A. No preliminary intrepretation presently availble.<br />
V. Problems encountered/recommended changes<br />
A. None<br />
VI. Estimate <strong>of</strong> funds expended<br />
1. Sea lion branding<br />
1) Sugarloaf Island $ 2,500<br />
2) Marmot Island 1,500<br />
2. Survey Middleton Island 1,000<br />
3. Survey <strong>of</strong> Northeast Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska 4,000<br />
4. Permanent equipment 11,500<br />
5. Participation in related OCS project 1,000<br />
(OCS RU #67)<br />
6. Other costs 1,000<br />
(Lab. supplies and commodities to be used and general <strong>of</strong>fice<br />
costs)<br />
Total $22,500<br />
73
3. Middleton Island 146 0 18'W, 59 0 28'N<br />
4. The following sea lion rookeries and hauling areas were<br />
photographed and visual estimates were made in the Northeast<br />
Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska:<br />
1. Pinnacle Rock 18. Pt. Eleanor<br />
2. Fish Island (Lewis Isl.) 19. Danger Island<br />
3. Latouche Island 20. Pt. Elrington<br />
4. The Needle 21. Cape Puget<br />
5. Seal Rocks (Pr. Wm. Sound) 22. Cape Junken<br />
6. Porpoise Rocks 23. Barwell Island<br />
7. Fox Point 24. Rugged Island<br />
8. Glacier Island 25. Hive Island<br />
9. Knowles Head 26. Chat Island<br />
10. Perry Island 27. Chiswell Island<br />
11. Seal Rock (Kenai Pen.) 28. Nagahut Rocks<br />
12. Outer Island 29. Cape Elizabeth<br />
13. Nuka Point 30. Flat Island<br />
14. Gore Point 31. Latax Rocks<br />
15. East Chugach Island 32. Tonki Cape<br />
16. Perl Island 33. Sealion Rocks<br />
27. Sugarloaf Island 34. Marmot Island<br />
E. Data collected or analyzed<br />
1. Branding<br />
a. Sugarloaf - 373 MM<br />
346 FF<br />
b. Marmot - 320 MM<br />
280 FF<br />
2. Approximately 540 photos <strong>of</strong> rookeries are now being<br />
processed.<br />
74
VII. Recommendations <strong>for</strong> future research<br />
A. Our plans now call <strong>for</strong> a complete survey <strong>of</strong> sea lion rookeries<br />
and hauling areas to be completed in the winter <strong>of</strong> 1975-76 and<br />
in the spring <strong>of</strong> 1976, and an intensive branding ef<strong>for</strong>t at seven<br />
<strong>of</strong> the largest rookeries in the Gulf in June-<strong>July</strong> <strong>of</strong> 1976.<br />
B. Sea lion collecting trips will be made in November, February,<br />
March, April-May, June-<strong>July</strong>.<br />
75
<strong>Quarterly</strong> Report <strong>for</strong> Quarter Ending <strong>September</strong> 30, 1975<br />
Contract Number: 03-5-022-55<br />
TO: W. M. Sackinger DATE: 6 October 1975<br />
OCS Coordinator<br />
Geophysical Institute FILE NO:<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
TELEPHONE NO:<br />
FROM: John J. Burns, Marine Mammals SUBJECT: <strong>Quarterly</strong> Report<br />
Biologist Task Order #9<br />
Alaska Department <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game<br />
Fairbanks<br />
This report covers the work conducted from June to the present on projects<br />
RU #248 and 249; "The Relationships <strong>of</strong> Marine Mammal Distributions,<br />
Densities and Activities to Sea Ice Conditions." During the period 9 to<br />
19-June, extensive aerial surveys- <strong>of</strong> ringed seals were under taken in<br />
areas <strong>of</strong> land fastice between Barter Island and Point Lay. These<br />
surveys were conducted through joint OCS and ADF&G funding. Procedures<br />
employed were the same as those used in 1970 (Burns and Harbo 1972,<br />
Arctic 25:279-290), and the results are directly comparable. The necessity<br />
<strong>of</strong> conducting these surveys was based on observations during the winter<br />
<strong>of</strong> 1974-75, which indicated unusually high densities <strong>of</strong> ringed seals in<br />
the Chukchi Sea and the reverse in the Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea. Observations <strong>for</strong><br />
the Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea were obtained by Lentfer (personal communication).<br />
Survey results substantiated that a major, short-term shift in density<br />
had indeed occurred. Density <strong>of</strong> seals in the Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea was down 13<br />
fold with a corresponding increase in the Chukchi Sea <strong>of</strong> between 10 and<br />
15 fold.<br />
Communications with Canadian <strong>investigators</strong> indicated that the decrease<br />
<strong>of</strong> seals in the Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea was not restricted to the areas north cf<br />
Alaska, but were also similar in the Canadian sector including Amundson<br />
Gulf.<br />
Surveys included continuous observation and recording <strong>of</strong> both seals and<br />
sea ice conditions. In my opinion, the overriding factor affecting<br />
ringed seal distribution is the distribution <strong>of</strong> favorable sea ice<br />
conditions. From past experience it was obvious the prevailing sea ice<br />
conditions in the Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea were, by and large, unfavorable <strong>for</strong><br />
breeding ringed seals whereas they were excellent in the Chukchi Sea.<br />
The distribution <strong>of</strong> ringed seals directly affected the distribution <strong>of</strong><br />
their most significant predator, the polar bear.<br />
One wonders how, or if, the changes in ringed seal density were or are<br />
related to the sea ice conditions which prevailed <strong>of</strong>f the north coast <strong>of</strong><br />
Alaska during the summer <strong>of</strong> 1975. Indeed, they were most unusual!<br />
Additional marinc mammal-sea ice surveys were undertaken in <strong>September</strong>.<br />
Aircraft time was funded by the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service and<br />
logistic support at Barrow was underwritten by ADF&G, although the work<br />
77
W. M. Sackinger -2- October 6, 1975<br />
conducted was specifically part <strong>of</strong> the OCS marine mammal-sea ice study.<br />
The mixup, which did not allow <strong>for</strong> OCS funding <strong>of</strong> Burns' costs at Barrow,<br />
resulted from our failure to obtain prior approval from the OCS <strong>of</strong>fice<br />
at the University <strong>of</strong> Alaska.<br />
<strong>September</strong> surveys, under the direction <strong>of</strong> Dr. James Estes, USFWS, were<br />
directed at walruses. Again, the unusual sea ice conditions resulted in<br />
a distribution <strong>of</strong> animals which was most unusual. Large numbers <strong>of</strong><br />
walruses were present in the American sector <strong>of</strong> the Chukchi Sea, concentrated<br />
along the very narrow edge <strong>of</strong> the late summer pack ice. Very few animals<br />
were present in the Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea and the few that were observed were in<br />
the immediate vicinity <strong>of</strong> Barrow.<br />
Again it appeared obvious that sea ice conditions were the single most<br />
factor influencing distribution<br />
and density <strong>of</strong> walruses. important<br />
Other work conducted during this report period included the analysis <strong>of</strong><br />
available satellite data and aerial photographs, under the supervision<br />
<strong>of</strong> Dr. Shapiro.<br />
78
MARINE BIRDS
MARINE BIRDS<br />
Research<br />
Unit Proposer Title Page<br />
3/4 Karl Schneider Identification, Documentation, and 85<br />
ADF&G Delineation <strong>of</strong> Coastal Migratory<br />
Bird Habitat in Alaska<br />
38 Joseph J. Hickey A Census <strong>of</strong> Seabirds in the Pribil<strong>of</strong> 87<br />
Russell Lab. Islands<br />
U. <strong>of</strong> Wisc.<br />
77 Michael F. Tillman Ecosystem Dynamics - Birds and 121<br />
NWFC/NMFS Marine Mammals<br />
83 George L. Hunt, Jr.<br />
Dept. <strong>of</strong> Population<br />
& Environ. Biology<br />
U. <strong>of</strong> Calif.<br />
Baseline Studies <strong>of</strong> Pribil<strong>of</strong> Island<br />
Seabirds: Bering Sea<br />
127<br />
96 Samuel M. Patten, Jr. Evolution and Pathobiology (including 243<br />
Dept. <strong>of</strong> Pathobiology Breeding Ecology) <strong>of</strong> the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
Johns Hopkins U. Herring Gull Group (Larus argentatus x<br />
Larus glaucescens)<br />
108 John A. Wiens Community Structure, Distribution, and 317<br />
Dept. <strong>of</strong> Zoology Interrelationships <strong>of</strong> Marine Birds in<br />
Oregon State U. the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
172 Robert W. Risebrough Shorebird Dependence on Arctic Littoral 325<br />
Peter G. Connors Habitats<br />
Bodega Marine Lab.<br />
U. <strong>of</strong> Calif.<br />
215 George Mueller Avifaunal Utilization <strong>of</strong> the Offshore 329<br />
IMS/U. <strong>of</strong> Alaska Island near Prudhoe Bay, Alaska<br />
237/ William H. Drury Birds <strong>of</strong> Coastal Habitats on the 331<br />
238 Mass. Audobon Soc. South Shore <strong>of</strong> Seward Peninsula<br />
239 M. T. Myres Ecology and Behavior <strong>of</strong> Southern 369<br />
Juan Guzman Hemisphere Shearwaters (Genus Puffinus)<br />
Dept. <strong>of</strong> Biology and Other Seabirds, when over the Outer<br />
U. <strong>of</strong> Calgary Continental Shelf <strong>of</strong> the Bering Sea and<br />
Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska during the Northern<br />
Summer<br />
330/ George J. Divoky The Distribution, Abundance, and 371<br />
196 USFWS Feeding Ecology <strong>of</strong> Birds Associated<br />
with the Bering Sea and Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea<br />
Pack Ice
MARINE BIRDS - Continued<br />
Research<br />
Unit Proposer Title Page<br />
337 Calvin J. Lensink<br />
James Bartonek<br />
USFWS<br />
Seasonal Distribution and Abundance<br />
<strong>of</strong> Marine Birds<br />
379<br />
338 Calvin J. Lensink<br />
James Bartonek<br />
USFWS<br />
Photographic Mapping <strong>of</strong> Seabird<br />
Colonies<br />
379<br />
339 Calvin J. Lensink<br />
James Bartonek<br />
USFWS<br />
Review and Analysis <strong>of</strong> Literature<br />
and Unpublished Data on Marine Birds<br />
379<br />
340 Calvin J. Lensink Migration <strong>of</strong> Birds in Alaskan Marine 379<br />
James Bartonek<br />
Waters Subject to Influence by OCS<br />
USFWS<br />
Development<br />
341 Calvin J. Lensink Feeding Ecology and Trophic 379<br />
James Bartonek<br />
Relationships <strong>of</strong> Alaskan Marine<br />
USFWS<br />
Birds<br />
342 Calvin J. Lensink<br />
James Bartonek<br />
USFWS<br />
Population Dynamics <strong>of</strong> Marine<br />
Birds<br />
379<br />
343 Calvin J. Lensink<br />
James Bartonek<br />
USFWS<br />
Preliminary Catalog <strong>of</strong> Seabird<br />
Colonies<br />
379
RU 3/4<br />
"Identification, Documentation and<br />
Delineation <strong>of</strong> Coastal<br />
Migratory Bird Habitat<br />
in Alaska"<br />
Karl Schneider<br />
Alaska Department <strong>of</strong> Fish & Game<br />
Work was not started until 11/1/75 - no report at this time.<br />
85
NOV 04 1975<br />
NEGOA<br />
Contract io. 03-5-022-77<br />
A CENSUS OF SEABIRDS ON THE PRIBILOF ISLANDS<br />
Semi-Annual Progress Report<br />
Submitted<br />
1 November 1975<br />
To<br />
Project Office<br />
Outer Continental Shelf Energy Program<br />
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration<br />
P.O. Box 1808<br />
Juneau, .Alaska 99802<br />
Attn. Dr. Herbert L. Bruce, Project Manager<br />
by<br />
Joseph J. Hickey, Principal Investigator<br />
Department <strong>of</strong> Wildlife Ecology<br />
Russell Laboratories<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Wisconsin<br />
Madison, Wisconsin 53706<br />
87
DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE<br />
NOV 04 1975<br />
ECOLOGY<br />
Russell Laboratories University <strong>of</strong> Wisconsin - Madison 53706<br />
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURAL AND LIFE SCIENCES SCHOOL OF NATURAL RESOURCES<br />
88<br />
OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF ENERGY PROGRAM<br />
JUNEAU PROJECT OFFICE<br />
P. 0. COX 1808<br />
JUNEAU, ALASKA 99802
OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF ENERGY PROGRAM<br />
JUNEAU PROJECT OFFICE<br />
P. 0. BOX 1808<br />
I. Task Objectives JUNEAU, ALASKA 99802<br />
A. To obtain precise estimates, <strong>for</strong> as many species as is practical<br />
within the time framework <strong>of</strong> this study, <strong>of</strong> the breeding seabirds<br />
on the Pribil<strong>of</strong> Islands,and<br />
B. To explore the possibilities <strong>of</strong> obtaining refined estimates <strong>of</strong><br />
those additional nesting populations that do not readily lend<br />
themselves to conventional census techniques.<br />
II. Field Activities<br />
A. Field Schedule<br />
11-06-75 Arrive Anchorage via Northwest Airlines<br />
14-06-75 Arrive St. Paul via Reeves Aleutian Airlines<br />
21-06-75 Arrive St. George via Peninsula Airlines<br />
l4-07-75 J. J. Hickey leaves St. George<br />
08-08-75 F. L. Craighead leaves St. George<br />
13-08-75 R. C. Squibb leaves St. George<br />
B. Scientific Party<br />
1. Dr. Joseph J. Hickey, Pr<strong>of</strong>essor <strong>of</strong> Wildlife Ecology,<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Wisconsin, P. I.<br />
2. F. Lance Craighead, Research Assistant, University<br />
<strong>of</strong> Wisconsin<br />
3. Ronald C. Squibb, Field Assistant, University <strong>of</strong><br />
Wisconsin<br />
C. Methods<br />
1. A preliminary ecological survey <strong>of</strong> the seabird cliffs<br />
on St. George was first carried out. Our observations<br />
were largely confined to this island.<br />
2. Direct counts were carried out on the ledge-nesting<br />
species on six <strong>of</strong> the cliffs <strong>of</strong> lesser height.<br />
3. Flight counts were made <strong>of</strong> least auklets and murres<br />
bound <strong>for</strong> their main nesting areas.<br />
4. Special study areas were selected, and attendance<br />
counts were carried out on ledge-nesting species at<br />
four cliffs <strong>of</strong> various heights.<br />
5. Three boat surveys <strong>of</strong> the cliffs were made late in<br />
the nesting season after aerial surveys appeared to<br />
be impractical due to persisting fog banks.<br />
D. Sample Localities--These will be defined later. Initial<br />
definitions are found on tables <strong>of</strong> results.<br />
E. Data Collected<br />
1. Flight counts were carried out over approximately 38<br />
hours.<br />
2. Ledge attendance records were completed <strong>for</strong> periods<br />
involving different days and a total <strong>of</strong> 50.4 hours.<br />
89<br />
1
III. Results<br />
3. The actual length <strong>of</strong> coastline censused was 4.95 km.<br />
Table 1 lists symbols used in this report.<br />
In Table 2, we find the cliffs on St. George divided into 6 strata,<br />
according to their approximate height. A total <strong>of</strong> about 50 km <strong>of</strong> cliffs<br />
are involved.<br />
Tables 3-7 report actual counts made on 4.95 km <strong>of</strong> these cliffs.<br />
Tables 8-11 summarize ledge attendance <strong>for</strong> cliff-nesting species.<br />
These data represent a partial basis <strong>for</strong> interpreting aerial photos. A<br />
series <strong>of</strong> such photos was attempted by Calvin Lensink,but his results<br />
are unavailable to us at this time.<br />
Tables 12, 13 and 14 summarize data concerning Least Auklet flights.<br />
Tables 15 and 16 summarize some data on murre flights.<br />
IV. Preliminary Interpretation<br />
Gabrielson reported that in his opinion "St. George Island, considered<br />
as a whole, contains the greatest aggregation <strong>of</strong> breeding birds"he has ever<br />
seen and that"the Least Auklets are the most numerous in the swarming<br />
millions <strong>of</strong> birds" (Gabrielson and Lincoln, Birds <strong>of</strong> Alaska, 1959, p. 50C).<br />
We saw nothing <strong>of</strong> these millions. Gabrielson (ibid.) mentions "circling,<br />
swirling thousands <strong>of</strong> birds" between the village and [Ulakaia] ridge" with<br />
"many Cresteds anu a few Parcquets" among the auklets constantly flying over<br />
the village. We never saw such "swirling thousands," and the total number<br />
<strong>of</strong> cresteds there on a given day certainly totalled no more than 200.<br />
Gabrielson (1941) has a further description <strong>of</strong> the "vast swarms" <strong>of</strong> auklets<br />
on St. George. We are impressed with the probability <strong>of</strong> a significant<br />
decrease in these species in the last 30 years.<br />
The least auklet flight into Ulakaia Ridge on 1 <strong>July</strong> dropped to a<br />
scant 8 birds between 1730 hr and 1800. We initially hypothesized that the<br />
79,631 that then came in were females preparing to take over their nests <strong>for</strong><br />
the night. If one is willing to accept an even sex ratio in the breeding<br />
population, it then follows that the morning flight consisted <strong>of</strong> 79,631 males<br />
and the remaining 5700 birds (27% <strong>of</strong> those counted on 1 <strong>July</strong>) were<br />
nonbreeaers. This 27% maybe compared to the 30-35% that Bedard (1969, Condor<br />
71:386-398) estimated as nonbreeders on the least auklet population on<br />
St. Lawrence Island.<br />
We did not attempt to test this hypothesis on St. George until 30 <strong>July</strong><br />
when we collected 10 least auklets flying in from the sea between 2030 and<br />
2130 hr. The sex ratio (table 14) on this occasion was 5:5. We lack a<br />
good flight count <strong>for</strong> this late date in the season, and at present we<br />
regard the hypotnesis as not yet adequately tested. George and Molly Hunt<br />
report (personal communication) that, in collecting least auklets on<br />
St. Paul this summer <strong>for</strong> their food habits stuuy, they found no evidence<br />
<strong>of</strong> a difference in sexual behavior such as we initially hypothesized.<br />
Flight counts do vary somewhat as the season progresses. For the<br />
period 2100-2200 hr, we counted 29,380 Least Auklets flying into Ulakiea<br />
Hiage on 22 June; on 1 <strong>July</strong> this number was 42,710.<br />
90<br />
2
In general, the key to the censusing <strong>of</strong> the ledge-nesting seabirds<br />
on this island will depend on some sort <strong>of</strong> photographs taken either with<br />
aerial or boat cameras. We hesitate to interpret our meager results<br />
until we see what the aerial photos show.<br />
There are two subjective impressions we can report at this time:<br />
(1) The seabirds, while numerous, probably do not run into the many<br />
millions <strong>for</strong>merly ascribed to these islands.<br />
(2) There probably has been some diminution in the numbers <strong>of</strong> least<br />
auklets on St. George within the past 30 years.<br />
V. Problems Encountered<br />
We felt much constrained by recurring fog banks <strong>of</strong> the most<br />
unpredictable nature . . . and at present we have just about given up<br />
on an aerial photographic approach to this census.<br />
VI. Estimation <strong>of</strong> Funds Expended (May 13-<strong>September</strong> 30, 1975)<br />
Salaries and Wages $2,317.00<br />
Materials and Supplies 1,586.26<br />
Equipment<br />
346.41<br />
Travel 4,280.09<br />
Fringe benefits 52.52<br />
Subtotal<br />
$8,532.28<br />
Overhead (58% <strong>of</strong> $ & W) 1,343.86<br />
Total<br />
$9,926.14<br />
VII. Recommendations <strong>for</strong> Future Research<br />
In 1976 it will be possible to have project personnel in the field<br />
sufficiently early in the breeding season to undertake censuses <strong>of</strong> the least<br />
auklets on their main nesting ridge be<strong>for</strong>e the area is cluttered with nonbreeding<br />
birds. A quadrat system similar to that used by Bedard (op. cit.)<br />
will be carried out.<br />
See also VIII (below)<br />
VIII. Possible Modification <strong>of</strong> Existing Ef<strong>for</strong>ts<br />
It appeared to us that the use <strong>of</strong> a fix-winged aircraft to photograph<br />
the ledge-nesting birds on St. George <strong>for</strong> census purpose is largely negated<br />
by tie persisting and highly erratic fogs in this region. We believe the<br />
best solution is to photograph the cliffs from a boat as stable as possible.<br />
The project currently lacks a suitable camera with large <strong>for</strong>mat and fine<br />
resolution.<br />
A Zodiac rubber raft equipped with a 25-HP motor would be most useful<br />
<strong>for</strong> landing on the rocky "beaches" and talus slopes below the cliffs. It<br />
could also be used as a photographic plat<strong>for</strong>m if no better boat is available.<br />
91<br />
3
IX. Suggestions <strong>for</strong> More Effective Integration and Coordination<br />
We have been able to discuss problems on the phone with George Hunt<br />
in Cali<strong>for</strong>nia, and we think our coordination with his project is good.<br />
We seem to be mentally blocked about phoning the coordinating <strong>of</strong>fices in<br />
Juneau and Anchorage whenever we want. Are any government FTS lines<br />
available to Alaska?<br />
A midwinter meeting with other seabird <strong>investigators</strong> in this program<br />
seems to us to be highly desirable.<br />
X. Focusing Ef<strong>for</strong>ts More Directly on OCS Oil and Gas Activities<br />
We have no ideas on this point at this time. A Shell Oil Company party<br />
visited St. George <strong>for</strong> a few days this summer, but our erratic schedule<br />
<strong>of</strong> field work prevented us from meeting them.<br />
XI. Suggestions on Making Results More Easily Available to User Groups<br />
Certainly the progress <strong>reports</strong> on the ornithological parts <strong>of</strong> this<br />
program could be circulated to other PIs with similar interests.<br />
XII. Acknowledgments<br />
We wish to thank Calvin Lensink and James G. Bartonek (U.S. Fish and<br />
Wildlife Service, Anchorage) <strong>for</strong> valued advice as we started our field<br />
work, George and Molly Hunt (University <strong>of</strong> Cali<strong>for</strong>nia, Riverside) <strong>for</strong><br />
amenities in facillitating our stay in St. Paul; and Al Groves and<br />
Nick Merculief (National Marine Fisheries Service, St. George) <strong>for</strong> their<br />
help in arranging the logistical support we needed on St. George.<br />
92
Table 1. Symbols Used in This Report<br />
93
Table 2. Types <strong>of</strong> Cliffs on St. George Is.<br />
94
Table 3. Census Data--Stratum A<br />
Cliff No. 1<br />
95
Table 4. Census Data--Stratum A<br />
Cliff No. 2
Table 5. Census Data--Stratum A<br />
Cliff No. 3<br />
97
Table 6. Census Data--Stratum A<br />
Cliff No. 6
Table 6 continued
Table 7. Census Data--Strata B and C
Table 8<br />
101<br />
101
Table 8 (cont.)<br />
102
Table 8 (cont.)<br />
103
Table 9<br />
Ledge Attendance Counts: Kittiwakes, Murres<br />
and Cormorants with Supplementary Observations on<br />
Parakeet and Least Auklets.
Table 9. continued.
Table 10<br />
Ledge Attendance Counts: Kittiwakes and Murres
Table 10 (Cont.)
Table 10 (Cont.)
Table 10. (concluded)
Table 11<br />
Ledge Attendance Counts: Thick-billed and Common Murres, Red-legged and Black-legged<br />
Kittiwakes, and Fulmars. Place: Rosy Finch Cove<br />
110
Table 11 continued.
Table 11 continued.
Table 11 continued.
Table 12. Flight Count--Least Auklets Flying Over<br />
Airstrip To Colony on Ulakaia Ridge <strong>July</strong> 1<br />
L14
Table 13<br />
Flight Counts: Comparison <strong>of</strong> Evening Flights <strong>of</strong> Least Auklets<br />
over airstrip on 22 June and 17 <strong>July</strong> from 2050 to 2200 hours.<br />
115
Table 14<br />
Least Auklcts Collected<br />
116
Table 15<br />
Flight Counts: Diurnal East-to-West Flight <strong>of</strong> Murres<br />
1 17
Table 16.<br />
Flight Counts: Murre Flights on North<br />
Side <strong>of</strong> St. George, as observed from<br />
Staraya Artil
Table 16 (cont.)
OUTER CONTINENTAL<br />
SHELF ENERGY PROG<br />
JUNEAU PROJECT OFFICE<br />
P. 0. BOX 1808<br />
Semi-Annual Report JUNEAU, ALASKA 99802 .....<br />
RU 77 -- Ecosystem Dynamics - Birds and Marine Mammals<br />
L Task Objective<br />
NOV 06 1975<br />
The long range objective is to develop an ecosystem model <strong>of</strong> the eastern<br />
Bering Sea which will aid in multispecies and multidisciplinary decision<br />
making processes. Sub models will be developed <strong>for</strong> fur seals, groundfish<br />
and birds, as well as a conceptual submodel <strong>for</strong> fur seal-fish trophodynamic<br />
relationships.<br />
II. Field and Laboratory Activities<br />
A, B, C) Field Work:<br />
There was no field work during this period.<br />
D. Sample Localities:<br />
See Figure 1. -<br />
E. Data Collected or Analyzed:<br />
1. Fish submodel<br />
410 fish stomachs were analyzed. This completed the analysis<br />
<strong>of</strong> all fish stomachs (total <strong>of</strong> 1128). Data is in process <strong>of</strong> summary<br />
by species, length, and taxonomic composition <strong>of</strong> food organism.<br />
2. Fur seal submodel<br />
Literature survey and review <strong>of</strong> feeding habits <strong>of</strong> pinnipeds in<br />
Bering Sea completed. Preliminary report and analysis <strong>of</strong> fur seal<br />
feeding habits begun, to be completed next quarter.<br />
3. Bird Submodel<br />
No work this time period. Bird submodel to be subcontracted to<br />
Fish and Wildlife Service, Anchorage, Alaska.<br />
4. Conceptual submodel<br />
No work scheduled <strong>for</strong> this time period.<br />
F. Activities planned <strong>for</strong> next six months:<br />
1. Fish submodel<br />
Report <strong>of</strong> initial results from stomach analysis.<br />
2. Fur seal submodel<br />
Report <strong>of</strong> initial results from fur seal feeding habits.<br />
121
3. Bird submodel<br />
Let contract, initial work to begin.<br />
4. Conceptual submodel<br />
Synthesize data from pertinent literature and from submodel<br />
analyses as available. Determine possible interfaces between<br />
submodels.<br />
III. Results<br />
A. Fish Submodel<br />
Food content <strong>for</strong> pollock, weight by taxa, completed. Data tables attached<br />
(see Table 1.).<br />
B. Fur Seal Submodel<br />
No final results, see preliminary results discussion.<br />
C, D. Bird and Conceptual Submodel<br />
No results.<br />
IV. Preliminary Interpretation <strong>of</strong> Results<br />
A. Fish Submodel<br />
Flathead sole and Greenland turbot show a high content <strong>of</strong> fish<br />
in their food while rock sole and Alaska Plaice feed mostly on<br />
annelids. Yellowfin sole and pollock feed on a wide variety <strong>of</strong><br />
organisms with amphipods, annelids, fish, crab, and auphausiids<br />
contributing significantly to their diet. True cod feed extensively<br />
on fish and crab.<br />
The true cod and Greenland turbot prey heavily on the pollock<br />
while rock sole and Alaska plaice possibly compete <strong>for</strong> a common<br />
food source <strong>of</strong> annelids. In contrast to these species, pollock and<br />
yellowfin sole exhibit opportunistic feeding patterns, and do not<br />
draw heavily on any one particular taxa.<br />
B. Fur Seal Submodel<br />
Preliminary analysis <strong>of</strong> feeding habits <strong>of</strong> fur seal and sea lions in the<br />
Bering Sea suggest that fin fish consumption by pinnipeds is presently<br />
<strong>of</strong> the same order <strong>of</strong> magnitude as the groundfish fishery in the Bering<br />
Sea. Present estimates are that the groundfish fishery is already overexploited.<br />
These are preliminary estimates, subject to revision, should<br />
not be quoted as results.<br />
C. Birds<br />
No results.<br />
122
D. Conceptual Model<br />
No results.<br />
V. Problems Encountered/Recommended Changes<br />
Gerald Sanger has transferred to USFWS in Anchorage, Alaska. This will<br />
result in a transfer <strong>of</strong> the bird submodel work to contract from in-house<br />
research.<br />
Delay has been encountered in hiring a modeler <strong>for</strong> the conceptual submodel<br />
research, but should be filled shortly, and no significant delay is anticipated.<br />
No recommended changes at this time.<br />
VI. Estimate <strong>of</strong> Funds Expended<br />
1 <strong>July</strong> to 30 <strong>September</strong> 1975<br />
Salaries (GS 4 temporary) 1. 6<br />
GS 11 2 p.p. 1.3<br />
Benefits .3<br />
Miscellaneous<br />
TOTAL 3.4<br />
.2<br />
123<br />
3
Table 1. Percent composition <strong>of</strong> diet by weight <strong>of</strong> selected fish species.<br />
124
Figure 1. Stations at which fish stomach samples were obtained.<br />
125
OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF ENERGY PROGRAM<br />
JUNEAU!J PROJECT OFFICE<br />
P. 0. BOX 1808<br />
JUNEAU, ALASKA 99802<br />
The Reproductive Ecology, Foods, and Foraging Areas <strong>of</strong><br />
Seabirds Nesting on St. Paul Island, Pribil<strong>of</strong> Islands<br />
A Six Month Progress Report to the<br />
NOAA - OCSEP Group<br />
1 November 1975<br />
by<br />
G.L. Hunt, Jr., M.W. Hunt, S.D.L. Causey,<br />
D.B. Schwartz and L.E. Holmgren<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Cali<strong>for</strong>nia at Irvine<br />
Contract number 03-5-022-72 Research Unit #83<br />
127
I. OBJECTIVES<br />
TABLE OF CONTENTS<br />
II. FIELD ACTIVITIES<br />
A. Scientific Party<br />
B. Location <strong>of</strong> Field Activities<br />
C. Work Schedule and Study Areas<br />
D. Methods<br />
1. Reproductive Success<br />
2. Growth Rates<br />
3. Food Samples<br />
4. Distribution <strong>of</strong> Foraging Seabirds<br />
5. Survey <strong>of</strong> Otter and Walrus Islands<br />
E. Data Collected<br />
III. RESULTS<br />
A. Reproductive Success<br />
1. Fulmar<br />
2. Red-faced Cormorant<br />
3. Black-legged Kittiwake<br />
4. Red-legged Kittiwake<br />
5. Common Murre<br />
6. Thick-billed Murre<br />
7. Horned Puffin<br />
8. Tufted Puffin<br />
9. Crested Auklet<br />
10. Least Auklet<br />
11. Parakeet Auklet<br />
B. Foods <strong>of</strong> Seabirds<br />
C. Distribution <strong>of</strong> Foraging Seabirds<br />
D. Survey <strong>of</strong> Otter and Walrus- Islands<br />
IV. DISCUSSION<br />
page<br />
V. PROBLEMS ENCOUNTERED AND RECOMMENDED CHANGES 80<br />
VI. FINANCIAL STATEMENT<br />
VII. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS<br />
VIII. APPENDIX I.<br />
128<br />
1<br />
3<br />
5<br />
6<br />
13<br />
15<br />
16<br />
17<br />
22<br />
24<br />
30<br />
31<br />
33<br />
38<br />
39<br />
47<br />
52<br />
53<br />
54<br />
54<br />
56<br />
57<br />
61<br />
74<br />
75<br />
88<br />
90<br />
91
LIST OF FIGURES<br />
Figure 1 Study Sites, St. Paul Island 7<br />
Figure 2 Study Sites, St. George Island 8<br />
Figure 3 Discoverer Cruise Track 20<br />
Figure 4 Location and Numbering <strong>of</strong> Grid Blocks Surveyed 21<br />
Figure 5 Location <strong>of</strong> Otter and Walrus Islands in Relation<br />
to St. Paul Island 23<br />
Figure 6 Nests with Eggs and Chicks, Black-legged Kittiwake,<br />
St. Paul 37<br />
Figure 7 Nests with Eggs and Chicks, Red-legged Kittiwake,<br />
St. George 42<br />
Figure 8 Nests with Eggs and Chicks, Common Murre, St. Paul 46<br />
Figure 9 Nests with Eggs and Chicks, Thick-billed Murre,<br />
St. Paul 50<br />
Figure 10 Growth Rates, Thick-billed Murre, St. Paul 51<br />
Figure 11 Distribution <strong>of</strong> Total Numbers <strong>of</strong> Birds Seen on<br />
Sea Survey 64<br />
Figure 12 Number <strong>of</strong> Species <strong>of</strong> Birds Seen in Various Grids<br />
on Sea Survey 65<br />
Figure 13 Fulmars Counted on Sea Survey 66<br />
Figure 14 Petrels Counted on Sea Survey 67<br />
Figure 15 Shearwaters Counted on Sea Survey 68<br />
Figure 16 Red-faced Cormorants Counted on Sea Survey 69<br />
Figure 17 Kittiwakes Counted on Sea Survey 70<br />
Figure 18 Puffins Counted on Sea Survey 71<br />
Figure 19 Murres Counted on Sea Survey 72<br />
Figure 20 Small Alcids Counted on Sea Survey 73<br />
129<br />
page
LIST OF TABLES<br />
page<br />
Table 1 Schedule <strong>of</strong> Activities 9-12<br />
Table 2 Dates and Location <strong>of</strong> Colony Work 25-28<br />
Table 3 Summary <strong>of</strong> Data Gathered 29<br />
Table 4 Reproductive Success, Red-faced Cormorant 32<br />
Table 5 Reproductive Success, Black-legged Kittiwake 36<br />
Table 6 Reproductive Success, Red-legged Kittiwake,<br />
St. Paul 40<br />
Table 7 Reproductive Success, Red-legged Kittiwake,<br />
St. George 41<br />
Table 8 Reproductive Success, Common Murre, St. Paul 45<br />
Table 9 Reproductive Success, Thick-billed Murre, St. Paul 48<br />
Table 10 Chick and Egg Loss <strong>of</strong> Murres after Aircraft Visit<br />
at St. Paul 49<br />
Table 11 Summary <strong>of</strong> Birds Collected <strong>for</strong> Food Samples,<br />
St. Paul 59<br />
Table 12 Total Food Samples Collected; St. Paul 60<br />
Table 13 Percent Occurrence <strong>of</strong> Seabirds in Various Regions<br />
at Sea 63<br />
Table 14 Research Needs vs. Motorcycles Availability 81<br />
Table 15 Schedule <strong>of</strong> Field Operations 1976 86<br />
Table 16 Weekly Work Schedule 1976 87<br />
Table 17 Summary <strong>of</strong> Expenditures 89<br />
130
I. OBJECTIVES<br />
In the face <strong>of</strong> impending oil exploration and extraction in the<br />
outer continental shelf <strong>of</strong> Alaska, it is imperative that thorough<br />
baseline research be conducted on all aspects <strong>of</strong> the environment in<br />
potentially affected areas. One segment <strong>of</strong> the environment which is<br />
particularly sensitive to spilled oil is seabird populations. The<br />
Bering Sea is home to some <strong>of</strong> the greatest concentrations and the<br />
greatest diversity <strong>of</strong> seabirds in the world. Baseline studies <strong>of</strong><br />
these populations are necessary in order to identify areas <strong>of</strong> particu-<br />
larly great sensitivity from which oil should be excluded, to identify<br />
areas in which special priority should be given to the clean up <strong>of</strong><br />
spilled oil, and to provide evidence as to the effects <strong>of</strong> spilled oil<br />
on avian populations.<br />
The following is a progress report on field work conducted in the<br />
summer <strong>of</strong> 1975 with the purpose <strong>of</strong> obtaining baseline data on the repro-<br />
ductive success, the food habits and the <strong>for</strong>aging areas <strong>of</strong> eleven<br />
species <strong>of</strong> seabirds breeding on St. Paul Island in the Pribil<strong>of</strong> Islands,<br />
Alaska.<br />
In studying the reproductive success <strong>of</strong> each species the goal <strong>of</strong><br />
the scientific party was to establish timing <strong>of</strong> breeding, number <strong>of</strong><br />
eggs laid, hatching and fledging success, and growth rates and causes<br />
<strong>of</strong> mortality <strong>of</strong> young. All <strong>of</strong> these factors are indicators <strong>of</strong> the<br />
health <strong>of</strong> seabird populations. Knowledge <strong>of</strong> when and why the normal<br />
stresses in the reproductive cycle occur will facilitate predictions<br />
<strong>of</strong> the possible effects <strong>of</strong> oil spills on these systems.<br />
131
Data on the foods and <strong>for</strong>aging areas used by seabirds were collected<br />
in order to determine in which ocean areas oil spills would be particu-<br />
larly damaging to Pribil<strong>of</strong> Island populations. Knowledge <strong>of</strong> the food<br />
chains upon which the seabirds are dependent is also necessary to<br />
establish both the role the seabirds play in the marine ecosystem and<br />
the potential vulnerability <strong>of</strong> seabirds should certain other marine<br />
species be damaged by oil.<br />
132<br />
2
II. FIELD ACTIVITIES<br />
A. Scientific Party<br />
1. Dr. George L. Hunt, Jr., Principal Investigator. Assistant<br />
Pr<strong>of</strong>essor, Department <strong>of</strong> Ecology and Evolutionary Biology,<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Cali<strong>for</strong>nia, Irvine. Dr. Hunt is the overall<br />
organizer <strong>of</strong> the budget, the personnel and the logistics oE the<br />
project. He is responsible <strong>for</strong> the design <strong>of</strong> field studies and<br />
the interpretation <strong>of</strong> data. He also provided guidance <strong>for</strong> the<br />
field party, and worked in the field on St. Paul Island from<br />
17 June to 15 <strong>July</strong>, 1975.<br />
2. Molly W. Hunt. Assistant Specialist, Department <strong>of</strong> Ecology and<br />
Evolutionary Biology, University <strong>of</strong> Cali<strong>for</strong>nia, Irvine. As leader<br />
<strong>of</strong> the field party, Ms. Hunt participated in field research on<br />
St. Paul Island (10 June - 2 <strong>September</strong>) and conducted research on<br />
the Red-legged Kittiwake on St. George Island. In addition she<br />
is responsible <strong>for</strong> overseeing the analysis <strong>of</strong> data.<br />
3. S. Douglas Causey. Research Assistant, Department <strong>of</strong> Ecology and<br />
Evolutionary Biology, University <strong>of</strong> Cali<strong>for</strong>nia, Irvine. In<br />
addition to participating in field research on St. Paul (14 August -<br />
30 <strong>September</strong>) and on the Discoverer cruise, Mr. Causey is respons-<br />
ible <strong>for</strong> identification <strong>of</strong> food samples from birds as well as<br />
analysis <strong>of</strong> data.<br />
4. Douglas B. Schwartz. Laboratory Assistant, Department <strong>of</strong> Ecology<br />
and Evolutionary Biology, University <strong>of</strong> Cali<strong>for</strong>nia, Irvine.<br />
Mr. Schwartz has participated both in field research on St. Paul<br />
Island (10 June - 9 <strong>September</strong>) and on the Discoverer cruise, and<br />
in the analysis <strong>of</strong> data.<br />
133<br />
3
5. Laurie E. Holmgren. Laboratory Assistant, Department <strong>of</strong> Ecology<br />
and Evolutionary Biology, University <strong>of</strong> Cali<strong>for</strong>nia, Irvine.<br />
Ms. Holmgren has participated both in field research on St. Paul<br />
Island (10 June - 4 <strong>September</strong>) and in the analysis <strong>of</strong> data.<br />
6. Max C. Thompson, Consultant. Department <strong>of</strong> Biology, Southwestern<br />
College, Winfield, Kansas. Mr. Thompson, who spent several<br />
summers doing biological research in the Pribil<strong>of</strong>s, helped the<br />
field party get established on St. Paul and locate study sites<br />
(10 - 19 June).<br />
134
B. Location <strong>of</strong> Field Activities<br />
Field work took place on St. Paul Island, Alaska, from 10 June<br />
to 30 <strong>September</strong>, 1975. During that period one member <strong>of</strong> the research<br />
team (M. Hunt) spent two weeks on St. George Island, from 24 <strong>July</strong><br />
until 8 August.<br />
Transportation to study sites from the village <strong>of</strong> St. Paul was<br />
accomplished primarily with the use <strong>of</strong> three Harley-Davidson 90CC<br />
motorbikes. When ladders needed to be moved and be<strong>for</strong>e the bikes<br />
arrived, we rented vehicles from either the National Marine Fisheries<br />
Service or from the Aleut Community Store.<br />
From 20 to 23 August two members <strong>of</strong> the party, D. Causey and<br />
D. Schwartz, participated in four days <strong>of</strong> pelagic seabird observa-<br />
tions on board the NOAA vessel Discoverer in the vicinity <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Pribil<strong>of</strong> Islands.<br />
On 9 August, L. Holmgren and M. Hunt made a helicopter survey<br />
<strong>of</strong>/birds on Otter and Walrus Islands near St. Paul Island. The<br />
helicopter was attached to the U.S. Coast Guard vessel Mellon.<br />
After the end <strong>of</strong> field work, D. Causey spent 6 days in October<br />
Sin Fairbanks, Alaska, at the Institute <strong>of</strong> Marine Sciences and 2 days<br />
in Seattle, Washington, at the National Marine Fisheries Service<br />
getting in<strong>for</strong>mation with which to analyze stomach contents <strong>of</strong> seabirds.<br />
135<br />
5
C. Study Areas and Work Schedule<br />
Study sites <strong>for</strong> the reproductive biology <strong>of</strong> seabirds on St. Paul<br />
and St. George Islands are presented in Figures 1 and 2. In Figure 1,<br />
the study areas between Southwest Point and Einahnuhto Bluffs are<br />
referred to as "Southwest Cliffs" in this study. Areas referred to<br />
as "Ridge Wall Cliffs" are coastal cliffs in the vicinity <strong>of</strong> Ridge<br />
Wall which itself is inland. In Figure 2, the Red-legged Kittiwake<br />
study area was located just east <strong>of</strong> the Staraya Artel Seal Rookery,<br />
which is not labeled on this map.<br />
Table 1 presents the schedule <strong>of</strong> activities while the scientific<br />
party was working in the Pribil<strong>of</strong> Islands and vicinity.<br />
136<br />
6
FIGURE 1
FIGURE 2
TABLE 1. Work Schedule<br />
Pribil<strong>of</strong> Islands 1975<br />
139
TABLE 1 (continued)<br />
140
TABLE 1 (continued)<br />
141
TABLE 1 (continued)<br />
142
D. Methods<br />
1. Reproductive Success<br />
Seabirds breeding on St. Paul Island either nest on cliff<br />
ledges or raise their young in holes and crevices in the cliffs<br />
or below ground among the rocks <strong>of</strong> boulder beaches. For those<br />
species which breed in the open (Common and Thick-billed Murres,<br />
Black-legged and Red-legged Kittiwakes, and Red-faced Cormorant),<br />
data on reproductive success can be obtained relatively easily by<br />
observation <strong>of</strong> many nests at a time from locations at the top or<br />
bottom <strong>of</strong> the cliffs. Accurate data on the hole-nesting species<br />
(Fulmars, in shallow caves, Tufted and Horned Puffins, and<br />
Crested, Least and Parakeet Auklets) must be obtained by looking<br />
into each nest individually.<br />
The basic techniques <strong>for</strong> obtaining data on the reproductive<br />
success <strong>of</strong> the five ledge-nesting species and the Horned Puffin<br />
were to locate nests, number them individually, and count the eggs<br />
or chicks contained in those nests usually every three to seven<br />
days either until chicks fledged and left the nest or until total<br />
egg or chick loss occurred. In order to get a good count <strong>of</strong> eggs<br />
and small chicks <strong>of</strong> ledge-nesting species near the cliff tops,<br />
adult birds reluctant to leave their nests <strong>of</strong>ten had to be scared<br />
<strong>of</strong>f by shouting or by dangling a rope over the cliff edge. In<br />
working with the two murre species it was imperative that the<br />
birds not be scared suddenly in order to minimize egg and chick<br />
loss. Murres were gradually alerted to our presence so that they<br />
would move slowly away from eggs or chicks be<strong>for</strong>e they left their<br />
143<br />
13
nesting ledges. As a result <strong>of</strong> our using this technique very<br />
few eggs or chicks were lost due to our activities. Egg and<br />
chick counts <strong>for</strong> the Horned Puffin, <strong>for</strong> part <strong>of</strong> the Black-legged<br />
Kittiwake sample on St. Paul Island and <strong>for</strong> the sample <strong>of</strong> Red-<br />
legged Kittiwakes on St. George Island were made by using a<br />
ladder at the bottom <strong>of</strong> the cliff to reach into nests and nesting<br />
holes in the cliff.<br />
For the two Kittiwake species and the Red-faced Cormorant<br />
the sample <strong>of</strong> nests included some which could only be viewed<br />
from below, and consequently counts <strong>of</strong> eggs and tiny chicks were<br />
impossible. However, data from these nests were used to calculate<br />
both fledging success and approximate egg-laying dates, as large<br />
chicks or incubating parents could be easily seen.<br />
In addition to counts <strong>of</strong> eggs and chicks <strong>for</strong> individual<br />
pairs <strong>of</strong> Common and Thick-billed Murres, certain ledges were<br />
chosen <strong>for</strong> study on which many birds bred and where it was<br />
impossible to tell individual eggs or chicks apart. In these<br />
areas the largest number <strong>of</strong> eggs and chicks on each ledge was<br />
used to calculate hatching and fledging success. While these<br />
figures represent the maximum possible breeding success <strong>for</strong> those<br />
pairs rather than the exact percentages, the data provide a<br />
useful comparison with the sample <strong>of</strong> individual nests, particularly<br />
<strong>for</strong> the Common Murres. In this species nesting is usually in<br />
large aggregations on wide ledges and the individual nests which<br />
we had to work with in order to get accurate data may not have<br />
been entirely representative <strong>of</strong> the population as a whole.<br />
144<br />
14
All probable nest sites located <strong>for</strong> Fulmars, Tufted Puffins<br />
and Crested Auklets were inaccessible. While most Fulmar nests<br />
were located in shallow caves, six nests were found on open<br />
ledges and progress <strong>of</strong> chicks in these nests could be followed<br />
from the top <strong>of</strong> the cliff. No accessible nest sites <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Parakeet Auklet were located until the end <strong>of</strong> their breeding<br />
season in 1975, but we feel that in the 1976 season we will be<br />
able to document Parakeet Auklet reproductive success.<br />
The most common nesting location <strong>for</strong> Least Auklets is one to<br />
two feet below the surface <strong>of</strong> the ground between the rocks <strong>of</strong><br />
boulder beaches. In digging to check nest contents, it is<br />
inevitable that the nest itself is destroyed. We dug up only<br />
one such nest which was located by the noises made by the chick.<br />
Two other accessible nests located in small holes in a cliff<br />
could be reached by using a ladder.<br />
Data were taken on colony attendance by cliff nesting species<br />
over a cycle <strong>of</strong> 36 hours by counting birds present every three<br />
hours. Other observations to be discussed in our next report<br />
include detailed measurements <strong>of</strong> nesting habitat preferences <strong>of</strong><br />
cliff nesting species and experiments designed to show which<br />
species are most easily disturbed from the nesting ledges and<br />
the consequences <strong>of</strong> their disturbance.<br />
2. Growth Rates<br />
Growth rates <strong>of</strong> young seabirds have been shown in past<br />
studies to be strongly correlated with fledging success.<br />
145<br />
15
Data on growth rates <strong>of</strong> the chicks <strong>of</strong> five species (Thick-<br />
billed Murre, Black-legged and Red-legged Kittiwakes, Red-faced<br />
Cormorant and Horned Puffin) were obtained by weighing chicks<br />
periodically, usually at least twice a week. Chicks were placed<br />
in cloth bags and weighed with Pesola spring scales (300 g to<br />
5 kg capacity, depending on the species and the size <strong>of</strong> the chick).<br />
The weight <strong>of</strong> the bag and <strong>of</strong> any food regurgitated by the chick<br />
were subtracted from the total weight to obtain the weight <strong>of</strong><br />
the chick.<br />
In all <strong>of</strong> the above species with the exception <strong>of</strong> the Thick-<br />
billed Murre the typical growth pattern is a period <strong>of</strong> rapid and<br />
steady weight gain followed by either a plateau or a slight<br />
decline in weight prior to fledging. In these cases the growth<br />
rate <strong>for</strong> the straight-line portion <strong>of</strong> the growth curve was calculated<br />
by the <strong>for</strong>mula: weight 2 - weight<br />
day 2 - day 1<br />
where the gain in weight between the first weighing and the peak<br />
weight is divided by the number <strong>of</strong> intervening days, yielding an<br />
average number <strong>of</strong> grams gained per day.<br />
3. Food Sampling<br />
In<strong>for</strong>mation on foods were obtained in four ways: (1) The<br />
birds were shot with a 16 gauge shot gun and their stomachs were<br />
removed and opened, (2) Chick regurgitation was collected,<br />
(3) Adult Least Auklets were captured in mist nets, and their<br />
regurgitation collected, (4) Photographs were taken <strong>of</strong> birds<br />
146<br />
16
(<strong>principal</strong>ly the Common and Thick-billed Murres) that held fish<br />
in their bills prior to feeding their young.<br />
Birds <strong>of</strong> several species were collected once or twice each<br />
week <strong>for</strong> 3-4 hours per session. On the average, 10-15 birds were<br />
killed each week. The stomachs were removed from each bird <strong>for</strong><br />
future content analysis. Each bird was skinned <strong>for</strong> use as a study<br />
skin or museum skeleton. The skinning process was quite time<br />
consuming, requiring 1/2 - 3/4 hours per bird.<br />
As the field season progressed and chicks began hatching,<br />
we were able to obtain food samples from Black-legged Kittiwake,<br />
Red-legged Kittiwake, and Red-faced Cormorant chicks. Chicks<br />
<strong>of</strong>ten regurgitated while being weighed, and during August and<br />
<strong>September</strong> samples from these species were obtained entirely by this<br />
method <strong>of</strong> collection from chicks rather than by shooting. We<br />
continued to shoot puffins, murres,.and Parakeet Auklets during<br />
this time, but collected samples from Least Auklets by mist-netting<br />
adults returning in the evening with food <strong>for</strong> their chicks. A<br />
bird containing food in its gular pouch would regurgitate as soon<br />
as it hit the net.<br />
Food samples were preserved in plastic Whirl-pak bags in 70%<br />
ethanol, and labeled as to sample number, species, island and<br />
date collected.<br />
4. Distribution <strong>of</strong> Foraging Seabirds<br />
Two members <strong>of</strong> the research team participated in four days<br />
<strong>of</strong> pelagic seabird observations on board the USCGSS Discoverer<br />
147<br />
17
(OSS 022). D. Causey and D. Schwartz conducted continuous<br />
censuses <strong>of</strong> seabirds from dawn to dusk from 20 through 23 August<br />
1975.<br />
Observations when the ship was moving were usually conducted<br />
by one observer who sto6d on the starboard side <strong>of</strong> the flying<br />
bridge (eye level 21 m above the water surface). The birds were<br />
recorded by numbers and location in one <strong>of</strong> three 100 meter<br />
segments parallel to the ship's course out to 300 meters from<br />
the ship. A course register and meteorological log were kept<br />
during all observations.<br />
Oceanographic stations were made at the completion <strong>of</strong> a two<br />
hour transect segment and in most cases, a Vertical Plankton Tow<br />
with a one meter net and a Tucker Trawl were made by other<br />
scientists on the ship. These plankton samples will be analyzed<br />
by Dr. Ted Cooney at the University <strong>of</strong> Alaska, who has agreed to<br />
provide us with his results. During the oceanographic stations<br />
seabird observations were made from the middle <strong>of</strong> the flying<br />
bridge. The observer faced the bow <strong>of</strong> the ship and recorded<br />
birds by number and location in each <strong>of</strong> three concentric 100 meter<br />
wide semicircles around the ship's bow. A diagram <strong>of</strong> the viewing<br />
areas accompanied the observation sheet.<br />
During all transects and stations, care was 'taken to ensure<br />
that observations were <strong>of</strong> a natural situation and not that<br />
influenced by the ship's presence in the water. Garbage and<br />
refuse was dumped only at the completion <strong>of</strong> the observations<br />
(23 August 1975), and a radar watch was kept <strong>for</strong> <strong>for</strong>eign and<br />
148<br />
18
domestic fishing vessels within the radar range (50 nautical<br />
miles). Ef<strong>for</strong>t was made not to count circling or following<br />
birds more than once.<br />
The proposed ship track <strong>for</strong> the Discoverer cruise is<br />
presented in Figure 3. Once the cruise began a number <strong>of</strong> changes<br />
were made in the days that certain areas were covered and in some<br />
<strong>of</strong> the tracklines themselves, although in general the original<br />
plan was followed. As <strong>of</strong> this writing in<strong>for</strong>mation on the exact<br />
route and timing <strong>of</strong> the ship's positions has not yet been sent<br />
to our group from Alaska.<br />
An approximation <strong>of</strong> the route followed is possible, however,<br />
<strong>for</strong> the ship's position was recorded on many <strong>of</strong> the observation<br />
records. Figure 4 presents the areas covered by the ship. For<br />
the purpose <strong>of</strong> preliminary data analysis the area is divided into<br />
grid blocks 10' x 10'. These grid blocks are divided into three<br />
groups: Island, Continental Shelf and Continental Shelf Edge<br />
grid blocks. Island grid blocks are those in which the ship's<br />
course passed within 10 nautical miles <strong>of</strong> St. Paul or St. George<br />
Islands. Likewise, Continental Shelf Edge grid blocks are those<br />
in which the ship came within 10 nautical miles <strong>of</strong> the shelf<br />
edge (the 100 m depth line in Fig. 4 is approximate). All<br />
remaining grid blocks were over the Continental Shelf itself.<br />
149<br />
19
FIGURE 3
FIGURE 4
5. Survey <strong>of</strong> Otter and Walrus Islands<br />
A brief survey <strong>of</strong> Otter and Walrus Islands (Figure 5) was<br />
conducted by M. Hunt and L. Holmgren using a Coast Guard<br />
helicopter on 9 August, an unusually bright and clear day. The<br />
main purpose <strong>of</strong> the flight was to census by photography a colony<br />
<strong>of</strong> Common Murres reported breeding in large numbers on Walrus<br />
Island early in the century, which had by 1954 declined in size<br />
due to crowding by Steller's Sea Lions. Each island was circled<br />
twice at an altitude <strong>of</strong> 800 feet with the helicopter staying<br />
approximately 500 feet out from the edge <strong>of</strong> Walrus Island and<br />
1,000 feet out from the cliffs <strong>of</strong> Otter Island. Slides were<br />
taken using High-speed Ectachrome film in a Nikon camera with<br />
an 80-200 mm zoom lens.<br />
152<br />
22
FIGURE 5
E. Data Collected<br />
Table 2 indicates the dates on.which reproductive data were<br />
collected <strong>for</strong> each species at each study site. Included in this<br />
table are days on which counts were made <strong>of</strong> breeding birds on the<br />
cliffs as well as days <strong>of</strong> nest chicks and chick weighings.<br />
Table 3 provides a numerical summary <strong>of</strong> the different types<br />
<strong>of</strong> data gathered.during the 1975 season.<br />
154<br />
24
TABLE 2<br />
Dates and Locations <strong>of</strong> Colony Work<br />
St. Paul and St. George Islands - 1975<br />
155
TABLE 2 (continued)<br />
156
TABLE 2 (continued)<br />
157
TABLE 2 (continued)<br />
158
TABLE 3<br />
Types <strong>of</strong> Data Collected, Pribil<strong>of</strong> Islands 1975
III. RESULTS<br />
A. Reproductive Success<br />
1. Fulmar (Fulmarus glacialis).<br />
Pairs <strong>of</strong> Fulmars on St. Paul nest almost exclusively in<br />
shallow caves on the high cliffs <strong>of</strong> the western end <strong>of</strong> the<br />
island. Observations from the clifftop <strong>of</strong> birds at 43 potential<br />
nest sites near the Einahnuhto Bluffs were begun in late June<br />
(see Table 2). These nest sites, all inaccessible to researchers,<br />
were located either on open ledges or, more frequently, in small<br />
caves in certain volcanic strata <strong>of</strong> the cliff face.<br />
Two main problems encountered in this study were the lack <strong>of</strong><br />
visibility into the caves and the fluctuations in both numbers <strong>of</strong><br />
Fulmars seen and in their distribution in various areas <strong>of</strong> the<br />
cliff. On one large ledge numbers <strong>of</strong> Fulmars seen ranged from<br />
8 to 18 on any given day, with birds usually in different posi-<br />
tions from the previous observations. Other potential nest sites<br />
were occupied erratically. On the whole it was very difficult<br />
to ascertain which areas were actually nest sites. In 14 <strong>of</strong><br />
the original potential nest locations, Fulmars were observed<br />
on all days that observations were made. Although no eggs were<br />
ever seen, in six <strong>of</strong> these locations chicks appeared and were<br />
observed consistently through the last observation. Hatching<br />
most likely occurred during the last week <strong>of</strong> <strong>July</strong> and the first<br />
week <strong>of</strong> August.<br />
Unless better means <strong>of</strong> access to nests can be found, data<br />
on the breeding success <strong>of</strong> Fulmars on St. Paul will be at best<br />
sketchy.<br />
160<br />
30
2. Red-faced Cormorant (Phalacrocorax urile).<br />
Red-faced Cormorant nests on St. Paul Island tended to<br />
be clumped on certain cliffs despite the apparent availability<br />
<strong>of</strong> potential nest sites in other areas. While nests <strong>of</strong> "nearest<br />
neighbor" cormorants were sometimes separated by ledges <strong>of</strong><br />
murres and kittiwake nests, it was unusual to find a single<br />
cormorant nest farther than twenty meters from another one.<br />
The largest aggregations <strong>of</strong> cormorant nests that could be<br />
easily observed were at Polovina Rookery Cliffs, Zapadni Point,<br />
Ridge Wall Cliffs and Tsammana. Scattered nests not included in<br />
the sample were also located at Tolstoi Point and along the<br />
cliffs <strong>of</strong> the west end <strong>of</strong> the island. The 88 nests under<br />
observation may well represent a major portion <strong>of</strong> the breeding<br />
population on St. Paul, perhaps as much as 50%.<br />
Egg-laying was <strong>for</strong> the most part complete by the time study<br />
sites were set up in late June. In our sample <strong>of</strong> 88 nests counts<br />
<strong>of</strong> eggs were obtained <strong>for</strong> 33 nests (Table 4). At the remaining<br />
nests either we were unable to scare <strong>of</strong>f the incubating parent<br />
or, in the case <strong>of</strong> the cormorants at Zapadni, we observed the<br />
nest from the beach below. Of the total sample, approximately<br />
90% <strong>of</strong> the pairs laid eggs (Table 4).<br />
Hatching success <strong>of</strong> eggs in the sample <strong>of</strong> 33 nests was<br />
approximately 40% (Table 4). This figure is inexact since the<br />
parent birds were reluctant to stop brooding their newly hatched<br />
young and good counts <strong>of</strong> tiny chicks were rarely obtained.<br />
While most eggs that were lost simply disappeared, in four cases<br />
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TABLE 4. Red-faced Cormorant Reproductive Success<br />
St. Paul Island - 1975
an egg was kicked out <strong>of</strong> the nest by an adult when it was scared<br />
and flew <strong>of</strong>f. Four nests with eggs located 2-3 meters above<br />
mean high water were washed away during a storm. Three nests<br />
may have lost clutches to fox predation. Nine eggs in five<br />
nests did not hatch, and remained in the nest after hatching<br />
should have occurred. Most clutches hatched during the last<br />
week <strong>of</strong> June and the first week <strong>of</strong> <strong>July</strong>.<br />
Mortality <strong>of</strong> chicks prior to fledging was about 32-40%.<br />
This percentage is inexact because the precise number <strong>of</strong> chicks<br />
hatched is not known. As with eggs, most young that died simply<br />
disappeared. One tiny chick was kicked from the nest when the<br />
parent was scared <strong>of</strong>f, and two small chicks died in their nestc<br />
<strong>of</strong> unknown causes. A large chick that was nearly fledged died<br />
after losing 770 grams in two weeks from a peak <strong>of</strong> 2,300 grams.<br />
Two broods may have lost young to foxes.<br />
Growth rates were obtained <strong>for</strong> eight cormorant chicks from<br />
three nests at Polovina and one at Ridge Wall. Weight at hatching<br />
is about 30 grams. The average growth rate in the straight-line<br />
portion <strong>of</strong> the growth curve was 61.8 + S.D. 10.21 grams per day<br />
(range 48.5 - 72.8 g/day). Peak weights <strong>of</strong> chicks (at about<br />
five weeks <strong>of</strong> age) ranged from 1,700 to 2,300 grams, probably<br />
depending on the sex <strong>of</strong> the bird.<br />
3. Black-legged Kittiwakes<br />
The Black-legged Kittiwake nests in pr<strong>of</strong>usion wherever<br />
nesting space is available on the cliffs <strong>of</strong> St. Paul. This<br />
163<br />
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species is almost certainly the next most abundant <strong>of</strong> the cliff-<br />
nesters after the murres.<br />
Black-legged Kittiwake nests in three study sites were<br />
chosen either because <strong>of</strong> the ease <strong>of</strong> reaching them with a ladder<br />
(at Tsammana), or because <strong>of</strong> their proximity to Red-legged<br />
Kittiwake nests (at Zapadni and Ridge Wall cliffs) which, in a<br />
comparison <strong>of</strong> these two closely related species, would control<br />
<strong>for</strong> possible differences in environmental factors affecting their<br />
nesting success.<br />
Nests at the three study sites were followed from prior to<br />
egg-laying in June and early <strong>July</strong> until the chicks left the<br />
nests in <strong>September</strong> (Table 2). Of the three sites, the Tsammana<br />
study area yielded the most satisfactory data because nests were<br />
lowenough to reach with a ladder in one section and close enough<br />
to the top <strong>of</strong> the cliff in another section that adults could<br />
usually be scared <strong>of</strong>f their nests long enough <strong>for</strong> us to get an<br />
accurate count <strong>of</strong> eggs and small chicks. At Ridge Wall we<br />
viewed nests from the cliff top but were not able to get good<br />
egg counts in all nests. At the Zapadni site we viewed nests<br />
from the bottom <strong>of</strong> the cliff and egg counts were impossible, but<br />
the data obtained from there on fledging success were comparable<br />
with other areas.<br />
Nesting and timing <strong>of</strong> breeding success <strong>of</strong> the Black-legged<br />
Kittiwake are presented in Table 5 and Figure 6. Although many<br />
pairs laid two eggs, in most cases only one egg hatched; however,<br />
in other cases whether the second egg hatched is not known.<br />
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In all nests where two chicks hatched, one chick was gone<br />
be<strong>for</strong>e the age <strong>of</strong> ten days.<br />
Causes <strong>of</strong> egg and chick loss in the Black-legged Kittiwake<br />
were undetermined <strong>for</strong> the most part. A few eggs did not hatch<br />
and were not incubated after the normal incubation period. Some<br />
eggs disappeared be<strong>for</strong>e they should have hatched. A very few<br />
<strong>of</strong> these may have been taken by foxes in areas where the slope<br />
<strong>of</strong> the cliff was less than 90°. In several other cases the<br />
nest itself disintegrated and fell <strong>of</strong>f the cliff. Chick mortality<br />
was probably due mostly to chicks falling out <strong>of</strong> the nest. In<br />
three cases chicks were found unhurt at the bottom <strong>of</strong> the cliff<br />
below their nests; these were counted as "dead" because they<br />
were unable to fly back to their nests and foxes soon would<br />
have found and eaten them. One chick died while being weighed.<br />
The pattern <strong>of</strong> growth in the Black-legged Kittiwake chick<br />
is first a period <strong>of</strong> rapid weight gain from a hatching weight<br />
<strong>of</strong> 35-40 grams, followed by a plateau usually between 400 and<br />
550 grams during which time most <strong>of</strong> the contour feather producrion<br />
takes place. Average peak weight is 484 grams (range 427-585<br />
grams), and probably depends partly on the sex <strong>of</strong> the chick. The<br />
average growth rate during the straight-line portion <strong>of</strong> the<br />
growth curve <strong>for</strong> 34 chicks at Tsammana was 17.9 + 3.4 grans/day<br />
gained (range 11.9 - 26.3 g/day). No statistical differences<br />
were found between the growth rates <strong>of</strong> chicks that survived<br />
(18.0 ± 3.7 g/day, n = 27) and those that died (17.7 + 2.0 g/day,<br />
n = 7), <strong>principal</strong>ly because the chicks that died either<br />
165<br />
35
TABLE 5<br />
Reproductive Success <strong>of</strong><br />
Black-legged Kittiwakes<br />
St. Paul Island, AK - 1975<br />
166
FIGURE 6<br />
PRESENCE OF NESTS WITH EGGS OR CHICKS<br />
BLACK-LEGGED KITTIWAKES<br />
TSAMMANA STUDY AREA<br />
ST. PAUL, ALASKA 1975
disappeared when they were very small be<strong>for</strong>e a second weight<br />
<strong>for</strong> calculating growth rates could be obtained (n = 4), or died<br />
after reaching peak weight but be<strong>for</strong>e they were able to fly.<br />
4. Red-legged Kittiwake (Rissa brevirostris)<br />
Red-legged Kittiwakes nests on St. Paul Island are scattered<br />
in clumps <strong>of</strong> two to ten among nests <strong>of</strong> the Black-legged Kittiwake.<br />
Whereas the latter species is very numerous, the Red-legs<br />
represent only a tiny fraction <strong>of</strong> all Kittiwakes breeding on the<br />
island.<br />
Four study sites were chosen <strong>for</strong> the Red-legged Kittiwakes:<br />
Tsammana, Zapadni, Ridge Wall Cliffs and Einahnuhto Bluffs north<br />
<strong>of</strong> Southwest Point (Table 2). At none <strong>of</strong> these sites could we<br />
reach Red-leg nests with a ladder; all data were obtained by<br />
observation alone. As with the Black-legged Kittiwakes, the most<br />
satisfactory data were obtained at the Tsammana site. Nesting<br />
success <strong>of</strong> this species on St. Paul is presented in Table 6.<br />
Since we were not able to reach any nests to obtain growth<br />
rates <strong>of</strong> the Red-legged Kittiwake on St. Paul Island, we decided<br />
to sample Red-leg nests on St. George Island where the species<br />
is more numerous. M. Hunt spent two weeks on St. George from<br />
24 <strong>July</strong> to 8 August. Using a ladder with the help <strong>of</strong> Dr. Joseph<br />
Hickey's two field assistants, she sampled 28 Red-leg nests once<br />
every three days (Table 2). In lieu <strong>of</strong> returning to St. George<br />
later in the season she hired John Francis, a student spending<br />
the summer on St. George working <strong>for</strong> Dr. Roger Gentry <strong>of</strong> the<br />
168<br />
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National Marine Fisheries Service, to check the nests every<br />
four to six days, weigh the chicks, and record the development<br />
<strong>of</strong> their plumage.<br />
Timing <strong>of</strong> breeding and breeding success <strong>of</strong> St. George<br />
Red-legs are presented in Figure 7 and Table 7. In interpreting<br />
these results it must be remembered that work was begun later<br />
in the season than at St. Paul and ended shortly be<strong>for</strong>e most<br />
chicks should have fledged. Average growth rate <strong>for</strong> these chicks<br />
during the straight line portion <strong>of</strong> the growth curve was 13.7 +<br />
3.7 grams per day (range 4.0 - 19.1 g/day, n = 18). One small<br />
chick with the lowest growth rate (4.0 g/day) was found dead in<br />
its nest, while another chick with the second lowest growth<br />
rate (8.3 g/day) disappeared. Surviving chicks grew at an<br />
average <strong>of</strong> 14.7 + 2.4 g/day (range 10.3 - 19.1 g/day, n = 16).<br />
The peak growth varied from 327 to 443 g with an average <strong>of</strong><br />
400 g. This weight then dropped slightly until chicks were able<br />
to fly, usually a week to ten days after reaching peak weight.<br />
5. Common Murre (Uria aalge).<br />
Most <strong>of</strong> the Common Murres nesting on St. Paul Island breed<br />
on wide ledges on which many birds <strong>of</strong> the same species congregate<br />
in dense groups. A very small percentage <strong>of</strong> the Common Murres<br />
breed on narrower ledges six inches to a foot wide, <strong>of</strong>ten among<br />
pairs <strong>of</strong> Thick-billed Murres. No nest is built; the murres<br />
lay their single eggs on the bare rock and incubate by holding<br />
them on top <strong>of</strong> their feet against the brood patch in the stomach<br />
169<br />
39
TABLE 6<br />
Reproductive Success <strong>of</strong><br />
Red-legged Kittiwake<br />
St. Paul Island - 1975
TABLE 7<br />
Reproductive Success <strong>of</strong><br />
Red-legged Kittiwake<br />
St. George Island 1975<br />
171
FIGURE 7<br />
PRESENCE OF NESTS WITH EGGS OR CHICKS.<br />
RED-LEGGED KITTIWAKE, STARAYA ARTEL<br />
ST. GEORGE ISLAND 1975
area. Chicks that "fledge" spend an average <strong>of</strong> 2 1/2 weeks on<br />
the ledges be<strong>for</strong>e leaving to be fed at sea by the adults. During<br />
this short time on the cliffs their natal down is replaced by<br />
contour feathers, but chicks attain only about one-third <strong>of</strong><br />
their adult weight be<strong>for</strong>e leaving.<br />
It is <strong>of</strong>ten difficult <strong>for</strong> an observer to tell whether a<br />
murre is incubating an egg or brooding a small chick merely by<br />
the position <strong>of</strong> the bird. As with many <strong>of</strong> the other species<br />
nesting on the cliffs <strong>of</strong> St. Paul, the murres were reluctant to<br />
move away from eggs or small chicks long enough <strong>for</strong> an observer<br />
to count them. There were very few individual nests or broad<br />
ledges <strong>of</strong> Common Murres that were close enough to the top <strong>of</strong><br />
the cliff <strong>for</strong> an observer to persuade the birds to move. In<br />
addition, large numbers <strong>of</strong> murres that frequented these ledges<br />
appeared to be non-breeders.<br />
Table 8 shows the hatching and chick survival <strong>of</strong> Common<br />
Murres both in individual nests and on large ledges. Chicks<br />
were classified as "fledged" if they were observed until they<br />
were at least 15 days old. Calculations <strong>for</strong> breeding success on<br />
the broad ledges are based on the maximum number <strong>of</strong> eggs and<br />
chicks observed. In these areas it is impossible to tell whether<br />
eggs observed on a given day are the same ones observed previously,<br />
or whether chicks that are no longer there have fallen <strong>of</strong>f the<br />
ledges prematurely or have "fledged". There<strong>for</strong>e, percentages <strong>for</strong><br />
the broad ledges are at best estimates. Data from the individual<br />
nests may not be representative <strong>of</strong> the Common Murre population <strong>of</strong>.<br />
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St. Paul, as these more accessible nest sites are perhaps in a<br />
suboptimal habitat.<br />
Table 8 does show, however, that egg mottality is very high<br />
in the Common Murre, and that the number <strong>of</strong>chicks "fledged"<br />
per egg laid is very small. Judging from the number <strong>of</strong> broken<br />
eggshells at the bottom <strong>of</strong> the cliffs, a main cause <strong>of</strong> egg<br />
mortality is falling <strong>of</strong>f the ledges. This happens normally,<br />
even when birds are not startled suddenly. Other eggs roll and<br />
become jammed into cracks where the adults cannot incubate them.<br />
Foxes take large numbers <strong>of</strong> murre eggs (presumably <strong>of</strong> both species),<br />
although it is not known whether this accounts <strong>for</strong> any egg mortality<br />
in our sample. Disturbance by aircraft may have accounted <strong>for</strong><br />
part <strong>of</strong> the egg mortality (see Table 10, discussed under Thick-<br />
billed Murres).<br />
Figure 8 presents the dates when Common Murre eggs and chicks<br />
were observed on the communal ledges <strong>of</strong> the Ridge Wall Study Site.<br />
In cases where the area was censused more than once during each<br />
five-day interval on the graph, the maximum figures were used.<br />
While this figure indicates that the peak <strong>of</strong> laying in 1975<br />
occurred around 17 <strong>July</strong>, this date is probably not an accurate<br />
representation <strong>of</strong> what occurred on the entire island. The Common<br />
Murre ledges that contributed data to this graph sustained heavy<br />
egging by the native Aleuts on 29 June, an activity that caused<br />
egg relaying and delayed chick hatching by 10-20 days.<br />
174<br />
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TABLE 8<br />
COMMON MURRE REPRODUCTIVE SUCCESS<br />
ST. PAUL ISLAND - 1975<br />
175
PRESENCE OF EGGS AND CHICKS<br />
COMMON MURRE NESTS<br />
RIDGE WALL STUDY AREA<br />
ST. PAUL ISLAND, ALASKA 1975<br />
FIGURE 8
6. Thick-billed Murre (Uria lomvia)<br />
The most numerous <strong>of</strong> cliff-nesting seabirds on St. Paul, the<br />
Thick-billed Murre is found on all cliff areas <strong>of</strong> the island.<br />
Breeding biology <strong>of</strong> this species is nearly identical to that <strong>of</strong><br />
the Common Murre, except that its preferred nesting habitat is<br />
narrow ledges where pairs breed in linear <strong>for</strong>mation rather than<br />
in clumped groups. Individual nests close to the cliff top were<br />
much easier to locate than <strong>for</strong> the Common Murre.<br />
Breeding success <strong>of</strong> Thick-billed Murres both in individual<br />
pairs and groups <strong>of</strong> pairs is presented in Table 9. While causes<br />
<strong>of</strong> egg and chick mortality in this species are the same as <strong>for</strong><br />
the Common Murre, it is possible that fox predation played a<br />
larger role in our sample <strong>of</strong> Thick-billed Murres than in the<br />
sample <strong>of</strong> Common Murres.<br />
In addition to natural causes <strong>of</strong> mortality, disturbance by<br />
aircraft may have caused a significant portion <strong>of</strong> egg and chick<br />
deaths in both species <strong>of</strong> murre (Table 10). When aircraft<br />
approach the cliffs, huge numbers <strong>of</strong> birds are scared <strong>of</strong>f their<br />
breeding sites. This can be particularly damaging to the murres,<br />
which do not have nests to prevent eggs from rolling if the parents<br />
leave suddenly.<br />
Figure 9 shows the dates when eggs and chicks were observed.<br />
For this graph data from three study areas are combined, and in<br />
cases where sites were visited more than once during a five-day<br />
period, the maximum numbers <strong>of</strong> eggs or chicks were used. The<br />
data from Ridge Wall that are included in this graph were affected<br />
177<br />
47
TABLE 9<br />
THICK-BILLED MURRE REPRODUCTIVE SUCCESS<br />
ST. PAUL ISLAND 1975<br />
178
TABLE 10<br />
CHICK AND EGG MORTALITY OF COMMON AND THICK-BILLED<br />
MURRES FOLLOWING AIRCRAFT ACTIVITY NEARBY*<br />
ST. PAUL ISLAND 1975<br />
179
FIGURE 9<br />
PRESENCE OF EGGS AND CHICKS<br />
THICK-BILLED MURRE NESTS<br />
RIDGE WALL, TSAMMANA AND<br />
SOUTHWEST POINT STUDY AREAS<br />
ST. PAUL ISLAND, ALASKA 1975
FIGURE 10<br />
THICK-BILLED MURRE CHICK GROWTH RATES<br />
ST. PAUL ISLAND - 1975
y egging activity by Aleut people on 29 June, effectively<br />
delaying the peaks <strong>of</strong> egg numbers and chick hatchings.<br />
Growth measurements were obtained fur seven Thick-billed<br />
Murre chicks which were accessible to researchers and either<br />
inaccessible to or overlooked by foxes (Figure 10). Starting<br />
from a hatching weight <strong>of</strong> about 75 grams the chicks gain roughly<br />
20 grams per day until a short period <strong>of</strong> extensive feather<br />
development during which weight gain is slower. The chicks then<br />
gain more weight, which peaks and drops just be<strong>for</strong>e the chicks<br />
leave the cliff. Chicks that grow too slowly may not survive<br />
(see chick #81, Figure 10).<br />
7. Horned Puffin (Fratercula corniculata)<br />
Horned Puffins on St. Paul Island nest in holes in the cliff<br />
face, and lay their single eggs in nests constructed <strong>of</strong> grass and<br />
bits <strong>of</strong> seaweed. Due to the presence <strong>of</strong> foxes, these birds do<br />
not nest in burrows in the ground inland from the cliffs as they<br />
do in other parts <strong>of</strong> their range.<br />
Observation <strong>of</strong> Horned Puffins from the cliff top to determine<br />
nest attendance and timing <strong>of</strong> breeding proved difficult and<br />
unsatisfactory. In addition to two accessible nests found at<br />
Tsammana in June, in August an area at Ridge Wall was located<br />
where nine Horned Puffin nests could be reached from the ground<br />
with a ladder. Exploration <strong>of</strong> this area proved that many holes<br />
thought earlier to be puffin nests were empty. Holes that did<br />
contain nests were approximately 10-15 inches high at the mouth<br />
and from 1 to 4 feet in width. Most <strong>of</strong> the grassy nests<br />
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were located in an open "antemchamber" 8-12 inches high towards<br />
the front <strong>of</strong> the burrow. Often the hole continued out <strong>of</strong> arm's<br />
reach, becoming deep and narrow towards the back.<br />
All eggs in the 11 Horned Puffin nests hatched. Assuming an<br />
incubation period <strong>of</strong> 42 days (as is the case <strong>for</strong> its congener the<br />
Common Puffin, Fratercula arctica), egg laying was calculated to<br />
have taken place during the first two weeks <strong>of</strong> <strong>July</strong> with hatching<br />
in mid to late August. Puffin chicks are the last seabird young<br />
to leave their nests in <strong>September</strong>.<br />
Data on fledging success and growth rates proved somewhat<br />
difficult to obtain as the chicks tended to crawl out <strong>of</strong> reach<br />
to the back <strong>of</strong> the holes when they heard the ladder against the<br />
cliff. While at least five <strong>of</strong> the 11 chicks were believed to<br />
have fledged, six others either disappeared or may have hidden in<br />
the backs <strong>of</strong> the cracks out <strong>of</strong> sight when they heard us coming.<br />
This problem will be easily remedied next year by blocking the<br />
access to the back parts <strong>of</strong> the nesting holes with rocks be<strong>for</strong>e<br />
the eggs hatch.<br />
The average growth <strong>of</strong> eight Horned Puffin chicks was 11.1 +<br />
1.3 grams per day (range 8.2 - 12.8 g/day) from a hatching weight<br />
<strong>of</strong> about 50 grams. Peak growth was attained 30-35 days after<br />
hatching.<br />
8. Tufted Puffins (Lunda cirrhata)<br />
While neither species <strong>of</strong> puffin on St. Paul is numerous,<br />
Tufted Puffins are far less common than Horned Puffins, possibly<br />
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53
y an order <strong>of</strong> magnitude. Like the Horned Puffin the Tufted<br />
Puffin nests in holes in the cliff face. Most holes that we<br />
believe were occupied were located toward the top <strong>of</strong> the cliff,<br />
and all were well out <strong>of</strong> reach <strong>of</strong> a ladder. Some <strong>of</strong> these holes<br />
may possibly be explored next year with use <strong>of</strong> a rope ladder.<br />
9. Crested Auklet (Aethia cristatella)<br />
Crested Auklets are the rarest <strong>of</strong> all seabird species breeding<br />
on St. Paul Island, representing only an infinitismally small<br />
fraction <strong>of</strong> the total number <strong>of</strong> birds present. On St. Lawrence<br />
Island, where this species breeds in huge numbers, nests are<br />
located between large boulders <strong>of</strong> talus slopes. This type <strong>of</strong><br />
habitat does not exist on St. Paul, and Crested Auklets must<br />
nest either in holes in the cliff or among the rocks <strong>of</strong> boulder<br />
beaches along with its smaller congener, the Least Auklet. Only<br />
one possible nest <strong>of</strong> the Crested Auklet was located during the<br />
1975 season, and it was inaccessible by ladder. This species was<br />
net seen on St. Paul after the middle <strong>of</strong> August.<br />
10. Least Auklet (Aethia pusilla)<br />
Least Auklets, the smallest <strong>of</strong> the alcids, are by far the<br />
most abundant <strong>of</strong> the hole-nesting seabird species on St. Paul,<br />
and may be rivaled only by the murres in population size. Many<br />
<strong>of</strong> them nest in dense colonies among the boulders below the<br />
surface <strong>of</strong> three rocky barrier beaches (East Landing, Salt<br />
Lagoon and Antone Lake). Others nest individually in small<br />
holes in the cliff face and probably also use the rocky rubble<br />
at the foot <strong>of</strong> the cliffs.<br />
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Least Auklets exhibited a regular attendance pattern at<br />
their breeding areas, and were either present in large numbers<br />
or almost totally absent depending on the time <strong>of</strong> day.<br />
In the case <strong>of</strong> beach-nesting birds examination <strong>of</strong> nest<br />
contents effectively means destroying the nests: there<strong>for</strong>e, we<br />
did not attempt to get in<strong>for</strong>mation on reproductive success by<br />
this method. However, we have evidence <strong>for</strong> the timing <strong>of</strong> breeding<br />
<strong>of</strong> the Least Auklet. The egg stage began in early to middle June.<br />
Two eggs collected by Aleuts on 15 June were measured and opened.<br />
One egg measured 4.09 x 3.08 cm and contained an embryo 0.76 cm<br />
long. The other egg was 4.03 x 2.97 cm and contained an embryo<br />
1.08 cm long. With an incubation period <strong>of</strong> about one month, these<br />
eggs were less than a week old. Chicks were present from mid<br />
<strong>July</strong> to mid August. On 15 <strong>July</strong> we dug up a nest with a newly<br />
hatched chick (weight 15 grams). During the next month, in<br />
order to collect regurgitation samples, we mist-netted adults<br />
bringing food back to their young in the evening. From mid <strong>July</strong><br />
to mid August we could hear the chicks chirping constantly among<br />
the rocks below the beach surface. By 14 August very few adults<br />
were present and most <strong>of</strong> the underground chirping had ceased.<br />
Least Auklets seen during the last two weeks <strong>of</strong> August represented<br />
only a tiny fraction <strong>of</strong> the numbers that had been present earlier.<br />
Two Least Auklet nests were found in small holes in a cliff.<br />
In one <strong>of</strong> these a small chick that was first seen on 18 August<br />
was growing contour and primary feathers when last observed on<br />
1 <strong>September</strong>. The hole was too small <strong>for</strong> us to reach the chick<br />
to measure its growth.<br />
185<br />
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11. Parakeet Auklet (Cyclorrhynchus psittacula)<br />
Parakeet Auklets are ubiquitous, although scattered, on the<br />
cliffs <strong>of</strong> St. Paul, nesting in small holes in the cliff face.<br />
We were not able to locate any accessible nests until the end<br />
<strong>of</strong> their breeding season in mid August. In three cases we<br />
found an egg that had rolled into such a position that it could<br />
not be incubated. Another egg, presumably laid by a Parakeet<br />
Auklet judging by its size, was found wedged behind the nest <strong>of</strong><br />
a Horned Puffin, Next year suitable areas <strong>of</strong> cliff will be explored<br />
in June with ladders and we anticipate obtaining a reasonable<br />
sample <strong>of</strong> nests <strong>for</strong> data on reproductive success and growth rates<br />
<strong>of</strong> young.<br />
186<br />
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B. Foods<br />
Table 11 presents the number <strong>of</strong> birds collected <strong>for</strong> food samples<br />
and the anticipated percent <strong>of</strong> useful food samples taken from these<br />
birds. However, until the samples have been analyzed the true<br />
percentages will not be known.<br />
Table 12 summarizes the total number <strong>of</strong> food samples taken from<br />
both shot and non-shot birds. This latter category includes not only<br />
chick regurgitation samples, but also miscellaneous samples found<br />
on murre ledges and below the bird cliffs and regurgitations from<br />
adult Least Auklets caught in mist nets.<br />
Although identification <strong>of</strong> food samples has just begun and will<br />
be discussed in detail in the next report, some generalizations on<br />
the types <strong>of</strong> foods used by different species may be made. The two<br />
Kittiwake species relied almost entirely on fish, although occasionally<br />
samples <strong>of</strong> small shrimp were found in the regurgitation <strong>of</strong> Black-<br />
legged Kittiwake chicks. The Red-faced Cormorant had a varied diet,<br />
and a single sample <strong>of</strong>ten contained two or three different food<br />
organisms. Fish and shrimp predominated in these samples with squid<br />
and small red crabs occurring fairly frequently. The two murre<br />
species contained mostly fish and occasionally a few small crustaceans.<br />
Food samples from the three auklet species uni<strong>for</strong>mly contained<br />
zooplankton. While Horned and Tufted Puffins that were collected<br />
rarely had food in their stomachs, Horned Puffins were occasionally<br />
seen carrying several small fish at a time in their bills during<br />
August and <strong>September</strong>, the period in which puffin chicks were present.<br />
187<br />
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Due to predominately overcast weather, we were able to take<br />
only a limited number <strong>of</strong> useful photographs <strong>of</strong> murres holding fish<br />
in their beaks. However, we are optimistic that with use <strong>of</strong> a<br />
higher-speed film next season a larger number <strong>of</strong> useable slides <strong>of</strong><br />
foods used by murres and puffins will be obtained. Our results<br />
show that this technique has promise, and we feel that the expense<br />
<strong>of</strong> investment in camera gear will prove warranted.<br />
188<br />
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TABLE 11. Numbers <strong>of</strong> Birds Collected <strong>for</strong> Food Samples<br />
St. Paul Island 1975
TABLE 12. Total Food Samples Collected*<br />
St. Paul Island, Alaska<br />
Summer 1975<br />
190
C. Distribution <strong>of</strong> Foraging Seabirds<br />
Approximately 28,000 seabirds <strong>of</strong> 23 different species were<br />
seen in the 203 km2 viewed during four days <strong>of</strong> dawn to dusk observa-<br />
tions. A detailed report containing such in<strong>for</strong>mation as the number<br />
<strong>of</strong> transects and stations made and the density <strong>of</strong> each species per<br />
km2 <strong>of</strong> transect will have to wait until records <strong>of</strong> the <strong>of</strong>ficial<br />
Course Register and Ship's Log are sent to our project from Alaska.<br />
For preliminary analysis prior to knowing the precise route<br />
<strong>of</strong> the Discoverer, the birds recorded during the cruise were grouped<br />
according to the 10' square <strong>of</strong> ocean in which they were observed<br />
(see Fig. 4). Figures 11 through 20 show the number <strong>of</strong> the most<br />
numerous seabird species seen in each 10' x 10' grid block. In<br />
these figures numbers <strong>of</strong> birds seen in the same block on different<br />
days have been separated. Numbers <strong>of</strong> other species seen appear in<br />
the Appendix.<br />
Figures 13-20 suggest that some seabirds are found more<br />
commonly near land while others appear to congregate in largest<br />
numbers at the Continental Shelf edge. However, without the knowledge<br />
<strong>of</strong> the exact kilometers <strong>of</strong> trackline through each grid block these<br />
raw numbers may be misleading. In order to illustrate more<br />
accurately the tendency <strong>of</strong> species to gather in certain areas,<br />
Table 13 shows both the number <strong>of</strong> birds seen and the percent occurrence<br />
<strong>of</strong> species in each <strong>of</strong> three categories <strong>of</strong> ocean habitat.<br />
Of the birds breeding on the Pribil<strong>of</strong> Islands, the murres and<br />
kittiwakes were seen most frequently in all three habitat areas<br />
(Table 13). It is possible that not all <strong>of</strong> these birds were<br />
191<br />
61
eeding. While all <strong>of</strong> the alcids (murres, auklets and puffins)<br />
were seen more <strong>of</strong>ten near the islands, kittiwakes and fulmars<br />
occurred more frequently in continental shelf and shelf edge areas.<br />
The small number <strong>of</strong> Red-faced Cormorants seen occurred mostly in<br />
continental shelf areas. Auklets (including "small unidentified<br />
alcids") constituted a relatively small percentage <strong>of</strong> the total<br />
number <strong>of</strong> birds; by the time the cruise took place toward the end<br />
<strong>of</strong> August most had left their breeding grounds on the islands.<br />
Of the birds seen that do not breed in the Pribil<strong>of</strong>s, the<br />
shearwaters far outnumbered all other species in all three area<br />
types. Petrels were concentrated in areas away from the islands<br />
and constituted approximately 20 percent <strong>of</strong> all birds seen in<br />
continental shelf grid blocks.<br />
192<br />
62
TABLE 13. Numbers <strong>of</strong> Seabirds Observed and Percent Occurrence in Three Ocean Habitats<br />
193
FIGURE 11<br />
Total Birds Seen on the Cruise <strong>of</strong> U.S.C.G.S. Discoverer, 20 - 23 August 1975
FIGURE 12<br />
Number <strong>of</strong> Species <strong>of</strong> Birds Seen on the Cruise <strong>of</strong> U.S.C.G.S. Discoverer', 20 - 23 August 1975
FIGURE 13<br />
Fulmars Counted on the Cruise <strong>of</strong> U.S.C.G.S. Discoverer, 20 - 23 August 1975
FIGURE 14<br />
Petrels (total) Counted on the Cruise <strong>of</strong> U.S.C.G.S. Discoverer, 20 - 23 August 1975
FIGURE 15<br />
Shearwaters (total) Counted on the Cruise <strong>of</strong> U.S.C.G.S. Discoverer, 20 - 23 August 1975
FIGURE 16<br />
Red-faced Cormorant Counted on the Cruise <strong>of</strong> U.S.C.G.S. Discoverer, .20 - 23 August 1975
FIGURE 17<br />
Kittiwakes Counted on the Cruise <strong>of</strong> U.S.C.G.S. Discoverer, 20 - 23 August 1975
FIGURE 18<br />
Puffin (total) Counted on the Cruise <strong>of</strong> U.S.C.G.S. Discoverer, 20'- 23 August 1975
FIGURE 19<br />
Murre Counted on the Cruise <strong>of</strong> U..S.C.G.S. Discoverer, 20 - 23 August 1975
FIGURE 20<br />
Small Alcid (total) Counted on the Cruise <strong>of</strong> U.S.C.G.S. Discoverer, 20 - 23 August 1975
D. Survey <strong>of</strong> Otter and Walrus Islands<br />
Cursory examination <strong>of</strong> slides taken during the flight around<br />
Walrus Island confirmed observations made from the helicopter that<br />
the huge.colony <strong>of</strong> Common Murres described in earlier literature<br />
was no longer present. The large flat top <strong>of</strong> the island was bare<br />
and bore no evidence <strong>of</strong> guano patches indicating where birds might<br />
have congregated. However, a small group <strong>of</strong> gulls or kittiwakes was<br />
seen resting on the shore at the northern end <strong>of</strong> the island, and a<br />
large flock <strong>of</strong> kittiwakes was seen feeding nearby. Detailed analyses<br />
<strong>of</strong> the slides <strong>for</strong> numbers <strong>of</strong> pinnipeds around the edges <strong>of</strong> the island<br />
and the numbers <strong>of</strong> birds breeding in the few areas <strong>of</strong> small, low<br />
cliffs have yet to be made.<br />
At Otter Island our view <strong>of</strong> the highest cliffs at the west end<br />
<strong>of</strong> the island was blocked by a fog bank. Although our observations<br />
<strong>of</strong> the lower south-facing cliffs were very brief, this area appeared<br />
similar both in physical structure and in the types <strong>of</strong> seabirds<br />
present to the cliffs <strong>of</strong> St. Paul and St. George Island.<br />
Observers on the Discoverer survey were able to see murres on<br />
the top <strong>of</strong> Walrus Island in late August two weeks after the helicopter<br />
survey. We do not know why these murres were on the island.<br />
204<br />
74
IV. DISCUSSION<br />
Ideally a baseline study <strong>of</strong> nesting seabirds should provide data<br />
on: 1) where and when birds are nesting, 2) what kinds <strong>of</strong> birds are<br />
present, 3) how many birds are present, 4) how successful they are in<br />
raising young, and 5) where do they obtain food and what do they eat.<br />
With this in<strong>for</strong>mation available, it is possible to ascertain the<br />
populations at risk if an oil spill occurs in a given area, and the<br />
magnitude <strong>of</strong> the effects <strong>of</strong> the spill on nesting population size and<br />
reproductive success. Additionally, if long term banding data are<br />
available, it may be possible to construct life tables <strong>for</strong> species and<br />
to predict the ability <strong>of</strong> a species to recover from a disaster.<br />
In the present coordinated studies <strong>of</strong> Pribil<strong>of</strong> Island seabirds,<br />
Dr. J. Hickey and his team on St. George have concentrated on problems 1,<br />
2, and 3, while we have concentrated on problems 4 and 5 on St. Paul.<br />
With cooperation between the two groups,.we feel it will be possible<br />
to get a clear overall picture <strong>of</strong> seabird numbers and reproductive<br />
ecology in the Pribil<strong>of</strong> Islands.<br />
In our work on the Pribil<strong>of</strong>s we have attempted to develop an<br />
overall understanding <strong>of</strong> processes and principles which govern seabird<br />
reproductive success and <strong>for</strong>aging behavior. There are too many remote<br />
colonies <strong>of</strong> seabirds in Alaska <strong>for</strong> all to be accorded the degree <strong>of</strong><br />
study needed to establish realistic baselines. There<strong>for</strong>e, it is<br />
necessary to concentrate on a limited number <strong>of</strong> important areas, and<br />
attempt to develop an understanidng <strong>of</strong> seabird ecology which can be<br />
extrapolated to other areas. Predictions can then be made and tested,<br />
and if found reliable, used <strong>for</strong> estimating present baseline conditions,<br />
205<br />
75
and also <strong>for</strong> advising government bodies on the sensitivity <strong>of</strong> areas<br />
to oil spills be<strong>for</strong>e lease sales are made.<br />
We have found that the distribution <strong>of</strong> nesting activity <strong>for</strong> the<br />
11 species <strong>of</strong> seabirds on St. Paul Island is determined by the avail-<br />
ability <strong>of</strong> nesting sites on ledges and in holes in the vertical cliffs<br />
that border the island on the south and west sides. One <strong>of</strong> these<br />
species, the Least Auklet, also nests in large numbers on boulder beaches<br />
deep in holes between the rocks.<br />
All seabird species on St. Paul were the potential prey <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Arctic Foxes which live by scavenging, catching birds and taking eggs.<br />
The foxes are small and agile and were <strong>of</strong>ten seen running easily up<br />
and down the crumbling cliffs where a person would soon perish. Con-<br />
sequently, the seabirds that bred successfully are those that nest in<br />
locations inaccessible to foxes and there<strong>for</strong>e also to ornithologists.<br />
In spite <strong>of</strong> these problems, we were able to obtain reasonably good<br />
data on reproductive success and growth rates <strong>of</strong> young <strong>of</strong> five species.<br />
However, in terms <strong>of</strong> a baseline study, we will need several years <strong>of</strong><br />
comparable data be<strong>for</strong>e we will be able to say what is "normal" <strong>for</strong><br />
these species. For this sort <strong>of</strong> work one year provides but one "sample".<br />
Comparisons can, however, be made between similar species or popu-<br />
lations within this year's sample. Comparisons between Black-legged<br />
and Red-legged Kittiwake on St. Paul and between Red-legged Kittiwake<br />
on St. Paul and St. George are particularly rewarding.<br />
Earlier workers described the Red-legged Kittiwake and Black-<br />
legged Kittiwake as about equally abundant on St. Paul. At present,<br />
the Black-legged Kittiwake far outnumbers the Red-legged Kittiwake on<br />
206<br />
76
St. Paul, while populations <strong>of</strong> the Red-legged Kittiwake appear large<br />
on St. George. It would be extremely interesting if we could correlate<br />
differences in reproductive success between species and populations<br />
with major changes in population size. If changes in reproductive success<br />
can in turn be related to food habits or other quantifiable parameters,<br />
we will have not only a very important discovery, but also a tool <strong>for</strong><br />
predicting future changes in kittiwake populations.<br />
During the present year's study we found that on St. Paul Island,<br />
Black-legged Kittiwakes had larger clutches than Red-legged Kittiwakes<br />
and fledged more chicks per nest even though survival <strong>of</strong> young in<br />
relation to chicks hatched was lower <strong>for</strong> Black-legged Kittiwakes (Tables<br />
5 and 6). Thus, the higher reproductive success <strong>of</strong> the Black-legged<br />
Kittiwakes is directly attributable to their larger clutch size.<br />
When reproductive success within Red-legged Kittiwakes is compared<br />
between St. Paul and St. George (Table 6 and 7) it appears that Red-<br />
legged Kittiwakes enjoy greater reproductive success on St. George.<br />
This result may be biased by our starting work on St. George shortly<br />
be<strong>for</strong>e hatching was to commence, and thereby causing us to overestimate<br />
hatching success. Our results need to be carefully checked by future<br />
studies <strong>of</strong> these birds on St. Paul and St. George as they may provide<br />
an important clue about the changing kittiwake populations in the<br />
Pribil<strong>of</strong> Islands, a matter <strong>of</strong> no small interest since the Red-legged<br />
Kittiwake is endemic to the Bering Sea and nests on only a very few<br />
islands.<br />
A comparison <strong>of</strong> the reproductive success <strong>of</strong> the Thick-billed and<br />
Common Murres on St. Paul shows that the more abundant Thick-billed<br />
207<br />
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Murre enjoys both greater hatching success and greater fledging success<br />
than the Common Murre. At present we do not know why this difference<br />
exists, but, during at least the egg stage, it seemed that on the broad,<br />
crowded ledges occupied by the Common Murres there was a greater chance<br />
<strong>for</strong> unattended eggs to be knocked <strong>of</strong>f the ledge than was the case on<br />
the narrow ledges occupied by Thick-billed Murres.<br />
The mortality <strong>of</strong> murre eggs and young associated with the passage<br />
<strong>of</strong> two or more airplanes close to breeding cliffs points to the need<br />
to restrict the movement <strong>of</strong> aircraft should oil leases by sold in the<br />
vicinity <strong>of</strong> seabird colonies. Frequent disturbance by aircraft could<br />
prevent successful reproduction and spell the doom <strong>of</strong> the largest <strong>of</strong><br />
seabird colonies.<br />
It is still premature to discuss in detail the results <strong>of</strong> the<br />
radial transect surveys <strong>for</strong> <strong>for</strong>aging birds at sea. We were somewhat<br />
surprised by the large numbers <strong>of</strong> shearwaters close to St. Paul Island<br />
(Figure 15). The distribution <strong>of</strong> petrels was much as we had expected.<br />
More important <strong>for</strong> the studies <strong>of</strong> breeding birds was the finding that<br />
both <strong>of</strong> the two species <strong>of</strong> kittiwakes (Figure 17) and the Fulmars<br />
(Figure 13) ranged far from the islands <strong>of</strong>ten near the continental<br />
slope. Away from the islands the numbers <strong>of</strong> kittiwakes and Fulmars<br />
appear to be closely correlated with one another. It will be valuable<br />
to collect these species at sea on future cruises, as time permits, in<br />
order to determine their food preferences in relation to food avail-<br />
ability.<br />
The alcids, which are notoriously vulnerable to oil on the sea's<br />
surface, were found primarily close to the islands, usually within<br />
208<br />
78
10-20 miles. Because the small alcids had largely completed their<br />
breeding cycle by the time we made our transects, we were unable to<br />
get much data on possible differentiation <strong>of</strong> feeding areas used by the<br />
different species. However, it did appear that the murres were not<br />
distributed evenly in a band around each island, but rather were<br />
clumped in a few areas <strong>of</strong> presumed abundance <strong>of</strong> food (Figure 19).<br />
Our brief surveys <strong>of</strong> Otter and Walrus Islands suggest that these<br />
areas are deserving <strong>of</strong> future attention. Walrus Island was once<br />
reputed to be the home <strong>of</strong> one <strong>of</strong> the world's largest Common Murre<br />
colonies. While our ship-board observers reported murres on the island,<br />
the findings <strong>of</strong> the helicopter survey that no birds occupied the top<br />
<strong>of</strong> the island suggests that murres may no longer be breeding there.<br />
Clearly we need to visit Walrus Island early in the season in order<br />
to determine both whether birds are breeding there and the size and<br />
activity <strong>of</strong> the Stellar's Sea Lion population which is reputed to<br />
have displaced some <strong>of</strong> the Murres in the past.<br />
,209<br />
79
V. PROBLEMS ENCOUNTERED/RECOMMENDED CHANGES<br />
Transportation and possible understaffing have proven to be our<br />
most serious problems. The rough roads <strong>of</strong> St. Paul, the need to work<br />
in many areas <strong>of</strong> the island well separated from each other and from<br />
the village, and the periodic curtailment <strong>of</strong> field work by heavy rain<br />
have all pointed to the need <strong>for</strong> safe, reliable transportation and<br />
adequate personnel to accomplish the required tasks.<br />
A. Transportation<br />
The concept <strong>of</strong> using motorcycles <strong>for</strong> transportation has proven<br />
a good one, although they are thoroughly uncom<strong>for</strong>table to use in the<br />
cold, wet weather. In practice they have proven less than satis-<br />
factory because <strong>of</strong> constant maintenance problems (Table 14). The<br />
dealer failed to provide the tools, spare parts or service manuals<br />
that NOAA requested, and as a result we were unable to correct<br />
problems or provide preventative maintenance. Toward the end <strong>of</strong><br />
the season, only two bikes were functional and they required a large<br />
amount <strong>of</strong> trouble-shooting which detracted from our research ef<strong>for</strong>ts<br />
(see Table 1).<br />
If the various Pribil<strong>of</strong> Island Projects (Birds, Geology) are to<br />
continue <strong>for</strong> several more years, we strongly urge that a four-wheel<br />
drive vehicle be made available <strong>for</strong> NOAA project use. In addition,<br />
whether a 4-wheel drive vehicle is available or not, adequate service<br />
manuals, tools and spare parts should be purchased so that the<br />
motorcycles can realize their full potential. Arrangements <strong>for</strong><br />
purchase <strong>of</strong> these basic requirements, which should have accompanied<br />
210<br />
80
TABLE 14<br />
RESEARCH NEED VS. MOTORCYCLE AVAILABILITY, 1975<br />
211
the motorcycles in the first place, have been made with Jody Hilton<br />
<strong>of</strong> the NOAA Project Office in Juneau.<br />
We had hoped to be able to rent boats from the Aleuts on St.<br />
Paul to give us access to colonies not approachable from land.<br />
Adequate boat rental oppottunities were not available, and we suggest<br />
that it would be valuable to purchase a 15-foot Zodiac inflatable<br />
boat with motor. This would allow us to census the St. Paul colonies<br />
not visible from land, give us access to colonies presently unap-<br />
proachable from land, and allow us to observe <strong>for</strong>aging seabirds and<br />
collect seabird food samples at sea. Due to coverage <strong>of</strong> certain<br />
project costs with funds from other projects and due to a reduction<br />
in per diem costs, we believe we have adequate funds in our present<br />
budget to cover this expense.<br />
212<br />
82
B. Personnel<br />
We had originally expected to operate with a team <strong>of</strong> three<br />
<strong>investigators</strong> on St. Paul, augmented by a visit from the Principal<br />
Investigator. In fact, when M. Hunt was on St. George, we were<br />
severely understaffed on St. Paul and important data were lost<br />
(see Figure 6). As a partial solution a fourth person, D. Causey,<br />
was sent to St. Paul in early August to help out. Due to the large<br />
number <strong>of</strong> species to be studied, the difficulty inherent in working<br />
4-5 study sites and the need to have teams <strong>of</strong> two persons when<br />
ladders are used <strong>for</strong> checking nests, we feel that it will be<br />
necessary to have four people stationed on St. Paul from early<br />
June until early <strong>September</strong> (see Table 15). We feel that at least<br />
one observer should start work in mid April or early May <strong>for</strong> the<br />
start <strong>of</strong> the Cormorant nesting and that one or two observers should<br />
stay on the island from late August until the end <strong>of</strong> <strong>September</strong> to<br />
follow up the late-nesting species.<br />
These <strong>investigators</strong> will be fully occupied during a tightly<br />
scheduled 6 day work week (Table 16). The seventh day will be<br />
used either as a day <strong>of</strong>f, to fill in <strong>for</strong> days missed due to bad<br />
weather, or <strong>for</strong> mass banding operations.<br />
It is our hope in the 1976 field season to continue our work<br />
on reproductive success and foods and to gain additional data on<br />
daily and seasonal cycles <strong>of</strong> colony occupancy. It is our plan to<br />
coordinate our ef<strong>for</strong>ts with Dr. Joe Hickey <strong>of</strong> the University <strong>of</strong><br />
Wisconsin who is working on St. George Island. During the December<br />
seabird meetings we plan to arrange with him to have his group<br />
213<br />
83
per<strong>for</strong>m routine checks <strong>of</strong> Kittiwake nests on St. George during<br />
<strong>July</strong> and early August. In return, we propose to gather data<br />
on colony size and daily and seasonal activity patterns on St. Paul<br />
to complement his work on St. George. Such arrangements will<br />
minimize inefficient splitting <strong>of</strong> groups and duplication <strong>of</strong> ef<strong>for</strong>t.<br />
214<br />
84
C. Surveys <strong>of</strong> Foraging Seabirds<br />
Our surveys <strong>of</strong> <strong>for</strong>aging pelagic seabirds scheduled in the 1975<br />
season on the Discoverer were very useful <strong>for</strong> learning general<br />
patterns <strong>of</strong> distribution but they came too late in the summer to gain<br />
significant data on the distribution <strong>of</strong> the auklets which nest on the<br />
Pribil<strong>of</strong> Islands. For the 1976 season we recommend cruises be<br />
scheduled in late May, late June, late <strong>July</strong> and early <strong>September</strong> in<br />
order to detect changes in seabird <strong>for</strong>aging patterns as the breeding<br />
seasons <strong>of</strong> the various species progress. Cruises should be scheduled<br />
<strong>for</strong> a minimum <strong>of</strong> four days if reasonable coverage <strong>of</strong> the area in<br />
the vicinity <strong>of</strong> the Pribil<strong>of</strong> Islands is to be achieved.<br />
215<br />
85
TABLE 15<br />
Schedule <strong>of</strong> Field Operations 1976<br />
Pribil<strong>of</strong> Islands Bird Studies<br />
216
TABLE 16<br />
Weekly Work Schedule* - St. Paul - 1976
VI. FINANCIAL STATEMENT<br />
Table 17 presents a summary <strong>of</strong> expenditures projected through<br />
31 October 1975. Certain expenses projected in the original budget<br />
have shifted. Airplane fares to the Pribil<strong>of</strong> Islands were much higher<br />
than had been originally anticipated, although these additional<br />
expenses were <strong>of</strong>fset by the coverage <strong>for</strong> much <strong>of</strong> Dr. Hunt's travel fare<br />
by a separate contract. Living expenses on St. Paul Island were<br />
originally projected at $20/person/day at the suggestion <strong>of</strong> both<br />
National Marine Fisheries and United States Fish and-Wildlife personnel,<br />
based on the possibility <strong>of</strong> having to procure room and board at the<br />
island's only hotel. Instead, housing controlled by National Marine<br />
Fisheries was rented <strong>for</strong> a moderate fee and we saved money by doing<br />
our own cooking. Thus, we feel we have adequate funds to complete the<br />
proposed research.<br />
218<br />
88
TABLE 17<br />
Summary <strong>of</strong> Expenditures, May - October 1975<br />
219
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS<br />
In this project we have <strong>of</strong>ten had to rely on the help <strong>of</strong> others to<br />
assist us in our work. We gratefully acknowledge the valuable assistance<br />
<strong>of</strong> the personnel in the Juneau NOAA-OCSEP <strong>of</strong>fice in providing logistic<br />
support; the personnel <strong>of</strong> the National Marine Fisheries Service Pribil<strong>of</strong><br />
Island Project in providing housing, transportation and permission to<br />
enter Fur Seal rookeries; the Aleut community on St. Paul <strong>for</strong> transporta-<br />
tion; the United States Coast Guard <strong>for</strong> maintainence expertise and heli-<br />
copter transport; the Officers and Crew <strong>of</strong> the Discoverer; and numerous<br />
scientists on St. Paul and St. George <strong>for</strong> help and encouragement.<br />
We also wish to thank Barbara Burgeson <strong>for</strong> her help in producing<br />
some <strong>of</strong> the figures in this report and <strong>for</strong> typing it cheerfully and<br />
without complaint.<br />
90
APPENDIX 1<br />
Charts <strong>of</strong> Additional Bird Sightings at Sea<br />
221<br />
91
Fork-tailed Petrel Counted on the Cruise <strong>of</strong> U.S.C.G.S. Discoverer, 20 - 23 August 1975
Petrels (unidentified) Counted on the Cruise <strong>of</strong> U.S.C.G.S. Discoverer, 20 - 23 August 1975
Shearwater (unidentified) Counted on the Cruise <strong>of</strong> U.S.C.G.S. Discoverer, 20 - 23 August 1975
Slender-billed Shearwater Counted on the Cruise <strong>of</strong> U.S.C.G.S. Discoverer, 20 - 23 August 1975
Glaucous-winged Gull Counted on the Cruise <strong>of</strong> U.S.C.G.S. Discoverer, 20 - 23 August 1975
Arctic Tern Counted on the Cruise <strong>of</strong> U.S.C.G.S. Discoverer, 20 - 23 August 1975
Parakeet Auklet Counted on the Cruise <strong>of</strong> U.S.C.G.S. Discoverer, 20 - 23 August 1975
Crested Auklet Counted on the Cruise <strong>of</strong> U.S.C.G.S. Discoverer, 20 - 23 August 1975
Least Auklet Counted on the Cruise <strong>of</strong> U.S.C.G.S. Discoverer, 20 - 23 August 1975
Small Alcid (unidentified) Counted on the Cruise <strong>of</strong> U.S.C.G.S. Discoverer, 20 - 23 August 1975
Puffin (unidentified) Counted on the Cruise <strong>of</strong> U.S.C.G.S. Discoverer, 20 - 23 August 1975
Horned Puffin Counted on the Cruise <strong>of</strong> U.S.C.G.S. Discoverer, 20 - 23 August 1975
Tufted Puffin Counted on the Cruise <strong>of</strong> U.S.C.G.S. Discoverer, 20 - 23 August 1975
Wandering Tattler Counted on the Cruise <strong>of</strong> U.S.C.G.S. Discoverer, 20 - 23 August 1975
Jaegers (unidentified) Counted on the Cruise <strong>of</strong> U.S.C.G.S. Discoverer, 20 - 23 August 1975
Long-tailed Jaeger Counted on the Cruise <strong>of</strong> U.S.C.G.S. Discoverer, 20 - 23 August 1975
Jaegers (total) Counted on the Cruise <strong>of</strong> U.S.C.G.S. Discoverer, 20 - 23 August 1975
Turnstones (unidentified) Counted on the Cruise <strong>of</strong> U.S.C.G.S. Discoverer, 20 - 23 August 1975
Black Turnstone Counted on the Cruise <strong>of</strong> U.S.C.G.S. Discoverer, 20 - 23 August 1975
Ruddy Turnstone Counted on the Cruise <strong>of</strong> U.S.C.G.S. Discoverer, 20 - 23 August 1975
Turnstones (total) Counted on the Cruise <strong>of</strong> U.S.C.G.S. Discoverer, 20 - 23 August 1975
BREEDING ECOLOGY OF THE GULF OF ALASKA HERRING GULL GROUP<br />
(Larus argentatus x Larus glaucescens)<br />
An Interim Report<br />
by<br />
RU #96<br />
OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF ENERGY PROGRAM<br />
JUNEAU PROJECT OFFICE<br />
P. 0. BOX 1808<br />
JUNEAU, ALASKA 99802<br />
Samuel M. Patten, Jr., M.Sci. Linda Renee Patten<br />
Associate Investigator Research Technician<br />
Department <strong>of</strong> Pathobiology Department <strong>of</strong> Pathobiology<br />
The Johns Hopkins University The Johns Hopkins University<br />
An analysis <strong>of</strong> the 1975 and previous<br />
field seasons presented as a working<br />
copy to the<br />
U.S. Department <strong>of</strong> Commerce<br />
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration<br />
U.S. Department <strong>of</strong> Interior<br />
Fish and Wildlife Service<br />
Bureau <strong>of</strong> Land Management<br />
and<br />
and<br />
as part <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Environmental Assessment <strong>of</strong> the Alaskan Continental Shelf<br />
243
INTRODUCTION<br />
TABLE OF CONTENTS<br />
SCOPE AND SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY<br />
THE STUDY AREA<br />
MATERIALS AND METHODS 12<br />
RESULTS<br />
page<br />
Colony Selection and Investigation Dates 12<br />
Reproductive Cycle<br />
Data Analysis<br />
Specimens<br />
General Timing <strong>of</strong> the Reproductive Cycle 14<br />
Territory Size 17<br />
Nesting Activities 22<br />
Egg-Laying 31<br />
Clutch Size 34<br />
Egg Loss 37<br />
Egg and Clutch Replacement 43<br />
Incubation Period 44<br />
Chick Stage 46<br />
Mortality Factors 50<br />
Fledging Success 57<br />
Banding Recovery and Sightings <strong>of</strong> Color-marked Gulls<br />
60<br />
SUMMARY AND TENTATIVE CONCLUSIONS 62<br />
LITERATURE CITED 64<br />
244<br />
1<br />
6<br />
7<br />
13<br />
13<br />
14<br />
14
iii<br />
LIST OF TABLES<br />
Table page<br />
1. Clutch size, Number <strong>of</strong> Fledglings, & Territory 19<br />
Size in Alaskan L. argentatus & glaucescens.<br />
2. Inner and Outer Diameter <strong>of</strong> Larus argentatus - 30<br />
Larus glaucescens Gull nests at Egg Island,<br />
Dry Bay and North Marble Island, Alaska.<br />
3. Nest Depth <strong>for</strong> Egg Island, Dry Bay and 31<br />
North Marble Island Colonies.<br />
4. Numbers <strong>of</strong> "Lost", "Infertile" and "Pipped" 39<br />
Eggs Which Did Not Hatch in the Study Areas on<br />
Egg Island, 1975; Dry Bay, 1975;<br />
North Marble Island, 1972-73.<br />
5. Weights and Measurements <strong>of</strong> "Runt" Eggs on 40<br />
Egg Island, 1975. One Egg Each from Three<br />
Different Clutches Compared to "Normal" Range.<br />
6. Weights and Measurements <strong>of</strong> Supernormal Clutches, 40<br />
Egg Island, 1975.<br />
7. Egg Weights at Beginning and End <strong>of</strong> Incubation 46<br />
Period, North Marble Island, 1973;<br />
Dry Bay, 1975.<br />
8. Analysis <strong>of</strong> Seven Mortalities Associated with 48<br />
Color-marking (Complete) with Nyansol Dye,<br />
Glaucous-winged Gull Fledglings,<br />
Egg Island, 1975.<br />
9. Chick Mortality, Egg Island, 1975; 52<br />
North Marble Island, 1972-73 (X).<br />
10. Percent Chick Mortality, Egg Island, 1975; 52<br />
North Marble Island, 1972-73 (x).<br />
11. Alaskan Gull Hatching Success, Mean Combined 56<br />
Mortality, and Total Reproductive Success,<br />
Egg Island, 1975; North Marble Island, 1972-73 (X).<br />
12. Comparative Index <strong>of</strong> Gull Reproductive 59<br />
Success in Chicks Per Nest (Productivity).<br />
245
iv<br />
LIST OF FIGURES<br />
Figure page<br />
1. Map <strong>of</strong> the Northeast Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska, showing 4<br />
known Large Gull Colonies <strong>of</strong> the Larus argentatus -<br />
Larus glaucescens species group. (Inset: map <strong>of</strong><br />
Alaska and northwest Canada showing Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska)<br />
2. Map <strong>of</strong> the Copper River Delta Region and Prince 8<br />
William Sound, showing location <strong>of</strong> Cordova,<br />
the Copper River, Egg Island, Copper Sands, and<br />
Strawberry Reef.<br />
3. Glacier Bay National Monument, (580 10' - 590 15' 16<br />
N. Latitude, 1350 10" - 1380 10' W. Longitude,<br />
located north <strong>of</strong> southeastern Alaska's Alexander<br />
Archipelago, is shaped as a parallelogram, with<br />
104 and 120 km on a side.<br />
4. North Marble Island lies in the niddle <strong>of</strong> Glacier 18<br />
Bay and contains large marine bird nesting areas.<br />
North and South Marble Islands, 2 km apart, are<br />
surrounded by cold, highly oxygenated waters and<br />
strong tidal currents.<br />
5. Map <strong>of</strong> the Yakutat area, showing location <strong>of</strong> 23<br />
Gull Colonies at Dry Bay, mouth <strong>of</strong> the Alsek River<br />
(lower arrow) and Haenke Island in Disenchantment<br />
Bay (upper arrow).<br />
6. View from Egg Island, June 1975, showing Elymus 25<br />
meadows, Egg Island Channel, part <strong>of</strong> the Copper River<br />
Delta, and the Chugach Mountains.<br />
7. Haenke Island (center) is located in Disenchantment 25<br />
Bay, <strong>of</strong>f Yakutat Bay, near the active front <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Hubbard Glacier at the foot <strong>of</strong> the St. Elias Range.<br />
8. Egg Island viewed from a small aircraft at 100m 26<br />
showing hundreds <strong>of</strong> gulls flying over meadow-covered<br />
dunes with scattered old drift logs providing partial<br />
cover <strong>for</strong> nests,<br />
9. Dry Bay from a small aircraft 1 km away at 200m + 26<br />
elevation showing gull colony (center) on low gravel<br />
bars with sparse vegetation.<br />
10. Campsite on Egg Island, June 1975, with Egg Island 28<br />
Channel and the Chugach Range in the Background.<br />
246
v<br />
LIST OF FIGURES (cont.)<br />
Figure page<br />
11. Campsite on Haenke Island, June 1974, at the 28<br />
foot <strong>of</strong> the gull colony on the cliff.<br />
Pack ice from the Hubbard Glacier in the background.<br />
Gulls feed on seal placentae scavenged on the ice.<br />
12. Study Area Southwest <strong>of</strong> Egg Island Light, 32<br />
showing Gulls on Territories and Nest Survey Markers,<br />
June 1975.<br />
13. Survey Area, Egg Island, West View, June 1975. 32<br />
14. Abnormal Egg Size, Example # 1. 41<br />
15. Abnormal Egg Size, Example # 2. 41<br />
16. Abnormal Egg Size, Example # 3. 42<br />
17. Supernormal Clutch, Example # 1. 42<br />
247
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS<br />
I am deeply indebted to Dr. Francis S.L. Williamson, Commissioner,<br />
Department <strong>of</strong> Health and Social Services, State <strong>of</strong> Alaska, <strong>for</strong> the<br />
opportunity to work on gulls under the auspices <strong>of</strong> the Department <strong>of</strong><br />
Pathobiology, The Johns Hopkins University. I also extend my sincere<br />
thanks to Dr. I.L. Graves, Dr. W.J.L. Sladen, and Dr. F.B. Bang <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Department <strong>of</strong> Pathobiology <strong>for</strong> sponsorship and guidance in planning this<br />
study, and to Dr. Neal Nathanson and the Division <strong>of</strong> Infectious Diseases,<br />
Department <strong>of</strong> Epidemiology, <strong>for</strong> logistical support.<br />
I am grateful to Dr. Calvin Lensink <strong>of</strong> the U.S. Fish and Wildlife<br />
Service and to Dr. Jay Quast <strong>of</strong> the National Oceanic and Atmospheric<br />
Administration <strong>for</strong> approval and support <strong>of</strong> this study.<br />
Special thanks go to Dr. Pete Michelson, University <strong>of</strong> Alaska; to<br />
Mr. Pete Islieb <strong>of</strong> Cordova, Alaska; and to Mr. Ken Wohl <strong>of</strong> the Bureau <strong>of</strong><br />
Land Management <strong>for</strong> assistance and suggestions. Dr. Ralph B. Williams (ret.)<br />
<strong>of</strong> Alaska Public Health Laboratories and Mr. Lloyd Morley, Chief <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
Environmental Health, provided encouragement plus knowledge <strong>of</strong> animal-<br />
disease problems in Alaska. Mr. Jim King, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service,<br />
reported important marked gull sightings and banding recoveries.<br />
The research in this study is being conducted <strong>for</strong> the Outer Continental<br />
Shelf Energy Program <strong>of</strong> the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration<br />
Environmental Research Laboratories, Boulder, Colorado. The Frank M. Chapman<br />
Fund and the Mae P. Smith Fund <strong>of</strong> the American Museum <strong>of</strong> Natural History,<br />
New York, and the U.S. National Park Service supported initial aspects <strong>of</strong><br />
this investigation. The financial support granted and contracted through<br />
these agencies is gratefully acknowledged.<br />
248
vii<br />
I also express gratitude to the Staff <strong>of</strong> the Cordova Work Center,<br />
U.S. Forest Service, in particular to Mr. Richard Gr<strong>of</strong>f, Mrs. Linda Plant,<br />
Mr. Ben Ames, Mr. Tim Moerlin, Mr. Joel Schilmoeller, Mr. Mike Lettis and<br />
to Mr. Bob Bromley <strong>of</strong> the University <strong>of</strong> Alaska <strong>for</strong> their field time,<br />
logistical support, and cooperation. Dr. George Watson and Dr. Storrs Olsen<br />
<strong>of</strong> the Smithsonian Institution provided assistance with specimens and<br />
literature. Mr. Alex Brogle, Dr. Don McKnight and Mr. Loyal Johnson <strong>of</strong><br />
Alaska Department <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game suggested areas <strong>for</strong> us to investigate.<br />
I wish to thank Mr. and Mrs. Jerry and Ina Thorne <strong>of</strong> Cordova <strong>for</strong> their<br />
special kindness, hospitality, and good advice, which was most welcome.<br />
To my wife, Renee, I extend my deepest thanks and appreciation, <strong>for</strong><br />
her skilled graphics, her assistance in the field under very rigorous<br />
conditions, and <strong>for</strong> her help in preparation <strong>of</strong> this report.<br />
249<br />
Samuel M. Patten, Jr.<br />
M.Sci.
INTRODUCTION<br />
The Larinae (gulls) have a world-wide distribution with 42 species.<br />
Gulls as a group may have evolved in the North Pacific and North Atlantic<br />
(Fisher and Lockley, 1954). Sixteen species <strong>of</strong> gulls are found in the<br />
North Pacific (Vermeer, 1970). Birds <strong>of</strong> this sub-family have been considered<br />
chiefly inshore feeders, and most coasts support a smaller scavenging species<br />
and a larger more piratical type (Cody, 1973). Recent evidence indicates<br />
that large as well as small gulls can behave as essentially marine species,<br />
feeding far out at sea and coming to land only occasionally or to breed<br />
(Lensink, pers. comm.). Most gulls live in flocks; they <strong>for</strong>age together<br />
in characteristic patterns the year around and nest in colonies during the<br />
breeding season (Tinbergen, 1960). These gregarious birds nest in a wide<br />
variety <strong>of</strong> habitats ranging from vertical cliffs to open marshes (Smith,<br />
196 6 a). Gulls lend themselves to population analysis, especially productivity,<br />
because <strong>of</strong> their colonial breeding tendency (Kadlec and Drury, 1968).<br />
An important reason <strong>for</strong> studying gulls is their use as indicators <strong>of</strong><br />
the health <strong>of</strong> the environment (Vermeer, 1970). Chemical pollution <strong>of</strong> the<br />
environment poses an increasing and immediate threat to all organisms,<br />
including man. A recent survey conducted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife<br />
Service (Ohlendorff, pers. comm.) <strong>of</strong> chemical residues in marine avifauna<br />
showed gulls to be among the most contaminated birds examined., probably due<br />
to their feeding habits. Since gulls nest in colonies, changes in breeding<br />
populations can be monitored and related to environmental conditions, among<br />
which are industrial development and the concurrent changes in food supply.<br />
An additional reason <strong>for</strong> studying gulls is that the age structure,<br />
mortality rate, life expectancy and survival rates <strong>of</strong> gull populations aid<br />
in the general understanding <strong>of</strong> population mechanisms. The mere knowledge<br />
250
2<br />
<strong>of</strong> the size <strong>of</strong> a population from year to year indicates little about<br />
population problems without such data (Paynter, 1949).<br />
The size, age structure, growth or decline <strong>of</strong> a population are a<br />
result <strong>of</strong> fluctuations in time and space <strong>of</strong> the natality and mortality<br />
rate, and movement into or out <strong>of</strong> a population <strong>of</strong> a species. Breeding<br />
adults <strong>for</strong>m the base <strong>of</strong> the population structure, because only by successful<br />
production <strong>of</strong> young can a population grow or maintain itself (Kadlec and<br />
Drury, 1968).<br />
Reproductive rate has an important effect on the age structure and<br />
the growth <strong>of</strong> the population. The average number <strong>of</strong> young which a breeding<br />
pair can raise to fledging is a good measure <strong>of</strong> gull reproductive success.<br />
Meadow-nesting gulls are excellent subjects <strong>for</strong> a study <strong>of</strong> reproductive<br />
success because eggs and young are readily accessible. In<strong>for</strong>mation is<br />
available on the breeding biology and dynamics <strong>of</strong> gulls near large urban<br />
centers, or in recent post-glacial environments, but comparative base-line<br />
in<strong>for</strong>mation on gulls along the southern coastline <strong>of</strong> Alaska prior to the<br />
development <strong>of</strong> oil resources is completely lacking.<br />
This report presents the initial results <strong>of</strong> an ongoing study <strong>of</strong><br />
meadow-nesting gulls in widely-spread colonies in the northeast Gulf <strong>of</strong><br />
Alaska. These sites were selected <strong>for</strong> research because <strong>of</strong> the incipient<br />
development <strong>of</strong> oil resources in the vicinity, and the necessity to provide<br />
base-line in<strong>for</strong>mation on marine birds along this relatively wild stretch<br />
<strong>of</strong> Alaskan coastline. The overall objectives <strong>of</strong> the study are to gain<br />
in<strong>for</strong>mation on distribution, behavior, population dynamics, trophic<br />
relationships, and pathologies <strong>of</strong> the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska Herring Gull group<br />
(Larus argentatus x Larus glaucescens). To assemble this in<strong>for</strong>mation,we<br />
studied: colony sites, feeding areas, behavior <strong>of</strong> adults and chicks, aspects<br />
251
3<br />
<strong>of</strong> breeding biology, calculated hatching and fledging success, and compared<br />
the data to knowledge <strong>of</strong> other Alaskan gull populations previously studied.<br />
We banded a large number <strong>of</strong> gulls, and color-marked, collected and removed<br />
blood samples from a smaller number <strong>of</strong> individuals. We carried out a<br />
concentrated investigation <strong>of</strong> the breeding biology <strong>of</strong> Larus glaucescens on<br />
Egg Island, at the mouth <strong>of</strong> the Copper River, Chugach National Forest,<br />
near Cordova, Alaska. Additional time was spent examing a mixed colony<br />
<strong>of</strong> Larus argentatus and Larus glaucescens at Dry Bay, mouth <strong>of</strong> the Alsek<br />
River, Tongass National Forest, near Yakutat, Alaska. In<strong>for</strong>mation previously<br />
gathered on a Larus glaucescens colony on Haenke Island at Disenchantment<br />
Bay (<strong>of</strong>f Yakutat Bay), and from North Marble Island, south <strong>of</strong> the study<br />
area,is included in this report <strong>for</strong> comparative purposes (Figure 1).<br />
The Glaucous-winged Gull (L. glaucescens), which breeds along the<br />
coast from Washington State to the Aleutians, is quite closely related to<br />
the Herring Gull (L. argentatus), a common and widely distributed species.<br />
Herring Gulls make up a low proportion <strong>of</strong> the breeding gulls in the northeast<br />
Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska, but occur more commonly in winter and <strong>of</strong>fshore. The<br />
Herring Gull replaces the Glaucous-winged Gull in interior Alaska, British<br />
Columbia, and the Yukon. The Glaucous-winged Gull is morphologically<br />
similar to the Herring Gull except that the black pigment on the tips <strong>of</strong><br />
the primaries is replaced by light grey that matches the rest <strong>of</strong> the<br />
mantle. Conversely, the iris <strong>of</strong> the Glaucous-winged Gull is darker than<br />
that <strong>of</strong> the Herring Gull. These two gulls are considered separate species<br />
in the A.O.U. Checklist <strong>of</strong> North American Birds (1957), but the taxonomic<br />
and ecological relationships between the two species have not been clearly<br />
defined. In some areas hybrids are common.<br />
In<strong>for</strong>mation on other species <strong>of</strong> plants and animals inhabiting the<br />
252
Figure 1. Map <strong>of</strong> the Northeast Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska, showing<br />
knownlarge gull colonies <strong>of</strong> the Larus argentatus - Larus glaucescens<br />
species group. (Inset: map <strong>of</strong> Alaska and northwest Canada showing<br />
Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska.)<br />
253
5<br />
northeast Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska was gathered to support the main objectives <strong>of</strong><br />
this study. This report presents the interim results and partial analysis<br />
<strong>of</strong> the data gathered during the 1975 field season, and is supported with<br />
previously gathered material.<br />
254
SCOPE AND SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY<br />
The nature <strong>of</strong> this study was to examine the reproductive biology<br />
<strong>of</strong> several colonies <strong>of</strong> Herring and Glaucous-winged Gulls in the northeast<br />
Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska. This report covers in<strong>for</strong>mation from the 1975 and previous<br />
field seasons. Several aspects <strong>of</strong> gull breeding biology were studied <strong>for</strong><br />
comparative purposes. Such in<strong>for</strong>mation is available in the literature <strong>for</strong><br />
gull populations outside <strong>of</strong> Alaska and from Glacier Bay National Monument<br />
south <strong>of</strong> the study area. This comparison serves as a basis from which to<br />
draw some tentative conclusions. Definitive statements require further<br />
investigation. An important aspect <strong>of</strong> this report is the initial data on<br />
fledging success. As can be seen from a literature review, fledging success<br />
can serve as an index to the dynamics <strong>of</strong> an avian population. If fledging<br />
success is poor over a number <strong>of</strong> seasons, a population will decline through<br />
adult mortality and low recruitment <strong>of</strong> breeding adults. While this report<br />
presents 1975 fledging success from the largest gull colony in the northeast<br />
Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska, it is emphasized that no firm conclusions should be drawn<br />
regarding the state <strong>of</strong> this population without further study.<br />
Results from this report provide the National Oceanic and Atmospheric<br />
Administration with specific in<strong>for</strong>mation about the status <strong>of</strong> a marine-<br />
oriented animal population during one field season. More broadly, this<br />
report indicates additional areas to be investigated <strong>for</strong> a better understanding<br />
<strong>of</strong> an Alaskan marine bird species under environmental conditions certain<br />
to change with increasing human activity.<br />
255
THE STUDY AREA<br />
The largest and probably most important gull colonies in the northeast<br />
Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska are located on sandbar islands <strong>of</strong>f the Copper River delta.<br />
For millenia Copper River has flowed from interior Alaska through the<br />
Chugach Mountains (2000-3000 m) to the Pacific Ocean. The river carries a<br />
naturally heavy burden <strong>of</strong> silt, mud and gravels from montaine erosion and<br />
the heavy, ongoing glaciation <strong>of</strong> the higher peaks. This massive river<br />
system flows into the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska south <strong>of</strong> Cordova, Alaska, and carries<br />
Gletschermilch, mud and gravel <strong>of</strong> the Scott, Sheridan and Sherman glaciers<br />
and other ice systems (USFS, 1975) (Figure 2).<br />
The Copper and the confluent Martin River have deposited their sands<br />
and mud where they meet the sea. With the increasing salinity gradient<br />
the suspended inorganic matter precipitates out. A large, 50 kilometer-<br />
wide delta has been <strong>for</strong>med over the centuries. The rivers move across the<br />
delta, crossing tidal mudflats and passing through brackish sloughs.<br />
Shallow ponds are <strong>for</strong>med in sedgy or grassy marshes. Summers in the Copper<br />
Delta region tend to be cool and rainy, while winters bring extremely strong<br />
storms, intense cold, ice and interior winds which blow with incredible<br />
velocity.<br />
The Copper River Delta has been one <strong>of</strong> the most productive and important<br />
migrating and breeding grounds <strong>for</strong> waterfowl on the North American continent<br />
(USFS, 1975). Millions <strong>of</strong> birds pass through the area in spring and fall,<br />
and tens <strong>of</strong> thousands <strong>of</strong> ducks, geese and swans remain to breed. Brown<br />
bears and moose roam the delta, while black bears, lynx, wolf, coyote,<br />
black-tailed deer and wolverine are found in <strong>for</strong>ested areas <strong>of</strong> the delta<br />
nearer the mountains. Another indicator <strong>of</strong> the importance and productivity <strong>of</strong><br />
the Copper River Delta is the sizable fishery on the "Copper Flats" <strong>for</strong><br />
king, sockeye, and silver salmon. The king and sockeye salmon migrate up<br />
256
Figure 2. Map <strong>of</strong> the Copper River Delta region and<br />
Prince William Sound, showing location <strong>of</strong> Cordova, the Copper River,<br />
Egg Island (arrow), Copper Sands, and Strawberry Reef.<br />
257
9<br />
the Copper River into the interior to spawn, while the silver salmon breed<br />
in the smaller streams and tributaries <strong>of</strong> the delta. A Herring fishery is<br />
important and increasing in size in the Cordova-Copper River, Prince<br />
William Sound area. It is inevitable that this concentration <strong>of</strong> food<br />
resources should attract fish-eating birds such as eagles and gulls.<br />
A series <strong>of</strong> low sandbar-dune islands located a few kilometers <strong>of</strong>fshore,<br />
<strong>for</strong>m a partial barrier at the mouth <strong>of</strong> the Copper River. Geologically these<br />
islands appear to have been entirely <strong>for</strong>med by the deposition <strong>of</strong> sand and<br />
mud from the Copper River, and to have been shaped by the counter-clockwise<br />
onshore currents <strong>of</strong> the Pacific Ocean.<br />
Constant change is a characteristic <strong>of</strong> the interface between land<br />
and sea, especially where rivers enter the ocean. Sandy islands are <strong>for</strong>med,<br />
built up, and eroded away again in a relatively slow, uninterrupted process.<br />
However, the Copper River Delta and surrounding area have been marked by<br />
sudden geological changes that have been extremely important in affecting<br />
the local biota. The most severe earthquake recorded on the North American<br />
continent during modern times occurred in March <strong>of</strong> 1964. The whole Copper<br />
River delta and surroundings including <strong>of</strong>fshore islands, were uplifted an<br />
average <strong>of</strong> two meters in a series <strong>of</strong> severe shock waves(USFS, 1975). This<br />
abrupt uplift disrupted the complex ecosystem <strong>of</strong> the Copper Delta and altered<br />
the balance between fresh and salt water. Nutrient imput from salt water<br />
to the delta was appreciably diminished; several species <strong>of</strong> intertidal<br />
invertebrates declined in numbers, and nesting populations <strong>of</strong> ducks changed<br />
much <strong>for</strong> the worse. Willows and alder began to replace grassy and sedgy<br />
marshes in certain areas on the delta. Tidal sloughs dried out.<br />
The <strong>of</strong>fshore sandbar barrier islands at the mouth <strong>of</strong> the Copper River<br />
underwent the same geological <strong>for</strong>ces as the delta itself, but due to the<br />
258
10<br />
nature <strong>of</strong> the islands and the marine bird species using them, the resulting<br />
changes were quite different. Shallow salt-water channels separating islets<br />
were eliminated, and new ridges <strong>of</strong> sand dunes <strong>for</strong>med, joining islets together.<br />
The actual land area <strong>of</strong> the islands increased due to the uplift. Because<br />
fresh water was limited on the islands be<strong>for</strong>e the earthquake, the small<br />
breeding populations <strong>of</strong> waterfowl were not affected to the degree on the<br />
Delta itself. The gulls, the largest breeding bird population on the outer<br />
islands, were influenced in the following manner. The long lines <strong>of</strong> dunes<br />
increased in height and area. Plant succession began on newly <strong>for</strong>med dunes,<br />
with Elymus, the beach rye, <strong>for</strong>ming scattered tufts on the sandy surface.<br />
The beach rye spread.from the older high dunes which were covered with<br />
grassy meadows, in which Elymus was the dominant plant species. A variety<br />
<strong>of</strong> other lesser grasses, mosses and <strong>for</strong>bs also occurred. Large colonies <strong>of</strong><br />
gulls nest on these meadow-covered dunes. With the passage <strong>of</strong> time, more<br />
and more dunes become covered with meadows as succession continues. The<br />
actual area upon which gulls can nest is increasing. A few young alder and<br />
cottonwood trees are growing on the higher dunes <strong>of</strong> Egg Island. If this<br />
trend towards woody vegetation continues, in time the result could be<br />
displacement <strong>of</strong> nesting gull populations. The presence <strong>of</strong> important seafood<br />
packing canneries in Cordova is providing an increasing food supply <strong>for</strong> gulls,<br />
and the potential <strong>for</strong> discarded human food and industrial waste in the<br />
Cordova area increases .daily. Islieb (pers. comm.) sees an increasing gull<br />
population to this point. Additional factors now enter the picture(<strong>of</strong><br />
unknown consequence). The trans-Alaska pipeline is being constructed from<br />
Prudhoe Bay on the North Slope to Valdez on Prince William Sound on the<br />
south. Valdez is less than 150 kilometers northwest <strong>of</strong> the delta. Tanker<br />
traffic will pass just <strong>of</strong>fshore from the barrier islands through the entrance<br />
259
11<br />
to Prince William Sound. The Copper River Delta itself is rich in both<br />
mineral and fossil resources. The first oil well in Alaska was developed<br />
just south <strong>of</strong> the delta at Katalla in 1901 (USFS, 1975). A consortium <strong>of</strong><br />
oil companies is presently involved in exploratory research <strong>of</strong>fshore. The<br />
first oil leasing is expected in December 1975. The following report<br />
should be understood as the initial attempt to analyze and predict some<br />
<strong>of</strong> the vector <strong>for</strong>ces acting to change gull populations in the NEGOA.<br />
260
MATERIALS AND METHODS<br />
Colony Selection and Investigation Dates<br />
We selected Egg Island as a <strong>principal</strong> location <strong>for</strong> this study because<br />
it has the largest meadow-nesting gull population in the northeast Gulf<br />
<strong>of</strong> Alaska. Kenton Wohl <strong>of</strong> the Bureau <strong>of</strong> Land Mangement, Dr. Pete Michelson,<br />
then <strong>of</strong> the Forest Service, and Pete Islieb <strong>of</strong> Cordova emphasized the importance<br />
<strong>of</strong> this colony to our study. The 1975 field season began on 16 June and<br />
continued through August 23. We selected a survey area southwest <strong>of</strong> Egg<br />
Island light, and spent considerable time on foot examining the rest <strong>of</strong> the<br />
island colony. There were 153 nests in the study area, which was fairly<br />
representative <strong>of</strong> conditions on the island. This study area is located on<br />
the windward, ocean slope <strong>of</strong> stabilized meadow-covered dunes <strong>of</strong> the east<br />
end <strong>of</strong> the island near the light tower. Egg Island Light is readily identified<br />
on nautical charts, and can be visually observed from some distance (Figure 2, 12).<br />
We initially hoped <strong>for</strong> a survey area <strong>of</strong> about 100 nests in this facet<br />
<strong>of</strong> the study. We measured a 150m x 150m square with a tape, flagged the<br />
corners with survey markers, and counted nests a sequence <strong>of</strong> slow sweeps.<br />
Our final nest count considerably exceeded our original estimation, a fact<br />
to be remembered in future surveys. (Figures 12, 13).<br />
Kadlec and Drury (1968) observed that a high level <strong>of</strong> disturbance will<br />
cause Herring Gulls to abandon ef<strong>for</strong>ts to breed. Coulter et al (1971)<br />
found reproductive success in a colony <strong>of</strong> Western Gulls to be inversely<br />
proportional to the amount <strong>of</strong> disturbance. There<strong>for</strong>e we did not enter the<br />
survey colonies except when absolutely necessary.<br />
261
Reproductive Cycle<br />
13<br />
We used a method devised in previous gull studies to mark the nests<br />
we were studying. We marked 153 gull nests with flagged wire stakes in<br />
2<br />
the 22500 m study area at the beginning <strong>of</strong> the investigation on Egg Island.<br />
Since growth <strong>of</strong> vegetation tends to obscure the stakes, each was marked<br />
with a additional numbered florescent streamer. The same method was used<br />
to mark 100 nests at Dry Bay, another study area south <strong>of</strong> Yakutat. Using<br />
the measure <strong>of</strong> territory defined by Harpur (1971) we used a steel tape to<br />
find the direct distance from every nest to the center <strong>of</strong> the nearest<br />
neighboring nest; one half this distance was assumed to be the radius <strong>of</strong> the<br />
territory. Nest diameter and depth were measured in Dry Bay and on Egg<br />
Island <strong>for</strong> comparative purposes.<br />
Each time we visited a nest site we recorded the number <strong>of</strong> eggs or chicks.<br />
The highest number <strong>of</strong> eggs per nest was assumed to be the clutch size. Due<br />
to the short notice under which the investigation was begun, completed clutch<br />
size figures are lacking. Original clutch sizes were extrapolated from<br />
typical rates <strong>of</strong> egg loss from data gathered in our previous Alaskan studies.<br />
Egg loss was calculated at the end <strong>of</strong> the incubation period from the numbers<br />
<strong>of</strong> eggs remaining from the (calculated) completed clutch. We counted young<br />
chicks on Egg Island in the nest. We assumed older chicks to come from the<br />
nearest nest; such older chicks were banded with 657 series tall tarsal bands<br />
and released. At the end <strong>of</strong> the survey period in August, we made fledging<br />
counts <strong>of</strong> banded chicks <strong>for</strong> the entire survey area on Egg Island. The<br />
results were compared to North Marble Island and to other gull studies.<br />
Data Analysis<br />
As part <strong>of</strong> each sequential visit through the gull colonies we recorded<br />
262
14<br />
the number <strong>of</strong> eggs and chicks from each nest site visited. The numbers<br />
were recorded on 80-column entry, and used to compute clutch size, egg<br />
loss, hatching success and fledging success.<br />
A Monroe 1766 programmable desk-top calculator was used <strong>for</strong> the initial<br />
statistical analysis. Means and standard deviations are included in the<br />
data where applicable.<br />
Raw data on 80-column entry was filed with Mr. Mauri Pelto (NOAA-OCSEP)<br />
in Juneau, Alaska, <strong>for</strong> later retrieval.<br />
Specimens<br />
We collected specimens from Egg Island, Haenke Island, and Dry Bay.<br />
Thirty-two Egg Island specimens were collected in <strong>July</strong> and August 1975.<br />
Ten Haenke Island specimens were collected in June 1974, and twenty-eight<br />
Dry Bay specimens were collected in June 1974 and 1975. Three Egg Island<br />
specimens were placed in the charge <strong>of</strong> Dr. David Norton, OCS Arctic Project<br />
Officer, <strong>for</strong> potential petrochemical assay. The other specimens are<br />
maintained in the Department <strong>of</strong> Pathobiology, The Johns Hopkins University,<br />
since analysis is presently only partially complete. At the close <strong>of</strong> this<br />
study, the specimens will be maintained in the U.S. National Museum and the<br />
American Museum <strong>of</strong> Natural History. Two hundred and fifty gull blood<br />
samples from chicks and adults were collected. Serum was collected from<br />
the samples with a centrifuge courtesy <strong>of</strong> Alaska Public Health Laboratories.<br />
Analysis <strong>of</strong> these sera is not yet finished.<br />
RESULTS<br />
General Timing <strong>of</strong> the Reproductive Cycle<br />
Exactly when gulls first arrive on Egg Island in the spring is not<br />
known, although Michelson (pers. comm.) <strong>reports</strong> seeing gulls on their nesting<br />
areas in May. Arrival dates may vary from year to year by several weeks<br />
263
15<br />
due to weather conditions and snow cover. Gulls are present in the Cordova<br />
area through the winter, but nesting populations do not settle down in their<br />
colonies until snow melts (Islieb, pers. comm.). Streveler (pers. comm.)<br />
<strong>reports</strong> similar observations from Glacier Bay (Figure 3).<br />
Incubation was well advanced at the time <strong>of</strong> our arrival on Egg Island<br />
in the middle <strong>of</strong> June 1975. The first chicks hatched around the middle<br />
<strong>of</strong> June, and most chicks hatched the last week <strong>of</strong> June. This year the peak<br />
time <strong>of</strong> fledging on Egg Island was the beginning <strong>of</strong> August. At Dry Bay,<br />
the general timing <strong>of</strong> the reproductive cycle was two weeks delayed from<br />
that <strong>of</strong> Egg Island, since the first eggs were pipping at the end <strong>of</strong> June.<br />
Brogle (pers. comm.) reported heavy snow fall and a late spring <strong>for</strong> the<br />
Yakutat area this year, perhaps accounting <strong>for</strong> the late nesting gulls.<br />
Extrapolating from the hatching dates, and assuming an incubation <strong>of</strong> 24-26<br />
days, as has been reported by Patten (1974) <strong>for</strong> Glaucous-winged Gulls in<br />
Glacier Bay, Alaska, most egg laying took place in the last week <strong>of</strong> May 1975<br />
on Egg Island. Gulls at Dry Bay laid most <strong>of</strong> their eggs in the first week<br />
<strong>of</strong> June.<br />
Other <strong>investigators</strong> have reported the following: Western Gulls in<br />
southern Cali<strong>for</strong>nia usually lay eggs at the end <strong>of</strong> the first week in May<br />
(Schreiber, 1970; Harpur, 1971). Herring Gulls in Rhode Island and Michigan,<br />
and Lancashire, England, have mean egg-laying dates usually around the end<br />
<strong>of</strong> the first week in May (Erwin, 1971, Keith, 1966; Brown, 1967a). Herring<br />
Gulls breeding on Kent Island, New Brunswick, Canada, have mean egg dates in<br />
the middle <strong>of</strong> May (Paynter, 1949). Glaucous-winged Gulls on Mandarte Island<br />
B.C., Canada, lay most <strong>of</strong> their eggs in the last week <strong>of</strong> May and the first<br />
weeks <strong>of</strong> June (Vermeer, 1963). Patten (1974) has reported egg dates <strong>of</strong> mid<br />
to late May in Glacier Bay. While egg-dates vary by several weeks in the<br />
264
Figure 3. Glacier Bay National Monument (58° 10' - 59° 15' N. Latitude,<br />
135° 10' - 138° 10' W. Longitude), located north <strong>of</strong> southeastern<br />
Alaska's Alexander Archipelago, is shaped as a<br />
parallelogram, with 104 and 120 km on a side.
17<br />
northeast Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska, the general timing <strong>of</strong> the reproductive cycle most<br />
resembles that reported by Vermeer (1963) on Mandarte Island, B.C., and by<br />
Patten (1974) on North Marble Island, Glacier Bay, Alaska (Figure 4).<br />
Territory Size<br />
The definition <strong>of</strong> territory, as Hinde (1956) states, is "any defended<br />
area". Even if this definition does not necessarily imply that the defended<br />
area is sharply delimited, in practice many workers on territory (references<br />
in Hinde, 1956) imply the existence <strong>of</strong> such borders by measuring territory<br />
size. Using the measure <strong>of</strong> territory defined by Harpur (1971) we calculated<br />
the area <strong>of</strong> each nesting territory as a circle with a radius half the distance<br />
to the nearest active nest. We found the mean territory size on Egg Island<br />
was 28.9 m2, while the Dry Bay mean territory size was 29.8 m2. Mean distance<br />
to nearest neighbor at Egg Island was 6.066 m , while at Dry Bay the<br />
distance was 6.16 m. This suggests that there was no significant difference<br />
in the territory sizes in two widely spread colonies in the northeast Gulf<br />
<strong>of</strong> Alaska in the 1975 breeding season. Patten (1974) has previously<br />
reported a mean territory size <strong>of</strong> about 18 m2 <strong>for</strong> gulls in two different<br />
seasons on North Marble Island, but that territory size varied from colony<br />
to colony and from year to year. In comparison, Vermeer (1963) found<br />
Glaucous-winged Gulls on Mandarte Island to have a mean territory size <strong>of</strong><br />
2<br />
15.6 m . Harpur (1971) studying a small colony <strong>of</strong> Western Gulls near<br />
2<br />
Santa Catalina Island, Cali<strong>for</strong>nia, reported a small colony had a mean 22.0 m<br />
territory size.<br />
Patten (1974) has previously reported an inverse relationship between<br />
colony and territory size on North Marble Island in Glacier Bay. The<br />
inverse relationship could be due to the two kinds <strong>of</strong> predation pressure<br />
on gulls. Larger colonies <strong>of</strong> gulls, with smaller territories, have the<br />
266
Figure 4. North Marble Island lies in the middle <strong>of</strong> Glacier Bay and<br />
contains large marine bird nesting areas. North and South<br />
Marble Islands, 2 km apart, are surrounded by cold, highly<br />
oxygenated waters and strong tidal currents.<br />
267
advantage <strong>of</strong> behavioral mechanisms such as flight response to alarm calls<br />
and mass attack on predators (Kruuk, 1964), but large colonies suffer<br />
more internal cannibalization <strong>of</strong> eggs and chicks. Smaller gull colonies,<br />
with larger territories, have weaker defenses, more predation, and less<br />
cannibalism (Darling, 1938; Brown, 1967b). Selection may operate <strong>for</strong> a<br />
range <strong>of</strong> values around the optimum, and against both ends <strong>of</strong> the.spectrum,<br />
although there are presumably more advantages to nesting closer together.<br />
In the field, this means one could expect gulls with very large territories<br />
or very small territories to produce fewer young over a long period <strong>of</strong><br />
time. Since both Egg Island and Dry Bay survey areas contained 100 or more<br />
nest sites, it is not especially surprising that the mean territory sizes<br />
were quite similar; what is notable is the large territory size. This<br />
suggests the gull populations are not yet limited by the available nesting<br />
territory on their breeding islands. With increasing food supply, it is<br />
not unreasonable to expect,increasing gull populations.<br />
Table 1<br />
CLUTCH SIZE, NUMBER OF FLEDGLINGS, & TERRITORY SIZE<br />
IN ALASKA L. argentatus & glaucescens<br />
268
20<br />
The mechanism <strong>for</strong> establishing territory size is defensive behavior,<br />
according to Patterson (1956). The way in which this mechanism could<br />
produce dispersion <strong>of</strong> individuals or pairs has been discussed by Tinbergen<br />
(1957). He emphasizes that both attack and avoidance are involved in the<br />
maintenance <strong>of</strong> the territoral system. Both motivations are present in the<br />
threat displays <strong>of</strong> the territory owner and conspecific intruders almost always<br />
respond to these displays and to actual attack by fleeing. Degree <strong>of</strong> spacing<br />
between nests and territorial individuals will then depend upon the balance<br />
<strong>of</strong> attack and escape motivations in the established residents and intruding<br />
birds.<br />
Two possible functions <strong>of</strong> the territorial system are; assistance to<br />
survival <strong>of</strong> adults, or insurance <strong>of</strong> their maximum reproductive success, or<br />
a compromise between the two functions. Data on mortality agents suggests<br />
that egg and chick predation was by far the most important cause <strong>of</strong> reproductive<br />
failure (Table 4 ). The most serious predation was gulls consuming eggs and<br />
chicks <strong>of</strong> their own species (see below); secondary in importance was crows,<br />
ravens, jaegers, and probably eagles (Vermeer, 1963) taking gull eggs and<br />
(1938)<br />
chicks. Darling,suggested that the much larger territory sizes <strong>of</strong> the Lesser<br />
Black-backed Gull allow a higher overall reproductive rate than the Herring<br />
Gull. Large territories permit chicks to wander over a larger area be<strong>for</strong>e<br />
they stray into another parent's nesting region and are attacked. He also<br />
observed, however, that the young in large colonies has better survival than<br />
those in smaller colonies. He presumed this to be due to the greater degree<br />
<strong>of</strong> synchronization in large colonies leading to a smaller percentage <strong>of</strong> chicks<br />
or eggs taken by predators in any one period. However, Coulson and White (1958)<br />
challenged this conclusion by reporting the spread <strong>of</strong> Kittiwake breeding<br />
was greatest in larger colonies, with older birds laying sooner than young<br />
269
21<br />
adults. Our evidence from Egg Island, a large colony, indicates a<br />
wider spread <strong>of</strong> breeding and a lower fledging success than North Marble<br />
Island, a much smaller colony under post-glacial conditions.<br />
Another function <strong>of</strong> territory may be the spacing apart <strong>of</strong> nests.<br />
Tinbergen (1956) has stressed the importance <strong>of</strong> dispersion in cryptic prey<br />
in order to minimize the <strong>for</strong>mation <strong>of</strong> search images in their predators. It<br />
would seem advantageous to have gull eggs and young spaced apart to some<br />
extent since they are cryptically colored. The arguments <strong>of</strong> spacing out<br />
as one <strong>of</strong> the main functions <strong>of</strong> territory have been summarized in the review<br />
by Hinde (1956) and by Tinbergen (1957). However, the upper limit <strong>of</strong><br />
territory size would be influenced by the need <strong>for</strong> colonial nesting<br />
discussed above, and the lower limit influenced by the possibility <strong>of</strong> in-<br />
creasing intraspecific predation (see below). In addition, the spacing apart<br />
<strong>of</strong> nests in a gull colony is adaptive mainly against bird predators, normally<br />
the most important <strong>for</strong> gulls, which tend to nest on islands or cliffs (Patterson,<br />
1956).<br />
The most obvious factor in dense breeding populations <strong>of</strong> meadow-nesting<br />
gulls is that smaller territories increase the chances that wandering chicks<br />
will be attacked (see Ashmole,1963 <strong>for</strong> a similar argument concerning terns).<br />
Hunt and McLoon have recently (1975) argued that decline in food availability<br />
will lessen the ability <strong>of</strong> adult gulls to provide their chicks with food.<br />
When the begging chicks fail to receive food, their increased activity<br />
(wandering) will increase their chances <strong>of</strong> being killed by territorial<br />
neighboring gulls. This in turn suggest food as the ultimate limiting factor.<br />
If this sort <strong>of</strong> internal predation is combined with Darling's hypothetical<br />
effect <strong>of</strong> breeding synchrony, then there would be an optimum density <strong>for</strong><br />
-breeding. Whether gulls have reached this density in the northeast Gulf <strong>of</strong><br />
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22<br />
Alaska is not yet clear. Evidence indicates sufficient room <strong>for</strong> larger<br />
breeding populations on nesting islands.<br />
Nesting Activities<br />
Thousands <strong>of</strong> gulls on Egg Island nest on stabilized meadow-covered (Fig.6,8,10)<br />
dunes, usually in proximity to some additional cover <strong>of</strong> old drift logs or<br />
Sambucus bushes. Slope <strong>of</strong> the dunes is shallow, since the highest are only<br />
ten meters above sea level. Egg Island can be compared to North Marble,<br />
where highest densities <strong>of</strong> nesting gulls are found on completely open meadows.<br />
However, some sites on North Marble are precipitous, approaching 50 percent<br />
slope. Gulls tend to select breeding habitat where approaching predators can<br />
be easily detected. Gulls were not observed nesting in brush fringes on<br />
North Marble,but gull nests have been observed directly beneath bushes on<br />
Egg Island. Brush-nesting gulls have been previously reported by Vermeer<br />
(1963) <strong>for</strong> Mandarte Island, and Manuwal (pers. comm.) in the San Juan Islands,<br />
Washington State.<br />
Dry Bay provides somewhat different conditions. About 500 gull pairs nest(Fig,5)<br />
on gravel bars at the mouth <strong>of</strong> the Alsek River. The low gravel islands there(Fig.9)<br />
are washed by high waters during spring melt-<strong>of</strong>f and following summer storms.<br />
Vegetation as a consequence <strong>of</strong> unstabilized substrate plus flooding is sparse<br />
and consists <strong>of</strong> mainly Salix, spp., Festuca, Achillea, Elymus and Epilobium,<br />
which would indicate a combined maritime and fresh-water influence. Vegetation<br />
cover is important, since nests are clumped near drift logs, willow bushes,<br />
and grass patches. Fewer nests are located on exposed gravel. Nests are<br />
similar to those on Egg Island, although nest cups are more shallow, perhaps<br />
due to the lack <strong>of</strong> slope on the island and the lack <strong>of</strong> suitable vegetation.<br />
Some nests are hardly more than a depression in the sand with a few dry<br />
strands <strong>of</strong> Elymus around the edge.<br />
271
Figure 5. Map <strong>of</strong> the Yakutat area, showing location <strong>of</strong> gull colonies<br />
at Dry Bay, mouth <strong>of</strong> the Alsek River (lower arrow) and Haenke Island in<br />
Disenchantment Bay (upper arrow).
24<br />
Gravel beds where no gulls nest separate parts <strong>of</strong> the island colony<br />
at Dry Bay. The reason <strong>for</strong> this distribution became evident when a strong<br />
summer storm followed days <strong>of</strong> brilliant sun. Apparently glaciers meltedsomewhat in<br />
the mountains. When the melt-waters combined with the heavy rainfall, the<br />
river rose, filled the gravel beds, sectioned <strong>of</strong>f parts <strong>of</strong> the gull island<br />
and the entire area. Gulls on the gravel beds or on the periphery <strong>of</strong> the<br />
island must find their nests washed away under these conditions (Figure 9).<br />
Glaucous-winged and Herring Gulls nest together at Dry Bay. These gulls<br />
are flexible in nesting habitat selection (Patten and Weisbrod, 1974; Patten,<br />
1974). Western and Glaucous-winged Gulls also nest in a variety <strong>of</strong> habitats<br />
(Vermeer, 1963; Coulter, et al 1971). Nesting habitat selection apparently<br />
does not serve as an isolating mechanism between these species.<br />
About 200 pairs <strong>of</strong> Glaucous-winged Gulls nest at Haenke Island <strong>of</strong>f (Fig.5 7)<br />
Yakutat Bay. Haenke Island is about 1 km wide and 1 km across. The east<br />
side <strong>of</strong> the island, facing the Hubbard Glacier, gradually inclines up to a<br />
large 150-200 m westward facing cliff, which then slopes precipitously down<br />
a series <strong>of</strong> shallow terraces bordered by vertical cracks. Vegetation on<br />
the terraces is composed <strong>of</strong> alders and meadows. Sambucus and Ribes bushes<br />
border grass and <strong>for</strong>b meadows on the face. The dominant grass in the nesting<br />
areas was Hordeum sp. Mosses, fireweed and <strong>for</strong>bs made up the steeply sloping<br />
meadows where gulls did not nest. Glaucous-winged Gulls breed on the meadow-<br />
covered terraces. Gull nests in 1974 were widely spaced, approximately 20<br />
meters apart on the average. We observed many "false" nests. The Glaucous-<br />
winged Gulls did not nest close to the water; the closest nest was about 25 m<br />
above the high tide mark.<br />
Gulls in all colonies studied in southcentral and southeastern Alaska<br />
built nests <strong>of</strong> material available in the immediate vicinity <strong>of</strong> the nest site,<br />
273
Figure 6. View from Egg Island, June 1975,<br />
showing Elymus meadows, Egg Island Channel, part <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Copper River Delta, and the Chugach Mountains.<br />
Figure 7. Haenke Island (center) is located<br />
in Disenchantment Bay, <strong>of</strong>f Yakutat Bay, near the active<br />
front <strong>of</strong> the Hubbard Glacier at the foot <strong>of</strong> the St. Elias Range.<br />
274
Figure 8. Egg Island viewed from a small aircraft<br />
at 100 m, showing hundreds <strong>of</strong> gulls flying over meadowcovered<br />
dunes with scattered old drift logs providing<br />
partial cover <strong>for</strong> nests.<br />
Figure 9. Dry Bay from a small aircraft at 200 m +<br />
elevation showing gull colony (center) on low gravel bars<br />
with sparse vegetation.<br />
275
27<br />
that is, usually within the territory. Colonies located on different<br />
vegetation substrate show the corresponding structural material in the<br />
nests. Thus, the predominant nest material on Egg Island is Elymus and (Fig. 10)<br />
mosses, on Haenke Island most material is Hordeum, Epilobium and mosses (Fig. 11);<br />
at Dry Bay Salix twigs, Epilobium and detritus, and on North Marble Hordeum,<br />
Festuca, Epilobium, Elymus and mosses depending upon colony location. Similar<br />
use <strong>of</strong> vegetation close to the nest site has been reported by Harpur (1971)<br />
and Strang (1973).<br />
We measured 100 nests at Egg Island and 100 nests at Dry Bay <strong>for</strong><br />
comparative purposes, the dimensions <strong>of</strong> which are presented along with<br />
North Marble data in Tables 2 and 3. The inner (nest cup) diameters along<br />
two perpendicular axes had respective means <strong>of</strong> 19.63 cm and 19.91 cm at Egg<br />
Island, and 19.92 cm and 20.06 cm at Dry Bay. The outer nest diameters along<br />
two perpendicular axes had respective means <strong>of</strong> 39.75 cm and 39.11 cm at Egg<br />
Island, while at Dry Bay the respective dimensions were 40.16 cm and 39.42 cm.<br />
(Table 2). Note that the standard deviations indicate that the nest cup<br />
dimensions, or inner diameters, are less variable than the outer nest dimensions<br />
(Table 2). This is due to the method <strong>of</strong> nest construction, in which the gull<br />
turns its body to <strong>for</strong>m the more rounded uni<strong>for</strong>m interior <strong>of</strong> the nest. Mean<br />
nest cup depth was 6.98 cm at Egg Island, while Dry Bay mean nest cup depth was<br />
5.94 cm (Table 3). Egg Island nests tended to be deeper and more built up than those<br />
at Dry Bay. Note that nest cup dimension at North Marble was appreciably<br />
deeper than either Egg Island or Dry Bay, probably due to the large amounts<br />
<strong>of</strong> vegetation available on North Marble and possibly related to the greater<br />
slope. The nest dimensions given here resemble those <strong>of</strong> other large white-<br />
headed gulls (Patten, 1974).<br />
Vermeer (1963) stated that either male or female Glaucous-winged Gulls<br />
276
Figure 10. Campsite on Egg Island, June 1975<br />
with Egg Island Channel and the Chugach Range in the background.<br />
Figure 11. Campsite on Haekne Island, June 1974,<br />
at the foot <strong>of</strong> the gull colony on the cliff (not visible).<br />
Pack ice from the Hubbard Glacier in the background.<br />
Gulls feed on seal placentae scavenged on the ice.<br />
277
29<br />
may initiate nest building. After the beginning <strong>of</strong> nest construction,<br />
apparently both sexes share equally in building, in contrast to Herring<br />
Gull males, which collect more material than females (Tinbergen, 1960;<br />
Goethe, 1937). Nests are maintained until chicks hatch, after which the<br />
nests begin to disintegrate and rarely survive the winter storms.<br />
We observed the construction <strong>of</strong> "false" or "play" nests at Egg Island,<br />
Haenke Island, Dry Bay and North Marble, as did Goethe (1937), Paynter (1949),<br />
and Tinbergen (1960) elsewhere. Construction <strong>of</strong> "false" nests may relate<br />
to the amount <strong>of</strong> available vegetation. Supernumerary nests may prevent the<br />
<strong>for</strong>mation <strong>of</strong> search images in predators (Tinbergen, 1960). Reasons otherwise <strong>for</strong><br />
the construction <strong>of</strong> supernumerary nests are not apparent. False nests<br />
may simply result from the release <strong>of</strong> the nest-building drive (Nisttrieb),<br />
but the effect can be the utilization <strong>of</strong> a large amount <strong>of</strong> vegetation. A<br />
colony <strong>of</strong> 500 gull pairs on North Marble removes about a metric ton <strong>of</strong><br />
vegetation in one season. Added to the effects <strong>of</strong> trampling, fertilizing<br />
and physical damage done to the meadows during spring and summer, the total<br />
gull activity may act to retard herbaceous succession in the meadows in which<br />
they nest. Tree reproduction, however, around the edges <strong>of</strong> the meadows in<br />
gull colonies may eventually displace the gulls. For a discussion see Patten<br />
(1974). (See Figures 12, 13.)<br />
278
Table 2<br />
Inner and Outer Diameter <strong>of</strong> Larus argentatus - Larus<br />
Glaucescens Gull Nests at Egg Island, Dry Bay and<br />
North Marble Island, Alaska<br />
279
Egg Laying<br />
Table 3<br />
Nest Depth <strong>for</strong> Egg Island, Dry Bay and<br />
North Marble Island Colonies<br />
The gulls on North Marble begin to lay eggs in mid to late May (Patten,<br />
1974). A remarkable degree <strong>of</strong> synchronization was apparent when comparing<br />
percentages <strong>of</strong> eggs found on sequential dates <strong>of</strong> observation through the<br />
nesting period. Egg-laying on North Marble both years was very closely<br />
synchronized in all colonies, although peak egg-laying was two weeks earlier<br />
in 1973 than 1972. Darling (1938), Coulson and White (1956), Coulter, et al<br />
(1971) and Brown (1966b) have reported synchronous egg-laying in gulls.<br />
There is considerable debate, however, about the relation <strong>of</strong> colony size<br />
and density to egg-laying synchrony (see above).<br />
The northeast Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska gull study was not funded early enough<br />
this year to provide sufficient data on egg laying synchrony. However,<br />
evidence suggests a wide spread <strong>of</strong> egg dates on Egg Island. This may be<br />
due to the amount <strong>of</strong> egg predation from the large numbers <strong>of</strong> other gulls<br />
and consequent re-nesting. Smaller colonies at Haenke Island and Dry Bay<br />
may show less spread <strong>of</strong> egg dates, although evidence is currently incomplete.<br />
280
Figure 12. Study area southwest <strong>of</strong> Egg Island<br />
Light, showing gulls on territories and nest survey markers,<br />
June 1975.<br />
Figure 13. Survey Area, Egg Island, West View,<br />
June 1975.<br />
281
33<br />
Egg synchrony will be investigated further; we include a general discussion<br />
here.<br />
Both colonial nesting and synchronization <strong>of</strong> egg-laying have an<br />
anti-predator function. The mechanisms through which these two phenomena<br />
reduce predation on the population have been discussed by Darling (1938)<br />
and Kruuk (1964). They suggest that the concentration <strong>of</strong> gull reproduction<br />
into the shortest possible time will reduce egg and chick losses since the<br />
number <strong>of</strong> predators is limited by the amount <strong>of</strong> food available.during<br />
the rest <strong>of</strong> the year, and by intra-specific aggression. Brown (1967b)<br />
suggests a possible mechanism <strong>for</strong> synchronous laying. He suggests that<br />
"social attraction" in gull colonies functions beyond colonial defense, and<br />
that this function increases efficiency. Brown (1967b) postulates that<br />
in gulls copulation may be the key factor stimulating ovulation, and that<br />
copulation by one pair stimulates others to do the same. Judging from<br />
Coulson and White's (1960) records on the effect <strong>of</strong> density on breeding in<br />
the Kittiwake, the result would probably be a local synchrony, rather than the<br />
colony-wide one suggested by Darling (1938); presumably the birds in the<br />
denser areas would be the first to breed. Either way, their breeding is<br />
likely to be more efficient than birds in less dense areas or colonies. The<br />
evidence from North Marble (Patten, 1974) indicates not only a colony-wide<br />
synchrony, but a synchronous egg-laying in four partially contingent colonies.<br />
This in turn suggests that the gulls on North Marble are acting as one<br />
large colony. It should be pointed out that North Marble contains about<br />
500 breeding pairs <strong>of</strong> gulls. Egg Island pairs vastly outnumber this figure.<br />
Incubation in Alaskan Glaucous-winged Gulls does not begin until after<br />
the clutch <strong>of</strong> three is completed, usually about a week after the first<br />
S egg is laid (Patten, 1974). On North Marble the onset <strong>of</strong> incubation was<br />
282
34<br />
quite synchronized, and began immediately after the peak egg-laying week.<br />
This meant that gull eggs are subjected to ambient temperatures <strong>for</strong> a week.<br />
Gull eggs, however, apparently tolerate temperature fluctuations, even after<br />
incubation commences (Baerends, 1959; Vermeer, 1963). Gull eggs were left<br />
uncovered during the time we examined the survey area on Egg Island, about<br />
once every three days. Weather ranged from cold drizzle to brilliant (Fig.10)<br />
sunshine. We found no adverse affect on eggs hatching resulting from<br />
interrupted incubation due to our presence. Vermeer (1963) found gull<br />
eggs to be resistant to nocturnal exposure in a series <strong>of</strong> experiments. He<br />
found no adverse effect on hatching and fledging rate in an experiment<br />
which involved preventing gulls from incubating during the night.<br />
Clutch Size<br />
A total <strong>of</strong> 339 eggs was found in the 153 nests under study on Egg<br />
Island within the observation period <strong>of</strong> 16 June to 18 August. At Dry Bay,<br />
237 eggs were found in the 100 nests examined in late June. These are not<br />
completed clutch size figures. In both colonies the modal number <strong>of</strong> eggs<br />
per clutch was three. At Egg Island, the mean was 2.2 per clutch on 17 June,<br />
and at Dry Bay the mean was 2.37 on 28 June. Both dates are late in the<br />
incubation period. The clutch size data are within the range <strong>of</strong> other studies<br />
<strong>of</strong> Glaucous-winged, Herring and Western Gulls in North America and Europe<br />
(reference in Patten, 1974). Patten (1974) has previously reported a mean<br />
clutch size at the beginning <strong>of</strong> the incubation <strong>for</strong> Alaskan Glaucous-winged<br />
Gulls <strong>of</strong> 2.9. This leads to the question: "Why do Alaskan gulls lay this<br />
number <strong>of</strong> eggs rather than fewer or more?". As Lack (1968) has stated, the<br />
factor limiting clutch size is not the number <strong>of</strong> eggs a bird is potentially<br />
capable <strong>of</strong> laying and incubating, but rather the number <strong>of</strong> young a pair<br />
<strong>of</strong>birds is able to rear to fledging age with success. The upper and lower<br />
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35<br />
limits <strong>of</strong> clutch size have been determined by natural selection which<br />
acts through several channels. The lower limit <strong>of</strong> clutch size in gulls<br />
has been influenced by predation, and the upper limit presumably through<br />
the inability to feed young in abnormal years, although gulls in the<br />
Larus argentatus group have only three brood patches. Harpur (1971) has<br />
previously reported no gulls were successful in experiments involving the<br />
ability to brood clutches larger than three. We report, however, two (Fig. 17)<br />
supernormal clutches <strong>of</strong> four eggs each on Egg Island this season. Sample<br />
size was 750 nests observed. At least one <strong>of</strong> these clutches hatched<br />
normally, producing 4 chicks <strong>of</strong> normal weight (Table 6). Such an occurrence<br />
is quite rare, and has not been previously reported <strong>for</strong> Alaska. No clutchss<br />
larger than three were observed in Glacier Bay; sample size was 500 nests.<br />
Hunt and Hunt (1973) have reported supernormal clutches in Western Gulls<br />
in southern Cali<strong>for</strong>nia (see below); currently Pierotti (pers. comm.) is<br />
investigating the possibility that supernormal clutches are the result <strong>of</strong><br />
female-female pairs (fertilized by males otherwise paired). The presence<br />
<strong>of</strong> supernormal clutches in the study area requires additional research.<br />
The optimum clutch size in Herring, Glaucous-winged and Western Gulls is<br />
evidently around three but as in other species there is probably some<br />
variation in the optimum number from locality to locality as well as from<br />
year to year.<br />
Among the determinants <strong>of</strong> clutch size is the age at which birds breed.<br />
(Paynter, 1949). Coulson and White (1956) have demonstrated that in the<br />
cliff-nesting Kittiwake (R. tridactyla) the female's age, breeding experience<br />
and the time <strong>of</strong> breeding all effect clutch size. There is colonial and<br />
geographic variation in the percentage <strong>of</strong> complete clutches, and this has<br />
284
36<br />
direct effect on the population reproduction rate. Another agent which<br />
at times has been suggested as modifying clutch size is the availability<br />
<strong>of</strong> food (Paynter, 1949; Ward 1973). While this may be effective in<br />
species with a more restricted diet than Glaucous-winged or Herring Gulls,<br />
it seems that judging from the castings on Egg Island, that food is not<br />
usually scarce. Fish and other animal populations may fluctuate from<br />
year to year, but gulls feed on so many <strong>for</strong>ms, including human garbage,<br />
that there is little probability that in any one breeding period all types<br />
<strong>of</strong> food would be difficult to find (Paynter, 1949).<br />
Another factor enters into the discussion <strong>of</strong> clutch size. Harris<br />
(1964) in Wales, Keith (1966) in Wisconsin, Kadlec and Drury (1968) in<br />
Massachusetts, and Vermeer (1963) in British Columbia have independently<br />
decided that with repeated egg counts the closer the mean clutch approaches<br />
three. Most single counts will show only 60 to 80 percent three-egg counts,<br />
because egg loss is widespread, in some cases occurring even during laying,<br />
and egg-dates <strong>of</strong> females in the same colony may be spread over several<br />
weeks, so that there is no one day on which all nests have the full number<br />
<strong>of</strong> eggs. Gulls do noti;re-lay unless the completed clutch is destroyed.<br />
We report the occurrance <strong>of</strong> "runt" eggs on Egg Island. In the same<br />
sample <strong>of</strong> 750 nests examined above, we found four nests with strikingly (Fig. 14,15,16<br />
subnormal eggs in size and weight (Table 5). These nests contained one<br />
"runt" egg each, in addition to one or two other "normal" eggs. The "runt"<br />
eggs were not viable, did not hatch, and contained little tissue or fluids.<br />
Ohlendorff (pers. comm.) in<strong>for</strong>ms us <strong>of</strong> "runt" eggs in museum collections.<br />
Female gulls laying <strong>for</strong> the first time may lay smaller eggs than usual but<br />
the reasons <strong>for</strong> the occurrance <strong>of</strong> "runt" eggs are otherwise obscure and will<br />
285
e investigated further.<br />
Egg Loss<br />
37<br />
Patten (1974) has previously reported a mean clutch size <strong>of</strong> 2.9<br />
<strong>for</strong> Alaskan Glaucous-winged Gulls. For purposes <strong>of</strong> demonstration, we<br />
will assume a mean clutch size <strong>of</strong> 2.9 at the beginning <strong>of</strong> the 1975<br />
incubation period on Egg Island and Dry Bay. One hundred nests examined<br />
on June 17th at Egg Island contained a mean 2.2 eggs per nest. Hatching<br />
started within two days. Thus approximately 75 percent <strong>of</strong> the eggs in<br />
this smaller survey area were remaining near the end <strong>of</strong> incubation.<br />
However, both egg loss and egg-laying continued. At the end <strong>of</strong> the season,<br />
our figures indicated we had observed 339 eggs in the enlarged study area<br />
<strong>of</strong> 153 nests. Of these 339 eggs, 254 had hatched. Of the remaining 85<br />
eggs, 9 were apparently infertile or pipped but failed to hatch (see below).<br />
There<strong>for</strong>e, 74 eggs (19 percent) were "lost" from the study area after<br />
we had seen them. Assuming a completed clutch <strong>of</strong> 2.9 eggs per nest and<br />
153 nests, then total eggs laid in the study area amounted to 444. If<br />
our assumptions hold true, then 105 eggs (24 percent) were lost be<strong>for</strong>e<br />
our arrival on Egg Island. Total egg loss amounted to 179 eggs or nearly<br />
43 percent in the study area (Table 4). This is an island with 10,000-<br />
12,000 nesting adult gulls.<br />
At Dry Bay on June 28th, 100 nests contained a mean 2.37 eggs per<br />
site. Granted the above assumption <strong>of</strong> 2.9 eggs per nest at the beginning<br />
<strong>of</strong> incubation, the colony at Dry Bay had about 82 percent eggs remaining<br />
near the end <strong>of</strong> incubation on an island with about 1,000 adult gulls.<br />
This would indicate in general about 20-40 percent egg loss to predation<br />
from other gulls, ravens, crows and jaegers in the northeast Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska.<br />
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38<br />
This roughly follows a normal pattern <strong>of</strong> 60-80 hatching success reported<br />
by Kadlec and Drury (1968) <strong>for</strong> Herring Gulls in New England.<br />
Hatching failure can be conveniently divided into three classes<br />
(Paynter, 1949): egg disappearing (lost) from the nests during incubation;<br />
eggs which remained in the nests but did not hatch (dying); and eggs<br />
which were pipped but in which the chick died be<strong>for</strong>e emerging. Gulls would<br />
occasionally be seen to swoop down on unguarded nests <strong>of</strong> their own species<br />
and eat or carry away eggs. We also saw raven and crows on Egg Island and<br />
North Marble taking gull eggs. At Dry Bay we observed Parasitic Jaegers<br />
eating gull eggs. However, in all three places the gulls appear to be the<br />
more serious predators simply because <strong>of</strong> their overwhelming numbers.<br />
The loss <strong>of</strong> eggs through predation was the <strong>principal</strong> factor influencing<br />
hatching and fledging rate on Egg Island in 1975 and in both years on<br />
North Marble (1972-73) (Table 4,9,10).<br />
L. argentatus loses eggs most commonly through predation from con-<br />
specific adults, according to Paynter (1949) and Paludan (1951). This<br />
is the opposite <strong>of</strong> which Vermeer (1963) reported <strong>for</strong> L. glaucescens.<br />
More eggs in his study failed to hatch than were taken by predators.<br />
However, Keith (1966) reported that in a population <strong>of</strong> Lake Michigan<br />
Herring Gulls, contaminated by DDT, the chief cause <strong>of</strong> egg mortality was<br />
embryonic death. Hunt and Hunt (1973) located a colony <strong>of</strong> Western Gulls<br />
on Santa Barbara Island, Cali<strong>for</strong>nia, in which many clutches containing<br />
four or five eggs were found. It is particularly interesting that in<br />
these large clutches not only was hatching success low but also eggshell<br />
thickness was reduced. The authors suggested that the eggs may have beer<br />
contaminated with pesticide residues.<br />
287
Table 4<br />
Numbers <strong>of</strong> "Lost", "Infertile" and "Pipped"<br />
Eggs Which Did Not Hatch in the Study Areas<br />
on Egg Island, 1975; Dry Bay, 1975 and<br />
North Marble Island, 1972,1973.<br />
A very low cause <strong>of</strong> non-productivity in the 1975 gull breeding season<br />
on Egg Island was failure to hatch. Incubation and other influences<br />
seemed normal from gross field examination. Examinations <strong>of</strong> the few<br />
decayed eggs did not reveal developed embryos or any specific reason <strong>for</strong><br />
mortality. We have tentatively concluded the eggs were infertile since the<br />
relative percentage <strong>of</strong> unhatched eggs was very low, and eggshells showed no<br />
signs <strong>of</strong> fragility or pesticide contamination. Ohlendorff (USF&WS Patuxent)<br />
is currently examining a small sample <strong>of</strong> eggs from Egg Island <strong>for</strong> biocide<br />
residues. A larger sample will be collected <strong>for</strong> biocide residue analysis<br />
next year. Paynter (1949) and Brown (1967) have also reported low numbers<br />
<strong>of</strong> "infertile" gull eggs in their studies.<br />
The last cause <strong>of</strong> failure to hatch occurred when the chick pipped the<br />
shell but failed to emerge and died. There was only one case <strong>of</strong> this in<br />
in the Egg Island study area this year, and only three cases<br />
288
in the two years <strong>of</strong> Patten's (1974) previous study. These are insignificant<br />
figures.<br />
Pigmentation <strong>of</strong> eggs on Egg Island was observed to be quite variable<br />
ranging from virtually no coloration (pale blue with no spots) to dark<br />
olive with many spots. Variation in eggshell pigment has been widely<br />
reported and is not directly involved with hatching or fledging success,<br />
although light-colored eggs in grassy meadows may be more susceptible to<br />
predation (Kruuk, 1964).<br />
Table 5<br />
Weights and Measurements <strong>of</strong> "Runt" Eggs<br />
on Egg Island, 1975, Compared to "Normal"<br />
Range.<br />
Table 6<br />
Supernormal Clutches Egg Island, 1975<br />
289
Figure 14. Abnormal Egg Size, Example # 1.<br />
Figure 15. Abnormal Egg Size, Example # 2.<br />
290
Figure 16. Abnormal Egg Size, Example # 3.<br />
Figure 17. Supernormal Clutch, Example 1.<br />
291
Egg and Clutch Replacement<br />
43<br />
Replacement clutches seem to be important only when large disturbances<br />
occur to colones (Vermeer, 1963). Paludan (1951) recorded Herring Gulls<br />
laid replacement clutches after a snowstorm. Such a large disturbance was<br />
not noted this summer on Egg Island or in either year <strong>of</strong> Patten's (1972-73)<br />
study on North Marble. However, our figures show some egg-laying still<br />
going on in early <strong>July</strong> 1975. Whether this indicates replacement clutches<br />
following predation, or simply a wide spread <strong>of</strong> breeding is yet unknown.<br />
Loss <strong>of</strong> the entire clutch after sufficient brooding to suppress the fourth<br />
follicle results in a replacement clutch in Larus argentatus and L. fuscus<br />
in 11-12 days (Paludan, 1951) and in L. ridibundus in about the same time<br />
(Weidmann, 1956). Vermeer (1963) found a similar occurrence in Larus<br />
glaucescens to take a slightly longer time, probably due to his experimental<br />
procedure (trapping). If we are allowed to speculate, egg-laying in late<br />
June or early <strong>July</strong> could indicate previous clutch loss to predation in early<br />
to mid June. This is entirely likely.<br />
Loss <strong>of</strong> eggs as they are laid enables four eggs to be laid, as evidenced<br />
by L. argentatus and L. fuscus (Paludan, 1951) and L. ridibundus (Weidmann,<br />
1956). Vermeer (1963) demonstrated similar phenomenon <strong>for</strong> L. glaucescens and<br />
also that the egg-laying interval between eggs was similar to undisturbed<br />
clutches. The reason <strong>for</strong> egg loss in Vermeer's (1963) study was crow predation<br />
resulting from human disturbance. In spite <strong>of</strong> predators, Vermeer found that<br />
in both years <strong>of</strong> his study, more eggs failed to hatch (addled) than were taken<br />
by predators.<br />
Attempts have been made to control the New England Herring Gull population<br />
292
44<br />
by treating eggs with a mixture <strong>of</strong> <strong>for</strong>maldehyde and oil (Gross, in Drury<br />
and Nisbet, 1973). An egg destruction program was planned to inhibit<br />
the growth <strong>of</strong> the gull population. During the first years <strong>of</strong> the gull<br />
control program, Gross (USF&WS) punctured eggs. However, the eggs so<br />
treated then rotted, burst, and the gulls again laid complete clutches<br />
in the usual pattern. Gross then shifted to spraying eggs with <strong>for</strong>maldehyde<br />
and oil. The <strong>for</strong>maldehyde is <strong>of</strong> course cytotoxic, but we wish to point<br />
out that the oiling <strong>of</strong> the eggs also acted to inhibit the respiration<br />
<strong>of</strong> the developing embyro by sealing the egg. If adult gulls resting<br />
on contaminated water become oiled about the breast feathers, then oil<br />
could be transferred to the eggs during incubation, causing embryonic<br />
mortality. If the embryos died, and the oil prevented much bacterial<br />
action, then the adult birds would continue to brood the eggs <strong>for</strong> long<br />
periods and not re-nest during the season. Drury and Nisbet (1973) reported<br />
Gross found the numbers <strong>of</strong> gulls nesting on treated (oiled) islands<br />
decreased more rapidly than could be attributed to adult mortality, indicating<br />
a net emigration <strong>of</strong> adults from these colonies. We wish to indicate the<br />
possibility <strong>of</strong> such occurrances in the NEGOA, with un<strong>for</strong>tunate consequences<br />
<strong>for</strong> marine birds including gulls.<br />
Incubation Period<br />
Incubation was nearly complete at the time <strong>of</strong> our arrival at the gull<br />
colonies in June 1975. Patten (1974) has previously reported a range <strong>of</strong><br />
onset <strong>of</strong> incubation on North Marble from 29 May to 10 June. Beginning <strong>of</strong><br />
incubation in colonies at Dry Bay, Haenke and Egg Island apparently falls<br />
within this time range. The beginning <strong>of</strong> incubation was synchronized in<br />
all colonies on North Marble; most gulls began brooding at about the same<br />
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45<br />
time, despite <strong>of</strong> larger spread <strong>of</strong> egg-dates from colony to colony. The<br />
abrupt synchrony <strong>of</strong> chick hatching both years <strong>of</strong> the North Marble study<br />
reflected the synchronized onset <strong>of</strong> incubation. The wide spread <strong>of</strong><br />
chick ages on Egg Island may reflect less synchrony in onset <strong>of</strong> incubation<br />
as well as a greater spread <strong>of</strong> egg-laying.<br />
Median dates from onset <strong>of</strong> incubation to hatching established a<br />
incubation period <strong>of</strong> 24 to 27 days on North Marble. Modal hatching<br />
dates indicate the usual eggs were incubated <strong>for</strong> a period <strong>of</strong> 26 days.<br />
Similar incubation periods have been reported by Tinbergen (1960),<br />
Vermeer (1963), Keith (1966), Schreiber (1970) and Harpur (1971).<br />
Near the end <strong>of</strong> the incubation period, on 29 June 1975, 115 gull<br />
eggs at Dry Bay weighed a mean 87.2 + 7.3 gms (Table 7). Eggs from<br />
North Marble in 1973 weighed 80.5 gms at the end <strong>of</strong> incubation. Eggs<br />
on North Marble lost about 18 percent <strong>of</strong> their weight during incubation,<br />
beginning incubation at a mean 97.6 gms/egg. The usual incubation period<br />
on North Marble is 26 days, and the average gull egg loses 0.67 percent<br />
<strong>of</strong> its weight per day. Assuming an equal incubation period 75 percent<br />
completed with equivalent weight loss at Dry Bay, the usual weight<br />
<strong>for</strong> gull eggs there at the beginning <strong>of</strong> incubation is about 100 gms.<br />
Eggs thus hatch at a hypothetical mean 82.7 gms, which would indicate<br />
a mean hatching date <strong>of</strong> 5 <strong>July</strong> 1975. Indicated onset <strong>of</strong> incubation at Dry Bay<br />
Bay was thus 10 June 1975.<br />
294
Chick Stage<br />
Table 7<br />
Egg Weights At Beginning and End <strong>of</strong> Incubation<br />
Period, North Marble Island,1973; Dry Bay, 1975<br />
A chick, as here designated, is a bird from time <strong>of</strong> hatching until<br />
departure from the nesting island (Schreiber, 1970).<br />
Chick hatching was not especially synchronous on Egg Island this<br />
year. Two peaks <strong>of</strong> chick hatching were observed: the majority <strong>of</strong> chicks<br />
hatched in late June, while a smaller group <strong>of</strong> chicks hatched in mid-<strong>July</strong>.<br />
Presumably, synchrony <strong>of</strong> egg and hatching dates provides better protection<br />
from predators, which can take only a certain percentage <strong>of</strong> eggs and chicks<br />
at any one time (Darling, 1938).<br />
When chicks hatched adult gulls gave long (territorial) calls more<br />
frequently than during incubation. Adult gulls also became more aggressive<br />
when chasing other gulls or corvids from their territories (similar<br />
observations reported by Vermeer, 1963). Parental gulls continued<br />
incubation during hatching, although the intensity <strong>of</strong> the drive apparently<br />
diminished rapidly, correlated with the development <strong>of</strong> homeothermy in the<br />
chicks. Adult birds removed eggshells up to 20 meters away from nests<br />
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47<br />
by picking them up and dropping the eggshells in flight. Presumably<br />
there is a strong selective pressure <strong>for</strong> removal <strong>of</strong> eggshells from<br />
the nest as an anti-predator device. Gulls were extremely wary with<br />
young chicks in the nest, and flew up at the slightest alarm.<br />
Defensive adult gulls defecated on us or repeatedly struck us with<br />
lowered feet across the back <strong>of</strong> the head.<br />
Adult gulls react to all newly born young on the territory in<br />
the first few days after hatching by directing by directing parental<br />
behavior towards them (Tinbergen, 1960). Soon afterward, gulls learn<br />
to know their own young, and hostile behavior towards strange chicks<br />
develops within a week (Tinbergen, 1960). Gull parents react to the<br />
call <strong>of</strong> their own chicks, even when they cannot see them (Goethe, 1956),<br />
while they do not react to strange chicks under similar circumstances.<br />
Goethe (1956) concluded that voice is an important factor in adults<br />
recognizing young. In addition, the cryptic pattern <strong>of</strong> dark vs. light<br />
on the chick's head may be important <strong>for</strong> individual recognition by the<br />
parents (Tinbergen, 1960). In this context we wish to emphasize the<br />
results <strong>of</strong> some <strong>of</strong> our color-marking experiments this summer on Egg Island.<br />
We originally planned to color-dye all chicks produced in our study area<br />
in order to trace their movements. In accordance with the plan we<br />
completely dyed 21 chicks with nyansol, a purple-black dye. Immediately<br />
thereafter (in two days) we found seven <strong>of</strong> the 21 chicks dead, a<br />
33 percent mortality (Table 8). The parents may not have continued to<br />
feed the young due to non-recognition, or the young birds may have died<br />
from exposure resulting from the evaporation <strong>of</strong> the isopropyl alcohol<br />
which is the solvent <strong>for</strong> the dye. The complete color-dyeing program <strong>of</strong><br />
young gulls was immediately dropped due to the mortality rate.<br />
Outside the study area proper on Egg Island,<br />
296
we dyed 80 chicks with nyansol on the tail, rump, abdomen, and axillaries,<br />
in other words parts <strong>of</strong> the body that probably are not important <strong>for</strong><br />
individual recognition. Dying the parts <strong>of</strong> young birds unrelated to<br />
individual recognition led to no observed mortality. With this<br />
background in mind we wish to point out that if young gulls are oiled<br />
<strong>for</strong> whatever reason about the head, individual recognition <strong>of</strong> chicks<br />
by parents may be destroyed, leading to mortality <strong>of</strong> the young.<br />
Table 8<br />
Analysis <strong>of</strong> Seven Mortalities<br />
Associated With Color-Marking<br />
(Complete) With Nyansol Dye.<br />
Egg Island, 1975<br />
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49<br />
We also wish to point out that if chicks become oiled on other parts<br />
<strong>of</strong> the body, the development or maintenance <strong>of</strong> homeothermy may be<br />
prevented, leading to death from exposure (McEwan and Koelink, 1973).<br />
Since chicks have little energy reserves, and <strong>of</strong>ten die in periods <strong>of</strong><br />
bad weather (see below) impairment <strong>of</strong> homeothermy through oiling must<br />
be regarded as a possibility.<br />
The period <strong>of</strong> hatching is a critical time in the gull reproductive<br />
cycle. In this period, adults must shift their behavior from incubating<br />
to brooding, gathering food and feeding the young (Vermeer, 1963). Some<br />
parents do not make this shift, or are inept at it. Paynter (1949),<br />
Paludan (1951) and Harris (1964) agree that major chick mortality occurs<br />
within a few days <strong>of</strong> hatciing.<br />
Even while still in the egg, chicks ready to hatch can be heard<br />
squeaking. But chicks stop peeping when hearing alarm calls from the<br />
adults. Tinbergen (1960) is sure that the alarm stimulus is auditory;<br />
in experiments involving visual isolating.<strong>of</strong> chicks, chicks crouched upon<br />
hearing alarm notes.<br />
The physical characteristics and boundaries <strong>of</strong> the territory are<br />
learned by chicks through experience as they develop. Chicks run to<br />
accustomed hiding places when adults give alarm calls. Fortunately this<br />
made the chicks easier <strong>for</strong> us to locate. For about two days after hatching,<br />
chicks remained in or next to the nest and made no consistant attempts<br />
to hide other than remaining quietly on the bottom <strong>of</strong> the nest. Then <strong>for</strong><br />
several days chicks hid behind grass tussocks near the nest. Later, chicks<br />
wandered further from nest sites and were more difficult to locate. Chicks<br />
began to swim on their own at about two weeks <strong>of</strong> age, and with increasing<br />
mobility<br />
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50<br />
and coordination they attempted to move down and away from the main<br />
colony sites when disturbed. Chicks close to the edge <strong>of</strong> the island<br />
fled into the water. However, water apparently does not provide the<br />
proximate stimulus <strong>for</strong> this behavior, since chicks from the high dunes<br />
at the center <strong>of</strong> Egg Island moved out into open sandy areas at the foot<br />
<strong>of</strong> the dunes when disturbed. While swimming, chicks from the edge <strong>of</strong><br />
the island started to group together. Small groups <strong>of</strong> chicks swam<br />
back to the island and crept in submissive posture, with heads down,<br />
back up to their nest sites after disturbance. If aquatic borders<br />
<strong>of</strong> island colonies become heavily oiled, at this time normal avoidance<br />
behavior <strong>of</strong> chicks would lead them into oil slicks.<br />
Nearly fledged chicks wandered extensively in and out <strong>of</strong> less<br />
defended territories towards the end <strong>of</strong> the breeding season. A flightless<br />
chick with a tall tarsal band, indicating origin in the Egg Island study<br />
area near the light, was found in late <strong>July</strong> one km further west along the<br />
main dune line. Wandering chicks <strong>for</strong>med small flocks at the base <strong>of</strong> the dunes<br />
near the water, or if no water was nearby, the chicks <strong>for</strong>med small flocks<br />
at the edge <strong>of</strong> sandy open areas. Southern (1968) noted response to disturbance<br />
<strong>of</strong> Ring-billed Gull chicks (Larus delawarensis) that were similar to other<br />
observations (Patten, 1974) <strong>of</strong> Glaucous-winged Gull chicks in Alaska.<br />
Mortality Factors<br />
Observed chick mortality was low (28 chicks) this season in the Egg<br />
Island study area. Most chicks (76) that failed to fledge simply disappeared<br />
(Table 9). Chicks surviving to banding at two weeks amounted to 221<br />
individuals. One hundred fifty banded chicks were counted in the study area<br />
at the close <strong>of</strong> the fledging period. If we include the seven chick.<br />
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51<br />
mortalities associated with color-dying, then productivity in the study<br />
area on Egg Island was 157 individuals. Twenty-one tall tarsal banded<br />
chicks observed were natural mortalities, including one found over<br />
300 meters away from the study area. There<strong>for</strong>e, 43 banded chicks were<br />
"lost" from the study area and probably failed to survive. Thirty three<br />
chicks were lost be<strong>for</strong>e banding. Banded chicks, flightless but still alive,<br />
were found as much as one kilometer away from their natal area, suggesting<br />
that a few wandering chicks may have lived to fledge. Their chances<br />
were not good since they had to <strong>for</strong>age on their own in the meadows.<br />
Egg Island chick mortality was 23 percent in 1975. Chick mortality<br />
was lower (5 to 8 percent) in both years <strong>of</strong> Patten's (1974) Glacier Bay<br />
study under conditions considerably different (Table 10). Coulter et al<br />
(1971) reported a mean 11 percent chick mortality <strong>for</strong> Western Gulls on<br />
Southwest Farallon Island, Cali<strong>for</strong>nia. Harpur (1971) found , mean chick<br />
mortality in the Western Gull on an islet near Santa Catalina Island,<br />
Cali<strong>for</strong>nia, to be 37 percent but he stated that except <strong>for</strong> human disturbance,<br />
chick mortality might have been as low as 7 percent. Harpur (1971) suggested<br />
that chick mortality may be more a function <strong>of</strong> crowding than <strong>of</strong> absolute<br />
colony size.<br />
The rise in mortality in crowded colonies could be due to the<br />
increased probability that small chicks wander into nearby territories and<br />
are killed (see above). The high average (about 85 percent) from the<br />
larger colonies reported by Harris (1964) support this hypothesis. However,<br />
Patterson (1956) working with the Black-headed Gull and Vermeer (1963)<br />
working with the Glaucous-winged Gull could find no significant difference<br />
in chick mortality as related to various colony sizes.<br />
300
Table 9<br />
Chick Mortality Egg Island, 1975,<br />
North Marble Island, 1972-73 (x)<br />
Table 10<br />
Percent Chick Mortality Egg Island,<br />
1975, North Marble Island 1972-73 (R)<br />
As indicated in previous discussions above, one <strong>of</strong> the main factors<br />
affecting chick mortality and fledging rate in this and other gull studies<br />
was the habit <strong>of</strong> adults to attack strange chicks (Paynter, 1949; Tinbergen,<br />
1960; Vermeer, 1963; Patten, 1974). It was not unusual to note adult gulls<br />
attacking chicks that had wandered from their natal territories into neighboring<br />
areas. We found most dead chicks on Egg Island about three weeks <strong>of</strong> age,<br />
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53<br />
in contrast to North Marble, where most dead chicks were found during<br />
the first week after hatching. Killing at North Marble does not seem<br />
confined to any particular age group, but is greatest when chicks are<br />
small, unable to retreat rapidly, or give appeasement displays. On<br />
Egg Island chick mortality seems most related to the age at which chicks<br />
begin to wander widely.<br />
The dead chicks on Egg Island and North Marble were usually away<br />
from any nest site, and typically exhibited head injuries. Small chicks<br />
were easily swallowed by adult gulls (Brown, 1967b), perhaps accounting<br />
<strong>for</strong> some chick disappearance. Vermeer (1963) noted that most chick<br />
mortality on Mandarte Island, B.C., occurred in the first week after<br />
hatching. Paynter (1949) and Paludan (1951) also ascribe most <strong>of</strong> the<br />
chick mortality in Herring Gulls to aggressive behavior in adults.<br />
There has been much speculation about the reasons <strong>for</strong> this killing<br />
(Paynter, 1949). Tinbergen (1960) believes that it may be due to the<br />
highly developed territorial defense <strong>of</strong> breeding adult gulls towards any<br />
moving object. It may be that selection is operating so that chicks<br />
remaining strictly on their natal territory will have a better chance <strong>of</strong><br />
survival.<br />
Weather was also a factor affecting chick mortality in this study.<br />
June and <strong>July</strong> 1975 on Egg Island were favorable months, with periods <strong>of</strong> a<br />
day or two <strong>of</strong> rainfall and moderate winds followed by stretches <strong>of</strong> fair,<br />
calm weather. There was excellent cover in the gull meadows due to growth<br />
<strong>of</strong> vegetation, and air temperatures were moderate. A week <strong>of</strong> quite poor<br />
weather occurred in early August, with cooler temperatures, very strong<br />
winds, and heavy rainfall. Vegetation in the meadows began to die down<br />
after the growing season. The main group <strong>of</strong> chicks had fledged and were<br />
302
54<br />
<strong>for</strong>aging on their own around the island beaches. However, a second group<br />
<strong>of</strong> chicks was still in the meadows and there was heavy mortality <strong>of</strong> the<br />
smaller chicks after the stretch <strong>of</strong> poor weather. The mortality may have<br />
two reasons, although they are related. Partially fledged chicks in poor<br />
cover may have died from exposure. Secondarily we observed much cannibalism,<br />
and we found many chick bodies picked clean. The inclement weather may<br />
have prevented both adults and juveniles from <strong>for</strong>aging efficiently, and the<br />
half-grown chicks accordingly suffered. Whether the chick mortality was due<br />
directly to attacks from other hungry gulls, was related to their weakened<br />
condition, or was only indirectly related to other gulls scavenging on<br />
chicks dead from exposure, is unclear. The effect was the same: chicks<br />
hatched later than the main group apparently had much lower survival. A<br />
selective pressure <strong>for</strong> egg and chick synchrony maybe due to weather, predation,<br />
cannibalism, and lack <strong>of</strong> food. Michelson .(pers. comm.) pointed out that<br />
<strong>for</strong> several years a severe storm has occurred in the Cordova area early<br />
in August. Our observations <strong>of</strong> chick mortality after the August storm<br />
were made in meadows outside the study area. By August 10th only few adult<br />
gulls were left. The productivity figure <strong>for</strong> the 1975 study area thus<br />
may not include the weather-induced mortality affecting other parts <strong>of</strong> Egg<br />
Island.<br />
The unseasonably dry <strong>July</strong> <strong>of</strong> 1972 on North Marble resulted in poor<br />
protective cover <strong>for</strong> chicks. Several chicks were found dead, apparently<br />
from exposure, after several days <strong>of</strong> cold rainy weather ended the dry<br />
spell. Coulter et al (1971) found chick mortality to be affected by the<br />
degree <strong>of</strong> exposure to weather and salt spray. Tinbergen (1960) stated gull<br />
chicks were quite sensitive to temperature changes. Vermeer (1963) suggested<br />
that the proximity <strong>of</strong> cover may be important <strong>for</strong> survival <strong>of</strong> young chicks<br />
303
in a hot, dry summer. Thus weather, through abrupt temperature changes<br />
and increasedvulnerability to adult gulls and other predators, may have<br />
an effect on survival <strong>of</strong> chicks.<br />
We compared the results <strong>of</strong> our investigation <strong>of</strong> factors influencing<br />
reproductive success on Egg Island and North Marble with data from other<br />
colonies and from other species <strong>of</strong> gulls, since so little is otherwise<br />
known <strong>of</strong> Glaucous-winged Gulls in Alaska. Natality, or hatching success,<br />
was calculated to be approximately 57.3 percent on Egg Island, and about<br />
68 percent <strong>for</strong> North Marble (Table 11). These figures can be compared<br />
to Western Gulls, in which hatching success has been reported to be 55<br />
percent by Schreiber (1970), 78 percent by Harpur (1971) and 78 percent<br />
by Coulter, et al. (1971).<br />
The mean combined mortality from egg to fledging on Egg Island was<br />
about 66 percent. This compares to 34 percent on North Marble, to 30<br />
percent combined egg and chick loss <strong>for</strong> Western Gulls on Southeast Farallon<br />
Island (Coulter, et al. 1971). Egg loss was higher but chick loss was<br />
lower on North Marble compared to Southeast Farallon. On Egg Island, egg<br />
loss was 42.7 to 26.5% and chick loss was 23.4 to 6.5% compared with North<br />
Marble. In both cases there was higher mortality on Egg Island.<br />
Total reproductive success was about 33.7 percent on Egg Island. Egg<br />
Island can be compared to North Marble, which had a total fledging success<br />
<strong>of</strong> 61 percent under post-glacial conditions. The fledging success <strong>of</strong> eggs<br />
hatched (59%) on Egg Island in 1975 compares favorably with the usual 50<br />
percent reported by Kadlec and Drury (1968) <strong>for</strong> Herring Gulls in New England;<br />
however, one year's data is no indication <strong>of</strong> a trend.<br />
On North Marble, hatching and fledging success were not s gnificantly<br />
different from colony to colony and from year to year, suggesting the gulls<br />
304
on North Marble may be acting as one large colony, and that environmental<br />
conditions were relatively static <strong>for</strong> the two study years. The exception<br />
was a small, newly colonized area at the top <strong>of</strong> the island, which had<br />
significantly larger territory sizes and lower fledging success. Egg loss<br />
on North Marble plotted against territory size showed increased loss with<br />
smaller territories, indicating that on egs, intraspecific predation was<br />
more important than interspecific predation. Thus, the larger average<br />
territory in the new small colony could not directly account <strong>for</strong> higher<br />
egg loss and resultant lower fledging success. However, the enclosed location<br />
<strong>of</strong> the small colony, and the lack <strong>of</strong> water nearby to which chicks could flee,<br />
suggested strongly that chick predators had an important effect. In 1975<br />
perhaps the larger numbers <strong>of</strong> other gulls on Egg Island resulted in a<br />
greater rate <strong>of</strong> chick predation, although the situation there is complicated<br />
by the large territory size.<br />
Table 11<br />
Hatching Success, Mortality, Reproductive Success<br />
Egg Island, 1975; North Marble Island, 1972-73 (X)<br />
Avian predators other than gulls were not uncommon on Egg Island or<br />
North Marble, although relative to gulls, their numbers were low. No<br />
terrestrial predators were noted on any gull island examined. Gull alarm<br />
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57<br />
calls were due, in order <strong>of</strong> importance, to the frequent appearance <strong>of</strong><br />
Bald Eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus), Ravens (Corvus corax) and Crows<br />
(Corvus brachyrynchos). Parasitic Jaegers (Stercorarius parasiticus) took<br />
gull eggs at Dry Bay and perhaps at Egg Island. Alarms in the gull colonies<br />
were good indicators <strong>of</strong> breeding intensity (Vermeer, 1963). Broody gulls<br />
remained on the nest and did not repeat the alarm call until the disturbance<br />
was close. Gulls gave two kinds <strong>of</strong> alarm calls, high and low intensity,<br />
as reported by Tinbergen (1960). Gull chicks hid at both high and low<br />
intensity alarm calls.<br />
Eagles disturbed the Egg Island and North Marble colonies repeatedly,<br />
especially early in the season be<strong>for</strong>e salmon were in the nearby mainland<br />
streams. The approach <strong>of</strong> an eagle caused immediate high-intensity alarm<br />
calls and flight <strong>of</strong> entire colonies at once. We found some gull remains<br />
that had been picked completely apart except <strong>for</strong> the cranium. A dead gull<br />
was found in an eagle nest near North Marble. Smoker (NMFS) <strong>reports</strong><br />
a successful attack by an eagle on a gull at Kitoi Bay, Agfognak Island.<br />
Our conclusion fromthis evidence is that eagles take gulls whenever possible.<br />
Tinbergen (1960) never saw a Herring Gull actually attacked by a<br />
predator, although he found remains <strong>of</strong> Herring Gulls probably killed by<br />
a Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus). No Peregrines were observed this<br />
season on Egg Island, although Peregrines were seen occasionally on North<br />
Marble in previous years. The falcons caused no alarms in the gull colonies,<br />
and no attacks were observed.<br />
Fledging Success<br />
We determined the median length <strong>of</strong> the nestling period to be 40-45 days<br />
on Egg Island, similar to that on North Marble. Other <strong>investigators</strong> also<br />
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58<br />
have reported similar fledging periods <strong>for</strong> Herring Gulls in Michigan<br />
(Keith, 1966), Western Gulls in Cali<strong>for</strong>nia (Schreiber, 1970; Harpur,<br />
1971), and Glaucous-winged Gulls in British Columbia (Vermeer, 1963).<br />
At the end <strong>of</strong> the fledging period, counts were made to determine<br />
fledging success. The fledging success, while a difficult measurement,<br />
(Keith, 1966; Schreiber, pers. comm.) is crucial in understanding the<br />
reproductive biology <strong>of</strong> birds. The fledging rate <strong>of</strong> 1.03 chicks per<br />
nest is normal when compared to other gull species, but much lower when<br />
compared to a colony in recent post-glacial surroundings (Table 12).<br />
Paynter (1949) found a production <strong>of</strong> 0.92 chicks per pair per year sufficient<br />
to maintain a stable population <strong>of</strong> L. argentatus on Kent Island, New Brunswick.<br />
Ludwig (1966) reported a recruitment rate <strong>of</strong> 0.63 is sufficient to maintain<br />
a stable population <strong>of</strong> Ring-billed Gulls (L. delawarensis) on the Great<br />
Lakes. Ludwig (1966) also found that between 1960 and 1965, L. argentatus<br />
populations increased at an annual rate <strong>of</strong> 13 percent with a mean fledging<br />
rate <strong>of</strong> 1.47. This was due to the unusal abundance <strong>of</strong> the alewife (Alosa<br />
pseudoharengus), a major food source. At the same time, L. delawarensis<br />
populations on the Great Lakes were increasing 30 percent per year with a<br />
mean fledging rate <strong>of</strong> 1.74, which is practically identical to the gulls<br />
on North Marble. Glaucous-winged Gulls studied by Vermeer (1963) on<br />
Mandarte Island, B.C., fledged 1.0 and 1.7 chicks per nest in his two-year<br />
investigation. Harpur (1971) published fledging rates <strong>of</strong> 1.33 and 0.96<br />
per nesting pair <strong>of</strong> Western Gulls. The highest mean fledging success<br />
encountered in the literature has been the 2.00 chicks per nest reported<br />
by Coulter, et al. (1971). Other fledging successes, as summarized by Keith<br />
(1966) ranged from 0.3 to 1.17. The gulls on Egg Island in 1975, in comparison<br />
307
with the above studies, fledged roughly in a "normal" pattern. This<br />
rate , if continued, would indicate a slowly expanding population,<br />
similar to that <strong>of</strong> Herring Gulls in the eastern United States and Canada,<br />
and due to a similar reason, that <strong>of</strong> an increasing food supply due to<br />
man's activities.<br />
Table 12<br />
Comparative Index <strong>of</strong> Gull Reproductive Success<br />
In Chicks Per Nest (Productivity)<br />
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60<br />
Banding Recovery and Sightings <strong>of</strong> Color-marked Gulls<br />
We banded 1300 Glaucous-winged Gull chicks in <strong>July</strong> and August 1975<br />
on Egg Island outside the study area. These young birds were ringed on<br />
their left tarsi with USF&WS aluminum "short" bands<strong>of</strong> the 1047 series,<br />
size 7A. We also captured every chick surviving to two weeks <strong>of</strong> age<br />
(221 individuals) in the study area (150m x 150 m) southwest <strong>of</strong> Egg Island<br />
Light, and enclosedtheir left tarsi in stainless steel "tall" bands <strong>of</strong><br />
the USF&WS 657 series, size 7A. Of these 221 banded chicks, 150 survived<br />
to fledge. One <strong>of</strong> these juvenile gulls, banded in the study area on<br />
August 1st, turned up at the end <strong>of</strong> Sunny Point, 8 kilometers west <strong>of</strong><br />
downtown Juneau, on October 4th, where it was shot by a small boy.<br />
Mr. Jim King <strong>of</strong> the Fish and Wildlife Service, Waterfowl Investigations,<br />
managed to coax the boy into retreiving the gull from the woods where he<br />
had it hidden. The immature Glaucous-winged Gull wore band # 657-67383,<br />
which indicated it had been banded as a flightless individual <strong>of</strong> unknown<br />
sex on August 1st.<br />
We color-marked over 100 young gulls in two different patterns<br />
with nyansol dye at the end <strong>of</strong> the season on Egg Island. (See above<br />
discussion.) We were able to capture 9 adult gulls this summer and<br />
mark them with picric acid, a brilliant yellow feather dye, which<br />
gradually oxidizes to orange with time. The first gull was captured<br />
at the Cordova docks, dyed on the head and upper breast, and released<br />
after a blood sample was removed. Our subsequent observations indicated<br />
that this bird remained in the Cordova area <strong>for</strong> most <strong>of</strong> the summer,<br />
feeding on the effluent <strong>of</strong> the salmon-packing canneries, and resting<br />
on Eyak Lake or at the municpal docks. When the canneries were not<br />
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61<br />
operating, this individual was seen at the dump. The local movements<br />
it be<br />
<strong>of</strong> this bird lead us to the suspicion that it may be part <strong>of</strong> a non-breeding<br />
population exploiting concentrated food resources opportunistically.<br />
Eight other adult gulls were captured at Egg Island, banded, weighed,<br />
and dyed yellow on lower breast, abdomen, axillaries, and tail, so as<br />
not to break pair bonds. Our initial observations indicated these birds,<br />
which were breeding adults with eggs or chicks when captured, remained<br />
close to the colony in <strong>July</strong>. In August we observed these birds progressively<br />
further from Egg Island, first at the mouth <strong>of</strong> the Eyak River a few<br />
kilometers away, then in Cordova 30 kilometers away at the dump or around<br />
the docks, and then as far away as Observation Island, near Deep Bay,<br />
Hawkins Island, 40-50 kilometers from Egg Island.<br />
Recently we have received notification from Mr King <strong>of</strong> "canary yellow"<br />
to "golden" gulls seen by various parties in the Juneau area in early<br />
<strong>September</strong>. Through the ef<strong>for</strong>ts <strong>of</strong> Mr. King, the Alaska Department <strong>of</strong><br />
Fish and Game notified the Juneau public <strong>of</strong> the presence <strong>of</strong> color-marked<br />
gulls in the area during a radio broadcast.from station KINY. Dr. Ralph B.<br />
Williams, Juneau ornithologist, has just written us about a "black - stained"<br />
gull reported near Juneau. We are hopeful <strong>of</strong> additional <strong>reports</strong> <strong>of</strong><br />
adult and juvenile gulls from our Egg Island study. We are able to suggest<br />
local and then southeastern movements <strong>of</strong> both adult and juvenile gulls<br />
from Egg Island along the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska coastline in post-breeding dispersal<br />
310
SUMMARY AND TENTATIVE CONCLUSIONS<br />
We carried out a concentrated investigation <strong>of</strong> two gull colonies located<br />
hundreds <strong>of</strong> kilometers apart in the northeast Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska in the summer<br />
<strong>of</strong> 1975. We compared the results <strong>of</strong> our investigation to data gathered in<br />
our previous Alaskan research and to other studies in the literature.<br />
Egg Island lies a few kilometers <strong>of</strong>fshore from the mouth <strong>of</strong> the Copper<br />
River, near Cordova, Alaska, and contains the largest Glaucous-winged Gull<br />
colony in the northeast Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska. Some 5000-6000 pairs nest on meadow-<br />
covered dunes on Egg Island. Mean territory size was 28.9 m2. The gull<br />
population may not be limited by available nesting space due to the uplift<br />
<strong>of</strong> the island and the surrounding area in the '64 earthquake. Nests<br />
averaged 19.6 by 19.9 cm across the inside, and 39.7 by 39.1 cm across the<br />
outside, and averaged 7 cm deep. Most egg-laying took place in late May or<br />
early June; there was a wide spread <strong>of</strong> egg dates. Observed clutch size at the<br />
end <strong>of</strong> incubation suggests a 43 percent egg loss to predators, mostly other<br />
gulls. Hatching success was high other than those eggs predated. There were no<br />
signs <strong>of</strong> eggshell weakness. However, "runt" eggs and supernormal clutches<br />
were noted on Egg Island. Considerable chick mortality occurred when chicks<br />
began to wander at about three weeks <strong>of</strong> age; the large territory size may<br />
slow the rate <strong>of</strong> earlier mortality. Death <strong>of</strong> many wandering chicks was<br />
due to attacks from other adult gulls. Bad weather was associated with much<br />
mortality <strong>of</strong> younger chicks later in the breeding season. Fledging took about<br />
40-45 days, and overall productivity was moderate, averaging about 1.03 chicks<br />
produced per nest, or 59 percent fledging success <strong>of</strong> chicks hatched.<br />
About 500 pairs <strong>of</strong> Herring and Glaucous-winged Gulls nest sympatrically<br />
in a mixed colony on low gravel bars at Dry Bay, mouth <strong>of</strong> the Alsek River,<br />
311
63<br />
south <strong>of</strong> Yakutat, Alaska. Hybrids and intergrades are common in the area.<br />
The reproductive biology <strong>of</strong> this colony was examined in late June 1975 in<br />
a sample <strong>of</strong> 100 nests. Territory size averaged 29.8 m , practically<br />
identical to that on Egg Island and also suggesting room <strong>for</strong> expansion<br />
<strong>of</strong> the breeding population. Nests at Dry Bay averaged 19.9 by 20.06 cm<br />
inner diameters, and 40.16 by 39.42 cm outer diameters, and averaged 1 cm<br />
shallower than nests on Egg Island, probably due to the lack <strong>of</strong> suitable<br />
nest material. One hundred and fifteen eggs at this colony showed a usual<br />
mean weight <strong>for</strong> a late stage in incubation. No runt eggs or supernormal<br />
clutches were observed in this smaller sample size. The reproductive cycle<br />
at Dry Bay was about two weeks behind Egg Island, probably due to heavy<br />
snowfall and late spring in the Yakutat area. The gravel bars at Dry Bay<br />
may be flooded on occasion, disturbing the gull reproductive cycle.<br />
This report examines some <strong>of</strong> the factors influencing gull reproductive<br />
biology in the northeast Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska during the 1975 field season, and<br />
tentatively indicates a gull population reproducing at a normal rate under<br />
relatively wild conditions. However, we suggest this gull population is<br />
already responding to human influence in the area. The moderate reproductive<br />
success <strong>of</strong> this population in the northeast Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska could account <strong>for</strong>,<br />
if continued, a slowly expanding number <strong>of</strong> gulls, due to increasing availability<br />
<strong>of</strong> food resulting from human activity. The development <strong>of</strong> oil resources in<br />
this area could effect gull reproduction at certain crucial periods in the<br />
breeding cycle, detailed herein.<br />
This study will continue through the 1976 field season, focusing on<br />
food habits, migration routes, pathobiology, population dynamics, amplification<br />
<strong>of</strong> aspects <strong>of</strong> breeding biology, and investigation <strong>of</strong> additional colonies.<br />
312
LITERATURE CITED<br />
American Ornithologists' Union. 1957. Checklist <strong>of</strong> North American Birds.<br />
American Ornithologists Union. Port City Press, Baltimore, Md. 691 pp.<br />
Baerends, G. P. 1959. The ethological analysis <strong>of</strong> incubation behavior.<br />
Ibis 101: 357-368.<br />
Brown, R. G. P. 1967a. Species isolation between the Herring Gull Larus<br />
argentatus and Lesser Black-backed Gull L. fuscus. Ibis 109: 310-317.<br />
S1967b. Breeding success and population growth in a colony <strong>of</strong><br />
Herring and Lesser Balck-backed Gulls Larus argentatus and L.fuscus.<br />
Ibis 109: 505-515.<br />
Cody, M. L. 1973. Coexistence, coevolution, and convergent evolution in<br />
seabird communities. Ecology 54: 31-44.<br />
Coulson, J. C. and E. White. 1956. A study <strong>of</strong> colonies <strong>of</strong> the Kittiwake<br />
Rissa tridactyla. Ibis 98: 63-79.<br />
. 1958. The effect <strong>of</strong> age on the breeding biology <strong>of</strong> the Kittiwake<br />
Rissa tridactyla. Ibis- 100:40-51.<br />
. 1960. The effect <strong>of</strong> age and density <strong>of</strong> breeding birds on the ti e<br />
<strong>of</strong> breeding <strong>of</strong> the Kittiwake Rissa tridactyla. Ibis 102: 71-86.<br />
Coulter, M., D. Ainley, and T. J. Lewis. 1971. Breeding <strong>of</strong> the Western<br />
Gull in different habitats on Southeast Farallon Island. Point Reyes<br />
Bird Observatory Bull. 20:1-3.<br />
Darling, F. F. 1938. Bird flocks and the breeding cycle. University Press,<br />
Cambridge. 124 pp.<br />
Drury, W. H., and I. C. T. Nisbet. The importance <strong>of</strong> movements in the<br />
biology <strong>of</strong> Herring gulls in New England. Contribution No. 64, Hatheway<br />
School <strong>of</strong> Cons. Eds., Mass. Audubon Soc., Lincoln, Mass.<br />
Erwin, R. M. 1971. The breeding success <strong>of</strong> two sympatric gulls, the Herring<br />
Gull and the Great Black-backed Gull. Wilson Bull. 83: 152-158.<br />
Fisher,J., and R.M. Lockley. 1954. Sea-birds.<br />
Collins, London. 320 p.<br />
Goethe, F. 1937. Beobachtungen und Untersuchungen zu Biologie der Silbermove<br />
(Larus argentatus Pontopp) auf den Vogellinsel Memmerstand. J. fur<br />
Ornithologie 85: 1-119.<br />
S1956. Die Silbermove. Wittenburg Lutheranstalt, Die Neue Brehm-<br />
Bucherei, Hert 182: 95 pp.<br />
313
65<br />
Harpur, C. A. 1971. Breeding biology <strong>of</strong> a small colony <strong>of</strong> Western Gulls<br />
Larus occidentalis wymani in Cali<strong>for</strong>nia. Condor 73: 337-341.<br />
Harris, M. P. 1964. Aspects <strong>of</strong> the breeding biology <strong>of</strong> the Larus argentatus,<br />
L. fuscus, and L. marinus. Ibis 106:432-456.<br />
Hinde, R. A. 1956. The biological significance <strong>of</strong> territories in birds.<br />
Ibis 98:340-369.<br />
Hunt, G. L., Jr. and Molly W. Hunt. 1973. Clutch size, hatching success,<br />
and eggshell-thinning in Western Gulls. Condor 75:483-486.<br />
Hunt, G.L., Jr. and S.C. McLoon. 1975. Activity patterns <strong>of</strong> gull chicks in<br />
relation to feeding by parents: their potential significance <strong>for</strong><br />
density-dependent mortality. The Auk 92: 523-527.<br />
Kadlec, J. A. and W. H. Drury, Jr. 1968. Structure <strong>of</strong> New England Herring<br />
Gull population. Ecology 49:644-676.<br />
Keith, J. A. 1966. Reproduction in a population <strong>of</strong> Herring Gulls Larus<br />
argentatus contaminated by DDT. Jour.Appl Ecol. 3:57-70.<br />
Kruuk, H. 1964. Predators and anti-predator behaviour <strong>of</strong> the Black-headed<br />
Gull (Larus ridibundus). Behaviour Suppl. 11:1-130.<br />
Lack, D. 1968. Ecological adaptations <strong>for</strong> breeding in birds. Chapman and<br />
Hall. London. 388 pp.<br />
Ludwig, J. P. 1966. Herring and Ring-billed Gull populations <strong>of</strong> the Great<br />
Lakes 1960-1965. Univ. Mich. Great Lakes Res. Publ. 15:80-89.<br />
McEwan, and Koelink. 1973. Response <strong>of</strong> mallards and scaup to oiling.<br />
Journ. Wildl. Man.<br />
Paludan, K. 1951. Contributions to the breeding biology <strong>of</strong> Larus argentatus<br />
and Larus fuscus. Videsk. Medd. dansk naturh. Foren. 114:1-128.<br />
Patten, S., Jr. 1974. Breeding ecology <strong>of</strong> the Glaucous-winged Gull (Larus<br />
glaucescens) in Glacier Bay, Alaska. Thesis, University <strong>of</strong> Washington,<br />
78 pp. unpublished.<br />
Patten, S.,Jr. and A. R. Weisbrod. 1974. Sympatry and interbreeding <strong>of</strong><br />
Herring and Glaucous-winged Gulls in southeastern Alaska. Condor<br />
76: 343-344.<br />
Paynter, R. A. 1949. Clutch size and egg and chick mortality <strong>of</strong> Kent Island<br />
Herring Gulls. Ecology 30:146-166.<br />
Schreiber, R. W. 1970. Breeding biology <strong>of</strong> Western Gulls Larus occidentalis<br />
on San Nicholas Island, Cali<strong>for</strong>nia, 1968. Condor 72: 133-140.<br />
Patterson, I. J. 1965. Timing and spacing <strong>of</strong> broods in the Black-headed<br />
Gull Larus ridibundus. Ibis 107: 443-449.<br />
314
66<br />
Smith, N. G. 1966a. Adaptations to cliff-nesting in some arctic gulls<br />
Larus. Ibis 108:68-83.<br />
Southern, W. E. 1969. Orientation behavior <strong>of</strong> Ring-billed Gull chicks and<br />
fledglings. Condor 71:418-425.<br />
Strang, C. A. 1973. The Alaskan Glaucous-winged Gull (Larus hyperboreus<br />
barrovianus Ridgway): autecology, taxonomy, behavior. Dept. <strong>of</strong> Forest<br />
and Cons., Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana. (mimeo). 60 pp.<br />
Tinbergen, N. 1957. The functions <strong>of</strong> territory. Bird Study 4: 14-27.<br />
. 1960. The Herring Gull's World. Rec. 2nd. ed., Basic Books,<br />
New York, 255pp.<br />
U. S. F. S. 1975. The Copper River delta, land at river's end.<br />
Chugach National Forest. Anchorage.<br />
Vermeer, K. 1970. Breeding biology <strong>of</strong> Cali<strong>for</strong>nia and ring-billed gulls.<br />
Canadian Wildlife Service Rep. Ser. No. 12. 52 pp.<br />
. 1963. The breeding ecology <strong>of</strong> the Glaucous-winged Gull Larus<br />
glaucescens on Mandarte Island, B. C. Occ. Pap. B. C. Prov. Mus. 13:1-104.<br />
Weidmann, U. 1956. Observations and experiments on egg-laying in the<br />
Black-headed Gull. Anim. Behavior 4:150-161.<br />
Ward,J.G. 1973. Reproductive success, food supply, and the evolution <strong>of</strong><br />
clutch size in the Glaucous-winged Gull. Unpubl. PhD. dissertation,<br />
U.B.C., Vancouver.<br />
315
PROGRESS REPORT NO. 1<br />
NOAA OCSEP Research Unit # 108<br />
COMMUNITY STRUCTURE, DISTRIBUTION, AND<br />
INTERRELATIONSHIPS OF MARINE BIRDS<br />
IN THE GULF OF ALASKA<br />
Principal Investigator: John A. Wiens<br />
Research Assistants: Wayne H<strong>of</strong>fman<br />
Dennis Heineman<br />
1 November 1975<br />
(Submitted 8 December 1975)<br />
317
I. TASK OBJECTIVES<br />
A. We intend to determine the interdependencies and interactions among<br />
marine bird species in the location <strong>of</strong> fish schools or other concentrated<br />
food sources. To this end we are studying the dynamics <strong>of</strong> mixed species<br />
flocks, concentrating on arrival and departure times and rates, flock<br />
composition, and modes <strong>of</strong> <strong>for</strong>aging behavior.<br />
B. We are assessing the role <strong>of</strong> non-breeding migrants in the dynamics<br />
<strong>of</strong> the community. Shearwaters, which breed in New Zealand and Southern<br />
South America, are at times the most abundant marine birds in Alaskan<br />
inshore waters. These birds could exercise a negative effect on population<br />
densities <strong>of</strong> breeding birds by pre-empting food sources, a positive effect<br />
by serving as locator species <strong>for</strong> food resources, or exhibit no direct<br />
relations to the dynamics <strong>of</strong> the breeding or resident species.<br />
C. We intend to simulate the trophic impacts <strong>of</strong> birds on the continental<br />
shelf ecosystems. To this end, we are collecting data on distribution,<br />
density, and food habits <strong>of</strong> marine birds in the study area to use as<br />
inputs in the simulation. The basic distribution and density data will<br />
also be valuable to the Project directly <strong>for</strong> prediction <strong>of</strong> the effects<br />
<strong>of</strong> development. Since the simulation depends upon the field data, this<br />
part <strong>of</strong> our work will not be initiated until after the initial field data<br />
are collected.<br />
II. FIELD ACTIVITIES<br />
A. Ship Schedule<br />
Time spent to date: Surveyor, Aug. 4 - Sept. 13 - party <strong>of</strong> two.<br />
Surveyor, Sept. 16 - Sept. 23 - party <strong>of</strong> one.<br />
Surveyor, Oct. 28 - Nov. 8 - party <strong>of</strong> one.<br />
B. Scientific Party<br />
Wayne H<strong>of</strong>fman, Research Assistant, Oregon State University<br />
Dennis Heinemann, Research Assistant, Oregon State University<br />
C. Methods<br />
1. Flock Characterization. - When feeding flocks are observed, counts<br />
are taken <strong>of</strong> the various species and observations <strong>of</strong> <strong>for</strong>aging<br />
and interactive behavior are made. These include time, order,<br />
and manner <strong>of</strong> arrival and departure, mode <strong>of</strong> feeding, intensity<br />
<strong>of</strong> feeding behavior, position within the flock, and interspecies<br />
interactions such as aggression and piracy. These observations<br />
can occasionally be taken from the ship, but most <strong>of</strong> our detailed<br />
data were gathered using the ship's launches in inshore areas.<br />
Observations from the ship confirm that most multi-species feeding<br />
flocks occur near shore.<br />
Observations <strong>of</strong> bird activity around ships' garbage, and other<br />
materials dumped overboard, both from the Surveyor and from other<br />
vessels encountered, were made op occasion. These are <strong>of</strong> some use<br />
in determining responses <strong>of</strong> birds to flock <strong>for</strong>aging by other species.<br />
2. Transect counts. - To determine the density and distribution <strong>of</strong><br />
the various marine bird species, we used a standardized transect<br />
count technique. While the ship was steaming on a constant heading<br />
<strong>for</strong> a period <strong>of</strong> at least 15 min, all birds seen in a 90° arc from<br />
the bow to one beam, are recorded.Distance from the ship, and<br />
318
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activity <strong>of</strong> the birds (sitting, diving, flying, direction and<br />
height) are recorded <strong>for</strong> each bird or group <strong>of</strong> birds. Additional<br />
notes are taken where appropriate on <strong>for</strong>aging behavior, association<br />
with mammals, or interactions between individuals or species.<br />
D. Sample localities<br />
1. Flock observations were made primarily at Kodiak and Unalaska,<br />
also near Sundstrom Island, Pavlov Bay, Big Koniuji Island,<br />
and in the Bering sea south <strong>of</strong> Nunivak Island.<br />
2. General regions <strong>of</strong> transects are noted in Table 1. The included<br />
trackline is very rough because we have not yet received a copy<br />
<strong>of</strong> the ship's trackline <strong>for</strong> the period we were aboard.<br />
E. Data collected<br />
1. Number and types <strong>of</strong> observations<br />
a. Flock characterization. These data are presently being<br />
prepared <strong>for</strong> submission to the NODC. The numerical data<br />
on the various flocks will be clustered to distinguish the<br />
basic flock types. Frequencies <strong>of</strong> occurrence <strong>of</strong> the various<br />
species in and out <strong>of</strong> flocks will be determined to estimate<br />
the degree <strong>of</strong> dependence <strong>of</strong> the species on the flocks <strong>for</strong><br />
food location.<br />
III. RESULTS<br />
b. Transect data. Analysis has been postponed until a concensus<br />
has been reached among the Principal Investigators and the<br />
NODC concerning a common <strong>for</strong>mat <strong>for</strong> bird transect censusing.<br />
The following analyses will be per<strong>for</strong>med: Bird densities<br />
will be computed <strong>for</strong> the various areas covered; the association<br />
tendencies will be measured <strong>for</strong> each regularly occurring species;<br />
associations with mammals will be compiled; and interspecies<br />
interactions will be analyzed <strong>for</strong> frequency and distribution.<br />
Since we are still involved in preparation <strong>of</strong> our data <strong>for</strong> processing,<br />
we have no specific results to communicate at this time. Indications <strong>of</strong><br />
reliability, accuracy, and precision are also premature at this time, except<br />
as expressed in part one <strong>of</strong> the addendum to this report.<br />
IV. PRELIMINARY INTERPRETATIONS<br />
At this time we can only convey subjective impressions <strong>of</strong> the phenomena<br />
we are studying. These thoughts are <strong>of</strong> very uncertain reliability and<br />
should not be disseminated outside the project <strong>of</strong>fice.<br />
Feeding flocks are a common phenomenon in summer near shore, but are<br />
apparently rare <strong>of</strong>fshore. They can be catagorized on the basis <strong>of</strong><br />
species composition into a number <strong>of</strong> fairly distinct types. The differences<br />
apparently cannot be explained completely in terms <strong>of</strong> differences in<br />
occurrence and abundance <strong>of</strong> the birds in different geographical areas.<br />
The possibility exists that some species may exclude from, or may selectively<br />
attract to the flocks, certain other species.<br />
The transect data indicate that bird densities are more variable but<br />
generally higher inshore than <strong>of</strong>fshore. Certain areas <strong>of</strong> very low bird<br />
density are obvious in the data without extensive analysis.<br />
Shelik<strong>of</strong> strait and the area around Hinchinbrook entrance are notable<br />
319
TABLE ONE<br />
320
-3-<br />
in this respect. General patterns <strong>of</strong> inshore/<strong>of</strong>fshore zonation are also<br />
obvious without analysis. Albatrosses were only seen at distances <strong>of</strong><br />
25 nautical miles or more <strong>for</strong>m land. Murrelets and Pigeon Guillemots<br />
were only seen within a few miles <strong>of</strong> land. It was also noted that several<br />
species were <strong>for</strong>aging at different distances from land than they do <strong>of</strong>f<br />
Oregon and Washington. Forked-tailed Petrels and Cassin's Auklets were<br />
both found <strong>for</strong>aging close inshore, whereas <strong>of</strong>f Oregon and Washington they<br />
are seldom if ever found <strong>for</strong>aging within 10 miles <strong>of</strong> the beach.<br />
V. PROBLEMS ENCOUNTERED/RECOMMENDED CHANGES<br />
A. We had hoped to do extensive observation <strong>of</strong> feeding flocks from the<br />
Surveyor. We found that a ship <strong>of</strong> thatsize tends to disturb the flocks<br />
be<strong>for</strong>e it approaches close enough <strong>for</strong> detailed observation. Also,<br />
a majority <strong>of</strong> feeding flocks are located nearshore and in shallow<br />
water where the ship's <strong>of</strong>ficers are (rightfully) unwilling to alter<br />
course <strong>for</strong> flock observations. In order to obtain the desired degree<br />
<strong>of</strong> detail in our flock observations we hope to be able to use the<br />
Surveyor's lauches more extensively than we did this fall season.<br />
We are also planning to spend several periods <strong>of</strong> 5-20 days each,<br />
camped on remote islands, observing the flocks <strong>for</strong>m shore with<br />
a spotting scope. This would require coordination with ships'<br />
schedules to provide <strong>for</strong> our transportation to and from the campsites.<br />
Experience in Washington state demonstates that the degree <strong>of</strong> detail<br />
we need in our observations can be obtained in this manner.<br />
B. Transect counts <strong>for</strong> density estimation. We encountered a problem<br />
with estimating densities <strong>of</strong> flying birds at sea. Our present<br />
techniques represent the "State <strong>of</strong> the Art", and the investigations<br />
which we feel would advance the state would require a modest budget<br />
adjustment, so we have included in our discussion <strong>of</strong> this problem<br />
under part 1 <strong>of</strong> the Amended Instruction section at the end <strong>of</strong> this<br />
report.<br />
C. Navigation Postion Problems. Calculation <strong>of</strong> densities <strong>of</strong> marine<br />
birds from transect data requires accurate in<strong>for</strong>mation on the<br />
ship's speed, and accurate positions are required to relate the<br />
transect in<strong>for</strong>mation to density. Ship's speed over the ground can<br />
best be calculated by taking two positions and obtaining the distance<br />
between them. For these reasons we require a log <strong>of</strong> accurate positions<br />
to be kept throughout the daylight hours while we are on board.<br />
The accuracy <strong>of</strong> the positions obtained on the Surveyor this last<br />
summer was not sufficient <strong>for</strong> our purposes. These accuracy problems<br />
result from indadquate equipment and too frequent human error by<br />
the junior <strong>of</strong>ficers charged with keeping a position log.<br />
Our recommended solution is to provide the ship with navigation<br />
systems that are more precise and that provide automatic output <strong>of</strong><br />
positions, thus reducing the opportunities <strong>for</strong> human error. During<br />
extensive discussions with the <strong>of</strong>ficers <strong>of</strong> the Surveyor, the following<br />
possibilities were discussed.<br />
1. Inertial guidence system. This would, assuming it functioned<br />
properly, solve all <strong>of</strong> our position problems.<br />
2. Automatic teletype-output and automatic course-speed update<br />
system <strong>for</strong> the Satellite Navigation System. This would provide<br />
321
-4-<br />
sufficiently precise position in<strong>for</strong>mation 60 to 80 percent <strong>of</strong> the<br />
time. The remainder <strong>of</strong> the time the position in<strong>for</strong>mation would be<br />
limited by the lack <strong>of</strong> good satellite passes.<br />
3. Automatic Teletype Output without automatic course-speed updating<br />
<strong>for</strong> the Sat-Nav. This would provide similar accuracy to (2) above<br />
provided the <strong>of</strong>ficers <strong>of</strong> the watch kept the System properly updated.<br />
The system was <strong>of</strong>ten not properly updated while we were on board this<br />
year.<br />
VI. ESTIMATE OF FUNDS EXPENDED (as <strong>of</strong> 31 October 1975)<br />
A. Salaries and Wages<br />
Graduate Research Assistants<br />
$1,986.56<br />
B. Payroll Assessments 284.87<br />
C. Services and Supplies 627.86<br />
D. Travel 1,086.36<br />
E. Permanent Equipment<br />
2 Olympus cameras with motor drive 1,050.72<br />
Accessories <strong>for</strong> cameras<br />
1,674.71<br />
Other equipment<br />
874.74<br />
F. Total Direct Costs 7,585.82<br />
G. Indirect Costs 898.33<br />
TOTAL $8,484.15<br />
322
AMENDMENTS TO PROGRESS REPORT<br />
1. Recommendations <strong>for</strong> future research. - Much <strong>of</strong> the present seabird<br />
research ef<strong>for</strong>t in the OCSEP program is directed toward measuring<br />
time-specific and location-specific densities <strong>of</strong> birds at sea. A<br />
major part <strong>of</strong> this ef<strong>for</strong>t is being done from on board ships, and a<br />
problem <strong>of</strong> density estimation from ship-gathered in<strong>for</strong>mation has<br />
arisen. When birds are flying through the area censused, the calculated<br />
density will vary from the actual density as a funtion <strong>of</strong><br />
the birds' flying speed, the wind speed, the birds' direction distribution,<br />
and the ship's speed, as well as <strong>of</strong> visibility and conspicuousness,<br />
<strong>for</strong> which we correct in our current methodology.<br />
Methods <strong>for</strong> correcting <strong>for</strong> these flying-bird errors, or even <strong>for</strong><br />
estimating their magnitude, are not presently available, but errors<br />
could potentially range to two orders <strong>of</strong> magnitude.<br />
We are thus suggesting that a simultion <strong>of</strong> flying bird distribution<br />
patterns would be very useful to OCSEP as a means <strong>of</strong> providing error<br />
estimates <strong>for</strong> all the transect data collected. It also would provide<br />
a better basis <strong>for</strong> evaluating the relevancy <strong>of</strong> density-related behavioral<br />
in<strong>for</strong>mation to density estimation. It would be <strong>of</strong> great value<br />
to any future studies requiring estimates fo bird density at sea,<br />
not only in the OCSEP Program, but also in other impact-related and<br />
more basic research.<br />
The proposed simulation considers six possible distributions<br />
relative to the ship: unidirectional parallel, unidirectional antiparallel,<br />
unidirectional oblique, bidirectional parallel and antiparallel,<br />
bidirectional oblique, and random.<br />
Each distribution would be modeled using absolute densities, relative<br />
speeds, and relative directions, and the number and pattern <strong>of</strong> appearances<br />
<strong>of</strong> birds to an observer on board ship would be simulated. The<br />
output could be used directly to provide error estimates <strong>for</strong> our present<br />
data, and the output could be used to derive correction factors or<br />
improved methodology to correct <strong>for</strong> the bias.<br />
Anticipated Cost:<br />
Computer Services at OSU rates<br />
Writing and debugging <strong>of</strong> the programs $ 300<br />
Twenty runs <strong>of</strong> each distribution 1,500<br />
Additional analysis <strong>of</strong> present data<br />
to provide species-specific direction<br />
in<strong>for</strong>mation to be used as input<br />
parameters<br />
1,000<br />
2,800<br />
Contract Programmer Expense 1,000<br />
323<br />
TOTAL $3,800
-6-<br />
2. Our OCSEP-funded research is directed toward obtaining in<strong>for</strong>mation<br />
necessary to the intellegent development <strong>of</strong> regulations and guidelines<br />
<strong>for</strong> the development and transportation <strong>of</strong> petroleum resources.<br />
It is necessary that the distributional patterns, and the behavioral<br />
interactions, <strong>of</strong> the birds be known in order to predict the effects<br />
<strong>of</strong> resource development and possible development and transportationrelated<br />
accidents.<br />
3. Our environmental studies will be important to two general user groups.<br />
One <strong>of</strong> these includes government <strong>of</strong>ficials charged with regulating<br />
energy development and industry personnel involved in energy development.<br />
The other is comprised <strong>of</strong> seabird researchers and other ornithologists,<br />
ecologists, and population biologists, interested in the basic in<strong>for</strong>mation<br />
we gather on seabird behavior, distribution, and species interactions.<br />
We are currently exploring the most appropriate means <strong>of</strong> publishing or<br />
distributing our findings to these different groups. Since we will be<br />
continuing to gather field data until the end <strong>of</strong> the current contract<br />
period, some additional salary support into fall 1976 will be necessary<br />
to complete these writing ef<strong>for</strong>ts.<br />
324
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY<br />
BERKELEY * DAVIS * IRVINE * LOS ANCELES * RIVERSIDE * SAN DIEGO * SAN FRANCISCO SANTA BARBARA * SANTA CRUZ<br />
BODECA MARINE LABORATORY P. 0. BOX 247<br />
Dr. Gunter Weller<br />
OCS Arctic Project Office<br />
Geophysical Institute<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
Fairbanks, Alaska 99701<br />
Dear Gunt/er:<br />
BODEGA BAY, CALIFORNIA 94923<br />
7 October 1975<br />
I'm unsure <strong>of</strong> whether I owe you a brief in<strong>for</strong>mal<br />
progress report <strong>for</strong> the quarter ending <strong>September</strong> 30, 1975<br />
or a more detailed semi-annual report. This letter will<br />
summarize our late summer research program; if a more<br />
detailed report is required I will be happy to write one.<br />
Field personnel <strong>for</strong> this quarter included myself:<br />
<strong>July</strong> 1 - <strong>September</strong> 3, and my two assistants, Carolyn Connors:<br />
<strong>July</strong> 1 - <strong>September</strong> 3 and Russel Greenberg: <strong>July</strong> 1 - <strong>September</strong><br />
18. Most <strong>of</strong> this period was spent at NARL in Barrow, but<br />
four separate trips to Wainwright and Lonely required two<br />
people <strong>for</strong> each trip <strong>of</strong> 3 or 4 days. A few other opportunities<br />
allowed us some additional aerial survey work along the Beau<strong>for</strong>t<br />
coast.<br />
We followed shorebird populations on all our littoral<br />
and near-littoral transects on a S-day interval basis, with<br />
more frequent counts during periods <strong>of</strong> high use. Regular<br />
transect sampling was supplemented with censuses and observations<br />
over larger areas <strong>of</strong> the gravel shorelines in the Barrow area.<br />
I made use <strong>of</strong> the Fish and Wildlife Service permit to collect<br />
34 birds <strong>of</strong> 9 species, and found the stomach analysis results<br />
extremely helpful.<br />
Briefly summarized, our results are these: small movements<br />
<strong>of</strong> non-breeding and post-breeding adults utilize the<br />
shorelines in late June and mid-to-late <strong>July</strong>; heavy use <strong>of</strong><br />
littpral habitats begins in late <strong>July</strong> when juvenile birds begin<br />
their migrations. Several shorebird species are represented <strong>for</strong><br />
varying lengths <strong>of</strong> time,with the heaviest use occuring in August<br />
and early <strong>September</strong> when flocks <strong>of</strong> juvenile Red Phalaropes move<br />
325
Dr. Gunter Weller 2 7 October 1975<br />
to the gravel shorelines to food close to shore on planktonic<br />
organisms <strong>of</strong> several species, Red Phalaropes <strong>of</strong>ten occur in<br />
feeding associations with Sabine's Gulls, Black-leggod<br />
Kittiwakes, and Arctic Torns at this time, and the occurrence<br />
and movements <strong>of</strong> these flocks is quite irregular. I believe<br />
it is correlated with wind and ice conditions, possibly<br />
through variations in prey abundance. I plan to expand this<br />
facet <strong>of</strong> the study next summer.<br />
I returned to Cali<strong>for</strong>nia to find our finances somewhat<br />
confused. We have not received the budget allotment <strong>for</strong> the<br />
second funding period <strong>of</strong> <strong>July</strong> 1, 1975 to <strong>September</strong> 30, 1976<br />
(it is not mentioned in the contract <strong>for</strong> some reason). As a<br />
result, we are operating at a deficit presently. I have written<br />
to Boyd Green in Boulder requesting an explanation.<br />
I feel our summer was quite successful. Most logistics<br />
problems were handled quite satisfactorily. The Honda 3-wheelers,<br />
in particular, were a great help in coverage <strong>of</strong> the extensive and<br />
important Barrow Spit area. We look <strong>for</strong>ward to having them<br />
throughout the summer next year.<br />
I am currently revising plans <strong>for</strong> next summer's work on the<br />
basis <strong>of</strong> my experience this past summer. When our finances become<br />
clear, and I can plan our ef<strong>for</strong>ts better, I will be writing to<br />
you concerning possible changes in logistic support.<br />
My thanks to you, Dave Norton and Dave Kennedy <strong>for</strong> all the<br />
support this summer.<br />
PGC:ljp<br />
326<br />
Sincerely,<br />
Peter G. Connors
Dr. ,*unt cr %lier P7 r/<br />
OCS Arctic Project rffice<br />
Ilve'y Puilding<br />
UniversiLy , - i r -a n : s, $s- <strong>of</strong> , Alaska s k;_ _9 I<br />
Fairbanks, Alaska? 99701<br />
Dear un=ter:<br />
%rrow, ; Alas!ka 723<br />
<strong>July</strong> 30, 175<br />
Dave Norton has advised me that my quarterly report can<br />
consist <strong>of</strong> a short, infoermal 'escriptin to ,u <strong>of</strong> res -rch<br />
-ti vitios <strong>for</strong> th!e .,riod. I understand that finic iic report<br />
is not re ,: r i ri d , r 3sentli<br />
Cur ef<strong>for</strong>ts dur i nn '"ay n ' Jlun" we're .Ii recLtd towai;rd these<br />
task-s: In C li<strong>for</strong>nia, planning tLh. sLIr-n;r's field ..ork, selection<br />
and i -u;rchas- cf eiq.:inment; ,t '!ý !.L, se l :t ion <strong>of</strong> shoreline ar,~-aS<br />
r";rosentint a ran. - oF littoral hahitats and, esta blishm-ent co<br />
crns,3s rrnsets; initiation cF c census reji i ; estchlish-nnnt <strong>of</strong><br />
h :i ta I clc:ssif ict.ions; oi'srvation <strong>of</strong> FLcr nj bIhavicr cr s cis<br />
in 1ittorcl hahitats; and j"ner.r ,1 .a -s'rvbt i-elo ;' rly Seh rscn occur-<br />
r n.;--7 . :... ; sh'orohi r-'s .n othenr * i'r.'s : U<br />
-in ! tt: or1, an.'d n,.rshore- ar us.<br />
s our<br />
.. -<br />
_ -;<br />
ssi Stants, u- s .. 1 r. ci_ 'n!<br />
::.. ,C ' t at i:.C-"' r " ' 1. y st.r.S in, \n n.. t rit n<br />
r . :,. , n-?d. d ~n i c Cinj cut trans r'ts.<br />
I,-..''~y<br />
s*--oreh<br />
l reo<br />
bird ecc.cl y)<br />
,<br />
Le h eished .vo 1.5 :s<br />
.F1 <strong>of</strong> l ittoral tr nsr .c :: at a rrow,<br />
'rI h b 3.
OUTER CONTINENTAL<br />
SHELF<br />
JUNEAU PROJECT OFFICE<br />
P. 0. Box 1S08<br />
JUNEAU, ALASKA 99802<br />
<strong>Quarterly</strong> Report <strong>for</strong> Quarter Ending <strong>September</strong> 30, 1975<br />
Project Title: Avifaunal Utilization <strong>of</strong> the Offshore Island Area<br />
Near Prodhoe Bay, Alaska<br />
Contract Number: 03-50-22-56<br />
Task Order Number: 11<br />
Principal Investigator: George Mueller, Director<br />
Marine Sorting Center<br />
Institute <strong>of</strong> Marine Science<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
Fairbanks, Alaska 99701<br />
I. Task Objectives<br />
The main objectives <strong>of</strong> the present study are to document:<br />
A. seasonal numerical changes by species and sex<br />
B. daily and seasonal trends in spatial distrubiton, by species and sex<br />
C. diurnal activity rhythms, by species and sex.<br />
II. Field and Laboratory Activities<br />
None.<br />
III. Results<br />
None.<br />
IV. Problems Encountered<br />
None.<br />
V. Estimate <strong>of</strong> Funds Expended<br />
Total 6 mos<br />
Budget Expended Remaining<br />
Salaries & wages 1,202.00 0 1,202.00<br />
Staff Benefits 204.00 0 204.00<br />
Equipment 0 0 0<br />
Travel 0 0 0O<br />
Other 1,850.00 0 1,850.00<br />
Total Direct 3,256.00 0 3,256.00<br />
Indirect 688.00 0 (88.00<br />
Total Cost 3,944.00 0 3, 944. 00<br />
329<br />
ENERGY PRO
MASSACHUSETTS AUDUBON SOCIETY<br />
CONSERVATION LINCOLN, MASSACHUSETTS 01773 - TEL. 617-259-9500<br />
EDUCATION<br />
RESEARCH<br />
October 31, 1975<br />
Herbert Curl<br />
OCSEAP<br />
NOAA Environmental Research Laboratories NOV 1 11975<br />
Boulder<br />
Colorado 80302<br />
Dear Herbert Curl, OFFICE<br />
I enclose copies <strong>of</strong> semi-annual <strong>reports</strong> <strong>for</strong> the period from 1 June<br />
through 30 <strong>September</strong> 1975, as outlined in the memorandum from Herbert<br />
E. Bruce, <strong>September</strong> 5, 1975.<br />
1) The period covered is entirely field work in Alaska. It is unlikely<br />
that I will be able to do any further work on collating and interpreting<br />
field data until the funding <strong>for</strong> my contract is clarified. The last<br />
communication I have was from Dave Friis in <strong>July</strong>. At that point he said<br />
funding was still not approved by Congress and that he had made $15,000<br />
available <strong>for</strong> me to finish the field season.<br />
As the accounts show, I estimate that I have already exceeded that $15,000,<br />
and the condition <strong>of</strong> this contract is that my salary and other expenses<br />
must be paid by the contract while I am working on it.<br />
2) Note that the figures I enclose here <strong>for</strong> the period running until<br />
30 June 1975 ($10,830) do not agree with the figure <strong>of</strong> $13,770.31 listed<br />
as expenses incurred in the accounting by Massachusetts Audubon Society<br />
business <strong>of</strong>fice on <strong>September</strong> 9, 1975. This discrepancy results from our<br />
business <strong>of</strong>fice's assigning several charges to the pre-June 30 period<br />
which should have been charged after <strong>July</strong> 1: (equipment, $1500; travel<br />
$750; salary, $1230) or which should have been charged to another account<br />
(travel, $287). There are other minor readjustments.<br />
The charges removed from the period up to 30 June 1975 are included in<br />
the figures <strong>for</strong> the first quarter <strong>of</strong> fiscal 1976.<br />
3) I have received some helpful communications from a NOAA OCSEP <strong>of</strong>fice<br />
at the University <strong>of</strong> Alaska. Among the notices were dates on which<br />
<strong>reports</strong> are due and proposals <strong>for</strong> work after <strong>September</strong> 1976 are due. Could<br />
you clarify <strong>for</strong> me what the relation <strong>of</strong> that Fairbanks <strong>of</strong>fice is to my<br />
contract and to the <strong>of</strong>fice in Boulder?<br />
4) There is going to be a meeting <strong>of</strong> the Pacific Seabird Group at Monterey,<br />
Cali<strong>for</strong>nia, December 11-14 1975. That meeting <strong>of</strong>fers an excellent chance<br />
<strong>for</strong> <strong>investigators</strong> involved in the NOAA OCSEP to discuss results and plans.<br />
331
Herbert Curl October 31, 1975 Page 2<br />
Do you know whether we might be able to get funds to meet expenses<br />
<strong>of</strong> attending that meeting?<br />
Thank you <strong>for</strong> your attention to these. If you want other materials<br />
from me, I trust that I will hear from you.<br />
Sincerely yours,<br />
William H. Drury<br />
Scientific Staff<br />
332
TO: NOAA, Environmental Research Laboratories<br />
Outer Continental Shelf Energy Program<br />
Contract No. 03-5-022-77<br />
TITLE: Birds <strong>of</strong> Coastal Habitats on the South Shore <strong>of</strong> Seward Peninsula,<br />
Alaska: Semi-annual report; period 1 June to 30 <strong>September</strong> 1975<br />
Task 237: Breeding biology <strong>of</strong> seabirds<br />
Principle Investigator: William H. Drury<br />
Scientific Staff<br />
Massachusetts and National Audubon Societies<br />
South Great Road<br />
Lincoln, Massachusetts 01773<br />
I. Task Objectives<br />
A. Review existing knowledge <strong>of</strong> the relation <strong>of</strong> seabird biology to<br />
local oceanographic conditions in the Bering Sea.<br />
B. Determine seasonal density, distribution, and breeding locale <strong>for</strong><br />
principle seabird species.<br />
1. Establish species numbers and schedule <strong>of</strong> reproduction.<br />
2. Compare species and numbers at major seabird colonies; (<strong>for</strong> 1975<br />
at Sledge, Topkok, Bluff, Cape Denbigh, and Egg Island).<br />
C. Describe dynamics and trophic relations <strong>of</strong> selected species.<br />
1. Measure reproductive success (<strong>for</strong> 1975: Pelagic Cormorant,<br />
Glaucous Gull, Black-legged Kittiwake, and Common Murre).<br />
2. Determine where nesting seabirds feed and what food they bring<br />
to their young.<br />
3. Establish local distribution and abundance <strong>of</strong> prey species and<br />
identify factors contributing to local productivity.<br />
D. Predict the effects upon seabird populations, <strong>of</strong> contamination and<br />
disturbance associated with proposed mineral development.<br />
II. Field Activities<br />
A. Field trip schedule<br />
June 4 - 15: at Nome, Alaska gathering field equipment and supplies;<br />
5 days coastal reconnaissance by automobile and on foot.<br />
333
TO: NOAA Environmental Research Laboratories Task 237 Page 2<br />
June 16 - 23: camping at Sledge Island and at the mouth <strong>of</strong> Cripple<br />
River, west <strong>of</strong> Nome, 1) making preliminary estimates and photo-<br />
graphic record <strong>of</strong> seabird species and numbers and 2) recording<br />
seabird use <strong>of</strong> coastal habitats.<br />
June 24 - <strong>July</strong> 2: at Nome gathering field equipment; four days<br />
coastal reconnaissance.<br />
<strong>July</strong> 2 - 14: at Bluff making preliminary census and photographic<br />
record <strong>of</strong> seabird numbers, and establishing study sites.<br />
<strong>July</strong> 19 - 27: at Sledge Island and camped on the beach west <strong>of</strong><br />
Nome; further census and photographic record <strong>of</strong> seabird numbers;<br />
establishing study sites, and collecting food samples.<br />
<strong>July</strong> 27 - 31: at Nome; one day talking with other field party.<br />
August 1 - 22: at Bluff seabird cliffs gathering data at study<br />
sites; making reconnaissance trips by boat along shore and <strong>of</strong>f<br />
shore; collecting food samples.<br />
August 18: air reconnaissance <strong>of</strong> seabird cliffs east <strong>of</strong> Nome.<br />
August 22 - 29: at Nome, held up by weather; two days reconnais-<br />
sance by truck.<br />
August 29 - Sept. 22: at Bluff continuing watches at study sites and<br />
monitoring seasonal changes in seafowl and waterfowl.<br />
Sept. I: air survey and photographing to compare reproductive per-<br />
<strong>for</strong>mance <strong>of</strong> Kittiwakes at Sledge Island, Cape Denbigh and Bluff.<br />
Sept. 22 and 25: coastal reconnaissance by boat and airplane.<br />
Sept. 28: left Nome <strong>for</strong> Anchorage.<br />
All boat travel was by small boats owned by the project or in<br />
chartered aircraft. We made two half-day flights in U.S. Fish &<br />
Wildlife Service aircraft. We spent 35 days living in an old<br />
334
TO: NOAA Environmental Research Laboratories Task 23.<br />
<strong>of</strong>fice building at Nome, 15 days camping on the beach and 60 days<br />
living in abandoned miners' cabins. We moved twice in small air-<br />
craft and eleven times by small boat.<br />
B. Scientific Party<br />
William H. Drury: Massachusetts Audubon Society; Principle Inves-<br />
tigator; present 4 June - 28 <strong>September</strong>.<br />
Mary C. Drury: logistics; accounts and coordination <strong>of</strong> records at<br />
study sites; present 4 June - 11 August.<br />
Peter L. Drury: undergraduate: The Evergreen State College; field<br />
assistant; present 6 August - 24 <strong>September</strong>.<br />
John B. Drury: undergraduate; Lincoln Sudbury Regional High School;<br />
field assistant; present 4 June - 11 August.<br />
Hope Alexander: unsalaried photographer; all <strong>of</strong> her travel expenses<br />
were paid by grant from the National Audubon Society; present<br />
15 <strong>July</strong> - 11 August.<br />
Kate Brooks: unsalaried field assistant: all <strong>of</strong> her travel expenses<br />
were paid by private grant; present 22 June 15 <strong>July</strong>.<br />
Katherine Hazard: undergraduate; The College <strong>of</strong> the Atlantic, intern<br />
C. Methods<br />
program; unsalaried field assistant; present 20 <strong>July</strong> - 22 Sept.<br />
1. Surveys<br />
a. Air reconnaissance was made <strong>of</strong> the major seabird nesting areas<br />
on Egg Island, Besboro Island, Cape Denbigh, Rocky Point,<br />
Bluff, and Sledge Island as well as small groups <strong>of</strong> nesting<br />
seabirds in between. Surface censuses were made <strong>of</strong> the sea-<br />
bird nesting areas at Bluff, Topkok and Sledge Island.<br />
335
TO: NOAA Environmental Research Laboratories Task 237 Page 4<br />
b. During travel attempts were made i) to identify and count<br />
species present and ii) to discover why the areas were<br />
being used. While camped during travel or at nesting<br />
cliffs, we made standardized 15 minute watches over the<br />
inshore waters. During these watches we recorded species<br />
present, their numbers, directions <strong>of</strong> flight, and feeding<br />
or other activities.<br />
2. Studies at Bird cliffs<br />
a. Censuses <strong>of</strong> the entire cliffs area were made by boat at<br />
different times <strong>of</strong> day and several times during the season<br />
(13 complete or partial censuses). During the period when<br />
eggs were being incubated, two complete photographic records<br />
<strong>of</strong> the cliffs at Sledge Island were made, and 1 complete<br />
record was made at Bluff.<br />
A photographic record was made <strong>of</strong> each study site at Bluff<br />
at 3 different times during the breeding season.<br />
b. Study sites were established (two at Sledge Island and 14 at<br />
Bluff) where repeated counts and observations <strong>of</strong> all species<br />
present were made. The purpose <strong>of</strong> the observations was to<br />
establish the sequence <strong>of</strong> events in the breeding schedule.<br />
Counts were made <strong>of</strong> nests, their contents and later in the<br />
season, the number <strong>of</strong> chicks that reached fledging age (that<br />
is, were ready to leave the nest.) (320 visits)<br />
Additional counts were made from a spot looking along the<br />
cliffs: <strong>of</strong> the birds at the cliffs, those flying to the<br />
cliffs, those flying away from the cliffs, those resting on<br />
the water, and those flying along the cliff face (23 counts<br />
at Bluff cliffs). 336
TO: NOAA Environmental Research Laboratories Task 237 Page 5<br />
c. During each visit to the study sites, observations were<br />
made on birds seen carrying food or regurgitating it <strong>for</strong><br />
their young. Special watches were made to look <strong>for</strong> food<br />
brought in, but it proved impractical this year to measure<br />
the time that individual birds were absent on feeding trips,<br />
or the frequency with which young were fed.<br />
Searches were made <strong>for</strong> food regurgitated <strong>for</strong> young and<br />
dropped on the ledges accessible from the beaches and lower<br />
cliffs (12 visits).<br />
d. At 5 study sites, maps <strong>of</strong> the nests <strong>of</strong> Kittiwakes were made<br />
and each nest assigned a number. The contents <strong>of</strong> each <strong>of</strong><br />
these nests was recorded at regular intervals until the end<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>September</strong> (38 site visits).<br />
e. Maps <strong>of</strong> the location <strong>of</strong> individual Murres were made during<br />
August and a continuing attempt was made either to locate<br />
young or eggs or to locate adults in postures that indicated<br />
they were incubating an egg or brooding a chick. During the<br />
period when chicks were leaving the cliffs and going to sea,<br />
timed watches were made between sunset and dark at one site<br />
to count the number <strong>of</strong> chicks seen to leave a cove having<br />
about 150 meters <strong>of</strong> shoreline below the cliffs.<br />
f. Counts <strong>of</strong> the numbers <strong>of</strong> Puffins perched on cliff faces were<br />
made at the study sites and attempts were made to locate<br />
burrows where birds incubated or to which they brought food.<br />
D. Sample localities<br />
Populations <strong>of</strong> nesting seabirds were estimated at Sledge Island,<br />
Topkok, Bluff, Square Rock, Rocky Point, Cape Denbigh, Besboro<br />
337
TO: NOAA Environmental Research Laboratories Task 237 Page 6<br />
Island and Egg Island. Sixteen study sites, including 5 mapped<br />
sections, were sampled at Bluff.<br />
Seabirds fed widely dispersed over the whole <strong>of</strong> Norton Sound.<br />
Presence and activities <strong>of</strong> seabirds were recorded in the course<br />
<strong>of</strong> 63 15-minute watches from the beaches between Bluff cliffs on<br />
the east and Sledge Island on the west. Sampling localities are<br />
shown on the accompanying map.<br />
E. Data Collected<br />
III. Results<br />
We spent parts <strong>of</strong> four days flying reconnaissance, made 26 trips<br />
in small boats, 20 trips censusing seabird cliffs by boat, 12 trips<br />
to cliffs collecting food samples, collecting a total <strong>of</strong> 48 fish<br />
samples. We carried out 63 15-minute watches <strong>for</strong> seafowl on the<br />
beaches. We made 320 visits to study sites including taking 17<br />
samples <strong>for</strong> clutch size and 38 checks <strong>of</strong> study areas where nests<br />
were mapped.<br />
We took 60 scattered samples <strong>of</strong> the proportion <strong>of</strong> adult Kittiwakes<br />
to chicks on the cliffs at Bluff to measure reproductive success<br />
outside <strong>of</strong> study sites. We made surveys during about 300 miles <strong>of</strong><br />
small boat travel, 300 miles <strong>of</strong> road travel 1000 miles <strong>of</strong> recon-<br />
naissance in small aircraft and about 200 miles on foot.<br />
These mileages are <strong>for</strong> the party as a wholeApproximately half <strong>of</strong><br />
the time 3 persons were involved in these watches and during the<br />
other half, 4 persons were involved.<br />
A. At the colonies<br />
1. Species:<br />
The table presents estimates <strong>of</strong> the numbers <strong>of</strong> breeding pairs<br />
338
TO: NOAA Environmental Laboratories Task 237 Page 7<br />
by species at breeding sites. It is clear that some species<br />
nest as a few individuals in widely scattered places while<br />
others aggregate into large "bazaars" <strong>of</strong> several different<br />
species.<br />
Identification <strong>of</strong> species <strong>for</strong> the Murres was done only at<br />
sample locations. At Sledge Island, about 1 in 10 was a Thick-<br />
billed Murre. The proportion was 1 in 3-5 on outer cliff faces<br />
and 1 in 30-50 on inner ledges. There were virtually no Thick-<br />
billed Murres on crowded broad ledges or tops <strong>of</strong> stacks.<br />
At Bluff less than 1 in 100 Murres were Thick-billed and all<br />
Thick-billed Murres occupied narrow outer ledges.<br />
2. Schedule:<br />
We were not at the colonies when birds came in the spring. Our<br />
first visit to Sledge Island in late June revealed that a small<br />
number (perhaps 20%) <strong>of</strong> the Kittiwakes were incubating and about<br />
10% <strong>of</strong> the Murres acted as though they might have eggs. It is<br />
local tradition that the peak <strong>of</strong> egg-laying is during the first<br />
week <strong>of</strong> <strong>July</strong>.<br />
On the third <strong>of</strong> <strong>July</strong> at Bluff, 40-507 <strong>of</strong> the Kittiwakes were<br />
incubating and about 207 <strong>of</strong> the Murres were closely attached to<br />
their ledge.<br />
Murre eggs began to hatch in late <strong>July</strong> and early August and Murre<br />
chicks began to leave by 10 August. Murres began to be restless<br />
by 15 August. Many left after a large storm on 25 August and al-<br />
most all were gone by 15 <strong>September</strong>. A few chicks left the cliff<br />
after 10 <strong>September</strong>.<br />
Kittiwake eggs hatched in early August and the first fledglings<br />
were on the'wing by <strong>September</strong> 1st. Many fledglingsleft the cliff<br />
339
TO: NOAA Environmental Laboratories Task 237 Page 8<br />
to feed <strong>for</strong> themselves by 15 <strong>September</strong> but large numbers <strong>of</strong><br />
Kittiwakes were still occupying territories on 25 <strong>September</strong>.<br />
Horned Puffins were incubating eggs on 4 <strong>July</strong> and at least one<br />
had hatched several days be<strong>for</strong>e 8 August. This chick had left<br />
by 18 <strong>September</strong>. After mid-August the number <strong>of</strong> Horned Puffins<br />
perched on ledges and inspecting crevices increased and the<br />
numbers reached a peak in mid-<strong>September</strong>. Cliff prospecting<br />
occurred when southerly winds made updrafts along the cliff<br />
faces.<br />
The numbers <strong>of</strong> Tufted Puffins visiting the cliffs also increased<br />
during <strong>September</strong>.<br />
Although both Puffins decreased markedly after 15 <strong>September</strong>,<br />
they had not deserted the cliffs on 22 <strong>September</strong> when we left.<br />
3. Trophic relations: measurement <strong>of</strong> reproductive success.<br />
Of the 16 study sites at Bluff, 9 included counts <strong>of</strong> Murres.<br />
We did not have a satisfactory method <strong>of</strong> measuring breeding<br />
success in Murres although we can say that between 20% and 40%<br />
<strong>of</strong> birds present in early August appeared to be incubating or<br />
brooding and that no more than 207. <strong>of</strong> the birds present appeared<br />
to produce large young. We have data on 125 mapped nests <strong>of</strong><br />
Kittiwakes at 4 study sites. These and additional "samples <strong>of</strong><br />
opportunity" supply an adequate sample to give clutch sizes at<br />
Bluff and Sledge Island. About half the nests contained 2 eggs;<br />
half the rest contained one egg and the remainder were empty at<br />
both gulleries. On average, nests produced one half a chick per<br />
nest and less than 5% <strong>of</strong> the nests produced 2 chicks to fledging.<br />
Twenty three "capriciously" selected samples taken along the<br />
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cliffs at Bluff showed variation from .2 to .8 (1.0) young per<br />
nest and averaged .5 (.48), i.e., total 604 chicks in 1281<br />
nests sampled. (SEE TABLE 2)<br />
We have estimates <strong>of</strong> the number <strong>of</strong> breeding pairs and young<br />
produced <strong>for</strong> Glaucous Gulls at Topkok, Bluff, and three<br />
breeding colonies on islands in lakes seen during air recon-<br />
naissance. We also have estimates which will allow us to make<br />
up a life table <strong>for</strong> the gulls seen between Point Spencer and<br />
Bluff. These data will give us only approximate values<br />
because <strong>of</strong> difficulty a) in seeing all chicks and subadults<br />
present and b) estimating the relation between the number <strong>of</strong><br />
adults and the number <strong>of</strong> nests at a breeding colony.<br />
We have counts <strong>of</strong> the number <strong>of</strong> young in successful nests <strong>of</strong><br />
Pelagic Cormorants at Sledge Island and Topkok Head. These<br />
data are approximate because <strong>of</strong> the a) difficulty <strong>of</strong> deciding<br />
whether each consistently used ledge and its "flag" <strong>of</strong> guano<br />
constitutes a nesting attempt and b) the difficulty <strong>of</strong> estab-<br />
lishing from a dancing small boat whether any given nest plat-<br />
<strong>for</strong>m has young lying flat on it. We made counts after the<br />
young were half the size <strong>of</strong> adults in order to minimize the<br />
chance <strong>of</strong> missing chicks.<br />
4. Identification <strong>of</strong> food:<br />
We have about 46 samples <strong>of</strong> fish collected on ledges where<br />
Murres and Kittiwakes nest, and several dozen identifications<br />
made by 40X telescope <strong>of</strong> food fish brought in my Murres. We<br />
have 6 samples <strong>of</strong> fish regurgitated by Kittiwake chicks.<br />
B. Away from colonies<br />
Our coastal watches showed the directions in which birds were flying<br />
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to and from feeding areas,<br />
1. Feeding mélées were <strong>of</strong> special interest (scores <strong>of</strong> Kittiwakes<br />
and Puffins gathered over schools <strong>of</strong> bait fish, together with<br />
Spotted Seals, Fin-back Whales or Dall Porpoises). In mid-<br />
<strong>July</strong>, we saw 4 feeding mélées <strong>of</strong>f Sledge Island; in mid-August<br />
4-6 feeding mélées were to be seen on relatively calm days in<br />
the shallow water within a few miles <strong>of</strong> the barrier beach at<br />
Safety Lagoon. In mid-<strong>September</strong> on calm days, 4-8 feeding<br />
mélées could be seen within 3 miles <strong>of</strong> shore from east <strong>of</strong><br />
Square Rock to Topkok Head.<br />
2. Kittiwakes and Puffins were observed to commute between the<br />
cliffs at Bluff and the feeding mélées. Be<strong>for</strong>e the feeding<br />
mélées were visible from Bluff, the major movement <strong>of</strong> Kittiwakes<br />
away from and back from the cliffs was along the beaches. We<br />
did not get enough observations <strong>of</strong> Puffins to chart their<br />
movements.<br />
3. Murres apparently "fanned out" in all directions southward from<br />
Bluff. Although some flew and returned from the southeast and<br />
south, the large majority appeared to fly toward 2150 magnetic.<br />
Skeins <strong>of</strong> scores <strong>of</strong> birds returned from that direction from as<br />
far as we could see with 16X binoculars.<br />
C. Air reconnaissance<br />
In June a reconnaissance flight was made along the south shore <strong>of</strong><br />
Seward Peninsula from Nome to the Koyuk River (where the shoreline<br />
turns south). Small groups <strong>of</strong> nesting Glaucous Gulls, Pelagic<br />
Cormorants, and Horned Puffins were recorded at rocky headlands<br />
apart from the main colonies at Topkok, Bluff and Square Rock.<br />
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Sheer rock faces 1) east <strong>of</strong> Chiukak and 2) west <strong>of</strong> Rocky Point<br />
supported perhaps 20 pairs <strong>of</strong> Pelagic Cormorants, 30 pairs <strong>of</strong><br />
Glaucous Gulls and in one spot a group <strong>of</strong> less than 50 Black-<br />
legged Kittiwakes. There is a small colony <strong>of</strong> Glaucous Gulls<br />
and Pelagic Cormorants on Rocky Point and a somewhat larger<br />
mixed colony on Cape Darby. A small nesting group <strong>of</strong> Glaucous<br />
Gulls and Pelagic Cormorants is found on a sheer rocky face<br />
about 4 miles northeast <strong>of</strong> Cape Darby.<br />
In August a reconnaissance flight was made searching the shore<br />
from Cape Denbigh to Egg Island. A small group <strong>of</strong> nesting<br />
Horned Puffins was seen near Cliktarik Point and a group <strong>of</strong><br />
Glaucous Gulls at Tolstoi Point.<br />
The rest <strong>of</strong> the bluffs on the east shore <strong>of</strong> Norton Sound are <strong>of</strong><br />
unconsolidated sediments and unsuitable <strong>for</strong> crevice or cliff<br />
nesting seabirds, except <strong>for</strong> one spot north <strong>of</strong> Egavik.<br />
IV. Preliminary Interpretation: it is all right <strong>for</strong> these ideas to be<br />
discussed outside <strong>of</strong> the NOAA <strong>of</strong>fice provided that it is recognized<br />
that I may change my mind.<br />
A. Species density<br />
1. There were significant changes in the numbers <strong>of</strong> Murres (30,000 -<br />
60,000) and Horned Puffins (750 - 3000) at the cliffs from day<br />
to day and in response to changes in weather. There were less<br />
conspicuous changes in the numbers <strong>of</strong> Kittiwakes. These<br />
changes indicate that population figures must be derived from<br />
several samples and that a large amount <strong>of</strong> variation must be<br />
expected (compare Kenyon's estimate <strong>of</strong> breeding seabirds at<br />
Little Diomede). This also suggests that there may be impor-<br />
tant differences in numbers from year to year as was reported<br />
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from the Cape Thompson bazaar by Schwartz.<br />
2. A few cliffs (Sledge, Bluff, Denbigh, Egg) are occupied by the<br />
great majority <strong>of</strong> nesting Murres and Kittiwakes <strong>of</strong> Norton<br />
Sound. There were other cliffs where a few Kittiwakes nested<br />
and several sites where small numbers <strong>of</strong> Pelagic Cormorants,<br />
Glaucous Gulls, and Horned Puffins nested. The significance<br />
<strong>of</strong> the lesser sites in the event <strong>of</strong> population disasters is<br />
not known but one presumes that the few primary colonies (in<br />
this case at Bluff and at Cape Denbigh) are critical to the<br />
persistance <strong>of</strong> seabirds in Norton Sound.<br />
3. Glaucous Gulls were found nesting scattered along the tops <strong>of</strong><br />
rocky cliffs at Sledge, Bluff, Topkok, Cape Denbigh, Besboro<br />
Island, and Egg Island. These are their usual nesting sites.<br />
However, we also found three colonies on small grassy islands<br />
in coastal lakes. This type <strong>of</strong> nesting site is unusual <strong>for</strong><br />
Glaucous Gulls and more characteristic <strong>of</strong> Glaucous-winged Gulls<br />
or Herring Gulls. This and other observations at Nome and at<br />
Eskimo fish camps, suggest that Glaucous Gulls in Norton Sound<br />
are a plastic population, well able to benefit by increased<br />
association with man.<br />
4. The breeding schedule <strong>of</strong> the seabirds at Sledge Island and Bluff<br />
con<strong>for</strong>med to the expected pattern.<br />
5. The departure <strong>of</strong> Murres from the cliffs appeared to be associated<br />
with early autumn storms. The species had abandoned the cliffs<br />
long be<strong>for</strong>e there was any probability <strong>of</strong> sea ice <strong>for</strong>ming. Kitti-<br />
wakes and Puffins on the other hand were still visiting the cliffs<br />
in late <strong>September</strong>. The numbers <strong>of</strong> Kittiwakes and Puffins at the<br />
cliff in <strong>September</strong> were larger than those at the height <strong>of</strong> the<br />
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breeding season. The reason <strong>for</strong> this is presumably that young<br />
birds are prospecting <strong>for</strong> potential breeding-sites the year<br />
be<strong>for</strong>e they will first breed.<br />
B. Species distribution<br />
1. Common Murres were much the more numerous <strong>of</strong> the two Murre<br />
species, which was not expected, because in general, Thick-<br />
billed Murres are more numerous in sub-Arctic waters. From<br />
the in<strong>for</strong>mation available, it appears that Black-legged Kitti-<br />
wakes, the Murres and Horned Puffins are relatively uni<strong>for</strong>mly<br />
distributed over the northern Bering Sea area. There seem,<br />
however, to be marked differences in the relative abundance <strong>of</strong><br />
the two Murre species, the Common Murre being much more abundant<br />
in Norton Sound and the Thick-billed Murre being much more abun-<br />
dant in the Saint Lawrence Island to Bering Strait waters. More<br />
conspicuously, the three species <strong>of</strong> Auklets (Parakeet, Crested,<br />
and Least) are very much more numerous in the western waters than<br />
in Norton Sound.<br />
2. Sledge Island, although it has suitable scree slopes, lacks<br />
breeding Auklets, although Auklets <strong>of</strong> all three species visited<br />
it. The contrast between Sledge Island and King Island (the<br />
two islands are within sight <strong>of</strong> each other) was marked. King<br />
Island has hundreds <strong>of</strong> thousands <strong>of</strong> breeding Auklets. The<br />
presence <strong>of</strong> Besboro Island in easternmost Norton Sound, whose<br />
scree slopes appear to be ideal <strong>for</strong> nesting Auklets, makes the<br />
question <strong>of</strong> the distribution <strong>of</strong> Auklets more pressing. These<br />
observations on the several species <strong>of</strong> seabirds indicate that<br />
it will be important to confirm the numbers <strong>of</strong> Kittiwakes,<br />
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Murres, and Horned Puffins breeding in the western part <strong>of</strong><br />
the area, i. e. St. Lawrence Island and the Bering Strait.<br />
They also indicate that it will be important to understand<br />
why Sledge Island appears to lie in the influence <strong>of</strong> Norton<br />
Sound even though its weather and local ocean currents seem<br />
to make it belong in the Bering Strait group.<br />
C. Trophic Relations<br />
1. Murres fed both close to and at great distances from the<br />
cliffs but were conspicuous in their commuting long distances<br />
to the southwest. The Murres fed primarily on a blenny, a<br />
fish whose biology is little known. Kittiwakes and Puffins fed<br />
on a sand-eel or Capelin. They fed at long distances until<br />
shoals <strong>of</strong> their preferred fish moved east past Cape Nome and<br />
into the bight just south <strong>of</strong> the Bluff breeding area.<br />
2. We found it difficult to measure reproductive success in Murres<br />
or Puffins but measurement <strong>of</strong> success was easy with Kittiwakes.<br />
We believe we have developed a technique <strong>of</strong> photographing<br />
nesting cliffs from a small airplane in late August or early<br />
<strong>September</strong> which will allow us to assay the general success <strong>of</strong><br />
a seabird cliff with perhaps only one visit, and that by air.<br />
A combination <strong>of</strong> measuring the proportion <strong>of</strong> chicks to adult<br />
Kittiwakes and measuring the growth rate <strong>of</strong> their sand-eel/<br />
Capelin prey should provide straight <strong>for</strong>ward measurement <strong>of</strong> the<br />
condition <strong>of</strong> the local marine trophic structure.<br />
D. Relation <strong>of</strong> trophic structures to geograpbic distributions (review<br />
<strong>of</strong> published material)<br />
Several sets <strong>of</strong> facts may be relevant to the marked difference in<br />
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distribution <strong>of</strong> Auklets as compared to the Kittiwakes, Murres and<br />
Puffins. First the Kittiwakes, Common Murres and Puffins feed upon<br />
fish. Thick-billed Murres feed somewhat more frequently on zoo-<br />
plankton than do Common Murres. The three species <strong>of</strong> Auklets are<br />
primarily plankton feeders (Copepods, Euphausids and Amphipods).<br />
I can find little about the distribution and abundance <strong>of</strong> the<br />
primary bait fishes in the northern Bering sea, but according to<br />
material published in "The Oceanography <strong>of</strong> the Bering Sea", the<br />
distribution <strong>of</strong> zooplankton corresponds to the pattern I have<br />
outlined <strong>for</strong> the distribution <strong>of</strong> Auklets and predominance <strong>of</strong><br />
Thick-billed Murres. Zooplankton is dense <strong>of</strong>f the Pribil<strong>of</strong><br />
Islands (a center <strong>of</strong> Auklet breeding) and in St. Lawrence Island<br />
waters, and is less than half as dense in the Norton Sound area.<br />
Further indication <strong>of</strong> rich biological productivity is given by<br />
the exceptionally high density <strong>of</strong> benthos in the Chirikov Basin.<br />
In the southeastern part <strong>of</strong> the Bering Sea continental shelf<br />
(Bristol Bay), it has been reported that zooplankton are much<br />
more abundant in the waters <strong>of</strong>f shore with higher salinity and<br />
less abundant in the waters dominated by freshwater run<strong>of</strong>f. In<br />
that area apparently salmon smolt when they go to sea move rapidly<br />
through the low salinity areas and begin to feed where zooplankton<br />
density increases. It seems presumptuous to refer to Coho Salmon<br />
smolt as bait fish but Murres and Puffins are known to occur in<br />
large numbers in the same waters.<br />
E. Relevant aspects <strong>of</strong> physical and chemical oceanography (review <strong>of</strong><br />
published material)<br />
The area <strong>of</strong> study, the northeastern continental shelf waters <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Bering Sea (including Norton Sound, the Chirikov Basin, and Saint<br />
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Lawrence Island waters) is shallow. Norton Sound is, in general<br />
less than 10 fathoms deep (20 meters) and its waters are relatively<br />
warm, <strong>of</strong> low salinity; they have high partial pressure <strong>of</strong> CO 2 and<br />
are poor in nitrates. They are flooded with a large volume <strong>of</strong><br />
fresh water coming out <strong>of</strong> the Yukon River whose flow is maximal<br />
during spring and summer months <strong>of</strong> peak biological activity.<br />
LANDSAT data shows a major pathway <strong>of</strong> suspended sediment transport<br />
directly from the delta <strong>of</strong> the Yukon northwestward past Sledge<br />
Island toward the Bering Strait. The heavy contribution <strong>of</strong> river<br />
water is indicated by the windrows <strong>of</strong> stumps, logs, and dead trees<br />
which mark the upper limit <strong>of</strong> storm waves everywhere along the<br />
treeless south shore <strong>of</strong> the Seward Peninsula. The waters flowing<br />
out <strong>of</strong> the basin in the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Anadyr north past the western end<br />
<strong>of</strong> St. Lawrence Island into the Chirikov Basin (despite the fresh<br />
water flowing out <strong>of</strong> the Anadyr River) are cold, more highly saline,<br />
<strong>of</strong> low partial pressure <strong>of</strong> CO 2 and are nitrate rich. The western<br />
side <strong>of</strong> the area has high primary productivity, 600 mg C/m 2 - day<br />
which is balanced by an increased contribution <strong>of</strong> deep source<br />
water rich in both nitrate and CO 2.<br />
In general there is an inverse relation between phytoplankton<br />
production (including the rate <strong>of</strong> nutrient uptake) and P CO 2 .<br />
There appears to be a very sharp drop in P CO 2 west <strong>of</strong> Nome<br />
(Gordon et al, 1973) along the line between Sledge Island and<br />
the eastern edge <strong>of</strong> St. Lawrence Island west <strong>of</strong> which is the<br />
sharp increase in numbers <strong>of</strong> Auklets.<br />
It is known that there is a peak <strong>of</strong> productivity and other<br />
biological activity at the edge <strong>of</strong> ice as the pack ice breaks up<br />
and retreats north in spring. It may be that the energy born in<br />
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the oxygenated waters <strong>of</strong> the spring freshet coming out <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Yukon and Anadyr Rivers play an important part in Spring turn-<br />
over and the turbulent flow <strong>of</strong> the waters in this northern Bering<br />
Sea region. The thrust <strong>of</strong> fresh Yukon water mass can be expected<br />
to displace westward the cold saline water flowing out <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Gulf <strong>of</strong> Anadyr. One might expect the result to be two rather<br />
well defined water masses. The areas where these water masses<br />
meet and the ensuing turbulence should be highly productive. It<br />
has been noted elsewhere (Hardy's work in the Antarctic) that<br />
where fresh meltwater merges with upwelling cold salt water, high<br />
productivity occurs. Russians investigating the whaling grounds<br />
southeast <strong>of</strong> Cape Navarin have found that the whales gather where<br />
deep salt and surface fresh water masses sheer against each other.<br />
One expects seabirds to gather in such waters.<br />
One <strong>of</strong> the tasks <strong>of</strong> this project is to examine whether the more<br />
even distribution <strong>of</strong> fish eating Murres, Puffins, and Kittiwakes<br />
in contrast to the concentrated distribution <strong>of</strong> Auklets in the<br />
St. Lawrence Island waters, Chirikov Basin - Bering Strait area is<br />
coincidental or related to the characteristics <strong>of</strong> these water masses<br />
and their trophic structures in a cause-and-effect way. This dis-<br />
cussion implies, at a minimum, that the events in Norton Sound and<br />
<strong>of</strong>f the Yukon River will have effects in the waters well to the<br />
west. If these speculations are valid, then any pollution, such as<br />
oil spills which may occur in the Norton Sound area and the area<br />
between Sledge Island and St. Lawrence Island, can be expected to<br />
contaminate the Chirikov Basin and flow north through the Bering<br />
Strait.<br />
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F. Effects <strong>of</strong> development<br />
1. The seabird breeding colonies at Bluff appear to be critical<br />
to the existance <strong>of</strong> seabirds in Norton Sound. Although the<br />
birds may be able to rest in some neighboring portions <strong>of</strong> the<br />
present cliffs, it is unlikely that they can move to other<br />
cliffs. If experience elsewhere is valid, adults will not<br />
breed rather than shift to another site at any distance from<br />
the traditional ones. If the few bird bazaars which exist are<br />
disturbed by settlements or destroyed by mining, the seabird<br />
resource will be lost.<br />
2. Our observations are consistent with those <strong>of</strong> Tuck (1960) who<br />
remarked that native communities at the seabird bazaars <strong>of</strong><br />
Digges Island, Akpatok etc., in the Canadian Eastern Arctic,<br />
which had once been thriving centers <strong>of</strong> Eskimo populations,<br />
are now abandoned. King Island was abandoned in 1966; Sledge<br />
Island was apparently not visited in 1975, and Bluff, where<br />
one site is called Akpuluit (native name <strong>for</strong> Murre or Akpa<br />
place) was visited only twice by eggers and they were collect-<br />
ing eggs as a delicacy.<br />
There may be nostalgia <strong>for</strong> some individuals, but it's hard at<br />
this stage <strong>of</strong> history to see how the seabird cliffs play any<br />
essential role in the Eskimos' economy. We can expect that with<br />
further development, the personal danger <strong>of</strong> fowling and egging<br />
will become symbolic vehicles <strong>for</strong> establishing one's manhood<br />
rather than a necessary ingredient <strong>for</strong> survival. With contin-<br />
uing economic development, the value <strong>of</strong> the birds' nesting on<br />
these cliffs will shift from a commodity category to an esthetic<br />
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one, and the primary call <strong>of</strong> the native population on them will<br />
become complicated by the interests <strong>of</strong> a broadly concerned pub-<br />
lic. It has now been widely agreed that as development occurs,<br />
leisure time increases and hence awareness <strong>of</strong> recreation oppor-<br />
tunities; the financial value <strong>of</strong> wildlife resources rises<br />
sharply and continues to rise: vis. the much larger contribution<br />
to local economies <strong>of</strong> salmon caught by sports fishermen as com-<br />
pared to commercial fishermen.<br />
If, however, economic development stalls it may be that some<br />
segment <strong>of</strong> the native population will return to a subsistance<br />
economy, in which case bird cliffs will again play an important<br />
part.<br />
It would seem thus that land use and habitat planning <strong>for</strong> the<br />
Norton Sound, Saint Lawrence Island waters, Chirikov Basin, and<br />
Bering Strait should include guarantees <strong>for</strong> the healthy persis-<br />
tance <strong>of</strong> the seabird cliffs as a resource whose values must<br />
inescapably increase in the future.<br />
V. Problems: the most persistant problems <strong>of</strong> the 1975 field season involved<br />
equipment and travel.<br />
A. Because the road and ferry at Safety Lagoon were out <strong>of</strong> operation,<br />
we found much greater difficulty in getting to Bluff and back than<br />
we would have otherwise. A 4-wheel drive vehicle would have miti-<br />
gated these difficulties.<br />
B. The weather west <strong>of</strong> Nome resembles that <strong>of</strong> the Bering Strait and the<br />
sea if <strong>of</strong>ten rough and disturbed by current rips. One needs either<br />
a moderately sized boat or time to wait <strong>for</strong> the sea to go down.<br />
Travelling to Sledge Island in a small boat there<strong>for</strong>e may delay the<br />
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trip <strong>for</strong> a week or 10 days. With a single party, such a delay<br />
prevents the gathering <strong>of</strong> data at important periods at other<br />
breeding cliffs. There<strong>for</strong>e, we have decided that a resident<br />
party is needed at Bluff <strong>for</strong> 1976, and that a small travelling<br />
party will visit other sites. With such an arrangement, it may<br />
be possible to gather the in<strong>for</strong>mation needed from colonies at<br />
King Island, St. Lawrence Island, etc.<br />
C. There may be serious problems <strong>of</strong> a place to live with access to<br />
fresh water at Bluff if the mining operation starts up in 1976<br />
as is now planned. I do not believe it will be practical to<br />
have a field party living next to a mining operation, but it may<br />
be possible to live in a valley mouth on the east end <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Bluffs.<br />
D. One major need is a technology <strong>for</strong> taking measurements <strong>of</strong> breeding<br />
success at several colonies efficiently. We found that taking<br />
photographs with a telephoto lens is a promising way to sample<br />
bird cliffs to measure reproductive success between colonies <strong>of</strong><br />
Kittiwakes. A plane can fly quite close if the wind is "on shore."<br />
It would be very valuable to get these data <strong>for</strong> all seabird bazaars<br />
in the project area. To do this work safely one needs a small, slow,<br />
twin-engined plane. The most promising candidate is the Cessna<br />
push-pull twin-engined Sky Hawk. One <strong>of</strong> these operates <strong>for</strong> a<br />
missionary society around Nome and I intend to see if I can charter<br />
it. I already have an interested and able pilot.<br />
E. We need to have facilities to make transects <strong>of</strong> feeding areas and<br />
to sample the waters where the birds are feeding, <strong>for</strong> fish popula-<br />
tion. It would be an important contribution to our work if we<br />
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could develop means <strong>for</strong> sampling the sand-eel/Capelin through<br />
the summer season to measure growth rate. Our Zodiac is excellent<br />
<strong>for</strong> local travel and <strong>for</strong> transportation in aircraft, but is not<br />
suitable <strong>for</strong> heavy work in any sort <strong>of</strong> seaway. Hopefully, as the<br />
fisheries research related to NOAA, OCSEP move into the area, we<br />
will be able to get data on small fish and on shelf waters less<br />
than 20 fathoms (40 meters).<br />
F. The germinal needs <strong>of</strong> this program, directed as it is to making<br />
baseline studies and preparing impact statements, are still not<br />
clear. We need data on species, their numbers, etc., at a given<br />
time; to fill this need we must carry out surveys. We also need<br />
to know how the biological community operates; to fill this need<br />
we must make detailed continuing studies at one site such as Bluff.<br />
It is not clear the degree to which it will be worth while<br />
(strictly from the point <strong>of</strong> view <strong>of</strong> OCSEP) to expend the ef<strong>for</strong>t to<br />
catch and band adequate numbers <strong>of</strong> birds at the cliffs as an example<br />
<strong>of</strong> the sort <strong>of</strong> field operations which would allow us to enter onto<br />
the next more sophisticated level <strong>of</strong> understanding (population turn-<br />
over, age structure, inter-colony movements, etc.) necessary <strong>for</strong><br />
monitoring, unless a monitoring program is established.<br />
G. The most important issues are political, related to attitudes<br />
toward use <strong>of</strong> the shoreline, a) commodity orientation toward wild-<br />
life, b) opportunistic and exploitive approach to resources. The<br />
intrusion <strong>of</strong> high pressure, exploitive industries maintained by<br />
large subsidies from "outside" are the major <strong>for</strong>ce which will change<br />
the way <strong>of</strong> life <strong>of</strong> the people in the Norton Sound villages. Some<br />
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individuals will pr<strong>of</strong>it and flourish. Others, the less aggressive<br />
but probably equally creative, will undoubtedly suffer. Attitudes<br />
toward the sea, land, and wildlife will change and un<strong>for</strong>tunately<br />
many attitudes will be imposed directly or indirectly from outside<br />
as they already have been.<br />
Although the immediate decisions will be political, the decisions<br />
will be better if based on knowledge. Biologists can not only<br />
play a direct part in the assessment <strong>of</strong> such impacts in the short<br />
term, but also can make fundamental contributions towards plans <strong>for</strong><br />
what will be most needed in the long run.<br />
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VI. Estimate <strong>of</strong> funds expended: both Tasks 237 and 238<br />
A. Period 20 May - 30 June, 1975<br />
Salaries 1 month WHD $1540.00<br />
Fringe benefits 1 month WHD 110.00 $1650.00<br />
Equipment 7200.00<br />
Travel 1225.00<br />
Other direct costs 65.00<br />
Food 690.00<br />
10,830.00<br />
B. Period 1 <strong>July</strong> - 30 <strong>September</strong><br />
Salaries (estimated) $6950.00<br />
Fringe benefits (estimated) 450.00 $7400.00<br />
Equipment (accounted) 3400.00<br />
Travel (accounted) 4400.00<br />
Other direct costs (telephone)<br />
Food (accounted 2000.00<br />
Overhead 2500.00<br />
19,700.00<br />
19,700.00<br />
10 830.00<br />
30,550.00<br />
Note: book entry figures <strong>for</strong> the first quarter are not available.<br />
355
Samples <strong>of</strong> Kittiwake-nesting cliffs: Bluff, August, 1975
TO: NOAA Environmental Research Laboratories<br />
Outer Continental Shelf Energy Program<br />
Contract No. 03-5-022-77<br />
TITLE: Birds <strong>of</strong> coastal habitats on the south shore <strong>of</strong> Seward Peninsula,<br />
Alaska: Semi-annual report; period 1 June to 30 <strong>September</strong> 1975.<br />
Task 238: Use <strong>of</strong> coastal habitats by waterfowl (including seabirds<br />
and shorebirds)<br />
Principle Investigator: William H. Drury<br />
Scientific Staff<br />
Massachusetts and National Audubon Societies<br />
South Great Road<br />
Lincoln, Massachusetts 01773<br />
I. Task Objectives<br />
A. Review existing knowledge.<br />
B. Determine seasonal distribution and density <strong>of</strong> waterfowl on inshore<br />
waters and coastal lowlands; locate concentrations <strong>of</strong> waterfowl and<br />
make comparisons between regions, <strong>of</strong> types and intensity <strong>of</strong> use.<br />
C. Determine where, in inshore waters and coastal lowlands, the species<br />
are feeding.<br />
D. Predict impact <strong>of</strong> development (increase in human disturbance, roads,<br />
pollution, and alteration <strong>of</strong> habitat).<br />
II. Field Activities<br />
A. Calendar<br />
June 4 - 15: at Nome; 5 days spent in coastal reconnaissance by<br />
auto and on foot.<br />
June 16 - 23: travel west <strong>of</strong> Nome; camping at the mouth <strong>of</strong> Cripple<br />
River and at Sledge Island; three days during which watches were<br />
posted on the beach and two days during which we traveled by<br />
small boat.<br />
June 24 - <strong>July</strong> 2: at Nome;four days coastal reconnaissance.<br />
<strong>July</strong> 2: trip by auto and small boat along the coast from Nome to<br />
Bluff (about 70 miles) including surveying <strong>for</strong> waterfowl.<br />
<strong>July</strong> 14: return trip by small boat and auto including surveying<br />
<strong>for</strong> waterfowl.<br />
359
<strong>July</strong> 15 - 19: at Nome; two days coastal reconnaissance.<br />
<strong>July</strong> 19 - 27: camped on the beach west <strong>of</strong> Nome and at Sledge<br />
Island, three days during-which watches on the beach were<br />
carried out and two days during which coastal reconnaissance<br />
by small boat was made.<br />
<strong>July</strong> 27 - 31: at Nome; one day coastal reconnaissance by auto<br />
August 1: trip by auto and small boat along the coast from Nome<br />
to Bluff including surveying <strong>for</strong> waterfowl.<br />
August 2 - 21: two days reconnaissance by small boat and two one-<br />
half day surveys by small aircraft.<br />
August 22: return trip from Bluff to Nome by boat and auto includ-<br />
ing survey <strong>for</strong> waterfowl.<br />
August 29: air reconnaissance between Point Spencer and Golovnin<br />
Bay.<br />
August 29 - Sept. 22: at Bluff, one half-day reconnaissance <strong>for</strong><br />
waterfowl, one day reconnaissance by small boat.<br />
Sept. 22: trip by small boat and auto from Bluff to Nome.<br />
Sept. 23: reconnaissance <strong>of</strong> coastal area east <strong>of</strong> Nome by auto.<br />
Sept. 25: one half-day reconnaissance by small aircraft <strong>of</strong> area<br />
between Nome and Golovnin Bay.<br />
All boat travel was by small boats owned by the project, or in<br />
chartered aircraft; there were two half-day flights in a<br />
United States Fish & Wildlife Service aircraft.<br />
We spent 35 days living in an old <strong>of</strong>fice building at Nome, 15 days<br />
camping on the beach, and six weeks living in abandoned miners'<br />
cabins. We moved twice in small aircraft and eleven times by<br />
small boat.<br />
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B. Scientific Party<br />
William H. Drury: Massachusetts Audubon Society; Principle Inves-<br />
tigator; present 4 June - 28 <strong>September</strong>.<br />
Mary C. Drury: logistics; accounts and coordination <strong>of</strong> records at<br />
study sites; present 4 June - 11 August.<br />
Peter L. Drury: undergraduate; The Evergreen State College; field<br />
assistant; present 6 August - 24 <strong>September</strong>.<br />
John B. Drury: undergraduate; Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School;<br />
field assistant; present 4 June - 11 August.<br />
Hope Alexander: unsalaried photographer; all <strong>of</strong> her travel expenses<br />
were paid by a grant from the National Audubon Society;<br />
present 15 <strong>July</strong> - 11 August.<br />
Kate Brooks: unsalaried field assistant; all <strong>of</strong> her travel expenses<br />
were paid by private grant; present 22 June - 15 <strong>July</strong>.<br />
Katherine Hazard: undergraduate; The College <strong>of</strong> the Atlantic; in-<br />
C. Methods<br />
tern program; unsalaried field assistant; present 19 <strong>July</strong> -<br />
22 Sept.<br />
1. Air reconnaissance <strong>of</strong> the coastal region was made between Saint<br />
Michael on the south, around the east coast <strong>of</strong> Norton Sound to<br />
Cape Spencer on the northwest part <strong>of</strong> the Seward Peninsula. In<br />
this coastal region, marshes, lagoons, river estuaries and lakes<br />
within about ten miles <strong>of</strong> the coast were surveyed,<br />
Surface reconnaissances were made <strong>of</strong> the Teller area, Cape Woolley<br />
area, an area between 10 - 15 miles west <strong>of</strong> Nome and the area 45<br />
miles long from Cape Nome to Bluff.<br />
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RESEARCH LABORATORIES TASK Page 238 4<br />
2. During these reconnaissance visits, species present were iden-<br />
tified; individuals were counted and interpretations made as to<br />
the uses <strong>of</strong> the area by these species and individuals.<br />
In addition (during reconnaissance travel or while camped at<br />
nesting areas) standardized 15 minute watches were made <strong>of</strong> the<br />
inshore waters recording species and numbers present, directions<br />
<strong>of</strong> flight, and feeding or other activity.<br />
D. Sample Localities<br />
1. Air reconnaissance <strong>of</strong> the coastal lowlands, lagoons and beaches<br />
between Point Spencer on the northwest and Egg Island - Saint<br />
Michael on the southeast.<br />
Surface visits to the coastal area at Teller, the Cape Woolley<br />
Lagoons, the coastal lakes between Cripple River and Sinruck<br />
River, the mouths <strong>of</strong> the Snake and the Nome Rivers, and the<br />
shoreline from Nome eastwards as far as Bluff.<br />
Surface visits to rivers crossed by the roads to Teller north-<br />
west <strong>of</strong> Nome, and the Kugarok Road north <strong>of</strong> Nome.<br />
Small boat travel between Sledge Island and Nome and eastward to<br />
Square Rock east <strong>of</strong> Bluff.<br />
2. On all these trips, we kept on lookout <strong>for</strong> numbers and kinds <strong>of</strong><br />
waterfowl. We gave special air and surface attention to Safety<br />
Lagoon, the mouth <strong>of</strong> Bonanza River and the lagoons between Bon-<br />
anza (Solomon) and Topkok.<br />
E. Date Collected<br />
We spent parts <strong>of</strong> 6 days flying reconnaissance, made 26 trips in<br />
small boats, 14 coastal and inland reconnaissances in auto, and<br />
carried out 63 fifteen minute watches <strong>for</strong> seafowl.<br />
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III. Results<br />
We made surveys <strong>of</strong> waterfowl during 200 miles <strong>of</strong> travel by small<br />
boat, 520 miles <strong>of</strong> travel on roads, 750 miles <strong>of</strong> air travel and<br />
180 miles on foot.<br />
A. Surface Reconnaissance<br />
1. The standardized watches and observations made during travel<br />
supply reliable data on species present and numbers at the times<br />
<strong>of</strong> observation. These data have already indicated, however,<br />
that variation is high.<br />
a) The species occurring in small numbers may vary widely from<br />
spot to spot and from day to day.<br />
b) The numbers <strong>of</strong> individuals in flocks vary widely so th.. the<br />
precision <strong>of</strong> our counts is much greater than is necessiry to<br />
establish expected usage.<br />
Thus we can be confident <strong>of</strong> the occurrence and abundaice <strong>of</strong> the<br />
common species. However, the presence <strong>of</strong> many wandering<br />
individuals <strong>of</strong> less common species and the large variation in<br />
flock size indicated that only general statements are suppor-<br />
table.<br />
2. Sample size (number <strong>of</strong> sample watches and reconnaisance trips).<br />
Many areas were visited too few times to allow us to do more<br />
than to make general statements about the use <strong>of</strong> !e area by<br />
water-fowl. Some areas are used heavily in mid to late <strong>September</strong><br />
but were very little used in June. A lagoon that .s crowded with<br />
waterfowl when its water level has dropped because it has been<br />
drained may be devoid <strong>of</strong> birds if the water level rises to the<br />
usual shore lines.<br />
383
3. Some <strong>of</strong> our data are not representative because we only learned<br />
<strong>of</strong> important areas late in the season. We learned that certain<br />
areas, <strong>of</strong>ten <strong>of</strong> small area1 extent, get unusually heavy usage.<br />
During other years these places will need to be visited more<br />
frequently.<br />
4. We have data from a few visits at a few times during the summer<br />
<strong>for</strong> the fresh water areas visitable by car between Teller and<br />
Safety Lagoon. These include Teller, Woolley Lagoons, Sinruck<br />
River to Washout on Safety Sound, Bonanza River and Taylor Lagoon.<br />
B. Air Reconnaissance<br />
1. We have made only one reconnaissance <strong>of</strong> the shore line <strong>of</strong> Norton<br />
Sound. That visit was in mid-August to <strong>September</strong>. We have more<br />
than half a dozen air transects at low altitude <strong>of</strong> Safety Sound<br />
and these suggest that the general pattern found on one survey<br />
is consistent, even though details change.<br />
2. We have counts <strong>of</strong> waterfowl including cranes, ducks, geese,<br />
swans, and gulls from the air. The identification <strong>of</strong> these is<br />
reliable with the exception <strong>of</strong> separating the small sized<br />
Canada Geese from Brant and the identification <strong>of</strong> some species<br />
<strong>of</strong> diving ducks in eclipse plumage. We have some counts <strong>of</strong><br />
shorebirds but species identifications in many cases are not<br />
reliable. We have sample counts <strong>of</strong> age groups by plumage types<br />
<strong>for</strong> gulls and swans. The age samples among gulls is imprecise<br />
because <strong>of</strong> a) difficulties in counting large milling flocks,<br />
and b) the tendency <strong>for</strong> gulls to flock together by age groups.<br />
Because gulls do flock by age groups one needs a sample over a<br />
wide area to get a true age sample. We are not sure that Norton<br />
Sound is a large enough area.<br />
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IV. Interpretation<br />
A. Distribution<br />
1. We found that river mouths were very important gathering areas<br />
early in the season as the sea ice was melting.River mouths<br />
continued to attract aggregations <strong>of</strong> ducks and gulls throughout<br />
the season.<br />
2. The meandering lower reaches <strong>of</strong> silt-laden rivers attracted<br />
gulls, ducks and especially shorebirds late in the season<br />
during autumn migrations.<br />
3. Lakes and lagoons that had been drained as a result <strong>of</strong> over-<br />
flow and subsequent stream erosion during spring meltwater<br />
run<strong>of</strong>f, attracted large numbers <strong>of</strong> shorebirds, ducks and gulls<br />
all during the summer.<br />
.4. The shallow waters just <strong>of</strong>fshore from barrier beaches were<br />
visited by sea ducks much more frequently than the rest <strong>of</strong> the<br />
shore line.<br />
We interpret these observations as indicating that a certain<br />
limited number <strong>of</strong> areas are <strong>of</strong> disproportionate importance to<br />
waterfowl occupying the coastal areas. The areas where water-<br />
fowl gather change in the course <strong>of</strong> each season and because <strong>of</strong><br />
the accidental nature <strong>of</strong> the geological features that made them<br />
attractive, (i.e. a) melt water run<strong>of</strong>f cutting through a barrier<br />
beach and b) <strong>of</strong>fshore wind lowering sea level hence exposing<br />
extensive mud flats in estuaries), an important element <strong>of</strong><br />
chance enters into the distribution <strong>of</strong> waterfowl. As a result<br />
one can say that small areas will assume great importance at<br />
any given time, but one cannot predict which areas will be
important, nor how many are necessary so that "on odds;' enough<br />
areas will be in suitable condition to fill the needs <strong>of</strong> water-<br />
fowl populations at any one time. One presumes, <strong>for</strong> example,<br />
that a lake bed kept drained so as to be attractive to water-<br />
fowl would be soon "over fished" and would need to lie under<br />
water <strong>for</strong> several years <strong>for</strong> populations <strong>of</strong> food species to<br />
build up.<br />
B. Human Use<br />
1. Our observations suggest intense local use <strong>of</strong> waterfowl gath-<br />
ering areas by Eskimos or Eskimos with white companions. The<br />
clearest correlation on our air and surface reconnaissance was<br />
that all wildlife was very sparce in a zone around all human<br />
settlements.<br />
2. It is not surprising that many native traditional camping areas<br />
occur where waterfowl might be expected to be numerous. After<br />
all, Eskimos <strong>for</strong>merly depended on waterfowl <strong>for</strong> part <strong>of</strong> their<br />
food.<br />
3. If intense human use continues as areas available <strong>for</strong> water-<br />
fowl decrease, one can expect declines in local waterfowl pop-<br />
ulations.<br />
4. At present, exploitation by Eskimos appears to be unlimited.<br />
Furthermore, exploitation appears to be heavier by those<br />
affluent Eskimos who work in Nome and have trucks, several<br />
outboard motors and many firearms rather than those Eskimos<br />
who have a subsistence economy. Thus the special priviledges<br />
<strong>of</strong> native use, which has been justified in terms <strong>of</strong> the needs<br />
<strong>of</strong> subsistence economy, appears in fact to becoming an indul-<br />
gence <strong>for</strong> an elite group <strong>for</strong> whom hunting is recreation.<br />
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5. Hopefully there need not be a conflict between native rights<br />
and management based on biological studies. Biological studies<br />
are needed to establish what cropping local populations can<br />
sustain and what protection is necessary. Once this in<strong>for</strong>mation<br />
is available political decisions can be made as to what social<br />
groups have the priviledge <strong>of</strong> using a given resource and <strong>for</strong><br />
what purpose: commodity, esthetics, subsistance, tourist income,<br />
etc.<br />
V. Problems<br />
A. Transportation<br />
1. The small size <strong>of</strong> boats allowed us to travel only under favorable<br />
conditions. Bad weather prevented our making several trips and<br />
the associated transects <strong>for</strong> waterfowl.<br />
Some remote areas could have been accessible if we had a larger<br />
4-wheel drive truck; <strong>for</strong> instance, the road along Safety Lagoon<br />
was washed out during most <strong>of</strong> the summer. This fact reduced the<br />
number <strong>of</strong> visits we could make to it. A poor road leads to<br />
Woolley Lagoons hence we could get there only once.<br />
2. Other committments: our work at seabird cliffs was given prece-<br />
dence and hence interfered with survey work on coastal waters<br />
and lagoons when travel to the lagoons was difficult.<br />
3. During this summer we learned <strong>of</strong> new places and new waterfowl<br />
uses. Hence our surveys did not give them adequate attention.<br />
4. We learned <strong>of</strong> the small boat channels through Safety Lagoon<br />
late in the season. Hence we were not able to get to many areas<br />
which deserve attention earlier in the season.<br />
B. Recommended solutions: the best solution <strong>of</strong> some <strong>of</strong> these difficul-<br />
ties will be to have two field parties in 1976, one to carry out<br />
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seabird breeding studies at Bluff, and the other to be a traveling<br />
party. This will allow more time to take advantage <strong>of</strong> favorable<br />
weather.<br />
It has been predicted that the roads and ferry at Safety Lagoon<br />
will be in operation in 1976. If so, our transportation should be<br />
adequate. However, we may be again handicapped by lack <strong>of</strong> a<br />
4-wheel drive vehicle. Un<strong>for</strong>tunately a 4-wheel drive vehicle is a<br />
very expensive commodity in Nome.<br />
VI. Estimated funds expended: see accounting in Task 237.<br />
368
RU 239<br />
"Ecology and Behavior <strong>of</strong> Southern Hemisphere Shearwaters<br />
(Genus Puffinus) and other Seabirds, when over the Outer<br />
Continental Shelf <strong>of</strong> the Bering Sea and Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
during the Northern summer"<br />
M. T. Myres &<br />
Juan Guzman<br />
Univ. <strong>of</strong> Calgary<br />
Report not received in Boulder <strong>of</strong>fice; to be <strong>for</strong>warded<br />
when received.<br />
369
DEPAIITMENT OF FISH AND GAME /<br />
JAY S. HAMMOND, GOVERNOR<br />
/ 1300 COLLEGE ROAD<br />
FAIRBANKS 99701<br />
November 17, 1975 RECEIVED<br />
RECEIVED<br />
NOV 2 4 1975<br />
Gunter Weller<br />
NOAA/OCS Project Office OFFICE<br />
Elvey Building (Geophysical Institute)<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
Fairbanks, AK 99701<br />
Dear Dr. Weller:<br />
I have enclosed a copy <strong>of</strong> the semi-annual report on Research Unit 330/196<br />
"The distribution, abundance and feeding ecology <strong>of</strong> birds associated with<br />
the Bering Sea and Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea pack ice."<br />
The State will probably be submitting another copy through <strong>of</strong>ficial<br />
channels.<br />
Sincerely,<br />
Georg J. Divoky<br />
Seabird Biologist<br />
Division <strong>of</strong> Game<br />
Enclosure<br />
371
Semi-annual Prugress Report<br />
Project No. RD002-R7120815 (2521)<br />
Research Unit 330/196<br />
The distribution, abundance and feeding ecology <strong>of</strong> birds associated<br />
with the Bering Sea and Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea pack ice.<br />
I. Task objectives<br />
The proposed research addresses i:: part the following tasks<br />
identified in the Draft Study Plan "Environmental Assessment<br />
<strong>of</strong> the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska, Southeastern Bering Sea and Beau<strong>for</strong>t<br />
Seas":<br />
A-4 - Summarize and evaluate existing literature and unpublished<br />
data on the distribution, abundance, behavior, and food<br />
dependencies <strong>of</strong> marine birds.<br />
A-5 - Determine the seasonal density distribution, critical<br />
habitats, migratory routes, and breeding locales <strong>for</strong> <strong>principal</strong><br />
marine species in the study areas. Identify critical species<br />
particularly in regard to possible effects <strong>of</strong> oil and gas<br />
development.<br />
A-6 - Determine the dynamics and trophic relationships <strong>of</strong><br />
selected species at <strong>of</strong>fshore and coastal study sites.<br />
A-31 - Determine the relationship <strong>of</strong> living resources to the<br />
ice environment (including the edge <strong>of</strong> the drifting ice, land<br />
fast ice and inner pack ice) on a seasonal basis in the Bering,<br />
Chukchi and Beau<strong>for</strong>t Seas.<br />
II. Field activities<br />
Dates Location Activity<br />
16-30 May DISCOVERER Pelagic observations and<br />
Seward to Adak and specimen collecting.<br />
(Bering Sea) Divoky<br />
24-27 June Barter Island Waiting <strong>for</strong> Fish and<br />
Wildlife plane to arrive<br />
<strong>for</strong> <strong>of</strong>fshore aerial census.<br />
Plane did not arrive. Some<br />
land based observations<br />
made. Divoky and Boekelheide<br />
30 June- Cooper Island Observe breeding activities and<br />
23 <strong>July</strong> via helo and migration. Divoky and<br />
float plane Boekelheide.<br />
372
30 <strong>July</strong>- USCGC GLACIER Pelagic observations.<br />
13 August Nome to Barrow Divoky and Boakelheide.<br />
(Chukchi Sea)<br />
13-29 August USCGC GLACIEIR Pelagic observations.<br />
<strong>of</strong>f Barrow Boakelheide.<br />
22-28 August Anchorage Waiting <strong>for</strong> good weather<br />
<strong>for</strong> P2V .Bean<strong>for</strong>t Sea flight.<br />
Flight scrubbed. Divoky.<br />
1-5 <strong>September</strong> Cooper Island Observe breeding activities and<br />
(via float plane) migration. Boekelheide.<br />
6-18 <strong>September</strong> Barrow Observe migration.<br />
Divoky and Gibson.<br />
28 <strong>September</strong>- Barrow Wait <strong>for</strong> BURTON ISLAND.<br />
21 October Mission scrubbed. Divoky<br />
B. Principal Investigator: George J. Divoky<br />
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service<br />
Alaska Department <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game (currently)<br />
Field Assistants: Robert Boekelheide<br />
U. S. Fish and Wildlife<br />
C. Methods.<br />
Daniel D. Gibson<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Alaska.<br />
Pelagic observations - observations are made from the flying<br />
bridge while the ship is underway during daylight hours. Observations<br />
are made <strong>for</strong> at least 30 minutes each hour (two 15 minute intervals).<br />
Observations at stations are made at irregular intervals. Birds<br />
are identified to species, counted, ages determined when possible<br />
and their activity (flying, sitting on water, sitting on ice, etc.)<br />
is noted. Detailed notes on behavior are taken when warranted.<br />
Oceanographic and meteorlogical data are obtained from the ships<br />
log. Data on ice type and cover is gathered by the bird observer.<br />
Transect observations are used to derive density figures on a km 2<br />
basis. Station observations provide relative numbers but not<br />
densities.<br />
Breeding activities - this activity was conducted primarily at<br />
Cooper Island. On Cooper Island all nests were located and marked.<br />
Dates <strong>of</strong> laying, hatching and fledging were obtained whenever<br />
possible. All chicks were weighed at least once and banded. A<br />
primary part <strong>of</strong> the breeding work was to ascertain where adult<br />
birds were obtaining food. This was done by conducting watches <strong>of</strong><br />
movements <strong>of</strong> adult birds. Detailed data on feeding was obtained<br />
whenever possible. During these watches data was also obtained on<br />
migration.<br />
373
Migration observations - numbers, movements and feeding activity<br />
<strong>of</strong> migrant birds were observed whenever possible. This was frequently<br />
done incidentally to other land-based work but some in<strong>for</strong>mation <strong>of</strong><br />
birds per unit time were obtained.<br />
Specimen collecting - birds were colLacted with a shotgun.<br />
Stomach contents were preserved in <strong>for</strong>malin and the bird's body<br />
frozen <strong>for</strong> later examination. Some colection <strong>of</strong> zooplankcon was<br />
conducted to observe densities <strong>of</strong> pray.<br />
D. Sample localities<br />
Positions <strong>for</strong> DISCOVERER Cruise<br />
58° 24' 167° 14'<br />
58° 13' 167° 12'<br />
58° 01' 166° 57'<br />
57° 52' 166° 39'<br />
57° 48' 166° 36'<br />
57° 41' 166° 32'<br />
57° 48' 166° 47'<br />
57° 52' 166° 48'<br />
57° 44' 166° 51'<br />
57° 43' 167° 01'<br />
57° 49' 167° 02'<br />
57° 47' 167° 08'<br />
57° 42' 167° 10'<br />
57° 36' 167° 11'<br />
57° 31' 167° 09'<br />
57° 25' 167° 10'<br />
57° 21' 167° 10'<br />
57° 20' 167° 07'<br />
57° 25' 167° 12'<br />
57° 30' 167° 16'<br />
57° 35' 167° 21'<br />
57° 40' 167° 24'<br />
57° 44' 167° 27'<br />
57° 49' 167° 26'<br />
57° 43' 167° 27'<br />
57° 38' 167° 29'<br />
57° 33' 167° 26'<br />
57° 28' 167° 28'<br />
57° 24' 167° 28'
22 May 570 38' 1670 29'<br />
570 33' 1670 26'<br />
570 28' 1670 28'<br />
570 24' 1670 28'<br />
570 20' 1670 27'<br />
570 24' 1670 32'<br />
570 30' 1670 33'<br />
570 32' 1670 36'<br />
570 37' 1670 41'<br />
23 May 570 44' 1670 46'<br />
570 47' 1670 44'<br />
570 48' 1670 44'<br />
570 53' 1670 50'<br />
570 57' 1670 56'<br />
570 52' 1680 14'<br />
570 430 1680 13'<br />
570 43' 1680 13'<br />
570 38' 1680 23'<br />
24 May 57' 37' 1690 19'<br />
580 47' 1690 17'<br />
580 50' 1690 19'<br />
580 45' 169° 18'<br />
580 41' 1690 18'<br />
58° 35' 1690 17'<br />
25 May 580 29' 1690 19'<br />
580 25' 1690 21'<br />
580 20' 1690 19'<br />
580 25' 1690 23'<br />
580 30' 1690 28'<br />
580 37' 1690 33'<br />
580 40' 1690 34'<br />
580 45' 1690 38'<br />
58° 42' 1690 30'<br />
26 May 580 40' 1690 38'<br />
580 35' 1690 39'<br />
580 30' 1690 39'<br />
580 25' 169* 39'<br />
580 20' 1690 38'<br />
580 15' 1690 38'<br />
570 50' 1690 40'<br />
570 31' 1700 00'<br />
570 12' 1690 53'<br />
27 May 570 01' 1680 59'<br />
560 31' 1670 55'<br />
560 00' 1660 51'<br />
560 35' 1650 57'<br />
560 06' 1640 54'<br />
550 29' 165" 50'<br />
540 58' 1660 44'<br />
540 18' 1670 36'<br />
Location <strong>of</strong> Cooper Island<br />
170 14N, 155° 41W<br />
375
Positions (noon) <strong>for</strong> GLACIER Cruise<br />
30 <strong>July</strong> 640 20'N, 1660 12'W<br />
31 <strong>July</strong> 650 17'N, 1680 45'W<br />
1 August 680 28'N, 1680 11'W<br />
2 August 700 OO'N, 1670 35'v;<br />
3 August 700 41'N, 1670 11'W<br />
4 August 710 19'N, 1650 26'.T<br />
5 August 70° 26'N, 1630 10'W<br />
6 August 700 04'N, 163S 1.5'W<br />
7 August 690 46'N, 168° 01'W<br />
8 August 700 40'N, 1640 46'W<br />
9 August 70° 23'N, 1630 00'W<br />
10 August 70° 32'N, 1610 44'W<br />
11 August 700 20'N, 1640 16'W<br />
12 August 70° 45'N, 1590 55'W<br />
13 August 70° 52'N, 1590 37'W<br />
14 August 700 52'N, 1590 37'W<br />
15 August 70° 52'N, 1590 37'W<br />
16 August 700 52'N, 1590 37'W<br />
17 August 700 58'N, 158° 47'W<br />
18 August Off Barrow<br />
19 August 71° 20'N, 1560 44'W<br />
20 August 71° 17'N, 1560 49'W<br />
21 August Off Barrow<br />
22 August Off Barrow<br />
23 August Off Barrow<br />
24 August Off Barrow<br />
25 August 710 29'N, 1560 20'W<br />
E. Data Collected<br />
DISCOVERER Cruise<br />
Number <strong>of</strong> 15 minute transect observations 104<br />
Number <strong>of</strong> station observations 30<br />
Specimens collected:<br />
Black-legged Kittiwake 4<br />
Glaucous-winged Gull 6<br />
Glaucous Gull 1<br />
Cooper Island<br />
Number <strong>of</strong> hours <strong>of</strong> observations <strong>of</strong><br />
movements <strong>of</strong> migratory and breeding birds 110<br />
Nests studied:<br />
Arctic Terns 51<br />
Black Guillemot 18<br />
Oldsquaw 9<br />
Sabines Gull 4<br />
376
Specimens Collected:<br />
King Eider 2<br />
Oldsquaw 4<br />
Black-legged Kittiwake 1<br />
Glaucous Gull 1<br />
Acetic Tern I<br />
GLACIER Cruise<br />
Number <strong>of</strong> 15 minute transect observations 489<br />
Number <strong>of</strong> station observations 1.5<br />
In addition to the above fild work a literature sarch has been<br />
initiated on topics relating to bird-ice relationships.<br />
III. Results<br />
Data collected is still on field <strong>for</strong>ms and summary sheets. Due to<br />
the intensive and extensive field season that has just ended, no processing<br />
<strong>of</strong> the data has yet been accomplished.<br />
IV. Preliminary interpretation <strong>of</strong> reults (not to go outside project<br />
<strong>of</strong>fice).<br />
DISCOVERER Cruise - no large concentration <strong>of</strong> birds was found at the<br />
edge <strong>of</strong> the ice as has been reported <strong>for</strong> the winter months. Birds were<br />
more common deep in the ice than in the loose ice at the ice front.<br />
Black-legged Kittiwakes and Glaucous-winged Gulls were the most abundant<br />
species in or near the ice. Observations made during the last days <strong>of</strong><br />
the cruise showed that a diverse assemblage <strong>of</strong> birds was associated with<br />
a warm water plume flowing north through Unimak Pass.<br />
Cooper Island - observations <strong>of</strong> Arctic Terns breeding on Cooper<br />
Island showed that during the pre-laying and incubation period birds are<br />
feeding on insects from tundra ponds. Only when the chicks hatch (which<br />
occurred at the.same time that leads started <strong>for</strong>ming around the island)<br />
do adults obtain their food from the sea. Hatching and fledging success<br />
was high <strong>for</strong> all species on the island.<br />
GLACIER Cruise - observations made while the ship steamed north<br />
past King Island, Fairway Rock and Cape Lisburne provided in<strong>for</strong>mation on<br />
the locations and movements <strong>of</strong> feeding flocks. Bird densities in the<br />
Chukchi Sea were lower than densities obtained in the Bering Sea reflecting<br />
the lower surface temperature and lessened productivity <strong>of</strong> the Chukchi.<br />
The extreme ice conditions in the Chukchi prevented many Bering Sea<br />
species from summering as far north as they normally do. No observations<br />
were made in the Beau<strong>for</strong>t due to heavy ice conditions.<br />
Suggestions <strong>for</strong> more effective integration and coordination<br />
While there has been a good ef<strong>for</strong>t to coordinate the bird<br />
studies on the Alaskan OCSEP program there has been no attempt to<br />
377
coordinate the projects studying a given region or system. A meeting<br />
should be held on Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea projects and Principal Investigators<br />
could see how to best integrate their studies. A similar meeting should<br />
be held <strong>for</strong> ice related studies. Future research should then be modified<br />
to enhance other people's data. No ef<strong>for</strong>t has been made along these<br />
lines and it is badly needed. Specific questions about specific systems<br />
need to be answered and a major interdisciplinary ef<strong>for</strong>t is needed to<br />
accomplish this. There should also be a major ef<strong>for</strong>t to standardize<br />
data with all bird studies using a common coding <strong>for</strong>mat whenever possible.<br />
V. Problems encountered/recommended changes<br />
While most cruises are <strong>for</strong> the gathering <strong>of</strong> "classical" oceanographic<br />
data, ornithologists should be consulted during the preparation <strong>of</strong><br />
cruise tracks and cruise objectives so that they are not at the mercy <strong>of</strong><br />
other scientists. There is a need <strong>for</strong> much better coordination at sea<br />
among the biologists on board ship. If large numbers <strong>of</strong> birds are seen<br />
in one area a zooplankton/fish biologist should be ready to do a tucker<br />
trawl to compare prey densities with other areas.<br />
VI. Estimate <strong>of</strong> expenditures<br />
FY75 Expenditures:<br />
Salaries<br />
$4,500.00<br />
Travel and transportation<br />
Per diem<br />
300.00<br />
Air fare 850.00<br />
Equipment and supplies 1,600.00<br />
Total Expenditures $7,400.00<br />
FY76 Expenditures:<br />
[FORMULA]<br />
Salaries:<br />
George J. Divoky $3,780.00<br />
Robert Boekelheide 2,044.00<br />
Travel and Transportation<br />
Per diem<br />
Air fare<br />
1,000.00<br />
700.00<br />
Supplies (expendible items) 400.00<br />
Miscellaneous expenses<br />
Total Expenditures<br />
378<br />
500.00<br />
$7,724.00
RU 337 - "Seasonal Distribution and Abundance <strong>of</strong> Marine Birds"<br />
RU 338 - "Photographic Mapping <strong>of</strong> Seabird Colonies"<br />
RU 339 - "Review and Analysis <strong>of</strong> Literature and Unpublished<br />
Data on Marine Birds"<br />
RU 340 - "Migration <strong>of</strong> Birds in Alaskan Marine Waters Subject<br />
to Influence by OCS Development"<br />
RU 341 - "Feeding Ecology and Trophic Relationships <strong>of</strong> Alaskan<br />
Marine Birds"<br />
RU 342 - "Population Dynamics <strong>of</strong> Marine Birds"<br />
RU 343 - "Preliminary Catalog <strong>of</strong> Seabird Colonies"<br />
Calvin Lensink &<br />
James Bartonek &<br />
other USFWS personnel<br />
Reports still in preparation; will be <strong>for</strong>warded when received.<br />
379
FISH, PLANKTON, BENTHOS, LITTORAL
FISH, PLANKTON, BENTHOS, LITTORAL<br />
Research<br />
Unit Proposer Title Page<br />
5/303 H. M. Feder The Distribution, Abundance, 389<br />
IMS/U. <strong>of</strong> Alaska Diversity, and Productivity <strong>of</strong><br />
Benthic Organisms in the Bering<br />
Sea<br />
6 A. G. Carey The Distribution, Abundance, Diver- 393<br />
Oregon State U. sity, and Productivity <strong>of</strong> the<br />
H. M. Feder Western Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea Benthos<br />
IMS/U. <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
7 A. G. Carey Summarization <strong>of</strong> Existing Litera- 395<br />
Oregon State U. ture and Unpublished Data on the<br />
Distribution, Abundance, and Life<br />
Histories <strong>of</strong> Benthic Organisms <strong>of</strong><br />
the Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea<br />
19 Ronald Regnart Herring Spawning Surveys - Southern 407<br />
ADF&G Bering Sea<br />
23 Jerry McCrary Yakutat Bay Benthos Study 409<br />
ADF&G<br />
24 Rod Kaiser Razor Clam Density and Distribution 411<br />
ADF&G<br />
27 Loren B. Flagg Kenai Peninsula Study <strong>of</strong> Littoral 413<br />
ADF&G Zone<br />
58 G. C. Anderson A Description and Numerical 493<br />
Ronald K. Lam Analysis <strong>of</strong> the Factors Affecting<br />
Dept. <strong>of</strong> Ocean. the Processes <strong>of</strong> Production in the<br />
U. <strong>of</strong> Wash. Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
64 W. T. Pereya Review and Evaluation <strong>of</strong> Historical 499<br />
M. 0. Nelson Data Base on Non-Salmonid Pelagic<br />
NMFS/NWFC Resources <strong>of</strong> the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
Shelf and Slope<br />
78 S. T. Zimmerman Baseline Characterization: Littoral 511<br />
T. R. Merrell Biota, Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
NMFS/Auke Bay<br />
Fisheries Lab.<br />
79 S. T. Zimmerman Baseline Characterization: Littoral 511<br />
T. R. Merrell Biota, Bering Sea<br />
NMFS/Auke Bay<br />
Fisheries Lab.
FISH, PLANKTON, BENTHOS, LITTORAL - Continued<br />
Research<br />
Unit Proposer Title Page<br />
156/ T. S. English (a) Plankton <strong>of</strong> the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska- 605<br />
164 Dept. <strong>of</strong> Oceano. Ichthyoplankton<br />
U. <strong>of</strong> Wash.<br />
D. M. Damkaer (b) Plankton <strong>of</strong> the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska- 609<br />
PMEL Initial Zooplankton Investigations<br />
J. D. Larrance (c) Phytoplankton <strong>of</strong> the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska 617<br />
PMEL<br />
R. T. Cooney (d) Zooplankton and Micronekton in the 621<br />
IMS/U. <strong>of</strong> Alaska Bering-Chukchi/Beau<strong>for</strong>t Seas<br />
Vera Alexander (e) Phytoplankton Studies-Bering Sea 625<br />
IMS/U. <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
174 W. T. Pereyra Baseline Studies <strong>of</strong> Demersal 629<br />
L. Ronholt Resources <strong>of</strong> the Northern Gulf <strong>of</strong><br />
S. Hughes Alaska Shelf and Slope<br />
NMFS/NWFC<br />
175 W. T. Pereyra Baseline Studies <strong>of</strong> Demersal 633<br />
J. E. Reeves Resources <strong>of</strong> the Eastern Bering<br />
R. G. Bakkala Sea Shelf and Slope<br />
NMFS/NWFC<br />
233 Rick Furniss Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea Estuarine Fishery 643<br />
ADF&G Study<br />
281 H. M. Feder The Distribution, Abundance, Diver- 647<br />
IMS/U. <strong>of</strong> Alaska sity and Productivity <strong>of</strong> Benthic<br />
Organisms in the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
282/ H. M. Feder A Summarization <strong>of</strong> Existing Litera- 653<br />
301 IMS/U. <strong>of</strong> Alaska ture and Unpublished Data on the<br />
Distribution, Abundance, and Productivity<br />
<strong>of</strong> Benthic Organisms <strong>of</strong><br />
the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska and Bering Sea<br />
284 Ronald Smith Food and Feeding Re! tionships in 657<br />
IMS/U. <strong>of</strong> Alaska the Benthic and Deme sal Fishes <strong>of</strong><br />
the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska and Bering Sea
FISH, PLANKTON, BENTHOS, LITTORAL - Continued<br />
Research<br />
Unit Proposer Title Page<br />
285 J. E. Morrow Preparation <strong>of</strong> Illustrated Keys to 661<br />
Dept. <strong>of</strong> Biological Skeletal Remains and Otoliths <strong>of</strong><br />
Sci. Forage Fishes - Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska and<br />
U. <strong>of</strong> Alaska Bering Sea<br />
318 J. E. Morrow Preparation <strong>of</strong> Illustrated Keys to 663<br />
Dept. <strong>of</strong> Biological Skeletal Remains and Otoliths <strong>of</strong><br />
Sci. Forage Fishes - Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea<br />
U. <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
348 J. E. Morrow Literature Search and Data Conver- 665<br />
Dept. <strong>of</strong> Biological sion on Density Distribution <strong>of</strong><br />
Sci. Fishes <strong>of</strong> Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea<br />
U. <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
349 T. S. English Ichthyoplankton 667<br />
Dept. <strong>of</strong> Ocean.<br />
Univ. <strong>of</strong> Wash.<br />
354 W. T. Pereyra Review <strong>of</strong> Literature and Archive Data 669<br />
Paul T. Macy <strong>for</strong> Non-Salmonid Pelagic Fishes <strong>of</strong><br />
NMFS the Eastern Bering Sea<br />
356 A. C. Broad Littoral Survey <strong>of</strong> the Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea 683<br />
Western Wash.<br />
State Col.<br />
359 T. S. English Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea Plankton Studies 685<br />
Dept. <strong>of</strong> Ocean.<br />
U. <strong>of</strong> Wash.
OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF ENERGY PROGRAM<br />
JUNEAU PROJECT OFFICE<br />
P. O. BOX 1808 .<br />
JUNEAU, ALASKA 99802 ..<br />
<strong>Quarterly</strong> Report <strong>for</strong> Quarter Ending <strong>September</strong> 30, 1975<br />
Project Title: The Distribution, Abundance, Diversity and<br />
Productivity <strong>of</strong> Benthic Organisms in the<br />
Bering Sea<br />
Contract Number: 03-5-022--56<br />
Task Order Number 15 R.U 5/303<br />
Principal Investigator: Dr. Howard M. Feder<br />
Pr<strong>of</strong>essor <strong>of</strong> Marine Science<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
Fairbanks, Alaska 99701<br />
I. Task Objectives<br />
A. Qualitative and quantitative census <strong>of</strong> dominant species<br />
within oil lease sites.<br />
B. Description <strong>of</strong> seasonal and spatial distribution patterns,<br />
with emphasis on assessing patchiness and correlation<br />
with microhabitat.<br />
C. Comparison <strong>of</strong> species distribution with physical, chemical,<br />
and geological factors.<br />
D. Observations <strong>of</strong> biological interrelationships in benthic<br />
biota <strong>of</strong> the study area.<br />
II. Field and Laboratory Activities<br />
A. Ship schedules and names <strong>of</strong> vessels<br />
1. 5/15/75 - 6/20/75; R/V Discoverer<br />
2. 8/16/75 - 10/24/75; R/V Miller Freeman<br />
B. Scientific Party<br />
1. R/V Discoverer<br />
Dr. H. M. Feder - Leg II, P.I., U <strong>of</strong> A<br />
Mr. Eric Knudtson - Legs I, II; Technician (temp.)<br />
Mr. Karl Baflinger - Leg<br />
II, Technician, U <strong>of</strong> A<br />
2. R/V Miller Freeman<br />
Mr . Max lloberg - Legs 1, Ill: Technician, U <strong>of</strong> A<br />
Mr. Robert Roark - Legs 1, II; Technician (temp)
C. Methods<br />
-2-<br />
1. Field sampling: 6 - 10 Van Veen grabs are taken at<br />
each station. Exact number <strong>of</strong> samples is determined<br />
by consideration <strong>of</strong> time allowance and by field<br />
observations on substrate, sample volume, and between<br />
sample organism variance. Samples are screened to<br />
isolate biological materials, and fixed in a <strong>for</strong>malin<br />
solution <strong>for</strong> transport to the U <strong>of</strong> A.<br />
A separate sediment sample to be used <strong>for</strong> sizefrequency<br />
analysis is taken from one <strong>of</strong> the series<br />
<strong>of</strong> grabs.<br />
One hour tows were made at predetermined station<br />
locations using an otter trawl. Non-commercially<br />
important invertebrate species were sorted, weighed<br />
and counted, identified or assigned a type number<br />
and an aliquot sample <strong>of</strong> most species preserved in<br />
10% buffered <strong>for</strong>malin <strong>for</strong> later detailed examination.<br />
Fish stomachs were obtained from selected species.<br />
Selected species were collected and frozen <strong>for</strong> the<br />
Hydrocarbon and Heavy Metal Programs.<br />
2. Laboratory analysis: Samples are taken to the Marine<br />
Sorting Center at the University <strong>of</strong> Alaska <strong>for</strong> processing.<br />
Sorting Center services involve final taxononic<br />
analysis and biomass determinations. Results will be<br />
computer-sorted and ranked by station in accordance<br />
with 5 criteria <strong>for</strong> biologically important specie-<br />
(see Feder and Mueller, 1972). In addition, the<br />
Shannon-Wiener and Simpson diversity indices will be<br />
computed <strong>for</strong> each station.<br />
D. Sample Locations<br />
1. See attached map <strong>for</strong> stations occupied on the Discoverer<br />
cruise (stations 0-69 actually occupied).<br />
2. Station locations <strong>for</strong> the later cruise <strong>of</strong> the R/V Miller<br />
Freeman have not yet been returned from the field.<br />
E. Data Collected or Analyzed<br />
least 5 grabs<br />
1. For R/V Discovered cruise, all stations represented by at<br />
390
111. Results<br />
-3-<br />
2. For R/V Miller Freeman cruise, Leg I, at least 28<br />
stations; are represented by at least 3 grab samples,<br />
Eghty-six trawl stations were occupied on the first<br />
leg <strong>of</strong> the Miller Freeman cruise.<br />
Resuls from the Marine Sorting Center <strong>for</strong> samples taken on the<br />
R/V Discoverer cruise should be made available by January 1,<br />
1976. At present, analysis <strong>of</strong> about 40 stations has been<br />
completed . Data from the R/V Miller Freeman cruise will not<br />
be released from the Sorting Center until later next year. Trawl<br />
material is till stored on the Miller Freeman.<br />
IV . Preliminary Interpretation<br />
None at this time.<br />
V. Problems Encountered, Recomended Changes<br />
Serious problems <strong>of</strong> priority have arisen relative to the use<br />
<strong>of</strong> the Miller Freeman. The Benthic- Invertebrate grab<br />
program was apparently relegated to a minor role i] the<br />
general scientific program. The original understanding involved<br />
a 50/50 use <strong>of</strong> shiptime with the National Marine<br />
Fisheries Service. This should be resolved <strong>for</strong> next field<br />
season . The cooperative ef<strong>for</strong>t with the National Marine Fisheries<br />
Service trawl program was most satisfactory, It was possible,<br />
a result as<br />
<strong>of</strong> this cooperation, to collect much more than<br />
was originally anticipated. I would recommend a continuation<br />
<strong>of</strong> this cooperative<br />
ef<strong>for</strong>t, but suggest<br />
that more<br />
planning be attempted next year in order to have a broader<br />
coverage <strong>of</strong> the OCS lease area.<br />
VI . Estimate <strong>of</strong> Funds Expended<br />
(6 months)<br />
Total Budge Expended Remaining<br />
Salaries & wa&.''- 4(, 516. 00<br />
1 4 ,2J , 6 31, 99 1,l<br />
Stlaf't beInefits 7,854.00 2, .i78 . , 475f .:<br />
F:qulip ent 3 00. 00 1 ,? 1 ;<br />
2,? '<br />
'.i'ravel<br />
.4 500.00 .3, 1; . ( :1 .<br />
OIler ( , 300 )00 '1, l1.'0 ) , J .<br />
.1d , 11 eDl I 1 , "0 ' , , ' .<br />
331
Semi-annual Progress Report<br />
1 April - 30 November 1975<br />
NOAA/BLM Alaskan Outer Continental Shelf Energy Program<br />
Contract No. 03-5-022-68, Task Order No. 5<br />
Title: The distribution, abundance, diversity, and productivity <strong>of</strong> the<br />
western Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea benthos.<br />
Principal Investigator: Andrew G. Carey, Jr.<br />
School <strong>of</strong> Oceanography<br />
Oregon State University<br />
Corvallis, Oregon 97331<br />
393<br />
Andrew G.Carey, Jr<br />
Principal Investigator<br />
Date: 12 Dec 75
During the report period we have organized and started a new ef<strong>for</strong>t on<br />
the ecology <strong>of</strong> Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea benthic fauna. Since the acquisition <strong>of</strong> funds<br />
in August 1975, we have evaluated and purchased basic field and laboratory<br />
equipment, hired and trained qualified personnel, attempted three field<br />
ef<strong>for</strong>ts on the Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea continental shelf.<br />
Quantitative Smith-McIntyre grab, otter trawl, and bottom photography<br />
surveys during the summer <strong>of</strong> 1975 in coastal waters and along the continental<br />
shelf were cancelled because <strong>of</strong> unusually heavy ice conditions. A research<br />
assistant was put aboard the U.S. C.G.C. GLACIER <strong>for</strong> 6 days, but the cruise<br />
was cancelled. Coastal work aboard the R/V NATCHIK was cancelled owing to<br />
the transportation problems <strong>for</strong> the vessel.<br />
Seasonal quantitative grab sampling successfully got underway in October-<br />
November 1975. Fourteen quantitative Smith-McIntyre grab samples were collected<br />
on Transect I <strong>of</strong>f Pitt Point in the western portion <strong>of</strong> the study area (Table 1).<br />
The quantitative samples were washed through 0.42 mm square aperture sieves<br />
preliminary to laboratory processing and analysis. Two additional samples<br />
were collected <strong>for</strong> sediment and mei<strong>of</strong>aunal analyses. Equipment and techniques<br />
were developed and successfully tested <strong>for</strong> cutting a 4 foot square hole<br />
through the ice,<strong>for</strong> lowering and raising the 0.1 m 2 Smith-McIntyre grab<br />
through the ice in continental shelf depths, and <strong>for</strong> washing the samples.<br />
It was concluded that helicopter-supported seasonal field trips on the ice are<br />
feasible.<br />
The grab samples are now being processed, sorted, identified, and enumerated<br />
in the laboratory at Oregon State University.<br />
Table 1. Samples collected during fieldtrip OCS 1.<br />
394
Semi-annual Progress Report<br />
1 April - 30 November 1975<br />
NOAA/BLM Alaskan Outer Continental Shelf Energy Program<br />
Contract No. 03-5-022-68, Task Order No. 4<br />
Title: Summarization <strong>of</strong> existing literature and unpublished data on the<br />
distribution, abundance, and life histories <strong>of</strong> benthic organisms<br />
<strong>of</strong> the Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea.<br />
Principal Investigator: Andrew G. Carey, Jr.<br />
School <strong>of</strong> Oceanography<br />
Corvallis, Oregon 97331<br />
395<br />
Andrew G. Carey, Jr.<br />
Principal Investigator<br />
Date: 12 Dec 75
Progress Report<br />
1 April - 30 November 1975<br />
During this period we have accelerated some projects already underway<br />
and initiated other aspects. A literature search <strong>for</strong> data and references<br />
pertaining to benthic fauna in the Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea and adjacent areas has been<br />
started, and extensive correspondence with benthic ecologists and taxonomic<br />
specialists is underway. We have increased ef<strong>for</strong>ts to analyze past samples<br />
and photographs collected by Oregon State University in the western Beau<strong>for</strong>t<br />
Sea during the U.S. Coast Guard WEBSEC (Western Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea Ecological Cruise)<br />
series in 1971 and 1972. After receipt <strong>of</strong> NOAA/BLM funds in August 1975,<br />
personnel were hired, equipment evaluated and purchased and necessary space<br />
acquired to undertake the research outlined in this contract. The evaluation<br />
<strong>of</strong> laboratory and data analysis techniques, the acquisition <strong>of</strong> appropriate<br />
equipment, and the training <strong>of</strong> personnel have involved significant amounts <strong>of</strong><br />
time.<br />
The following progress has been accomplished to date <strong>for</strong> the various<br />
objectives <strong>of</strong> this research contract:<br />
(1) Species List.<br />
The list <strong>of</strong> benthic invertebrate species from the Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea is being<br />
accumulated from Oregon State University's previous research in the area,<br />
from the literature, and from data <strong>reports</strong> (see Appendix I). Species names<br />
have been sent to George Mueller at the University <strong>of</strong> Alaska <strong>for</strong> coding.<br />
Species identification are being verified as much as possible by systematic<br />
specialists (Appendix II). Arrangements have also been completed <strong>for</strong> a<br />
1 1/2 month visit <strong>of</strong> Gordon Bilyard (OSU Ph.D. candidate) with Dr. Kristian<br />
Fauchild <strong>of</strong> the Allan Hancock Foundation, University <strong>of</strong> Southern Cali<strong>for</strong>nia.<br />
G. Bilyard is working with the systematics and ecology <strong>of</strong> polychaetous<br />
annelids from WEBSEC-71 samples; he will work up polychaetes from the present<br />
field ef<strong>for</strong>t. We will arrange such visits <strong>for</strong> research assistants and students<br />
working with other taxonomic groups to ensure quality control.<br />
Table 1. Taxonomic specialists cooperating with the OSU Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea benthic<br />
program.<br />
Crustacea<br />
Gammarid amphipods<br />
Cumacea<br />
Jorge Castillo<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Concepcion<br />
Dr. Jean Just<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Copenhagen<br />
Dr. Jorge Castillo<br />
nivers <strong>of</strong> Concepcion<br />
Mollusca<br />
Gast opoda Jame:<br />
.Los Ai<br />
Lean<br />
es County Museum<br />
Pelecypoda<br />
. FranK Bernard<br />
Fisheries Research Board Canada<br />
396
Table 1 (cont.)<br />
Amphineura Amelia Scheltema<br />
Woods Hole Oceanographic Inst.<br />
Echinodermata<br />
Ophiuroidea Michael A. Kyte<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Washington<br />
Holothuroidea Robert S. Carney, Jr.<br />
Oregon State University<br />
Dr. David Pawson<br />
Smithsonian Institution<br />
Annelida<br />
Polychaeta Dr. Kristian Fauchild<br />
Allan Hancock Foundation<br />
Pisces Don E. McAllister<br />
National Museum <strong>of</strong> Canada<br />
We are continuing to organize and add specimens to an appropriately<br />
indexed benthic invertebrate reference museum within the Oregon State University<br />
School <strong>of</strong> Oceanography.<br />
Data Analysis<br />
The analysis and delineation <strong>of</strong> species distributions and abundance<br />
patterns, the determination <strong>of</strong> the natural variability <strong>of</strong> the fauna, and the<br />
analysis <strong>of</strong> benthic communities are continuing. Several techniques <strong>for</strong> multivariate<br />
data analysis <strong>of</strong> species groupings and faunal-environmental correlations<br />
are under study.<br />
An appropriate data <strong>for</strong>mat has been developed <strong>for</strong> benthic data, and<br />
data are being entered and filed in anticipation <strong>of</strong> appropriate statistical<br />
analyses.<br />
397<br />
2
BEAUFORT SEA SPECIES CODE<br />
398
BEAUFORT SEA SPECIES CODE
BEAUFORT SEA SPECIES CO3E<br />
.400
BEAUFORT SEA SPECIES CODE<br />
401
BEAUFORT SEA SPECIES CODE<br />
402
BEAUFORT SEA SPECIES CODE<br />
403
BEAUFORT SEA SPECIES CODE<br />
404
BEAUFORT SEA SPECIES CODE
RU 19<br />
"Herring Spawning Surveys -<br />
Southern Bering Sea"<br />
Ronald Regnart<br />
Alaska Dept. <strong>of</strong> Fish & Game<br />
Work has not begun -- no report at this time.<br />
--4 7
RU 23<br />
"Yakutat Bay Benthbs Study"<br />
Alaska Dept. <strong>of</strong> Fish & Game<br />
Work has not begun -- no report at this time.<br />
409
RU 24<br />
"Razor Clam Density & Distribution"<br />
Alaska Dept. <strong>of</strong> Fish & Game<br />
Work has not begun -- no report at this time.<br />
411
PROGRESS REPORT<br />
AN ECOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT OF THE<br />
LITTORAL ZONE ALONG THE OUTER<br />
COAST OF THE KENAI PENINSULA FOR<br />
OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF ENERGY PROGRAM<br />
JUNEAU PROJECT OFFICE<br />
P. 0. BOX 1808<br />
JUNEAU, ALASKA 99802 .......<br />
STATE OF ALASKA, DEPARTMENT OF FISH & GAME<br />
EO DAMES & MOORE<br />
AN JOB NO: 6797-002-20<br />
413
State <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
Department <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game<br />
Homer, Alaska<br />
Attention: Mr. Loren Flagg<br />
Gentlemen:<br />
Anchor Point, Alaska<br />
October 28, 1975<br />
Progress Report<br />
An Ecological Assessssent <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Littoral Zone Along the Outer Coast<br />
<strong>of</strong> the Kenai Peninsula <strong>for</strong><br />
State <strong>of</strong> Alaska, Department <strong>of</strong> Fish & Game<br />
We submit herewith a copy <strong>of</strong> the first progress report <strong>for</strong> Outer<br />
Continental Shelf studies on the Outer Kenai Peninsiila. This report contains<br />
the quantitati e data and qualitative descriptions obtained during<br />
the reconnaissance survey to that area during the summer <strong>of</strong> 1975. On the<br />
basis <strong>of</strong> this reconnaissance, we selected Koyuktolik Bay and lagoon, Chugach<br />
Bay and Port Dick as the sites <strong>for</strong> continued iiitensive study during the remainder<br />
<strong>of</strong> this program. The major problem oncountered, as anticipated, was<br />
the effect <strong>of</strong> weather and oceanographic conditions on the accessibility and<br />
workability <strong>of</strong> this remote, rugged area.<br />
It has been a pleasure assisting you on this project. We are looking<br />
<strong>for</strong>ward to continued investigations in this interesting, pristine region.<br />
DCL:RJR:RHW:sed<br />
Enclosures<br />
Yours very truly,<br />
DAMES & MOORE<br />
Dennis C. Lees<br />
Senior Marine Biologist<br />
Richard J. Rosenthal<br />
Senior Marine Biologist<br />
R. H. Winn<br />
Managing Pr inciilpal -Anchiorage<br />
414
SECTION<br />
TABLE OF CONTENTS<br />
List <strong>of</strong> Figures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii<br />
PAGE<br />
List <strong>of</strong> Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .... .. . . . ii<br />
List <strong>of</strong> Appendices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... ... i<br />
Task Objectives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .... .. .. 2<br />
ield Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .... . . . 2<br />
Field trip schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2<br />
Scientific party . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . .. . .. 2<br />
Methods . . . . . . . . .... . . ... . .. . . . . . .. . 2<br />
Sample localities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3<br />
Data collection and analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5<br />
Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . .. . . 9<br />
General description <strong>of</strong> the areas examined at Koyuktolik Bay 9<br />
General description <strong>of</strong> the areas examined at Chugach Bay. . 19<br />
General description <strong>of</strong> the locations examined at E. Chugach 27<br />
General description <strong>of</strong> the area examined at Port Dick . . 36<br />
Preliminary Interpretation <strong>of</strong> Results . . . . . . . . .... .44<br />
Literature Cited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . 45<br />
415
LIST OF FIGURES<br />
FIGURE TITLE PAGE<br />
1 Location map <strong>of</strong> the southern Kenai Peninsula . . . . . 4<br />
2 Mussel bed study site, Koyuktolik Bay. . . . . . . ... 10<br />
3 Comparison <strong>of</strong> size distributions at different<br />
levels in the mussel bed along the entrance<br />
channel to Koyuktolik Lagoon, Sept. 9, 1975 . .... .17<br />
4 Comparison <strong>of</strong> biomass, density and individual<br />
size estimates <strong>for</strong> mussels near seaward<br />
margin <strong>of</strong> mussel bed in entrance channel to<br />
Koyuktolik Lagoon, <strong>September</strong> 9, 1975 . . . . . . ... 18<br />
5 Chugach Bay study site . . . . . . . . . . . . .... 20<br />
6 Port Dick study site . . . .. ... . . .. .. . 37<br />
4.16
LIST OF APPENDICES<br />
APPENDIX TITLE<br />
A Relative coverage (%) by major species in three levels<br />
near seaward edge <strong>of</strong> mussel bed in entrance channel<br />
to Koyuktolik Lagoon, 9/9/75<br />
B Coverage by Fucus distichus and Mytilus edulis in a<br />
Fucus covered area near the E. end <strong>of</strong> the outer<br />
mussel bed at Koyuktolik Bay, 9/9/75<br />
C Size distributions <strong>for</strong> mussel samples near seaward<br />
edge <strong>of</strong> mussel bed in entrance channel to Koyuktolik<br />
Lagoon, 9/9/75<br />
D Distribution <strong>of</strong> some* macrophytes at Sea Otter Point,<br />
Chugach Bay, 9/11 and 9/12, 1975<br />
E Distribution <strong>of</strong> some* invertebrates at Sea Otter Point,<br />
Chugach Bay, 9/11 and 9/12, 1975<br />
F Quadrat data (1/4 sq m) from Sea Otter Point area,<br />
Chugach Bay, 9/11 and 9/12, 1975<br />
H Feeding and size data <strong>for</strong> asteroids from the Sea Otter<br />
Point area, Chugach Bay, 9/12/75<br />
I Macrophytes observed at East Chugach Island, 8/1/75<br />
J Invertebrates observed at East Chugach Island, 8/1/75<br />
K Fishes and mammals observed at East Chugach Island,<br />
8/1/75<br />
L Species composition and distribution at the head <strong>of</strong><br />
West Arm, Port Dick, 7/31/75<br />
M Evasterias troschelii size-frequency distributions<br />
from samples collected on 7/31/75 at Port Dick<br />
417
LIST OF TABLES<br />
TABLE TITLE PAGE<br />
1 Organisms observed in outer Koyuktolik Lagoon, 9/9/75 12<br />
2 Macrophytes observed growing in mussel bed and entrance<br />
channel to Koyuktolik Lagoon, 9/9/75 . . . . . . . . . . . 13<br />
3 Animals noted in mussel beds and entrance channel to<br />
Koyuktolik Lagoon, 9/9/75 . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . 14<br />
4 Summary <strong>of</strong> size distribution data <strong>for</strong> mussels near<br />
seaward margin <strong>of</strong> mussel bed in entrance channel to<br />
Koyuktolik Lagoon, 9/9/75 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15<br />
5 Biomass, density and mean individual wet weight data<br />
<strong>for</strong> mussels near the seaward margin <strong>of</strong> mussel bed in<br />
entrance channel to Koyuktolik Lagoon, 9/9/75 . ...... . 16<br />
6 Density <strong>of</strong> some dominant macrophytes in the vicinity<br />
<strong>of</strong> Sea Otter Point, Chugach Bay, 9/11 and 9/12, 1975 . . . . 23<br />
7 Approximate distribution <strong>of</strong> observed invertebrates by<br />
feeding type at Chugach Bay, 9/11 and 9/12, 1975 . . . . .. . 24<br />
8 Density estimates (indiv./sq m) <strong>of</strong> some echinoderms<br />
in the vicinity <strong>of</strong> Chugach Bay, 9/11 and 9/12, 1975 . . . . 28<br />
9 Summary <strong>of</strong> prey items <strong>of</strong> asteroids in the Sea Otter<br />
Point area, Chugach Bay, 9/12/75 . . . . . . . . . ... . 29<br />
10 Summary <strong>of</strong> asteroid feeding from Sea Otter Point<br />
area, Chugach Bay, 9/12/75 . . . . . . . . . . . . .... .30<br />
11 Size distributions <strong>of</strong> the most abundant asteroids at<br />
Sea Otter Point, Chugach Bay, 9/11 and 9/12, 1975 . . . . . 31<br />
12 Size data <strong>for</strong> Musculus sp. collected from blades <strong>of</strong><br />
laminarian kelp at Chugach Bay, 9/11 and 9/12, 1975 . . . . 32<br />
13 Approximate distribution <strong>of</strong> observed invertebrates<br />
by general feeding type at East Chugach Island,<br />
8/1/75 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . ... . . . .34 .<br />
14 Size distribution <strong>for</strong> Musculus sp. from east end <strong>of</strong> E.<br />
Chugach Island, 8/1/75. Substrate was Pleurophycus<br />
gardneri . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . 35<br />
418
LIST OF TABLES (continued)<br />
TABLE TITLE PAGE<br />
15 Abundance data <strong>for</strong> Evasterias troschelii in mussel bed<br />
at Port Dick. Samples from 25 x 1 m quadrats . . . . . ... . 39<br />
16 Feeding data from head <strong>of</strong> West Arm, Port Dick,<br />
7/31/75 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .... . .. . . . .40.<br />
17 Size-frequency data <strong>for</strong> the starfish Evasterias<br />
troschelii <strong>for</strong> Port Dick, 7/31/75 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42<br />
18 Approximate distribution <strong>of</strong> observed invertebrates by<br />
feeding type at the head <strong>of</strong> West Arm, Port Dick,<br />
7/31/75 . . . ... . . . . . . ................ . 43<br />
419
I. TASK OBJECTIVES<br />
The main objective <strong>of</strong> this study is to assess some <strong>of</strong> the marine<br />
plant and animal communities in intertidal and adjacent shallow subtidal<br />
areas along the southern or outer Kenai Peninsula. This is to be accomplished<br />
by:<br />
(1) gathering baseline in<strong>for</strong>mation on species composition and<br />
relationships within supporting "characteristic" biotic<br />
assemblages;<br />
(2) recording seasonal changes within the habitats; and<br />
(3) collecting in<strong>for</strong>mation leading to an understanding <strong>of</strong> the<br />
ecological functions within these assemblages, including<br />
data on population structure, food web relationships, and<br />
factors influencing distribution and abundance.<br />
The objective <strong>of</strong> the initial survey was to conduct a reconnaissance into<br />
the area assessing the distribution <strong>of</strong> biotic assemblages, accessibility<br />
and logistical requirements at various locations. This in<strong>for</strong>mation was to<br />
assist in the selection <strong>of</strong> study sites.<br />
420
Field Trip Schedule<br />
II. FIELD<br />
The reconnaissance survey was conducted from <strong>July</strong> 30 to August 5<br />
and <strong>September</strong> 9-12, 1975. The M. V. Humdinger was chartered out <strong>of</strong><br />
Cordova <strong>for</strong> those periods.<br />
Scientific Party<br />
Methods<br />
The scientific party included:<br />
(1) Richard J. Rosenthal, Dames & Moore, senior biologist;<br />
(2) Dennis C. Lees, Dames & Moore, senior biologist; and<br />
(3) Thomas Rosenthal, diving technician.<br />
The mode <strong>of</strong> operation in the field was to combine qualitative and<br />
quantitative techniques in such a manner as to obtain a general idea <strong>of</strong> the<br />
organisms and functional relationships characteristic <strong>of</strong> each site surveyed.<br />
This involved making random "nature walks" through the habitats, examining<br />
large quadrats (25 m by 0.5, 1, or 2 m) <strong>for</strong> density estimates <strong>of</strong> macroalgae<br />
and large invertebrates such as starfish or gastropods, medium-sized quad-<br />
rats (0.25 sq m) <strong>for</strong> species composition and coverage estimates <strong>of</strong> smaller<br />
algae, encrusting and epifaunal <strong>for</strong>ms, and small quadrats (1/16 sq m) <strong>for</strong><br />
density estimates and size distributions <strong>of</strong> extremely dense organisms such<br />
as mussels and certain macrophytes (e.g., Zostera marina).<br />
421
Laboratory analysis was limited to measuring size and/or wet<br />
weight <strong>of</strong> certain organisms to allow examination <strong>of</strong> size distributions at<br />
the study sites. The measurement used <strong>for</strong> starfish is the radius (milli-<br />
meters) <strong>of</strong> the animal from the center <strong>of</strong> the mouth to the tip <strong>of</strong> the longest<br />
ray. For pelecypods, shell length is used. Where weights have been recorded,<br />
only whole wet weights <strong>of</strong> complete samples have been obtained. However, we<br />
intend to develop a dry tissue weight-length regression curve <strong>for</strong> the<br />
species measured.<br />
Sample Localities<br />
The survey was conducted in 12 specific locations at 5 general<br />
sites (Figure 1). These are listed below:<br />
(1) Koyuktolik(Dogfish) Bay and lagoon<br />
(a) gravel beach and spit at east end <strong>of</strong> bay<br />
(b) mussel bed on north side <strong>of</strong> entrance channel to lagoon<br />
(c) subtidal portions on entrance channel<br />
(d) outer lagoon<br />
(e) inner lagoon (eelgrass bed)<br />
(2) Port Chatham complex<br />
(a) ocean-facing sand and gravel beach west <strong>of</strong> Chrome Bay<br />
(b) Chrome Bay<br />
(c) Port Chatham<br />
422
LOCATION MAP<br />
OF THE SOUTHERN KENAl PENINSULA
(3) Chugach Bay - southern point and coves<br />
(4) East Chugach Island<br />
(a) kelp bed <strong>of</strong>f sand spit at west end <strong>of</strong> island<br />
(b) kelp bed at east end <strong>of</strong> island<br />
(c) subtidal area at extreme eastern end <strong>of</strong> island<br />
(5) Port Dick - mud flats, eelgrass bed and upper basin at the<br />
head <strong>of</strong> West Arm<br />
Data Collection and Analysis<br />
The data collected are presented as table and appendices to this<br />
report. Analysis has been very limited to date as a consequence <strong>of</strong> field<br />
schedules <strong>for</strong> summer and fall surveys. Analyses will be completed during the<br />
winter when no survey is scheduled.<br />
Types <strong>of</strong> Samples<br />
(1) Koyuktolik Bay - outer mussel bed<br />
(a) 1/16 sq m mussel collections <strong>for</strong> density, size structure<br />
and biomass - 6<br />
(b) 1/4 sq m quadrat casts <strong>for</strong> cover and algal species<br />
composition - 40<br />
(c) Surveyed the dimensions <strong>of</strong> the outer mussel bed<br />
(d) Qualitative diving observations <strong>of</strong> the inner and outer<br />
lagoon and the lagoon entrance<br />
424
(2) Chugach Bay<br />
(a) 25 x 2 m quadrats <strong>for</strong> macroalgal density - 2<br />
(b) 25 x 1 m quadrats <strong>for</strong> macroalgal density - 1<br />
(c) 25 x 1 m quadrats <strong>for</strong> echinoderm abundance - 5<br />
(d) 1/4 sq m quadrats <strong>for</strong> species composition and coverage - o<br />
(e) 1/4 sq m quadrats <strong>for</strong> macroalgal density - 7<br />
(f) size data <strong>for</strong> 12 asteroid, 1 sea urchin, and 1 pelecypod<br />
species<br />
(g) specific feeding data <strong>for</strong> sea otters and asteroids<br />
(h) general food web data<br />
(i) preliminary species inventory<br />
(3) East Chugach Island<br />
(a) size data <strong>for</strong> 1 pelecypod species<br />
(b) general food web data<br />
(c) preliminary species inventory<br />
(4) Port Dick<br />
(a) 25 x 1 m quadrats <strong>for</strong> asteroid density - 2<br />
(b) 25 x 1 m quadrat <strong>for</strong> size data <strong>of</strong> Evasterias<br />
troschelii - 1<br />
(c) 1 sq m quadrat <strong>for</strong> size data <strong>of</strong> Evasterias troschelii - 1<br />
(d) specific feeding data <strong>for</strong> asteroids<br />
(e) preliminary food web data<br />
425
Intended Use <strong>for</strong> Size and Density Data<br />
Several types <strong>of</strong> quantitative data may be collected <strong>for</strong> some<br />
conspicuous species apparently occupying important roles in the natural<br />
economy <strong>of</strong> each study site. These include relative abundance (density-<br />
number <strong>of</strong> individuals per square meter), and some measurements <strong>of</strong> linear<br />
size (length, width, aperture width, etc.) and weight (wet or dry weight<br />
<strong>of</strong> s<strong>of</strong>t tissue). These data will assist in describing variations in con-<br />
ditions at the study sites and will permit examination <strong>of</strong> differences<br />
between them. Specifically, we want to be able to compare population<br />
structure among different areas, or at the same site under different con-<br />
ditions, and to generate accompanying biomass estimates <strong>for</strong> selected spe-<br />
cies at the study sites. These data will provide in<strong>for</strong>mation on temporal<br />
variations in population structure at specific sites and allow assessment<br />
<strong>of</strong> the effects <strong>of</strong> unnatural phenomena.<br />
We will employ several statistical techniques in data analysis.<br />
Size-frequency data will be compared with the Kolmogorov-Smirnov two-<br />
sample test (Siegel, 1956). Differences in density and biomass data gen-<br />
erally will be compared using the Student's t-test or analysis <strong>of</strong> variance<br />
methods (Sokal and Rohlf, 1969). Most <strong>of</strong> the biomass data will be recon-<br />
structed by using the size-frequency data in conjunction with site-specific<br />
size-weight regressions. This will only produce first approximations but<br />
in view <strong>of</strong> the nature <strong>of</strong> the study and the poor understanding <strong>of</strong> the quali-<br />
tative features <strong>of</strong> the various systems, it appears that the major portion<br />
<strong>of</strong> our initial ef<strong>for</strong>ts would be more usefully spent in general endeavors<br />
such as describing species composition and the natural relationships (e.g.,<br />
predator-prey and other trophic relationships).<br />
426
Population structure will be examined using a series <strong>of</strong> equations<br />
based on Brody-Bertalanffy growth curves (Ebert, 1973). This method, espe-<br />
cially applicable to survey work, uses easily gathered size data to produce<br />
useful first approximations <strong>of</strong> growth and mortality rates, and also generates<br />
a life table. The parameters required <strong>for</strong> computation are the means <strong>of</strong> the<br />
size distributions from two large samples (300 measurements; the means must<br />
closely estimate the parametric mean <strong>for</strong> the sampled population), times <strong>of</strong><br />
sample collection relative to the time <strong>of</strong> "recruitment" in the sampled popu-<br />
lation, and maximum (asymptotic) size attained by the species at the collect-<br />
ing site.<br />
427
III. RESULTS<br />
Results from each study site are discussed separately. Tables,<br />
figures and associated appendices are included. Because <strong>of</strong> the reconnais-<br />
sance objectives <strong>of</strong> this survey, the discussion <strong>of</strong> results will be general.<br />
General Description <strong>of</strong> the Areas<br />
Examined at Koyuktolik Bay<br />
The areas examined at Koyuktolik Bay can be separated into four<br />
basic habitats, namely (1) the inner lagoon, (2) the outer lagoon, (3) the<br />
subtidal entrance channel, and (4) the intertidal entrance channel (Figure<br />
2). Although the bay and entrance channel are exposed to considerable wave<br />
action from lower Cook Inlet, the lagoon areas are well protected. All but<br />
the inner lagoon are washed regularly by strong tidal currents.<br />
Only a tiny fraction <strong>of</strong> the extensive inner lagoon was examined;<br />
however, it appears that much <strong>of</strong> it is probably exposed on a minus tide.<br />
The flat substrate is fine silty sand or sandy silt with little shell debris<br />
but considerable organic debris. The portion examined was completely dom-<br />
inated by eelgrass with leaves up to 2 m long. Invertebrates were generally<br />
inconspicuous. Chum salmon, dolly varden, and tomcod were the only fishes<br />
observed. Sea otters and several species <strong>of</strong> waterfowl were observed feeding<br />
in the inner lagoon.<br />
The outer lagoon is somewhat deeper and considerably less exten-<br />
sive, corresponding roughly with the area where the lagoon rn rows down to<br />
<strong>for</strong>m the entrance channel. Sediments are flat .: pently s ,ing clean sand<br />
and gravel with a moderate amount c shell debris; large cobbles are scat-<br />
tered throughout, frequently acti.ý as substrate <strong>for</strong> macrophytes. The flora<br />
428
MUSSEL BED STUDY SITE<br />
KOYUKTOLIK BAY
<strong>of</strong> this area is characterized by the mixture <strong>of</strong> brown and red algae and<br />
eelgrass; macrophyte density is greatly reduced from the inner lagoon (Table 1).<br />
Alaria sp. was the dominant alga; Nereocystis was common. Another feature<br />
making this area distinctive was the presence <strong>of</strong> numerous invertebrates<br />
such as clams and tubicolous polychaetes. Small clams <strong>of</strong> several species<br />
were abundant. Fish were uncommon (Table 1).<br />
A periwinkle, Littorina sitkana, was the only herbivore observed,<br />
but large numbers were feeding mainly on Fucus distichus. Suspension feed-<br />
ers, primarily the clams, Astarte sp., Clinocardium nuttalli and Saxidomus<br />
giganteus and an unidentified tubicolous polychaete appeared to be the<br />
dominant feeding type. Predators were uncommon.<br />
The entrance channel is about 50 m wide and has a maximum<br />
depth <strong>of</strong> about 3 m at high tide. The sides are terraced. The substrate is<br />
composed <strong>of</strong> coarse sand, gravel and small cobbles.<br />
Vegetation <strong>of</strong> the subtidal portion was dominated by Laminaria<br />
groenlandica and Alaria fistulosa in the deeper portions and by Schizymenia<br />
sp. and Porphyra spp. in the shallower areas (Table 2). Invertebrates and<br />
fish were not conspicuous (Table 3).<br />
Vegetation <strong>of</strong> the intertidal portion was dominated by Fucus<br />
distichus, Laminaria groenlandica and Spongomorpha sp. A mussel, Mytilus<br />
edulis, strongly dominates and structures the habitat. At least two extremely<br />
large beds exist in the entrance channel where they act to consolidate and<br />
stabilize the gravel deposits. The main predators observed were glaucous-<br />
winged gulls, surf scoters and sea otters.<br />
430
Table 1. Organisms observed in outer Koyuktolik<br />
Lagoon, <strong>September</strong> 9, 1975.<br />
431
Table 2. Macrophytes observed growing in mussel bed and<br />
entrance channel to Koyuktolik Lagoon,<br />
<strong>September</strong> 9, 1975<br />
432
Table 3. Animals noted in mussel beds and entrance<br />
channel in Koyuktolik Lagoon, <strong>September</strong> 9,<br />
1975.<br />
433
Table 4. Summary <strong>of</strong> size distribution data <strong>for</strong> mussels near<br />
seaward margin <strong>of</strong> mussel bed in entrance channel to<br />
Koyaktolik Lagoon, <strong>September</strong> 9, 1975.<br />
434
Table 5. Biomass, density and mean individual net weight<br />
data <strong>for</strong> mussels near the seaward margin <strong>of</strong><br />
mussel bed in entrance channel to Koyaktolik<br />
Lagoon, <strong>September</strong> 9, 1975.<br />
435
COMPARISON OF SIZE DISTRIBUTIONS AT DIFFERENT LEVELS IN THE<br />
MUSSEL BED ALONG THE ENTRANCE CHANNEL TO KOYUKTOLIK LAGOON, 9/9/75
437<br />
FIGURE 4
Size, biomass and density data were collected and are presented<br />
in Tables 4 and 5 and Figures 3 and 4, but are too preliminary to estimate<br />
the reliability <strong>of</strong> the emerging patterns.<br />
Preliminary indications are that the systems examined here are<br />
highly productive. The inner lagoon appears to have high primary produc-<br />
tion and also acts as a collection basin <strong>for</strong> detrital material from a<br />
considerable terrestrial watershed. The clam and mussel beds appear to<br />
utilize an appreciable portion <strong>of</strong> these materials. Several terrestrial and<br />
marine vertebrate species use both the eelgrass and mussel resources <strong>for</strong><br />
food. Time has not permitted examination <strong>of</strong> the benthos in Koyuktolik Bay,<br />
but it seems reasonable to suspect the existence <strong>of</strong> a well-developed faunal<br />
assemblage based mainly on suspension feeding organisms.<br />
A through C.<br />
Additional in<strong>for</strong>mation and raw data are presented in Appendices<br />
General Description <strong>of</strong> the Areas<br />
Examined at Chugach Bay<br />
At Chugach Bay, we examined six areas ranging in depth from inter-<br />
tidal to 23 m; most attention was given to areas between 6 m and 13 m<br />
(Figure 5). The entire area examined is fairly well-protected from wave<br />
activity on the Gulf; however, the elevation <strong>of</strong> drift logs on the beach<br />
indicates that the area occasionally receives heavy wave action. Since the<br />
mouth <strong>of</strong> Chugach Bay is relatively broad, tidal currents are not particularly<br />
magnified, and so current velocity is moderate.<br />
438
CHUGACH BAY STUDY SITE
Near the southern point <strong>of</strong> Chugach Bay ("Sea Otter" Point) the<br />
shore is fringed with a moderately dense Nereocystis bed. The shoreline<br />
consists <strong>of</strong> a series <strong>of</strong> small rocky headlands interspersed with small gravel<br />
coves about 50 meters wide. The transition from beach to spruce <strong>for</strong>est occurs<br />
in just a few meters.<br />
Several food webs dominated by vertebrates are in close association<br />
in this area. A raft <strong>of</strong> at least 100 sea otters has been consistently<br />
observed in the outermost cove on the point during marine mammal surveys.by<br />
Alaska Department <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game. Land otter slides and basking sites were<br />
observed on the adjacent beaches. Evidence <strong>of</strong> predation by seagulls in the<br />
intertidal zone was conspicuous on the rocky headlands. Furthermore, evidence<br />
<strong>of</strong> eagle predation on sea gulls was observed. An active eagle nest is located<br />
above one <strong>of</strong> the headlands. Harbor seals used the exposed rocks as hauling<br />
sites.<br />
Dive No. 1 was conducted north <strong>of</strong> the tip <strong>of</strong> Sea Otter Point at<br />
the base <strong>of</strong> a talus ridge running about 50 meters north from the point and<br />
marked near its outer limit by,a rock outcrop that is awash on a minus tide.<br />
The remainder <strong>of</strong> the ridge is approximately 10 m deep. Dive No. 3 was con-<br />
ducted on top <strong>of</strong> this ridge between the outcrop and the point. A group <strong>of</strong><br />
at least 50 otters was rafted in the cove immediately inshore <strong>of</strong> the point<br />
(Raft Cove) be<strong>for</strong>e both dives. Depths examined during Dive No. 1 ranged<br />
from 10 m to 13 m. At 13 m, the bottom consists <strong>of</strong> large open patches <strong>of</strong><br />
gravel and widely scattered, large boulders; the gravel contains a large<br />
quantity <strong>of</strong> shell debris (mollusk shells, sea urchin spines and test frag-<br />
ments, bryozoan skeletons, etc.). To the east is the talus slope <strong>of</strong> large<br />
440
oulders <strong>for</strong>ming a rock pile extending into the low intertidal zone. Bottom<br />
relief ranged to 1.5 m with some <strong>of</strong> the larger boulders.<br />
The general appearance <strong>of</strong> the area <strong>of</strong> Dives No. 1 and 3 was dom-<br />
inated by a high understory <strong>of</strong> Laminaria groenlandica and Pleurophycus<br />
gardneri on the rocks and rock pile and the large gravel patches at the<br />
base <strong>of</strong> the slope (Table 6). The brittlestar Ophiopholis aculeata, with<br />
arms extended into the current from gravel, crevices, etc., was one <strong>of</strong> the<br />
more conspicuous invertebrates. Others included,the bryozoan Microporina<br />
borealis and hydroids <strong>of</strong> the genus Abietinaria. Starfish <strong>of</strong> several<br />
species were common. Greenling species were the most commonly observed<br />
fish.<br />
The invertebrate fauna was strongly dominated by suspension feeders,<br />
especially bryozoans, tunicate and hydroids (Table 7). Large herbivore<br />
species were relatively uncommon. Predator species, particularly asteroids,<br />
were also frequently encountered. Three <strong>of</strong> the more important predators<br />
in the area, excluding fish, were the sea otter and the starfish Pycnopodia<br />
helianthoides and Orthasterias koehleri. Sea otters appeared to have turned<br />
over a considerable number <strong>of</strong> large boulders in pursuit <strong>of</strong> prey items.<br />
Dive No. 2 was conducted <strong>of</strong>f the inner (west) point <strong>of</strong> the sec-<br />
ond cove in 14 m <strong>of</strong> water. The bottom was composed <strong>of</strong> a coralline encrusted<br />
bedrock and abundant boulders from 0.75 m to 1.75 m in diameter.<br />
In general appearance, the rocky substrate was partially obscured<br />
by a vegetative understory <strong>of</strong> Agarum cribrosum and Laminaria groenlandica and<br />
a low understory <strong>of</strong> Constantinea sp. Most conspicuous invertebrates were a<br />
bryozoan, Microporina borealis, a small mussel, Musculus sp., and a soli-<br />
tary ascidian, Boltenia villosa.<br />
441
Table 6. Density <strong>of</strong> some dominant macrophytes in the<br />
vicinity <strong>of</strong> Sea Otter Point, Chugach Bay,<br />
<strong>September</strong> 11 and 12, 1975<br />
442
Table 7. Approximate distribution <strong>of</strong> observed<br />
invertebrates by feeding type at Chugach<br />
Bay, <strong>September</strong> 11 and 12, 1975<br />
443
Suspension feeders dominated the invertebrate fauna (Table 7).<br />
A single large herbivore, the green sea urchin, Strongylocentrotus<br />
drobachiensis was common. No particular predator was especially conspicuous.<br />
Dive No. 4 was conducted northeast <strong>of</strong> the tip <strong>of</strong> Sea Otter Point<br />
at the base along the side and top <strong>of</strong> a rocky finger extending eastward from<br />
the point. It was the most exposed location examined at Chugach Bay. Depth<br />
<strong>of</strong> the area examined ranged from 13 m to 23 m. The top and side <strong>of</strong> the ridge<br />
are basically solid rock with small cracks and channels up to 1 m deep;<br />
the side is somewhat terraced. At the base <strong>of</strong> the finger (23 m), the<br />
bottom is composed largely <strong>of</strong> shell debris and gravel with scattered boulders<br />
and small, low-lying reefs.<br />
Laminaria groenlandica partially obscured the substrate on the<br />
top <strong>of</strong> the reef. Agarum cribrosum was the dominant alga on the slope, but<br />
density was much lower. The bryozoan, M.borealis, a small orange social<br />
ascidian and a hydroid <strong>of</strong> the genus Abietinaria were the most conspicuous<br />
invertebrates throughout the area. Musculus sp. was quite abundant on the<br />
laminarians that grew on top <strong>of</strong> the finger.<br />
Suspension feeders, particularly the species noted above (Table 7),<br />
strongly dominated the invertebrate fauna. The main herbivore species<br />
noted was a sea urchin, Strongylocentrotus drobachiensis. Principal<br />
predators in the area appeared to be a starfish, Orthasterias koehleri,<br />
and, judging from the condition <strong>of</strong> the shell debris, sea otters.<br />
444
Dive No. 5 was conducted at the outer point <strong>of</strong> Raft Cove in 6.5 m<br />
to 10 m depths. The substrate in the area examined is mainly large boulders<br />
and a coralline encrusted bedrock. Boulders cover about 50 percent <strong>of</strong> the<br />
bottom. Relief ranges up to about 1.5 m.<br />
Generally, the substrate was completely obscured from the surface<br />
by a heavy understory <strong>of</strong> Laminaria groenlandica; Nereocystis was uncommon<br />
this close to shore but became dense in deeper water (Table 6). Inverte-<br />
brates most frequently encountered were encrusting <strong>for</strong>ms such as the bryo-<br />
zoan, M. borealis, a yellow-green osculate sponge and hydroids <strong>of</strong> the genus<br />
Abietinaria. Juvenile tomcod was the most frequently encountered fish. In<br />
our absence, sea otters were abundant in this area.<br />
Suspension feeders dominated the invertebrate fauna in number <strong>of</strong><br />
species and frequency <strong>of</strong> encounter or relative cover (Table 7). All herbi-<br />
vores observed feed on microalgae. The most important predators in the<br />
area were probably the starfish, Pycnopodia helianthoides, and sea otters.<br />
Dive No. 6 was conducted inside the second cove in shallow water<br />
(5 m to intertidal); the observation was quite brief. The bottom <strong>of</strong> bedrock,<br />
low reefs, large boulders and cobble is heavily encrusted with coralline<br />
algae. Relief up to 1.5 m was observed.<br />
Both Nereocystis and Alaria reached the surface, but coverage was<br />
slight. However, the substrate was almost completely obscured by the tall<br />
understory <strong>of</strong> Laminaria groenlandica in 5 m <strong>of</strong> water. The starfish Pycnopodia<br />
helianthoides was abundant throughout this area and the chiton Katharina<br />
tunicata was abundant in shallow water.<br />
445
Asteroids were a very widely distributed predator in these study sites<br />
and considerable data were consequently collected. The density data pre-<br />
sented in Table 8 suggest that Pycnopodia helianthoides, Orthasterias<br />
koehleri, and Asterias sp. are among the more abundant predatory species.<br />
Prey items observed are presented in Table 9; most were mollusks. Feeding<br />
frequency data are shown in Table 10. Size distributions <strong>for</strong> the two most<br />
abundant asteroids are indicated in Table 11. Also, the size distribution<br />
<strong>for</strong> an important prey item (Musculus sp.) is indicated in Table 12.<br />
Additional data are included in Appendices D through H. Despite<br />
a greater amount <strong>of</strong> data, the system at Chugach Bay is more complex than<br />
at Port Dick or Koyuktolik Bay, so we would rather withhold any speculation<br />
on productivity, etc., at present. Nevertheless, it is obvious that the<br />
suspension feeding and predatory roles appear more important than the macro-<br />
herbivore role.<br />
General Description <strong>of</strong> Locations<br />
Examined at East Chugach Island<br />
The area observed at the east end <strong>of</strong> East Chugach Island is<br />
directly exposed to the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska and <strong>for</strong>ms the inner margin <strong>of</strong> a<br />
broad, shallow shelf extending from the island into the Gulf (Figure 1).<br />
The hydrographic chart indicates swift, turbulent currents. Depth in<br />
the area surveyed range between 5 m and 11 m. The substrate is a rock<br />
pavement with scattered cobbles and boulders. However, bottom relief is<br />
considerable with surge channels and rifts 3 m to 5 m deep cutting through<br />
the reef.<br />
446
Table 8. Density estimates (indiv./m²) <strong>of</strong> some<br />
echinoderms in the vicinity <strong>of</strong> Chugach<br />
Bay, <strong>September</strong> 11 and 12, 1975.<br />
447
Table 9. Summary <strong>of</strong> prey items <strong>of</strong> asteroids in the<br />
Sea Otter Point area, Chugach Bay, <strong>September</strong><br />
12, 1975.<br />
448
Table 10. Summary <strong>of</strong> asteroid feeding from Sea Otter Point, area<br />
Chuqach Bay, <strong>September</strong> 12, 1975.
Table 11. Size distributions <strong>of</strong> the most abundant<br />
asteroids at Sea Otter Point, Chugach<br />
Bay, <strong>September</strong> 11, 12, 1975.<br />
450
Table 12. Size data <strong>for</strong> Musculus sp collected<br />
from blades <strong>of</strong> Laminarian kelps at<br />
Chugach Bay, <strong>September</strong> 11, 12, 1975.<br />
451
General appearance <strong>of</strong> the area was dominated by a dense cover <strong>of</strong><br />
brown algae such as Laminaria groenlandica and Pleurophycus gardneri (Appendix<br />
I). Most <strong>of</strong> these plants were heavily covered by a small brown mussel <strong>of</strong> the<br />
genus Musculus. In addition, spat <strong>of</strong> this mussel <strong>for</strong>med a dense gray-white<br />
encrustation on many <strong>of</strong> the rocks, algae and invertebrates. Kelp greenling<br />
and juvenile tomcod were the most frequently encountered fish in the area.<br />
Sea otters were commonly observed feeding around the periphery <strong>of</strong> the island<br />
and in deeper water <strong>of</strong>fshore. Food items most in evidence were Balanus<br />
nubilus and some extremely large Mytilus edulis.<br />
The invertebrate fauna observed in this area was strongly biased<br />
toward suspension feeders and predators; large herbivores were generally<br />
uncommon (Table 13). The more common suspension feeders were Musculus sp.,<br />
an ophiuroid, Ophiopholis aculeata, and hydroids <strong>of</strong> the genus Abietinaria<br />
(Appendix J). Sea otters and starfish appeared to be among the more impor-<br />
tant predators.<br />
Size data collected <strong>for</strong> Musculus sp. indicate that the population<br />
is represented by a 0-year (spat) and a 1-year class (Table 14). The mode<br />
<strong>of</strong> the latter is an 8 mm shell length.<br />
A large Nereocystis bed just inside (northwest) <strong>of</strong> the east end<br />
<strong>of</strong> the island was examined briefly. This area is protected from the majpr<br />
<strong>for</strong>ces <strong>of</strong> the Gulf and did not appear subject to strong currents. Depth<br />
<strong>of</strong> the area examined was about 10 m. The substrate is a relatively flat<br />
rock pavement with little relief. The Nereocystis canopy covered 20 percent<br />
to 50 percent <strong>of</strong> the sea surface. In general appearance, the bottom was<br />
covered by a dense understory <strong>of</strong> Laminaria and Pleurophycus.<br />
452
Table 13. Approximate distribution <strong>of</strong> observed<br />
invertebrates by general feeding type<br />
at E. Chugach Island, August 1, 1975.<br />
453
Table 14. Size distribution <strong>for</strong> Musculus sp from<br />
east end <strong>of</strong> E. Chugach Island, August<br />
1, 1975. Substrate was Pleurophycus<br />
gardneri.<br />
454
The area observed at the west end <strong>of</strong> the island was the outer<br />
edge <strong>of</strong> a dense bed <strong>of</strong> mixed Nereocystis and Alaria fistulosa located <strong>of</strong>f<br />
a prominent sand spit (Figure 1). The area appears fairly well-protected<br />
from swells <strong>of</strong>f the Gulf but probably is subject to considerable tidal<br />
currents. The development <strong>of</strong> the sand spit suggests that a persistent<br />
system <strong>of</strong> eddies occur in the area. Depth is about 13 m. The bottom was<br />
a mixture <strong>of</strong> boulders, cobble and shell debris, and was partially obscured<br />
by an understory <strong>of</strong> Laminaria and Cymathere (Appendix I).<br />
The most commonly observed invertebrates were a bryozoan,<br />
M. borealis, and a sertulariid hydroid (Appendix J). Sea otters were ob-<br />
served feeding in the kelp bed and beyond; one female was observed and<br />
photographed hauled out on the beach. One adolescent bull Steller sea lion<br />
was observed in the area and exhibited a remarkably aggressive scientific<br />
interest in our activities.<br />
The invertebrate fauna observed in this area was strongly biased<br />
toward suspension feeders and predators; large herbivores were generally<br />
uncommon (Table 13). The more common suspension feeders were M. borealis,<br />
hydroids, and ascidians. Sea otters and starfish appeared to be among<br />
the more important predators.<br />
General Description <strong>of</strong> Area<br />
Examined at Port Dick<br />
The area observed at the head <strong>of</strong> West Arm, Port Dick extended<br />
from the mouth <strong>of</strong> Port Dick Creek across the intertidal mud flats and the<br />
subtidal eelgrass bed, down the slope out the first bench in the basin <strong>of</strong><br />
the West Arm (Figure 6).<br />
455
PORT DICK STUDY SITE
The area in the vicinity <strong>of</strong> Port Dick Creek is strongly influenced<br />
by fresh water run<strong>of</strong>f, tidal changes in water level, ice scour and air temp-<br />
erature extremes. The substrate consists mainly <strong>of</strong> clean sand, gravel and<br />
cobble with scattered small boulders; pieces <strong>of</strong> logs and branches are common<br />
on the bottom. Fucus distichus and Ulva or Monostroma were the dominant<br />
vegetation and Mytilus edulis and balanoid barnacles the dominant inverte-<br />
brates. Salmonid fry were observed schooling over the vegetation (Appendix<br />
L).<br />
At a lower tidal level, approximately 50 meters from the stream<br />
outlet, barnacles became less abundant, but mussels were more abundant,<br />
<strong>for</strong>ming scattered, large patches; small patches <strong>of</strong> eelgrass were observed.<br />
However, the dominant vegetation was Ulva or Monostroiia. In this same area,<br />
the starfish, Evasterias troschelii, was abundant (3.2/square m) (Table 15);<br />
over 70 percent were feeding on mussels (Table 16). Subtidally, between<br />
about 5 m and 6.5 m, eelgrass patches were quite large, lush and extensive.<br />
Both the mussel and eelgrass beds appear to cover a considerable area at<br />
the head <strong>of</strong> West Arm. A comparison <strong>of</strong> the hydrographic chart <strong>of</strong> the area<br />
and a sketch constructed during the reconnaissance suggests that the dimen-<br />
sions <strong>of</strong> the mussel and eelgrass beds approximately 200 x 200 m and 300 x<br />
400 m, respectively. Both appear highly productive.<br />
At approximately 6.5 i, the bottom begins to slope steeply into<br />
the basin. The slope, somewhat terraced, is covered with small rocks and<br />
shell debris from Macoma nasuta, Mya truncata and Saxidomus giganteus.<br />
457
Table 15. Abundance data <strong>for</strong> Evasterias troschelii<br />
in mussel bed at Port Dick. Samples from<br />
25 x 1 m 2 in band transects.<br />
458
Table 16. Feeding data from head <strong>of</strong> West Arm,<br />
Port Dick, <strong>July</strong> 31, 1975.<br />
459
Laminaria saccharina, attached to small rocks, was the dominant vegetation.<br />
Among the invertebrates observed, starfish were dominant, but clams are prob-<br />
ably quite abundant, too.<br />
The deepest bench examined on this slope (16 m) was characterized<br />
by large quantities <strong>of</strong> drifting vegetation, particularly eelgrass, Laminaria<br />
and Fucus. Several fish species were observed here.<br />
The most conspicuous predator was a starfish, Evasterias<br />
troschelii. Size distributions are presented in Table 17 and Appendix M.<br />
Feeding type data (Table 18), although compiled, are not adequate <strong>for</strong> dis-<br />
cussion at this time.<br />
460
Table 17. Size-frequency data <strong>for</strong> the Starfish<br />
Evasterias troschelii <strong>for</strong> Port Dick,<br />
<strong>July</strong> 31, 1975.<br />
461
Table 18. Approximate distribution <strong>of</strong> observed invertebrates<br />
by feeding type at the head <strong>of</strong> West Arm, Port Dick,<br />
<strong>July</strong> 31, 1975.<br />
462
IV. PRELIMINARY INTERPRETATION OF RESULTS<br />
The primary objective <strong>of</strong> the reconnaissance survey was to gather<br />
preliminary data on the distribution <strong>of</strong> basic biotic assemblages and to use<br />
these data to select study sites. The preliminary data on the biotic assem-<br />
blages have been discussed above and little more should be added at this<br />
time. Two comments are justified, however. First, there appears to be a<br />
strong relationship between the food webs <strong>of</strong> the nearshore and terrestrial<br />
commlunities. Second, it appears that the basic "primary" consumer level in<br />
several <strong>of</strong> the more prevalent shallow sublittoral assemblages in this area<br />
are composed <strong>of</strong> suspension feeders rather than macro-herbivores.<br />
The areas selected <strong>for</strong> continued study on the outer Kenai Peninsula<br />
are Koyuktolik Bay, Chugach Bay and Port Dick. These areas provide study<br />
sites in areas <strong>of</strong> high biological value and activity. The three areas repre-<br />
sent distinct habitat types, i.e., a salt water lagoon system, a fiord eel-<br />
grass meadow and an outer coast rock kelp habitat. Each area is a rich,<br />
pristine environment with exposure to the waters <strong>of</strong> lower Cook Inlet and the<br />
northern Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska.<br />
Respectfully submitted,<br />
DAMES & MOORE<br />
Dennis C. Lees<br />
Senior Marine Biologist<br />
Richard J. Rosenthal<br />
Senior Marine Biologist<br />
R.H. Winn<br />
Managing Principal-Anchorage<br />
463
LITERATURE CITED<br />
Ebert, T.A. 1973. Estimating growth and mortality rates from size data.<br />
Oecologia 11:281-298.<br />
Siegel, S. 1956. Nonparametric Statistics <strong>for</strong> the Behavioral Sciences.<br />
McGraw-Hill Book Co. New York. 312 pp.<br />
Sokal, R. R., and F. J. Rohlf, 1969. Biometry. W. H. Freeman and Co.<br />
San Francisco. 776 pp.<br />
464
Appendix A<br />
Relative coverage (%) by major species in three levels<br />
near seaward edge <strong>of</strong> mussel bed in entrance channel to<br />
Koyuktolik Lagoon, <strong>September</strong> 9, 1975. Haphazard casts<br />
with 0.25 sqm quadrat.<br />
465
Appendix B<br />
Coverage by Fucus distichus and Mytilus<br />
edulis in a Fucus covered area near the<br />
eastern end <strong>of</strong> the outer mussel bed at<br />
Koyuktolik, <strong>September</strong> 9, 1975. Quadrat<br />
size, 0.25 square m.<br />
466
Appendix C<br />
Size distributions <strong>for</strong> mussel samples near seaward edge <strong>of</strong> mussel<br />
bed in entrance channel to Koyuktolik Lagoon, <strong>September</strong> , 1975.
Appendix C (continued)
Appendix D ,<br />
Distribution <strong>of</strong> some* niacrophytes at Sea Otter<br />
Point, Chugach Bay, <strong>September</strong> 11 and 12, 1975.<br />
469
Appendix D (continued)<br />
470
Appendix E<br />
Distribution <strong>of</strong> some* invertebrates at Sea Otter<br />
Point, Chugach Bay, <strong>September</strong> 11 and 12, 1975.<br />
471
472
Appendix E (continued)<br />
473
Appendix E (continued)<br />
474
Appendix F<br />
Quadrat data (1/4 m 2 ) from Sea Otter Point<br />
area, Chugach Bay, <strong>September</strong> 11 and 12, 1975.<br />
475
Appendix F (continued)<br />
476
Appendix G<br />
Fish observed in the vicinity <strong>of</strong> Sea Otter<br />
Point, Chugach Bay, <strong>September</strong> 11 & 12, 1975.<br />
4 7 7
Appendix H<br />
Feeding and size data <strong>for</strong> asteroids from the<br />
Sea Otter Point area, Chugach Bay, <strong>September</strong><br />
12, 1975.<br />
478
Appendix H (continued)<br />
47 9
Appendix H (continued)<br />
480
Appendix H (continued)<br />
481
Appendix H (continued)<br />
482
Appendix I<br />
Macrophytes observed at East Chugach Island<br />
August 1, 1975<br />
483
Appendix I (continued)<br />
484
Appendix J<br />
Invertebrates observed at East Chugach Island<br />
August 11, 1975<br />
485
Appendix J (continued)<br />
486
Appendix K<br />
Fishes and mammals observed at East Chugach<br />
Island, August 1, 1975.<br />
487
Appendix L<br />
Species composition and distribution at the<br />
head <strong>of</strong> West Arm Port Dick, <strong>July</strong> 31, 1975,<br />
488
Appendix L (continued)<br />
489
Appendix L (continued)<br />
490
Appendix M<br />
Evasterias troschelii size-frequency<br />
distributions from samples collected<br />
on <strong>July</strong> 31, 1975 at Port Dick.<br />
491
JUNEAU PROJECT OFFI CE<br />
P. O. BOX 1808<br />
JUNEAU ALASKA 99802<br />
From: C. C. Anderson 29 October 1975<br />
R. L. Lam<br />
B. Booth N EGOA<br />
To: Dr. Herbert Bruce<br />
Project Manager, Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska, Bering Sea Projects<br />
OCSEP Project Office<br />
Juneau, Alaska<br />
Topic: Semi-annual progress report #1 RU #58<br />
A Description and Numerical Analysis <strong>of</strong> the Factors<br />
Affecting the Processes <strong>of</strong> Production in the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
Task 1.<br />
CONTINENTAL<br />
SHELF ENERGY PROGRAM<br />
Subtask a. Objective: To conduct a search and present a compilation<br />
<strong>of</strong> available baseline biological and associated<br />
physical and chemical data from the Gulf <strong>of</strong><br />
Alaska (planktonic realm).<br />
Data have been compiled by Beatrice Booth from the following cruises<br />
in the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska:<br />
RV Brown Bear 199 30/06/58 - 30/07/58<br />
RV Hugh M. Smith 046 4/8/58 - 3/9/58<br />
RV Brown Bear 235 16/7/59 - 31/7/59<br />
RV Oshoro Maru 046 23/6/60 - 16/8/60<br />
RV Brown Bear 275 11/1/61 - 27/1/61<br />
280 7/3/61 - 24/3/61<br />
282 3/4/61 - 7/4/61<br />
287 8/5/61 - 24/5/61<br />
288 9/16/61 - 19/6/61<br />
CNAV Oshawa:Prod. Cruise 3/7/61 - 15/7/61<br />
CNAV Oshawa 1962 18/4/62 - 20/4/62<br />
RV A Agassiz:Ursa Major 25/8/64 - 4/9/64<br />
RV G.B. Reed 164 7/1/64 - 7/2/64<br />
RV G.B. Kelez 8/19/64 - 29/9/66<br />
MV Paragon 266 10/6/66 - 20/6/66<br />
RV Kelez 166 18/3/66 - 28/3/66<br />
RV Argo:Zetes 1 18/1/66 - 24/1/66<br />
RV Kelez 767 21/8/67 - 29/8/67<br />
RV Kelez 667 8/7/67 - 11/7/67<br />
RV Kelez 567 8/6/67 - 3/7/67<br />
RV Kelez 367 20/4/67 - 26/4/67<br />
RV Kelez 167 30/1/67 - 15/2/67<br />
RV T.G. Thompson 012 5/2/67 - 4/3/67<br />
*Ships <strong>of</strong> Opportunity<br />
002 to 005 27/2/68 - 11/5/68<br />
RV Kelez 168 16/2/68 - 11/5/68<br />
RV Kelez 268 13/5/68 - 15/5/68<br />
*Ships <strong>of</strong> Opportunity<br />
007 to 014 12/2/69 - 19/7/69<br />
RV Hakuko Maru 694 12/8/69 - 14/8/69<br />
493
To: Dr. Herbert Bruce<br />
OUTER CONTINNTAL SHELF ENERGY FROGRAM<br />
JUNEA PROJECT OFFICE<br />
P. 0. BOX 1803<br />
JUNEAU ALASKA<br />
From: G. C. Anderson<br />
R. L. Lam<br />
B. Booth<br />
Page Two<br />
RV Endeavour Trans Pacific 18/3/69 - 30/4/69<br />
*Ships <strong>of</strong> Opportunity<br />
015 to 024 11/1/70 - 26/6/70<br />
RV Oshoro Maru 001 4/7/70 - 8/7/70<br />
RV T.G. Thompson 059 21/5/71 - 14/6/71<br />
*Ships <strong>of</strong> Opportunity<br />
025 to 033 24/1/71 - 18/6/71<br />
RV T.G. Thompson 072 3/9/72 - 9/9/72<br />
*Ships <strong>of</strong> Opportunity<br />
034 to 043 2/3/72 - 3/7/72<br />
RV T.G. Thompson 082 3/18/73 - 7/8/73<br />
RV T.C. Thompson 091 1974<br />
Weather Station Papa 1959 - 1974<br />
*These are commercial vessels which were instrumented to make<br />
oceanographic observations.<br />
Variables compiled <strong>for</strong> each station are:<br />
Temperature, salinity, phosphate, nitrate, silicate, depth <strong>of</strong> mixed<br />
layer, chlorophyll a, secchi disk, C uptake, zooplankton volume,<br />
daily radiation. (Not every cruise measured each <strong>of</strong> the above<br />
variables.)<br />
Data are now being reduced to a common <strong>for</strong>mat <strong>for</strong> entry on computer cards.<br />
Problems encountered have been the non-standardized collection and computation<br />
techniques. Examples are: the different equations used in calculating chlorophyll<br />
a concentrations; the varying methods <strong>of</strong> computing solar radiation; and<br />
the varying zooplankton sampling techniques (different net types, mesh sizes,<br />
sampling intervals, and sampling times). Chlorophyll and radiation data will<br />
be relatively easy to standardize, whereas zooplankton data will not.<br />
Additional sources <strong>of</strong> data have been investigated:<br />
Data have been requested by letter from the 1959 cruise <strong>of</strong> the Russian ship<br />
'Vityaz' to the northeast Pacific. Unpublished data or leads to unpublished data<br />
have been solicted from the following persons and institutions:<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Alaska - Vera Alexander<br />
Oregon State University - Lawrence Small<br />
Auke Bay Fishers Laboratory - Herbert Bruce<br />
NOAA - Herbert Curl<br />
Nagasaki Marine Observatory - O. Asaoka<br />
Plankton Laboratory in Moscow - O.I. Koblents Mishke; G.I. Semina<br />
A search <strong>for</strong> biological data from the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska has been initiated<br />
through OASIS. The preliminary search did not provide any new in<strong>for</strong>mation.<br />
Hopefully, a broadened base <strong>of</strong> search will be more successful.<br />
Description <strong>of</strong> variation in phytoplankton distribution will eventually<br />
include phytoplankton species as well as standing stock (as measured by chlorophyll<br />
a). Species data have been requested from the persons listed above.<br />
494
OUTER CONTIENETAL<br />
SHELF ENERGY PROGRAM<br />
P.O. BOX<br />
JUNEAU PROJECT OFFICE<br />
To: Dr. Herbert Bruce<br />
JUNEAU, ALASKA 99802<br />
29 October 1975<br />
From: G. C. Anderson<br />
R.L. Lam<br />
Page Three<br />
B. Booth<br />
Unpublished work in this department (Munson) will provide the bulk <strong>of</strong> the<br />
data.<br />
The following journals have been scanned in a search <strong>for</strong> Japanese and<br />
Russian data:<br />
Journal Oceanographic Society <strong>of</strong> Japan<br />
Bulletin <strong>of</strong> the Japanese Society <strong>of</strong> Scientific Fisheries<br />
Oceanology<br />
Journal <strong>of</strong> Fisheries Research Board <strong>of</strong> Canada<br />
Oceanologia<br />
Japanese Journal <strong>of</strong> Ichthyology<br />
Journal <strong>of</strong> the Fisheries Society <strong>of</strong> Japan<br />
Subtask b. Objective: To use the compiled data <strong>for</strong> a description <strong>of</strong> the<br />
temporal and geographic variation in phytoplankton<br />
standiig stock (and species), production, and<br />
related physical and chemical factors.<br />
Analysis <strong>of</strong> variance within the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska will begin as soon as all<br />
<strong>of</strong> the data have been entered on ca'ds. Forty-six geographic areas (see Fig. 1)<br />
have been defined by modifying 5° squares to include:<br />
1.0 areas on the shelf and slope'(areas 37 to 46 on Figure 1)<br />
7 areas in the Alaskan Stream areas 25 to 31 on Figure 1)<br />
5 areas in the Alaskan Gyre (areas 32 to 36 on Figure 1)<br />
24 areas in the Subarctic currer: (areas 1 - 24 on Figure 1)<br />
(The northern boundary <strong>of</strong> the Transition Domain will be defined <strong>for</strong> each<br />
year and Transition data omitted from the analysis.)<br />
Some areas have been sampled more completely than others; however, only a few<br />
<strong>of</strong> the areas defined lack data points. ,<br />
Within the 17 years <strong>of</strong> data, the f rst nine months <strong>of</strong> each year have been<br />
more completely sampled than the last t iee. For approximately three fourths <strong>of</strong><br />
the data, replicate values <strong>for</strong> chlorophyl a have been recorded so that variance<br />
due to measurement error can be computed. A nested classification will be used<br />
beginning with averages from each month c\ each year <strong>for</strong> each geographic area.<br />
Then, months will be lumped into seasons and areas into regimes to arrive at the<br />
main sources <strong>of</strong> variation. Of special interest will be the seaward boundary <strong>of</strong><br />
the neritic realm. Surface concentrations<strong>of</strong> chlorophyll a will be analyzed first.<br />
Task 2.<br />
Subtask a. Objective: To use the completed<br />
data in a numerical model to<br />
identify the majr factors involved in phytoplankton<br />
dynamics.<br />
495
To: Dr. Herbert Bruce 29 October 1975<br />
Page Four<br />
From: C. C. Anderson<br />
R. L. Lam<br />
B. Booth<br />
The model depends upon a complete set <strong>of</strong> annual pr<strong>of</strong>iles <strong>of</strong> biological<br />
data from one location. The location chosen is Station 'P', 145°W 50°N.<br />
Published biological data from Station 'P' extends only to 1967. Data from<br />
the last eight years will be available to us in January, 1976. These data<br />
are more complete than the earlier data which covered only alternate sixweek<br />
periods. Work on this subtask will, there<strong>for</strong>e, be delayed until the<br />
data are in hand.<br />
We have been examining the question <strong>of</strong> the accuracy <strong>of</strong> our numerical<br />
model as a function <strong>of</strong> changes in grid sizes <strong>for</strong> depth and <strong>for</strong> time. The<br />
grid spacings which we are using at present are numerically accurate <strong>for</strong> most<br />
<strong>of</strong> the period which we are simulating (late winter to late summer), but there<br />
is a question <strong>of</strong> whether they result in a sufficiently accurate approximation<br />
during the spring bloom. At present the computer costs ($3.00 <strong>for</strong> each day<br />
<strong>of</strong> model time) are about a factor <strong>of</strong> five higher than we had anticipated<br />
when preparing the proposal last spring. This higher cost is due mainly to<br />
the much finer grid spacings which we have been <strong>for</strong>ced to use in order to<br />
obtain the accuracy which we have achieved to date. Our next steps will be:<br />
1) to see if we have sufficient accuracy during the time <strong>of</strong> the spring bloom<br />
so that we can be confident that the model results reflect biological phenomena<br />
and not numerical artifacts; and 2) to attempt to reduce the cost <strong>of</strong><br />
running the model. It is unlikely that we will be able to greatly reduce the<br />
computer costs per run and still retain sufficient numerical accuracy. We<br />
will most likely be faced with severely limiting the number <strong>of</strong> numerical<br />
simulations unless additional computer funds are made available.<br />
BB:bh<br />
Subtask b. Objective: To test the sensitivity <strong>of</strong> the results <strong>of</strong> the<br />
'standard' run to changes in the submodels and<br />
independent variables, and to identify those<br />
variables and processes which strongly influence<br />
the result.<br />
Work to follow completion <strong>of</strong> subtask a. above.<br />
496
Figure 1
Estimate <strong>of</strong> funds expended to date:<br />
Salaries: $6,000<br />
Benefits 1,000<br />
Equipment 1,000<br />
Materials and Services 500<br />
Travel and per diem 500<br />
Indirect Costs 3,000<br />
Total $12,000<br />
498
Progress Report, BLM/OCS Research Unit #64<br />
Review and Evaluation <strong>of</strong> Historical Data Base on<br />
Non-salmonid Pelagic Fishery Resources <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska Shelf and Slope<br />
by<br />
Martin 0. Nelson<br />
National Marine Fisheries Service<br />
Northwest Fisheries Center<br />
Seattle, Washington<br />
October 24, 1975<br />
499
I. Task Objectives<br />
II. Background<br />
Review and Evaluation <strong>of</strong> Historical Data Base on Non-Salmonid<br />
Pelagic Fishery Resources <strong>of</strong> the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska Shelf and Slope<br />
A. Review and summarize the published and unpublished scientific<br />
literature on the distribution, abundance, life histories, and<br />
population dynamics <strong>of</strong> non-salmonid pelagic fishes <strong>of</strong> the Gulf<br />
<strong>of</strong> Alaska.<br />
B. Examine and summarize unpublished research vessel survey and<br />
commercial fishery data on the distribution, abundance, and<br />
size composition <strong>of</strong> the subject species.<br />
C. Prepare data report on records <strong>of</strong> the distribution, abundance<br />
and size composition <strong>of</strong> the subject species.<br />
D. Prepare annotated bibliography and a narrative report which<br />
collates results <strong>of</strong> studies undertaken under objectives (A)<br />
and (B) and describes, within the constraints <strong>of</strong> the available<br />
data, observed temporal and spatial variations in the distribu-<br />
tions <strong>of</strong> the subject species.<br />
In-house meetings were held during the summer to define the geographic<br />
area <strong>of</strong> interest, prospective subject species, the types/scope <strong>of</strong><br />
in<strong>for</strong>mation to be included in the review and to make arrangements <strong>for</strong><br />
employing new personnel. Attention was also devoted to the problem <strong>of</strong><br />
how to treat semi-pelagic species, e.g., pollock and other cods, rockfish<br />
and sablefish, <strong>of</strong> interest to both this project and RU #174.<br />
A. Geographic Coverage<br />
The area which is being considered extends from the Central Gulf<br />
<strong>of</strong> Alaska coastline south and east to 520 north latitude and 1350<br />
500
west longitude, respectively. Examination <strong>of</strong> unpublished catch<br />
records is essentially confined to this area. The literature<br />
review work is also confined to this area to the extent that it<br />
is practical.<br />
B. Species<br />
A prospective species list is attached (Appendix A). This list<br />
is based on a preliminary examination <strong>of</strong> the literature and <strong>of</strong><br />
unpublished data files from research vessel surveys. It has been<br />
decided that description <strong>of</strong> the life histories <strong>of</strong> all cods, all<br />
rockfish and sablefish, will be treated in detail by the demersal<br />
resource project (RU #174). However, all in<strong>for</strong>mation on the<br />
pelagic occurrence, distribution, behavior and sampling/detection<br />
<strong>of</strong> thes species will be examined and reported on by the present<br />
project. In addition, records are being kept <strong>of</strong> the pelagic<br />
occurrence <strong>of</strong> flatfishes.<br />
C. Subject Areas<br />
The final report to be submitted <strong>for</strong> this project will include<br />
synoptic in<strong>for</strong>mation from the literature on the life history,<br />
distribution and abundance, population dynamics and (where<br />
applicable) fisheries <strong>for</strong> the subject species. It will also<br />
include detailed records <strong>of</strong> the data on distribution, abundance,<br />
and size composition obtained from the examination <strong>of</strong> unpublished<br />
data files. The outline below is being used as a guide in<br />
compiling literature on the subject species, but it should not<br />
be considered a report outline, since the report will necessarily<br />
be much less detailed.
1. Distribution and abundance by life stage (eggs, larvae,<br />
juveniles, and adults)<br />
a. total area<br />
b. relative abundance by time and area<br />
c. ecological/oceanographic determinants <strong>of</strong> distribution<br />
changes<br />
2. Life history and behavior<br />
a. Reproduction<br />
(1) Sexuality, mating and fertilization<br />
(2) Age and size at maturity<br />
(3) Fecundity<br />
(4) Spawning<br />
(a) Seasons, areas, frequency<br />
(b) Egg stage: structure, size, hatching<br />
type, predators and parasites<br />
b. Larval and juvenile histories<br />
(1) Rate <strong>of</strong> development<br />
(2) Feeding and movements<br />
(3) Predators, competitors and survival rates<br />
c. Adult history<br />
(1) Longevity<br />
(2) Hardiness<br />
(3) Predators, competitors, parasites and diseases<br />
d. Nutrition and growth<br />
(1) Food and feeding behavior<br />
(a) Food types and amounts<br />
(b) Feeding behavior: season, location, time<br />
502
(2) Growth<br />
e. Behavior<br />
(a) Age-length and age-weight relations<br />
(b) Relative and absolute growth rates<br />
(1) Migrations<br />
(2) Bathymetric and vertical movements<br />
(3) Schooling characteristics<br />
(4) Behavior in relation to sampling/detection<br />
tactics and strategy<br />
3. Population structure and dynamics<br />
4. Fishing<br />
a. Sex ratio, size composition, age composition<br />
b. Abundance and density<br />
(1) Relative abundance and standing stock estimates<br />
(2) Density estimates and changes in density<br />
c. Recruitment<br />
d. Mortality<br />
(1) Natural mortality rate<br />
(2) Fishing mortality rate<br />
e. Yield models and estimates<br />
f. Population/community/ecosystem relations<br />
a. Vessels, gear and gear selectivity<br />
b. Areas and seasons<br />
c. History <strong>of</strong> fishery<br />
(1) Distribution <strong>of</strong> ef<strong>for</strong>t<br />
(2) Catch statistics<br />
503
5. Conservation/management regulations<br />
It is apparent that <strong>for</strong> most <strong>of</strong> the subject species,<br />
little or no in<strong>for</strong>mation will be available on many <strong>of</strong> the<br />
items listed. This is primarily because most <strong>of</strong> the data<br />
available on non-salmonid pelagic species (with the excep-<br />
tion <strong>of</strong> herring and semi-pelagic groundfishes) have been<br />
collected on an incidental basis, and also because most <strong>of</strong><br />
the species are unexploited.<br />
It should be noted that the nomenclature, taxonomic status<br />
and morphology <strong>of</strong> the subject species will not be described<br />
in detail. Speciation/subpopulation problems will be treated<br />
<strong>for</strong> those species in which they are.important.<br />
No attempt will be made to include references on processing,<br />
utilization or marketing. Also, papers on the effects <strong>of</strong><br />
contaminants on the subject species will not be included and<br />
no attempt will be made to predict the possible impacts <strong>of</strong><br />
petroleum development activities on the subject species.<br />
D. Personnel and the Interaction with RU #354<br />
On <strong>September</strong> 29, Mr. Nick Lampsakis was hired under the present<br />
project to work on the examination <strong>of</strong> unpublished data files.<br />
Mr. Lampsakis is supervised by Mr. James Mason and it was decided<br />
that their work will cover both the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska and eastern<br />
Bering Sea (RU #354) areas. Conversely, Ms. Janet Wall, a<br />
GS-7 Fishery Biologist hired on <strong>September</strong> 12 under RU #354 to<br />
work on the literature review <strong>for</strong> that project,is also reviewing<br />
literature pertaining to the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska. Ms. Wall is<br />
supervised by Mr. Paul Macy. Although not specified in the project<br />
5.04
proposals, this "cross-walking" <strong>of</strong> personnel between the two<br />
similar RU's eliminates the possibility <strong>of</strong> a significant amount<br />
<strong>of</strong> redundant ef<strong>for</strong>t, makes the best use <strong>of</strong> available talents,<br />
and should provide an efficient means <strong>of</strong> accomplishing the<br />
objectives <strong>of</strong> both RU's.<br />
III. Laboratory Activities<br />
A. Methods<br />
1. Literature Review Studies<br />
The literature review was begun by examining major literature<br />
indices and some <strong>of</strong> the more comprehensive references on the<br />
subject species. The sequence <strong>of</strong> steps which is being followed<br />
in the literature review process is as follows:<br />
a. Enter complete citation on file card and arrange by<br />
author and year<br />
b. Periodically duplicate accumulated reference cards and<br />
place in file sorted by publication<br />
c. Obtain and examine source literature and verify accuracy<br />
<strong>of</strong> reference<br />
d. Prepare annotation and, if necessary, select pages to<br />
be duplicated<br />
e. Papers and/or pertinent extracted in<strong>for</strong>mation placed<br />
in file arranged in order <strong>of</strong> final report outline<br />
f. Foreign literature translated as necessary<br />
In order to avoid unnecessary duplication <strong>of</strong> ef<strong>for</strong>t, personnel<br />
from RU #174 are working with Ms. Wall and Mr. Macy. Although<br />
it has not yet been necessary, or practical, it is planned to<br />
take advantage <strong>of</strong> computerized literature retrieval services.<br />
505
2. Examination <strong>of</strong> unpublished data records<br />
B. Results<br />
The inventory <strong>of</strong> unpublished data was recently initiated and<br />
has been limited to the incidental catch records <strong>of</strong> the high<br />
seas salmon purse seining conducted by the University <strong>of</strong><br />
Washington's Fisheries Research Institute (FRI), the NWFC's<br />
high seas salmon gillnetting studies, the Japanese Fishery<br />
Agency's high seas salmon gillnetting studies, and the<br />
juvenile pink salmon tow netting conducted by FRI in the<br />
bays around Kodiak Island.<br />
The purse seine catch data and the tow net.catch and<br />
ef<strong>for</strong>t were not entered on cards-and it was necessary to<br />
examine all <strong>of</strong> the original field data and <strong>for</strong>mat it <strong>for</strong><br />
preliminary ADP tabulation and analysis. Computer print-<br />
outs <strong>of</strong> incidental catches made in gillnets were available.<br />
These data were recently re<strong>for</strong>matted. Decisions as to the<br />
final data report <strong>for</strong>mats will not be made until a prelim-<br />
inary inventory <strong>of</strong> all data sources has been completed.<br />
1. Literature Review Studies<br />
To date, the literature search has produced approximately<br />
600 references on non-salmonid pelagic fishes <strong>of</strong> the Gulf<br />
<strong>of</strong> Alaska and the eastern Bering Sea. Many <strong>of</strong> these deal<br />
with the life histories <strong>of</strong> the subject species and the in-<br />
<strong>for</strong>mation they contain is germane to both RU #64 and RU #354.<br />
It is expected that the total number <strong>of</strong> papers will not<br />
exceed about 1000 and that additional articles will be<br />
obtained mainly from the literature cited in the papers<br />
506
already located. Review and annotation <strong>of</strong> the papers<br />
available is just now being initiated.<br />
2. Examination <strong>of</strong> unpublished data records<br />
a. FRI high seas salmon purse seine records<br />
These are available <strong>for</strong> the years from 1956 to the<br />
present. Ef<strong>for</strong>t data is retrievable from IBM cards<br />
by year, INPFC area <strong>of</strong> sampling, set location, set<br />
number and vessel code. Within the area <strong>of</strong> interest,<br />
1128 sets were made. Of these, approximately 380<br />
contain useable in<strong>for</strong>mation <strong>for</strong> non-salmonid pelagic<br />
species.<br />
b. NWFC high seas salmon gillnetting records<br />
Records are available <strong>for</strong> the years 1955 to 1972.<br />
In the subject area, 378 sets were made, 213 <strong>of</strong><br />
which contain useable data on incidental catches <strong>of</strong><br />
the subject species.<br />
c. Japanese high seas salmon gillnetting records<br />
Japanese gillnetting ef<strong>for</strong>t in northeast Pacific was<br />
mainly outside the area <strong>of</strong> interest and records<br />
presently available at the NWFC from INPFC contained<br />
no in<strong>for</strong>mation on incidentally caught species.<br />
d. FRI Kodiak Island juvenile pink salmon tow net records<br />
Data are available <strong>for</strong> the years 1963 through 1975.<br />
Over 4000 tows were made in 12 "index" bays. Of these,<br />
1590 contain at least partially useable in<strong>for</strong>mation on<br />
the species <strong>of</strong> interest.<br />
507
Lamnidae<br />
APPENDIX A<br />
Proposed Species List <strong>of</strong> Non-Salmonid Pelagic Fishes<br />
Salmon shark (Lamna ditropis)<br />
Basking shark (Cetorhinus maximus)<br />
Carcharinidae<br />
Clupeidae<br />
Osmeridae<br />
Gadidae<br />
Blue shark (Prionace glauca)<br />
Spiny dogfish (Squalus acanthias)<br />
Herring (Clupea harengus pallasi)<br />
Shad (Alosa sapidissima)<br />
Surf smelt (Hypomesus pretiosus)<br />
Capelin (Mallotus villosus)<br />
Rainbow smelt- (Osmerus mordax dentex)<br />
Eulachon (Thaleichthys pacificus)<br />
Pacific cod (Gadus macrocephalus)<br />
Pacific hake (MerlTuccius productus)<br />
Pacific tomcod (Microgadus proximus)<br />
Walleye pollock (Theragra chalcogramma)<br />
Scomberesocidae<br />
Carangidae<br />
Bramidae<br />
Pacific saury (Cololabis saira)<br />
Jack mackeral (Trachurus symmetricus)<br />
Pacific pomfret (Brama japonica)<br />
Trichodontidae<br />
Sandfish (Trichodon trichodon)<br />
508
Zaproridae<br />
Prowfish (Zaprora silehus)<br />
Ammodytidae<br />
Icosteidae<br />
Scombridae<br />
Pacific sandlance (Ammodytes hexapterus)<br />
Ragfish (Icosteus aenigmaticus)<br />
Chub mackeral (Scomber japonicus)<br />
Albacore (Thunnus alalunga)<br />
Scorpaenidae<br />
All species in the genera Sebastes and Sebastolobus which occur<br />
in the study area.<br />
Anoplomatidae<br />
Sablefish (Anoplopoma fimbria)<br />
Hexagrammidae<br />
Atka mackeral (Pleurogrammus monopterygius)<br />
509
OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF ENERGY PROGRAM<br />
JUNEAU PROJECT OFFICE<br />
P, 0. BOX 1808<br />
JUNEAU, ALASKA 99802<br />
Report <strong>of</strong> Progress<br />
April -- October 1975<br />
BASELINE CHARACTERIZATION, LITTORAL BIOTA,<br />
GULF OF ALASKA AND BERING SEA<br />
(Tasks 78 and 79)<br />
by<br />
Stevenr T. Zinmmerman<br />
511<br />
NOV 06 1975<br />
NEGOA
I. Task Objectives<br />
II. Field Activities<br />
III. Results<br />
-- Intertidal Baselines<br />
A. Methods<br />
B. Field Activities<br />
-- Diving Studies<br />
A. Methods<br />
1. NMFS<br />
2. Dames & Moore, Inc.<br />
B. Field Activities<br />
-- Drift Zone Studies<br />
A. Methods<br />
B. Field Activities<br />
-- Aerial Beach Classification<br />
A. Methods<br />
B. Field Activities<br />
-- Intertidal Baselines<br />
-- Diving<br />
-- Drift Zone<br />
-- Aerial Survey<br />
-- Species Collection<br />
-- Sample Sorting<br />
CONTENTS<br />
-- Computer Format & Data Archiving<br />
-- Literature Survey<br />
512
IV. Problems Encountered<br />
V. Acknowledgments<br />
VI. Recommendations <strong>for</strong> Future Research<br />
VII. Estimate <strong>of</strong> Funds Expended<br />
VIII. Appendices<br />
1. Diving Studies<br />
2. Species List<br />
3. Sorting Forms<br />
4. Literature Search Forms<br />
5. Geographic Locations <strong>of</strong> Stations<br />
513
I. Task Objectives (Tasks 78 and 79)<br />
The objective <strong>of</strong> this study is to provide a general description <strong>of</strong> the<br />
distribution and abundance <strong>of</strong> the dominant intertidal and shallow subtidal<br />
organisms on the Alaskan Continental Shelf. Several studies have been<br />
initiated in the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska and the southern Bering Sea to fulfill the<br />
objectives. Included are an aerial classification <strong>of</strong> beach types and habitats<br />
along the entire coastline from Yakutat to Cape Newenham; the study <strong>of</strong><br />
seasonal and spatial distributions <strong>of</strong> dominant intertidal and shallow subtidal<br />
organisms at several representative sites in this area; and a study <strong>of</strong><br />
drift zone accumulations in the beach zones. Longterm monitoring <strong>of</strong><br />
several <strong>of</strong> the baseline sites will be initiated in the spring.<br />
II. Field Studies -- Intertidal Baseline<br />
A. Methods<br />
1. At each rocky site, one to three transect lines are extended<br />
across the beach from the highest area <strong>of</strong> tidal influence to the water's edge<br />
at low tide. The number <strong>of</strong> lines used at each site is determined by the shape<br />
<strong>of</strong> the beach; on a low gradient beach only one line is sampled, whereas<br />
on a steep beach, as many as three lines are sampled.<br />
Sampling frames (1/16m 2 ) are laid at regular intervals along the line. The<br />
area under the frames is photographed and the biota is scraped from the<br />
rocks and preserved in 10% <strong>for</strong>malin <strong>for</strong> shipment to the University <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
Marine Sorting Center. The level <strong>of</strong> each sample is determined with a transit<br />
and stadia rod using standard engineering procedures. Leveling is done<br />
with respect to predicted low tide levels, and the heights <strong>of</strong> permanent<br />
bench marks are established <strong>for</strong> each beach.<br />
A second sampling method was developed to study areas which contain large<br />
boulders or irregular topography. This method involves sketching a facsimile<br />
<strong>of</strong> the area to be sampled, and the biotic zonation, on a sheet <strong>of</strong> Mylar<br />
plastic. Numbered, homogeneously arrayed dots are then placed on the sketch.<br />
A random number table is used to choose the dots which will be projected<br />
into sampling locations. Numbered arrows are then placed at the corresponding<br />
locations on the rock face and photography and leveling follow. Destructive<br />
quantitative collections (1/16m 2 ) are taken in areas with similar biota.<br />
The rock face itself is not destructively sampled and remains as an undisturbed<br />
study site.<br />
514
A third sampling method is also occasionally utilized on rocky beaches. It<br />
involves the use <strong>of</strong> a "nested quadrat sampler." This frame consists <strong>of</strong> 16<br />
squares, each 1/64m 2 . Different sized areas, or all 1/64m 2 areas are collected<br />
and the resulting data are studied and combined to determine the<br />
adequacy <strong>of</strong> different sample sizes.<br />
2. At muddy and sandy sites, transect lines are also used,<br />
but the substrate is sampled using a rectangular mud corer. It measures<br />
approximately 10cm on a side, and collects approximately one liter <strong>of</strong> sediment.<br />
Two replicate samples are collected from each location, along the<br />
transect line.<br />
At both rocky and mud-sand sites, additional collections <strong>of</strong> organisms (termed<br />
"species collections") were made when time permitted, to obtain representative<br />
specimens <strong>of</strong> unusual or scarce species in the vicinity <strong>of</strong> the site.<br />
B. Field Activities<br />
i. April 20-May 2, 1975 NOAA vessel Surveyor<br />
Alaska Helicopter 7817S<br />
NMFS Personnel: Zimmerman, Sears, Mattson, Gnagy, Myren,<br />
Calvin, Lindstrom, Barr. Dames & Moore personnel: Rosenthal.<br />
Sampling was done at eight sites in the eastern Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska:<br />
Day Harbor, La Touche Point, Macleod Harbor, Zaik<strong>of</strong> Bay, Port Etches,<br />
Boswell Bay, Katalla, Middleton Island (Figure 1) . 187 quantitative samples,<br />
12 trace metal samples and several species collections resulted, 595 photographs<br />
were taken. 3.4 hours <strong>of</strong> charter helicopter plus several hours <strong>of</strong><br />
USGC helicopter time were utilized.<br />
2. May 11-May 15, 1975 O.A.S. aircraft 466R<br />
NMFS personnel: Zimmerman, Sears.<br />
A reconnaissance <strong>of</strong> possible sites <strong>for</strong> intertidal studies in the<br />
western Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska was made. Aerial observations along the Kenai<br />
Peninsula, Kodiak and Afognak Islands, Chirik<strong>of</strong> Island, the Trinity Islands,<br />
and the Alaska Peninsula were made. 10.5 hours <strong>of</strong> aircraft time were used.<br />
515
Figure 1, Intertidal sampling sites in the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska
3. May 20-May 30, 1975. NOAA vessel Surveyor<br />
Alaska Helicopter 7817S<br />
NMFS personnel: Zimmerman, Sears, Mattson, Gnagy, Myren,<br />
Lindstrom, Calvin, Barr, Meyers.<br />
Sampling was done at seven sites in the western Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska:<br />
Port Dick, Sud Island, Cape Nukshak, Sundstrom Island, Chirik<strong>of</strong> Island,<br />
Spectacle Island, and Three Saints Bay (Figure 1) . 211 quantitative samples,<br />
8 trace metal samples, and several species collections resulted. 524 photographs<br />
were taken. 15.2 hours <strong>of</strong> charter helicopter time were used.<br />
4. June 9-June 11, 1975 Gulf Air Taxi<br />
NMFS personnel: Zimmerman, Lindstrom, Gnagy, Sears,<br />
Taylor, Jones.<br />
Sampling was done at Yakutat and Yakataga to complete the<br />
spring survey <strong>of</strong> the 10 NEGOA stations. Poor weather had stopped the<br />
Surveyor from reaching these areas during the April low tide period. 56<br />
samples, four trace metal collections and several species collections were<br />
made. 99 photographs were taken. Approximately 8 hours <strong>of</strong> charter air<br />
time was used.<br />
5. <strong>July</strong> 15-<strong>July</strong> 26, 1975 NOAA vessel Surveyor<br />
NMFS personnel: Merrell, Munk, Mackinnon, Edson, Gnagy,<br />
Calvin, Mattson, Budke, Barr, Ellis.<br />
Eight sites in the eastern Bering Sea-Bristol Bay area were<br />
sampled: Akun Island, Amak Island, Crooked Island, Cape Pierce, Point<br />
Edward, Port Moller, Cape Mordvin<strong>of</strong>, and Makushin Bay (Figure 2) . 165<br />
quantitative samples, several species collections, and 521 photographs<br />
were taken.<br />
6. August 4-12, 1975 NOAA vessel Surveyor<br />
Kodiak Western Airways<br />
NMFS personnel: Zimmerman, Munk, Mackinnon, Edson,<br />
Romm, Gnagy, Mattson, Fujioka.<br />
Seven sites were sampled in the western Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska: Port<br />
Dick, Three Saints Bay, Sud Island, Cape Nukshak, Sundstrom Island,<br />
Chirik<strong>of</strong> Island, Spectacle Island. All had been sampled during the May<br />
cruise. Due to Surveyor engine problems, two <strong>of</strong> the stations (Port Dick,<br />
Three Saints Bay) were sampled using a chartered Grumman Goose. 219<br />
quantitative samples, seven trace metal samples, and several species collections<br />
resulted. 368 photographs were taken. Approximately 9 hours <strong>of</strong> air<br />
charter were used.<br />
517
Figure 2. Intertidal sampling sites in the Bering Sea, 1975.
7. August 13-20, 1975 NOAA vessel Surveyor<br />
NMFS personnel: Zimmerman, Munk, Mackinnon, Edson,<br />
Romm, Gnagy, Koski, Barr, Ellis, Calvin.<br />
Intertidal sampling was done at three sites: Makushin Bay,<br />
St. George and Otter Islands (Figure 2) . An additional diving site was<br />
sampled in Captains Bay, near Dutch Harbor. The cruise was terminated<br />
prematurely by engine difficulties aboard the Surveyor and only 3 <strong>of</strong> 6<br />
scheduled sites were reached. 100 quantitative samples, two trace metal<br />
samples, and several species collections resulted. 174 photographs were<br />
taken.<br />
8. <strong>September</strong> 2-12, 1975 NOAA vessel Surveyor<br />
NMFS personnel: Zimmerman, Munk, Mackinnon, Edson,<br />
Romm, Hoke, Hopson.<br />
Seven <strong>of</strong> the NEGOA stations were sampled in the eastern Gulf<br />
<strong>of</strong> Alaska: Day Harbor, La Touche Point, Macleod Harbor, Zaik<strong>of</strong> Bay,<br />
Boswell Bay, Katalla, and Kayak Island. All <strong>of</strong> these sites had been sampled<br />
on previous cruises with the exception <strong>of</strong> Kayak Island. 252 quantitative<br />
samples, 11 trace metal samples, one hydrocarbon sample, and several<br />
species collections were made. 319 photographs were taken.<br />
9. <strong>September</strong> 6-9, 1975 O.A.S. Cessna 241 B<br />
NMFS personnel: Gnagy, Calvin, Palmisano, Phillips, Taylor,<br />
Jones.<br />
Three <strong>of</strong> the NEGOA stations: Yakutat, Yakataga, and Middieton<br />
Island, were sampled using OAS aircraft. The short tidal period in <strong>September</strong><br />
precluded reaching these sites during the Surveyor cruise. 74 quantitative<br />
collections, and several species collections were made. 139 photographs<br />
were taken.<br />
II. Field Studies - Subtidal Diving<br />
A. Methods<br />
1. National Marine Fisheries Service. Diving teams from both<br />
NMFS and Dames & Moore, Inc., have been used in the study. The objective<br />
<strong>of</strong> the NMFS diving team has been to provide subtidal biological in<strong>for</strong>mation<br />
to supplement the intertidal collections made at each site. The NMFS divers<br />
operate, whenever possible, immediately seaward <strong>of</strong> the intertidal sarrpling<br />
site. The in<strong>for</strong>mation gathered includes type and slope <strong>of</strong> bottom, dominant<br />
plants and animals, and a partial list <strong>of</strong> all recognized species. Photographs<br />
519
are taken <strong>of</strong> the general site, the area along sampling lines, and individual<br />
organisms <strong>of</strong> interest. Specimens <strong>of</strong> plants and animals are collected <strong>for</strong><br />
identification as part <strong>of</strong> the overall species work.<br />
The initial studies provided qualitative data and established sites <strong>for</strong> later<br />
quantitative sampling. On the second Bering Sea trip, a newly developed<br />
airlift sampler was used to make quantitative, quadrat collections in an<br />
area which had been selected during the first trip.<br />
2. Dames & Moore, Inc. A contract ($39,500) to provide an<br />
ecological assessment <strong>of</strong> sublittoral communities at three sites in the NEGOA<br />
area was negotiated with Dames & Moore, Inc., in <strong>July</strong> 1975. Sampling will<br />
be done at La Touche Point, Macleod Harbor, and Zaik<strong>of</strong> Bay in conjunction<br />
with intertidal study sites. In addition to providing qualitative estimates <strong>of</strong><br />
substrate, and the distribution and occurrence <strong>of</strong> dominant species, quantitative<br />
observations will be made. Transect lines will be placed and referenced<br />
to bench marks. Fixed quadrats and transects will be used in studies <strong>of</strong><br />
temporal changes in populations. Seasonal variation in vegetative standing<br />
crops will be determined by measuring biomass and estimating percent<br />
coverage. Sampling will be seasonal, four times per year. The report <strong>of</strong><br />
accomplishments under this contract is included as an appendix to this report.<br />
B. Field Activities<br />
1. April 23-26, 1975. Lou Barr (NMFS) and Rick Rosenthal<br />
(Dames & Moore, Inc.) joined the intertidal field party aboard the Surveyor.<br />
Dives were made to coordinate methodology and make preliminary studies at<br />
intertidal sites.<br />
2. May 20-30, 1975. Lou Barr and Ted Meyers (NMFS)<br />
accompanied the intertidal field party to all western Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska sampling<br />
sites. 15 dives were made during this period.<br />
3. <strong>July</strong> 15-26, 1975. Natasha Calvin, Bob Ellis, Bob Budke,<br />
and Lou Barr accompanied the intertidal field party to 8 sites in the Bering<br />
Sea. 13 dives were made.<br />
4. August 13-20, 1975. Natasha Calvin, Bob Ellis, and Lou Barr<br />
accompanied the intertidal field party to 4 sites in the Bering Sea. 11 dives<br />
were made.<br />
5. <strong>September</strong> 12-22, 1975. Dames & Moore, Inc., divers under<br />
the direction <strong>of</strong> Richard Rosenthal completed the fall survey <strong>of</strong> subtidal<br />
sites. Data on their results are incomplete at this time.<br />
520
II. Field Studies--Drift Zone<br />
A. Methods<br />
The objective <strong>of</strong> this study is to determine the species composition<br />
<strong>of</strong> biota deposited on beaches following high tides and major storms. Surveys<br />
are to be made at two, three, or more <strong>of</strong> the NEGOA intertidal sites quarterly<br />
and following major storms. Permanent sites will be along the open coast.<br />
One kilometer lengths <strong>of</strong> shoreline are measured and marked with numbered<br />
arrows. Faunal drift is recorded as the 1 km sections are traversed on foot.<br />
When biota are very numerous, subsamples are made in randomly selected<br />
100m sections. Only items occurring at least partially on the surface are<br />
recorded (i.e., items buried under kelp piles, rocks, etc. are not recorded)<br />
A complete list was made <strong>of</strong> the number and species <strong>of</strong> all plants and animals<br />
encountered. When possible, individual weights and lengths were determined<br />
in the field and a sample collection was made and preserved <strong>for</strong> later<br />
study. Photographs were taken <strong>of</strong> individual species and the general areas.<br />
Daily rates <strong>of</strong> accumulation were determined by destroying or marking<br />
all items encountered. The occurrence <strong>of</strong> new organisms was then noted<br />
on each successive visitation.<br />
B. Field Activities<br />
1. August 15-20, 1975.<br />
NMFS Personnel: Palmisano, Phillips<br />
The beach at Yakutat (Ocean Cape) was studied <strong>for</strong> five days.<br />
Rates <strong>of</strong> accumulation and species occurrence was determined along several<br />
1 kilometer sections <strong>of</strong> sand beach.<br />
2. <strong>September</strong> 4-7, 1975.<br />
NMFS Personnel: Palmisano, Phillips.<br />
Preliminary drift zone studies were made at Cape Yakataga<br />
and Middleton Island in conjunction with intertidal studies.<br />
3. <strong>September</strong> 4-22,1975.<br />
NMFS personnel: Palmisano, Philips.<br />
Preliminary drift zone studies were made at La Touche Point,<br />
and Hinchinbrook Island in conjunction with Dames & Moore, Inc., diving<br />
studies.<br />
521
II. Field Studies -- Aerial Beach Classification<br />
A. Methods<br />
The objective <strong>of</strong> the project is to visually classify the intertidal<br />
zones from Cape Newenham in the Bering Sea to Yakutat in the eastern Gulf<br />
<strong>of</strong> Alaska. Observations were made from an Office <strong>of</strong> Aircraft Services (OAS)<br />
plane flown at approximately 200 foot elevations. Data are recorded onto<br />
Geological Survey maps (Figure 3).<br />
The coding is as follows:<br />
Composition Slope <strong>of</strong> exposed beach<br />
Bed rock--black line 1. Vertical<br />
Rubble--red line 2. Steep<br />
a. rubble2 ft. square 4. Flat<br />
c. combination <strong>of</strong> a. and b.<br />
Gravel--blue line<br />
Sand--green line<br />
Mud--purple line<br />
Biological cover on substrate<br />
I - Bare<br />
II - Light<br />
III - Medium<br />
IV - Heavy<br />
Other data recorded on the charts included seabird rookeries, sea mammal<br />
"haul-out" areas, sea mammals in water, dead sea mammals, location <strong>of</strong><br />
eagle sightings, land mammals seen on beaches, and location <strong>of</strong> kelp beds.<br />
B. Field Activities<br />
Field work was started <strong>July</strong> 17, 1975, in Bristol Bay. Flights were<br />
made approximately 2 hours be<strong>for</strong>e and 2 hours following low tide. Eightyeight<br />
hours and seventeen minutes flying time was expended flying beach<br />
lines along the Bering Sea coast from Cape Newenham to Dutch Harbor and<br />
along the Pacific side <strong>of</strong> the Alaska Peninsula as far east as Bluff Point on<br />
Kuprean<strong>of</strong> Peninsula (1590 45' West, approx.) . The entire Shumagin Island<br />
group and part <strong>of</strong> the central Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska were also flown.<br />
522
Figure 3. Example cf Aerial survey data. 524
II. Results - Intertidal Baselines<br />
A total <strong>of</strong> 45 intertidal sites were sampled during the period from April thru<br />
<strong>September</strong>. These included two visits each to 9 eastern and 7 western<br />
Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska stations. Kayak Island and Port Etches were each sampled<br />
once in the eastern Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska. Nine stations were sampled once each<br />
in the Bering Sea, and Makushin Bay was sampled twice.<br />
Approximately 1300 quantitative intertidal samples were collected (Table 1) .<br />
Approximately 3000 photographs were taken (Table 2) to document sampling<br />
areas. Over 100 qualitative species collections and 44 trace metal samples<br />
were also taken.<br />
Since the beginning <strong>of</strong> the program, 1479 qualitative samples have been<br />
collected. Because <strong>of</strong> the large volume <strong>of</strong> data which will result, computer<br />
services are necessary to reduce and organize the in<strong>for</strong>mation on intertidal<br />
zones. Data <strong>for</strong> the first 266 samples, containing computer species codes,<br />
has been received in the last month, and a new computer <strong>for</strong>mat has just<br />
been developed to handle the coded in<strong>for</strong>mation. Thus, no preliminary<br />
interpretation <strong>of</strong> the data will be made at this time. As soon as the computer<br />
system is functioning, large quantities <strong>of</strong> data will begin flowing rapdily<br />
and data may be interpreted.<br />
III. Results - Diving<br />
Approximately 50 dives were made by NMFS divers in conjunction with<br />
intertidal studies in the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska and Bering Sea. Reconnaissance<br />
studies, species collections, and extensive photographic documentation<br />
were completed at 22 sites. Quantitative sampling was per<strong>for</strong>med <strong>for</strong> the<br />
first time during the second visit to Makushin Bay. The newly developed<br />
airlift sampler was used to obtain 5 quadrat samples. Results <strong>of</strong> this<br />
work and the work <strong>of</strong> Dames & Moore, Inc., are included in Appendix I.<br />
III. Results and Preliminary Interpretation -- Drift Zone<br />
The number and type <strong>of</strong> samples collected is given in Table 3. An estimate<br />
<strong>of</strong> species composition <strong>of</strong> drift biota found at sample localities at Yakutat,<br />
La Touche Island, and Hinchinbrook Island is given in Table 4. Species<br />
lists <strong>of</strong> drift biota found at these localities appear in Tables 5, 6, 7.<br />
525
Table 1. Quantitative intertidal samples lected <strong>for</strong> the NAGOA and OCSEAP Projects
Table 1. (Continued)
Table 2. Summary <strong>of</strong> Outer Continental Shelf Intertidal<br />
Photo Documentation 1974-1975<br />
528
Table 3.--Number and types <strong>of</strong> samples collected and observations conducted<br />
at sample localities at Yakutat, LaTouche Island, and Henchinbrook Island<br />
during drift zone studies between August 15 and <strong>September</strong> 19, 1975.
Table 4.--Species composition (in percent) <strong>of</strong> drift biota at sample localities<br />
at Yakutat, LaTouche Island, and Hinchinbrook Island, between August 15 and<br />
<strong>September</strong> 19, based on an estimate <strong>of</strong> percent cover and biomass.<br />
b 30
Table 5.--Species list <strong>of</strong> drift biota found at Yakutat sample locality<br />
August 15-20, 1975.<br />
531
Table 6.--Species list <strong>of</strong> drift biota found at LaTouche Island sample<br />
locality <strong>September</strong> 16-17, 1975.<br />
532
Table 7.--Species list <strong>of</strong> drift biota found at Hinchinbrook Island sample<br />
locality <strong>September</strong> 19, 1975.<br />
533
The drift on the sand beach at Yakutat was sparse and was characterized<br />
by empty razor clam (Siliqua patula) shells, dungeness crab (Cancer<br />
magister) carapaces, and unidentified jelly fish and ctenophores. Also<br />
found were four intact dungeness crabs and two dead fish; a walleye<br />
pollock (Theragra chalcogramma) and a Pacific sandfish (Trichodon<br />
trichodon) . Table 8 shows the numbers and mean daily accumulation rate<br />
per km <strong>of</strong> shoreline <strong>of</strong> the most abundant drift biota found at Yakutat.<br />
The four intact crabs were marked with red spray paint on their ventral<br />
surface and left on the beach. They were consumed by sea gulls within<br />
24 nours. This use confirmed by visual observation and the occurrence<br />
<strong>of</strong> gull tracks adjacent to the crab remains.<br />
The visits to La Touche and Hinchinbrook Islands were brief. Most <strong>of</strong> the<br />
time was spent in reconnaissance and little quantative data were collected.<br />
The drift on the rocky shoreline at La Touche was patchy and consisted<br />
primarily <strong>of</strong> decayed algae (mostly Laminaria spp.) . The remains <strong>of</strong> a<br />
"skinned" adult sea otter (Cenhydra lutris) and a 25x10 cm patch <strong>of</strong> hide<br />
from a harbor seal (Phoca vitulina) were found in the drift.<br />
The drift on the cobble beach at Hinchinbrook was patchy and consisted<br />
almost entirely <strong>of</strong> fresh Laminaria spp. Skulls <strong>of</strong> six mature male pink<br />
salmon (Oncorhynchus gorbusha) and the remains <strong>of</strong> seven sea stars (one<br />
Pisaster ochraceus and six pycnopodia helianthoides) were also found.<br />
Table 9 gives the species and relative numbers <strong>of</strong> marine mammals and sea<br />
shore birds adjacent to the three sample localities.<br />
Because so few samples were collected, it is difficult to know if the data are<br />
representative <strong>of</strong> amounts and composition <strong>of</strong> naturally occurring drift biota.<br />
It seems logical to conclude, however, that in general the composition <strong>of</strong><br />
drift biota reflects the biota <strong>of</strong> the adjacent community, e.g., the drift at<br />
Yakutat and La Touche Island were representative <strong>of</strong> sandy and rocky areas,<br />
respectively, This type <strong>of</strong> reasoning may prove to be misleading, especially<br />
in the absence <strong>of</strong> in<strong>for</strong>mation on the physical, chemical, and biological <strong>for</strong>ces<br />
which lead to the death and accumulation <strong>of</strong> the drift biota. For example,<br />
although the distribution <strong>of</strong> Nereocystis luetkeana in the Aleutian Islands does<br />
not readily reach Umnak Island, this kelp is quite abundant in the drift at the<br />
western Aleutian Island <strong>of</strong> Amchitka. Thus more time and additional data on<br />
ocean currents, wind patterns, migration times and routes, life history <strong>of</strong><br />
drift biota and thus predators and competitors, etc. are needed be<strong>for</strong>e these<br />
results can be thoroughly and accurately interpreted.<br />
534
Table 8.--Number and mean daily accumulation rate per kilometer <strong>of</strong> shoreline<br />
<strong>of</strong> most abundant drift biota found at Yakutat sample locality <strong>September</strong><br />
17-20, 1975 (N.D. = no data).<br />
535
Table 9.--Species and relative numbers <strong>of</strong> marine mammals and sea and shore<br />
birds observed adjacent to sample localities at Yakutat, LaTouche Island,<br />
and Hinchinbrook Island between August 15 and <strong>September</strong> 19, 1975. Numbers<br />
indicate maximum citing in any one day.<br />
536
III. Results -- Aerial Survey<br />
Over 88 hours <strong>of</strong> observations were made. The entire Bering Sea coastline<br />
from Cape Newenham through Unimak Pass and all <strong>of</strong> the Krenitzen Islands<br />
were flown. The Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska coastline from Yakutat to Cordova and from<br />
Chignik to Unimak Pass were also flown (Figure 4) . Un<strong>for</strong>tunately the data<br />
<strong>for</strong> the Chignik to Unimak area were lost when the OAS plan crashed on<br />
take<strong>of</strong>f on August 26, 1975. Included with this were the complete observations<br />
<strong>for</strong> the Shumagin Islands.<br />
The type <strong>of</strong> observation which resulted from the overflights is shown in<br />
Figure 3. The data from these charts will be used to determine the percentage<br />
occurrence <strong>of</strong> the major habitat types. They will also be drafted into<br />
figures which may be duplicated and used by other investigations.<br />
II. Results -- Species Collections<br />
At each sampling site, one or two <strong>of</strong> the most experienced biologists make<br />
collections <strong>of</strong> animals which do not appear in the samples. Several species<br />
which occur in tide pools, under rocks or are very rare are collected in this<br />
manner. Many <strong>of</strong> the organisms are identified at the Auke Bay Laboratory<br />
and others are sent to the University <strong>of</strong> Alaska. A list <strong>of</strong> species which occurs<br />
at each station is kept.<br />
Most <strong>of</strong> the species collections made in 1974 have been worked up. Several<br />
made in the spring 1975 trip have also been completed. Because the lists<br />
are constantly being updated with the arrival <strong>of</strong> sorting data, we do not have<br />
completed lists <strong>for</strong> any location. An example <strong>of</strong> the data being developed is<br />
given in Table 10. A list <strong>of</strong> all species encountered through October 1, is<br />
given in Appendix II.<br />
III. Results -- Sample Sorting<br />
The data <strong>for</strong> 266 sorted samples were received on October 7, 1975. An example<br />
<strong>of</strong> the type <strong>of</strong> in<strong>for</strong>mation supplied is given in Appendix III.<br />
A new contract ($81,000) was signed with the Sorting Center in <strong>September</strong><br />
to process 900 more samples. The Sorting Center Director, Mr. George<br />
Meuller, anticipates processing 100 samples per month.<br />
537
Figure 4. Areas overflown during <strong>July</strong>-August, 1975. Red designates areas which were surveyed<br />
but the records were lost following the crash <strong>of</strong> the OAS plane.
Table 10.--Invertebrate species collected at St. George Island on August 15,<br />
1975<br />
539
540
III. Results -- Computer Format and Data Archiving<br />
During the early days <strong>of</strong> the NEGOA project, an attempt was made to develop<br />
a unified <strong>for</strong>mat which could use data from any <strong>of</strong> the biological programs.<br />
A test <strong>of</strong> this, <strong>for</strong>mat was made with NODC in April.<br />
After the project increased in size, it was determined that there were too<br />
many programs to be accommodated in a single <strong>for</strong>mat. During the first week<br />
<strong>of</strong> October, a series <strong>of</strong> meetings were held in Fairbanks with NODC personnel.<br />
Following these meetings a new <strong>for</strong>mat was developed. It is being finalized<br />
and will be sent to other OCSEP intertidal <strong>investigators</strong> <strong>for</strong> their comments.<br />
We anticipate that card punching will begin by November 1, 1975.<br />
III. Results -- Literature Survey<br />
Although not specifically mentioned in the contract, we have been compiling<br />
an annotated bibliography <strong>of</strong> the existing literature concerning the distribution,<br />
abundance, and life histories <strong>of</strong> the littoral biota <strong>of</strong> the North Pacific and<br />
Arctic Oceans. This bibliography is intended <strong>for</strong> use primarily by members <strong>of</strong><br />
the OSCEP team at the Auke Bay Laboratory. Dames & Moore, Inc., are also<br />
compiling a bibliography as part <strong>of</strong> their diving contract.<br />
The retrieval and summarization <strong>of</strong> literature have been restricted geographically<br />
to include the Arctic Ocean, Bering Sea, Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska, and Pacific Ocean <strong>of</strong>f<br />
the coasts <strong>of</strong> Alaska, British Columbia, Russia, and Japan. In<strong>for</strong>mation on<br />
deepwater fauna and flora has been excluded.<br />
Services <strong>of</strong> NOAA's Technical In<strong>for</strong>mation Division through their OASIS literature<br />
search have been requested (Appendix IV) and should be received shortly.<br />
Personal libraries <strong>of</strong> the scientific staff at Auke Bay Laboratory have been<br />
reviewed.<br />
A standard <strong>for</strong>m (Appendix IV) was developed so that each reference need<br />
only to be examined once prior to being recorded in the bibliography. A<br />
subject index and author index will be used <strong>for</strong> retrieval <strong>of</strong> in<strong>for</strong>mation from<br />
the bibliography. A copy <strong>of</strong> each article, where practicable, will be kept in<br />
an established file keyed to the bibliography. Hopefully, this will make it a<br />
working bibliography capable <strong>of</strong> being easily updated and usable by all<br />
members <strong>of</strong> the project.<br />
541
To date, nearly 150 references have been collected <strong>for</strong> the bibliography.<br />
The majority <strong>of</strong> references have dealt with the marine invertebrates in waters<br />
<strong>of</strong>f Alaska.<br />
The ability to successfully complete the annotation <strong>of</strong> the bibliography by<br />
the completion date will depend on the volume <strong>of</strong> literature retrieved by OASIS.<br />
It is also apparent that a large amount <strong>of</strong> literature exists in the <strong>for</strong>m <strong>of</strong><br />
unpublished <strong>reports</strong>, graduate theses, and miscellaneous agency <strong>reports</strong>.<br />
IV. Problems Encountered<br />
1. On August 26, 1975, OAS Aircraft N768 crashed, but the occupants<br />
were rescued. According to NMFS biologist, Howard Sears, the crash resulted<br />
from pilot inexperience. OAS had sent a pilot who was not qualified to fly the<br />
Beaver plane which was lost. Subsequently, Sears requested that his wife<br />
and NMFS personnel Smoker, Merrell, Barr, and Ellis be notified immediately<br />
<strong>of</strong> the crash. The last two people are divers and Sears hoped that the in<strong>for</strong>mation<br />
still in the plane could be salvaged. OAS failed to notify any <strong>of</strong> the<br />
above people, and all <strong>of</strong> the in<strong>for</strong>mation was lost. Although no investigation<br />
<strong>of</strong> the accident has been held, it is apparent from Sears' testimony that OAS<br />
failed to: 1. provide a qualified pilot; and 2. to notify appropriate people<br />
following the crash.<br />
On May 10, NMFS personnel Zimmerman and Sears were scheduled to make an<br />
aerial reconnaissance <strong>of</strong> intertidal zones in the western Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska. On<br />
May 5, the assigned pilot, Glenn Waits, was killed while flying an OAS plane.<br />
Waits had flown NMFS biologist Sears and NBS chemist Gump the very morning<br />
<strong>of</strong> his crash. In the fall <strong>of</strong> 1974, an OAS plane was lost while carrying 4 NEGOA<br />
bird observers. All hands were presumed killed.<br />
With these facts in mind, it is apparent that a careful study <strong>of</strong> OAS should be<br />
made prior to any further use <strong>of</strong> this agency by OCSEP personnel.<br />
2. We believe that this project should provide more than just a<br />
baseline study <strong>of</strong> intertidal populations in the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska. Of special<br />
interest is the effect <strong>of</strong> oil on intertidal biota. As part <strong>of</strong> the FY 76 proposal,<br />
we proposed to study the effects <strong>of</strong> oil on limpets, Fucus, and other dominant<br />
intertidal species. Eventually it was hoped that this part <strong>of</strong> the study could<br />
be enlarged into research into the effects <strong>of</strong> oil on receuitment and critical<br />
stages.<br />
Un<strong>for</strong>tunately, all <strong>of</strong> this type <strong>of</strong> research was removed from our proposal<br />
at the request <strong>of</strong> OCSEP personnel. We believe that this type <strong>of</strong> research will<br />
512
answer the most important question <strong>of</strong> oil effects and research into oiling<br />
effects and we should begin as soon as possible.<br />
3. There has been a constant evolution <strong>of</strong> thought concerning our<br />
requirements by the OCSEP <strong>of</strong>fice. Geographic boundaries have been moved<br />
and deadlines have been changed. Last-minute reversals in Surveyor activities<br />
have occurred quite frequently. These have caused confusion and disorientation<br />
among the <strong>principal</strong> <strong>investigators</strong>. In an investigation this large,<br />
such problems are probably inevitable, however, and they have not presented<br />
any overwhelming difficulties.<br />
V. Acknowledgments<br />
1. It was the availability <strong>of</strong> the NOAA vessel Surveyor which made the<br />
summer a success. It is not possible to list all <strong>of</strong> the excellent help we received.<br />
In addition to just having the facilities available, all the ship's personnel were<br />
more than willing to help. LCDR Schaefer kept the operations moving efficiently,<br />
Captain MacDonald was always ready to maneuver the ship's schedule to<br />
accommodate our needs.<br />
2. The OCSEP <strong>of</strong>fice is to be commended <strong>for</strong> their continuous help and<br />
good will in providing assistance to us when problems arose.<br />
IV. Recommendations For Further Research<br />
A. Selection <strong>of</strong> specific plants and animals <strong>for</strong> monitoring.<br />
The selection <strong>of</strong> specific plants and animals <strong>for</strong> monitoring should be<br />
based on culturing ease and intertidal dominance. Methods <strong>for</strong> the culture <strong>of</strong><br />
many adult and larval intertidal <strong>for</strong>ms are available. Many <strong>of</strong> the more important<br />
<strong>for</strong>ms such as mussels, barnacles, and littorine snails, have been cultured<br />
and their specific requirements have been reported. Certain intertidal species<br />
have also been used as monitoring organisms, and the Environmental Protection<br />
Agency has developed a receiving water quality test based on oyster embryos.<br />
Because <strong>of</strong> the intense study done on culturing bivalve molluscs, it is assumed<br />
that mussels, Mytilus edulus, could be the first international organisms to be<br />
cultured. Among the algae, Fucus and a filamentous red algae will probably<br />
be chosen first.<br />
543
B. Estimation <strong>of</strong> adult responses to oil levels.<br />
Adult intertidal animals are fairly resistant to short-term, high level<br />
oil pollution. Some effects, however, have been reported. Among these is<br />
the retardation <strong>of</strong> byssal thread in<strong>for</strong>mation in mussels. Longterm effects on<br />
growth and production by dominant intertidal <strong>for</strong>ms will also be studied using<br />
existing methods.<br />
Facilities <strong>for</strong> carrying out oil related studies have been developed and<br />
are currently in use at the Auke Bay Fisheries Laboratory. A wide variety<br />
<strong>of</strong> tolerances have already been determined <strong>for</strong> several species, including<br />
salmon, crabs and scallops.<br />
It should be pointed out that monitoring studies usually include estimates<br />
<strong>of</strong> changes in oil-related products in animal tissue. Such studies are not<br />
included in this project, however, because they fall into an area being<br />
covered by another OCSEP contractor.<br />
C. Estimation <strong>of</strong> Critical Stage Response to Oil Pollution<br />
Techniques <strong>for</strong> culturing the embryos and larvae <strong>of</strong> many common intertidal<br />
species have been developed. Where possible these techniques could be<br />
adapted <strong>for</strong> Alaskan species.<br />
The larvae <strong>of</strong> dominant organisms should be cultured. Their sensitivity to<br />
low levels <strong>of</strong> crude oil (1 ppm - 1 ppt) and other oil fractions should be<br />
determined. Correlation <strong>of</strong> these effects with other environmental variables<br />
such as salinity and temperature ought to be per<strong>for</strong>med in later years <strong>of</strong> this<br />
study.<br />
D. Prediction <strong>of</strong> Recruitment Shifts Due to Oil Pollution.<br />
The natural population and recruitment data could be combined with the oilinduced<br />
adult and larvae data. Although mortality would probably be low,<br />
repopulation following winter kills could be critical. Often, winter storms<br />
almost eradicate populations <strong>of</strong> mussels and barnacles. High larval mortality<br />
due to oil would be reflected in recruitment shifts among the more sensitive<br />
species. Diversity and dominance could change.<br />
VII. Estimate <strong>of</strong> Funds Expended<br />
This summary includes only FY 1976 funds, although the main body <strong>of</strong> the<br />
report includes activities beginning in April, 1975, (in FY 1975). Salaries<br />
are through October 31. Excepting salaries, other costs were arbitrarily<br />
split between the two tasks.<br />
544
Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska: (Task 78)<br />
Salaries:<br />
Travel:<br />
Payment <strong>for</strong> Fujioka's P.C.S. move<br />
Shipment <strong>of</strong> goods and samples<br />
$ 66,236.<br />
15,245.<br />
2,744.<br />
743.<br />
Contracts:<br />
(1) U.<strong>of</strong> Alaska Sorting Center<br />
(2) Dames & Moore,Inc. , (Rosenthal)<br />
Subtidal Diving<br />
(3) Office <strong>of</strong> Aircraft Services<br />
(4) Miscellaneous Services<br />
Supplies<br />
Equipment<br />
TOTAL, GULF OF ALASKA<br />
40,500.<br />
39,500.<br />
11,000.<br />
242.<br />
3,319.<br />
2,592.<br />
$103,121<br />
Bering Sea: (Task 79)<br />
Salaries:<br />
Travel:<br />
Payment <strong>for</strong> Fujioka's PCS move:<br />
Shipment <strong>of</strong> goods and samples:<br />
$ 42,560.<br />
15,245.<br />
2,744.<br />
743.<br />
Contracts:<br />
(1) U. <strong>of</strong> Alaska Sorting Center<br />
(2) Office <strong>of</strong> Aircraft Services<br />
(3) Miscellaneous services<br />
Supplies<br />
Equipment<br />
TOTAL, BERING SEA<br />
40,500.<br />
11,000.<br />
242.<br />
3,319.<br />
2,592.<br />
$118,945.
<strong>July</strong> 17, 1975 - Akun Bay (Billings Head) , Akun island, Aleutians.<br />
Divers: Ellis, Calvin, Budke, Barr<br />
Depth: To 30 feet; Ellis and Calvin dove 30 feet <strong>for</strong> 40 minutes; 20 feet<br />
<strong>for</strong> 10 minutes; and 30 feet <strong>for</strong> 30 minutes.<br />
P eiiminary species list: field i.d.<br />
Algae noted:<br />
Alaria fistulosa<br />
Aarum cribrosum<br />
Thalassiophyll um clathrus<br />
Constantinia sp.<br />
Animals noted:<br />
Haliclystis (sedentary jellyfish)<br />
Seals (Phoca vitulina richardsii)<br />
Sea lions - numerous and active<br />
Methods used<br />
Species collections by Calvin & Ellis; movie camera by Budke, still<br />
camera by Barr.<br />
Number <strong>of</strong> samples taken:<br />
One large species collection (several jars); pictures (get # from Barr).<br />
Type <strong>of</strong> bottom:<br />
Exceptionally large boulders ~ 20 ft. diameter with large, discrete<br />
clumps <strong>of</strong> Alaria fistulosa. Thick stands <strong>of</strong> Thalassiophyllum. Rock<br />
between, washed clean and smooth on bottom. Vertical bedrock face<br />
with exceptionally heavy cover <strong>of</strong> biota. Sand between boulders at<br />
~ 35 ft.<br />
Conditions:<br />
Visibility exceptionally good, about 60 feet. Slight surge in shallow<br />
water. Sea lions numerous, active and bold. Caused some distraction,<br />
which is the reason <strong>for</strong> the short preliminary species lists.<br />
Eilis and I collected as fast as possible but made no notes. I believe<br />
that if I had had the equipment I could have taken a quantitative sample.<br />
Assessment <strong>of</strong> methods & future recommendations:<br />
At this stage our methods were somewhat haphazard accentuated by sea<br />
lion iarrassment.<br />
Since the bottom is clean, photographs and sampling can be carried<br />
cut here even if sea lions are there again--though they make some divers<br />
quite nervous, it is still possible to carry out sampling so long as<br />
they do not obscure the visibility excessively by "kicking up" the<br />
bottom.<br />
I recommend this as a monitoring site.<br />
547
Appendix I -- Diving Activities (Report by Natasha Calvin, NMFS)<br />
A. Western Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska Cruise, May 20-30, 1975<br />
Two NMFS Biologist/divers accompanied the intertidal sampling team<br />
during a cruise between Seward and the Shumagin Islands. The objective<br />
<strong>of</strong> the diving team was to provide subtidal biological in<strong>for</strong>mation to supplement<br />
samples collected intertidally at each site. The divers operated<br />
immediately seaward <strong>of</strong> the intertidal sampling site when possible; when<br />
depth, surge, or visibility factors prevented working adjacent to the intertidal<br />
site, nearby dive sites were chosen. The in<strong>for</strong>mation sought during<br />
each dive was: type and slope <strong>of</strong> bottom; dominant plants; and dominant<br />
animals; a partial listing <strong>of</strong> all other recognized species seen. In addition<br />
to those observations, underwater photographs were taken <strong>of</strong> individual<br />
organisms or small aggregations <strong>of</strong> organisms, and specimens <strong>of</strong> plants<br />
and animals were collected <strong>for</strong> preservation and permanent storage.<br />
The subtidal sampling, although mostly qualitative during this cruise, is<br />
intended to provide a basis <strong>for</strong> later selection <strong>of</strong> subtidal sites to be sampled<br />
quantitatively on a repetitive basis as part <strong>of</strong> the longterm Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
biological monitoring program.<br />
B. First Bering Sea Cruise, August 13-20, 1975<br />
I consider that we have made a good start on the Bering Sea diving.<br />
Our methods developed as we went along. On the first trip we did all qualitative<br />
observations and photographs and species collections. These will<br />
always be necessary. On the second trip, we tried out the airlift sampler<br />
<strong>for</strong> some quantitative quadrat collections. I had spent a good deal <strong>of</strong> time<br />
between trips rounding up parts and discussing the design and construction<br />
with Fred Salter, who built them. I feel that with the combined use<br />
<strong>of</strong> this sampler and Lou Barr's exceptionally excellent photography, we<br />
will have something well worthwhile pursuing. The species and quadrat<br />
collections will allow more complete analysis <strong>of</strong> the photographs.<br />
There are some problems to be ironed out--<strong>for</strong> instance, we will probably<br />
have to use doubles <strong>for</strong> extensive quadrat sampling, since diver and<br />
airlift on one tank uses up air pretty fast.<br />
When monitoring sites are chosen, I suggest we establish permanent<br />
transects with anchor bolts drilled in the rock (it is possible to run a<br />
pneumatic drill with a scuba tank) and use photography and limited<br />
quadrat collecting.<br />
548
3<br />
<strong>July</strong> 18, 1975 - Akutan Point.<br />
Divers: Ellis, Barr, Budke<br />
Depths: (this from Ellis' notes) Ellis, 35 ft. 50 min.; Barr & Budke,<br />
55 ft. 45 min., 65 ft. 32 min..<br />
Species seen:<br />
Algae noted:<br />
Laminaria longipes - in intertidal<br />
Laminaria groenlandica - predominates<br />
Laminaria yezoensis<br />
Cymathere triplicata<br />
Agarum cribrosum<br />
Thalassiophyllum clathrus - with red algae attached<br />
Species not seen:<br />
Constantinea<br />
Animals noted:<br />
Mysids - dense swarms in water column.<br />
"Tennis ball" sponges - many on vertical surfaces.<br />
Burrowing anemones in sand and silt between boulders.<br />
Type <strong>of</strong> bottom:<br />
Rounded boulders, much undercut, sand and silt between.<br />
Conditions and recommendations:<br />
Get from Barr.<br />
<strong>July</strong> 19, 1975 - Amak Island, Bering Sea<br />
Divers: Barr, Calvin, Budke, Ellis.<br />
Depth: Covered by this report to 55'. Ellis & Calvin dove to<br />
25 ft. 50 min., 55 ft. 40 min.<br />
Algae noted (preliminary):<br />
Laminaria sp. - general cover<br />
Rhodymenia sp. - heavy cover at water's edge<br />
Rhodophyta - exceptional number <strong>of</strong> species and heavy cover <strong>of</strong> foliose<br />
reds.<br />
549
4<br />
Animals noted<br />
Sabellid worms - immense beds on bottom.<br />
Crabs (Oregonia) - on worm community.<br />
StrongyTocent rtus drobachiensis - sparse.<br />
Sponge - exceptionally heavy cover at = 0 to -10 feet on smooth bedrock<br />
in cavern.<br />
Caprellids - on sponge above.<br />
Methods used:<br />
Species collection by Calvin and Ellis. Still photographs by Barr.<br />
Number <strong>of</strong> samples taken:<br />
Two large species collections; 1 at 25 feet and 1 at 55 feet. Pictures<br />
(get # from Barr).<br />
Type <strong>of</strong> bottom:<br />
Small boulders with sandy substrate between.<br />
Conditions:<br />
Fair surge, visibility not too good. I was struggling with a rented<br />
Unisuit which was too large <strong>for</strong> me and hard to manage. Quantitative<br />
samples could have been taken.<br />
Assessment <strong>of</strong> metnods & future recommendations:<br />
We made a good beginning on a species collection which should make<br />
identification from photographs easier. Our collections are discrete<br />
<strong>for</strong> the depths given (25 and 55 feet).<br />
A combination <strong>of</strong> photography and sampling systematically used would<br />
work well at this station. The biota is exceptionally rich here, with<br />
numerous filter feeding animals and a number <strong>of</strong> algal species.<br />
I would place this station in TOP PRIORITY as a permanent monitoring<br />
site.<br />
<strong>July</strong> 20, 1975 - Far <strong>of</strong>fshore <strong>of</strong> Hagemeister Island.<br />
Divers: Barr & Budke.<br />
Depth: 70 ft. 20 min.<br />
Current was too strong to accomplish anything; barren sand bottom.<br />
550
5<br />
<strong>July</strong> 21, 1975 - Cape Pierce.<br />
Divers: Lou Barr and Mark Howe.<br />
Depths: 40 ft. 43 min. - I do not have access to these notes.<br />
<strong>July</strong> 22, 1975 - Outside Port Moller at buoy.<br />
Divers: Barr & Budke; Calvin & Ellis.<br />
Depths: 65 ft. 12 min. <strong>for</strong> Calvin & Ellis.<br />
Species list: None (Barr found a small king crab).<br />
Type <strong>of</strong> bottom: Sandy.<br />
Conditions:<br />
Visibility almost zero (to = 1 foot), fair current, had to hold on<br />
to anchor, too bad <strong>for</strong> sampling. This area was explored only because<br />
the ship was delayed in Port Moller picking up another scientific party.<br />
Future possibilities:<br />
At or near slack water this bottom could be sampled with an airlift<br />
but I would recommend this site <strong>for</strong> sampling only if the ship had to<br />
be there any way. Suggest if this occurs again that the divers try<br />
inside Port Moller.<br />
<strong>July</strong> 24, 1975 - N. Unimak Island in vicinity <strong>of</strong> Cape Mordvin<strong>of</strong>f.<br />
Divers: Barr, Budke, Calvin & Ellis.<br />
Dives were made at 5 sites and Ellis and I made one intertidal species<br />
collection since it was extremely foggy at first and we were not sure<br />
the intertidal party would get ashore at all.<br />
Site 1: Ellis & Barr - 10 ft. 10 min. visibility zero, no collections.<br />
Ellis & Calvin intertidal species collection.<br />
Site 2: Ellis & Calvin - 25 ft. 20 min. east <strong>of</strong> intertidal site.<br />
Preliminary species list:
6<br />
Algae noted:<br />
Laminaria groenlandica?<br />
Desmarestia intermedia?<br />
Porphyra? (only red alga seen) occurs sociably, many on some surfaces,<br />
none on others.<br />
Animals noted:<br />
Balanus sp. - in clumps on boulders, some very crowded, long and pencilthin,<br />
many dead ones also.<br />
Hydroids - many<br />
Telmessus - (crab)<br />
Erimacrus - (crab)<br />
Thais lima - many on barnacles and sand.<br />
Shrimp - many.<br />
Styela? - stalked tunicate.<br />
Tealia crassicornis (anemone) - occasional.<br />
Number <strong>of</strong> samples taken:<br />
One species collection.<br />
Type <strong>of</strong> bottom:<br />
Sandy bottom with boulders. Some barnacle clumps covered with a sandmud-worm<br />
conglomeration.<br />
Conditions:<br />
Fair current, visibility 2-3 feet.<br />
Assessment <strong>of</strong> methods & future recommendations:<br />
Not recommended but possible as a future monitoring site.<br />
Site 3: Slightly west <strong>of</strong> intertidal site. Ellis & Calvin - 25 ft.<br />
20 min. Budke & Barr - 30 ft. 20 min.<br />
Type <strong>of</strong> bottom:<br />
Mostly boulders, some covered with wall to wall Sabellid worms, fine<br />
red algae, 1 chiton collected. Tealia crassicornis (anemone) exceptionally<br />
thick, estimated to 10 per square meter: Note - this is<br />
extremely unusual. These anemones habitually occur singly, about<br />
20 feet apart or so.<br />
Site 4: Directly <strong>of</strong>fshore from Site 3. Ellis & Calvin - 55 ft. 15<br />
min. Barr & Budke - 55 ft. 18 min.<br />
552
7<br />
Species seen:<br />
One sand dollar test, a few hermit crabs.<br />
Type <strong>of</strong> bottom:<br />
Sand, appeared barren.<br />
Conditions:<br />
Low visibility, fair current, could maintain position by digging fingers<br />
into the bottom.<br />
Assessment <strong>of</strong> methods & future recommendations:<br />
Not recommended as a future site.<br />
Site 5: Ellis & Calvin - 30 ft. 15 min. west <strong>of</strong> intertidal party<br />
and other sites, west <strong>of</strong> Rock Island pinnacle.<br />
Species seen (animal):<br />
Sabellid worms, probably Schizobranchia. These were <strong>of</strong>ten 100% cover<br />
on boulders. Small crabs (Oregonia ?) skittering over surface <strong>of</strong> worm<br />
colonies.<br />
Tealia<br />
Smaller brown anemones.<br />
Small tunicates; collected; occasional.<br />
Sponge; heavy encrustation in some areas.<br />
Algae noted:<br />
Laminaria - scattered and small, <strong>of</strong>ten coming through sponge encrustation.<br />
Methods used:<br />
Summary <strong>of</strong> Cape Mordvin<strong>of</strong>f<br />
Species collections by Calvin & Ellis, photography by Barr.<br />
Number <strong>of</strong> species taken:<br />
Species, 6 jars animals, 1 jar algae, photographs, check with Barr.<br />
Assessment <strong>of</strong> methods & future recommendations:<br />
The large number <strong>of</strong> worms and anemones here indicates a good food supply.<br />
A good site could be found in the vicinity <strong>of</strong> the intertidal site.<br />
A combination <strong>of</strong> systematic photography and collection could be used.<br />
Site should be fairly close to shore away from the sandy, high current<br />
area.<br />
553
8<br />
<strong>July</strong> 25, 1975 - Makushin Bay, Unalaska Island.<br />
Divers: Ellis, Calvin, Barr, Budke.<br />
Site 1: Ellis & Calvin - 50 ft. 25 min., 30 ft. 20 min; Barr & Budke -<br />
100 ft. 30 min.<br />
Preliminary species list:<br />
Algae noted:<br />
Lithothaminion ? - heavy cover.<br />
Laminaria dentigera ? - heavy cover.<br />
Ulva or Monostroma<br />
Alaria fistulosa - scruffy fungi.<br />
Agarum cribrosum - 100% cover below the Alaria.<br />
Constantinea<br />
Desmarestia intermedia ? - heavy at 15 feet with many stalked jellyfish<br />
(Haliclystis) attached.<br />
Codium ritteri<br />
Cymathere triplicata<br />
Foliase reds - sparse.<br />
Species not seen:<br />
Thalassiophyllum<br />
Animals noted:<br />
Spirorbis<br />
Cryptobranchia<br />
Acmaea mitra<br />
Epiactis ? Tbrownish orange or pink anemones).<br />
Balanus cariosus )intertidal<br />
Evasterias ? )<br />
Haliclystis - attached medusae, about 1 inch diameter.<br />
Margarites pupilla<br />
Margarites sp. ?<br />
Stron ylocentrotus drobachiensis - sparse, increasing slightly in numbers<br />
at the point.<br />
Solaster sp. - few.<br />
Pyncnopodia helianthoides - both large and medium size.<br />
Metriduim - many large white anemones, some chest-high (mine).<br />
Sabellid worms.<br />
Sponges - several spp., some quite large.<br />
Terebellid worm.<br />
Animales noted:<br />
Serpulid worms.<br />
Hemithyrus (brachiopod) - black.<br />
Brachiopod - small, pink, under rock.<br />
Bryozoa - under rock.<br />
554
9<br />
Cribrinopsis fernaldi ? - large anemones with resident shrimp on columns,<br />
many <strong>of</strong> these.<br />
Pododesmus - "jingle shell" - few.<br />
Placetron wosnesenskii - crab identification by Barr.<br />
Methods used:<br />
Species collections and notes by Calvin & Ellis, photographs by Barr?.<br />
Type <strong>of</strong> bottom:<br />
Primarily rock; boulders in cove, bedrock on point.<br />
Conditions: Good.<br />
Site 2: Makushin Bay, north side Cathedral Rocks.<br />
Divers: Ellis & Calvin to 70 ft.; Barr & Budke to 80 ft. - several<br />
dives.<br />
The biota here is so rich it boggles the mind. Cover everywhere 100%+.<br />
Preliminary species list:<br />
Algae noted:<br />
Laminaria longipes - immediately subtidal, heavy cover.<br />
Porphyra sp. on L. longipes.<br />
Laminaria dentigera ? - thick below L. longipes.<br />
Small reds - many species.<br />
Desmarestia munda.<br />
Animals noted:<br />
Anisodoris - large yellow nudibranch.<br />
Archidoris? - large white nudibranch.<br />
Sponges - heavy cover.<br />
Dendronotus - nudibranch.<br />
Musculus - many, some in nucous case.<br />
Cryptochiton - several.<br />
Styela - stalked tunicate, many.<br />
Colonial tunicates - several species.<br />
Hydroids - several species.<br />
Balanus sp.<br />
Sponge - much encrusting.<br />
Sabellid worms - very thick on rock faces.<br />
Serpulid worms.<br />
Brittle stars.<br />
Limpets - scattered ( A. scutum ?).<br />
Katharina<br />
Tonicella<br />
Placetron wosnessenskii (crab).<br />
Seals on rocks - Phoca vitulina.<br />
555
10<br />
Methods used:<br />
Species collection Calvin & Ellis, photographs by Barr.<br />
Type <strong>of</strong> bottom:<br />
Bedrock and exceptionally large boulders.<br />
Conditions<br />
Good, slight surge.<br />
Assessment <strong>of</strong> methods & future recommendations:<br />
We have a good start on a species collection and photos. This site<br />
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED <strong>for</strong> future systematic photography and collections.<br />
C, SECOND BERING SEA CRUISE<br />
August 13, 1975 - Makushirn Bay, Cathedral Rocks, south side.<br />
Divers: Ellis & Calvin, 4 each; Barr & Ramm (ship's diver), 2 each.<br />
1st dive. Ellis & Calvin - 45 ft. 45 min., exploratory and species<br />
collection.<br />
Preliminary species list:<br />
Algae noted<br />
Laminaris denogera ? heavy cover, many with sori.<br />
Cymathere r 'iicata - not abundant, but healthy, fertile.<br />
Thalass iochyllum clathrus - occasional.<br />
Constantinea - none.<br />
Desmarestia viridis ? - occasional.<br />
Alar-ia fistiolnsa -<br />
AgaJrum crinsro_:um<br />
occasional and scruffy.<br />
Lithothamnion - not heavy.<br />
Laminaria- or,.nples - shallow.<br />
Red algae - almost none.<br />
Animals noted:<br />
Balanus cariosus - shallow on vertical face.<br />
Sabellid worms - clumps on rock.<br />
Tealia crassicornis - occasional.<br />
Paguruiis spp.<br />
Strongylocentrotus drolb.achiensis - sparse, most on Haminaria.<br />
Margarites pupilla<br />
Hydroids<br />
Caprellids - on hydroids and ringing holes in Agarum.
11<br />
Pyncnopodia - one about 3 inches, young.<br />
Ammocharid worms - in s<strong>of</strong>t substrate, tubes "shingled" with shell,<br />
at about 40 feet.<br />
Crabs (Oregonia ?) - on worm colonies.<br />
Ophuiroids (brittle stars) - under rocks.<br />
Clams - siphons in s<strong>of</strong>t substrate at 40 feet.<br />
Microporina ? - joined orange bryozoan, heavy cover.<br />
Metridium - occasional.<br />
Epiactis ? - anemone, brown or peach colored.<br />
Katharina<br />
Cryptochiton - a few.<br />
Styela (tunicate) ) abundant near shore.<br />
Sponges )<br />
Harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) - abundant.<br />
Type <strong>of</strong> bottom:<br />
Steep bedrock and boulder in upper zones, at about 40 feet boulders<br />
interspersed with gravel, shell and sand.<br />
2nd dive: Ellis, Calvin, Barr; Ellis & Calvin, 30 ft. 20 min.<br />
Methods used:<br />
Barr laid a transect line along a steep rock face to about 20 feet<br />
deep and took photographs at each side <strong>of</strong> each meter <strong>for</strong> 6 meters (12<br />
sites). These photographs are within a 16.5 x 23.5 cm frame.<br />
Using a frame <strong>of</strong> the same size, an airlift and a diving knife, I cleared<br />
a quadrat to the right <strong>of</strong> the second meter from the bottom <strong>of</strong> the line.<br />
This was Quantitative Sample No. 1.<br />
3rd dive:<br />
Using same frame, I selected and cleared a quadrat sample on top <strong>of</strong><br />
a boulder, photographed be<strong>for</strong>e and after sampling by Barr, sample depth<br />
32 feet at 1415.<br />
4th dive:<br />
More species collection closer to shore.<br />
Number <strong>of</strong> samples taken:<br />
Transect photographs - 12<br />
Quantitative quadrats collected - 2<br />
Species collections<br />
Additional photographs by Barr.<br />
557
12<br />
Assessment <strong>of</strong> methods & future recommendations:<br />
I do not recommend this site. The north side is much better, but DO<br />
recommend development and continuation <strong>of</strong> these methods at other sites.<br />
August 14, 1975 - St. George Island, Pribil<strong>of</strong>s, Sea Lion Point.<br />
Divers: Barr, Ellis, & Calvin.<br />
Depth: 30 ft. 45 min., 30 ft. 25 min.<br />
Preliminary species list:<br />
Algae noted:<br />
Cymathere triplicata<br />
Alaria fistulosa - holdfasts very large.<br />
Constantinea<br />
Thalassiophyllum No Agarum!<br />
Laminaria yezoensis - large patch.<br />
Laminaria groenlandica - distribution discontinuous.<br />
Crustose coralline - very heavy and extensive.<br />
Odonthalia kamtchatica ?<br />
Many species foliase reds.<br />
Animals noted:<br />
Mangarites helicina - laying eggs on Constantinea.<br />
Tealia crassicornis<br />
Tube worms.<br />
Amphipods - several spp. in droves and piles.<br />
Sabellid worms<br />
Serpulid worms<br />
Acmae scutum ?<br />
Modiolus - empty shells only.<br />
Haliclystis<br />
A. mitra ?<br />
Strongylocentrotus drobachiensis<br />
Colonial tunicates<br />
Styela ? (tunicates) - patchy distribution.<br />
Fish: spiny orange lump sucker, small flatfish, sculpins, sturgeon<br />
poachers, pelagic orange polychaetes.<br />
Type <strong>of</strong> bottom:<br />
Bedrock, boulders with sand between. Several very large boulders at<br />
about 30 feet had apparently been overturned, by ice? storms? Coralline<br />
alga coating on bottom instead <strong>of</strong> top.<br />
Methods used:<br />
Species collections - Ellis & Calvin.<br />
558
13<br />
Photographs - Barr.<br />
Quantitative sample - 1 taken using airlift, Ellis.<br />
Conditions: Good.<br />
August 15, 1975 - Rush Pt., St. George, west <strong>of</strong> Zapadni Bay.<br />
Divers: Barr & Howe (ship's diver), 35 ft. 48 min.; Ellis & Calvin,<br />
30 ft. 35 min.<br />
1st dive:<br />
Preliminary species list:<br />
Algae noted:<br />
Crustose coralline - extremely heavy and thick, can be chipped with<br />
a knife, animals underneath.<br />
Constantinea - very thick, exceptionally heavy cover.<br />
Alaria sp. - small.<br />
Alaria fistulosa - small, most not reaching surface in 20 feet <strong>of</strong> water.<br />
Agarum - sparse and very scruffy.<br />
Laminaria - only 1 plant seen.<br />
Desmarestia viridis ? - scattered clumps.<br />
Few foliose reds.<br />
Codium ritteri<br />
Animals noted:<br />
Many living under coralline cover, s<strong>of</strong>t bodied crabs, worms, clams,<br />
black Echiruroids.<br />
Haliclystis<br />
Margarites helicina ? - laying eggs.<br />
Chiton - tiny.<br />
Hydroids<br />
Echiuroid worms - black, with long, Bifurcate proboscis which is extended<br />
several feet and slowly retracted when disturbed, probably same as<br />
observed by divers at Amchitka; numerous.<br />
Hippolytid shrimp<br />
Cryptochiton - occasional.<br />
Strongylocentrotus drobachiensis - many, all sizes.<br />
Limpets - few small<br />
Encrusting sponges, red-orange and orange.<br />
Styla ? ) tunicates<br />
Boltenia ? )<br />
Type <strong>of</strong> bottom:<br />
Large boulders, with clean rock between, not sand. I observed several<br />
large rocks, one almost one-half the size <strong>of</strong> the whaleboat, turned<br />
over with Constantinea upside down on the underside.<br />
559
14<br />
Methods used:<br />
Qualitative observations, species collections, photos by Barr.<br />
2nd dive:<br />
At Seal Observation site in Zapadni Bay, <strong>of</strong>f intertidal site. Labels<br />
on samples say "East <strong>of</strong> Village."<br />
Divers: Barr & Howe, 20 ft. 74 min.; Ellis & Calvin, 35 ft. 40 min.<br />
Con; i: s'un tei , oHd.<br />
Crt' Cr e - less than Rush Pt.<br />
0 onii riu" i tciches.<br />
Orarn;je ;';'ir .. ,.: tes - swarming in water column bearing eggs.<br />
Ct:enophei r ;<br />
r I - l r!;:: , pink.<br />
Al<br />
Tea n 'ia - no<br />
cI oon, large, maroon colored.<br />
large.<br />
Acmaea sciT,, ?<br />
Chitonlls -<br />
Few stars<br />
FUR SEALS!<br />
tiny, green, on rock and Constantinea.<br />
Animals not seen:<br />
Evasterias<br />
NTediastor<br />
Cucumbers<br />
Meathods- sed: Qualitative observations and collections.<br />
ossess!r; o riy ieteos & future recommendations:<br />
i F a peiainiient monitoring site is to be established at St. George,<br />
Rush Pt. wvculd be superior to this site. Possible damage to sites<br />
by ice should be considered.<br />
Med-i aster
15<br />
August 15, 1975 - Otter Island, west end <strong>of</strong>f St. Paul.<br />
Divers: Barr & MacKinnon, 20 ft. 55 min.; Calvin & Ellis, 25 ft. 30<br />
min.<br />
Preliminary species list:<br />
Algae seen:<br />
Alaria fistulosa - bed, not fertile.<br />
Coralline encrusting - much.<br />
Schyzmenia ?<br />
Constantinea - little<br />
Note: Barr <strong>reports</strong> Thalassiophyllum here.<br />
Algae not seen:<br />
Thalassiophyllum<br />
Agarum<br />
Desmarestia<br />
Cymathere<br />
Animals seen:<br />
Tealia crassicornis - medium size.<br />
Epiactis ?<br />
Alcyonarian coral - pink.<br />
Anomuran crabs - many, s<strong>of</strong>t bodied.<br />
Hydroid - red, pectinate.<br />
Sabellid worms - scattered patches on rock, Schizobranchia?.<br />
Sabellid worms with tubes in substrate.<br />
Haliclystis - on rock.<br />
Strongylocentrotus drobachiensis - many, all sizes.<br />
Small snails - Margarites beringensis? (too small to collect by hand).<br />
Leptasterias<br />
Chitons - few<br />
Pododesmus - few.<br />
Encrusting sponges - several.<br />
Mya truncata - shell only.<br />
Animals not seen:<br />
Pyncnopodia<br />
Evasterias<br />
Cucumbers<br />
Echiurids<br />
Type <strong>of</strong> bottom:<br />
Large boulders, covered with pink coralline encrustation.<br />
Methods used:<br />
Qualitative species collection and photographs.<br />
561
16<br />
August 16, 1975 - Otter Island, northwest end. Labels <strong>for</strong> this group<br />
are incorrectly marked "NE end".<br />
Divers: Barr, Ramm (ship's diver), Ellis, Calvin.<br />
1st dive: Barr & Ramm, 85 ft. 7 min., 35 ft. 38 min.; Ellis & Calvin,<br />
30 ft. 40 min.<br />
2nd dive: Barr, Ramm, Calvin, 35 ft. 48 min.<br />
Preliminary species list:<br />
Algae seen:<br />
Alaria fistulaea - bed.<br />
Coralline encrusting.<br />
Laminaria groenlandica ? - heavy.<br />
Thalassiophyllum - thick cover.<br />
Bladed reds - extensive, several spp.<br />
Schyzymenia ? - frequent.<br />
Laminaria longipes - on top <strong>of</strong> boulder at 20 feet.<br />
Constantinea - many large, many storied.<br />
Ceramium ? - large, collected.<br />
Jointed coralline alga - scattered clumps.<br />
Algae not seen:<br />
Cymathere<br />
Animals seen:<br />
Amphipods - dark grey with lighter undersides, in clouds.<br />
Hydroid, red, pectinately branched, thick.<br />
Encrusting sponges - many spp.<br />
Tunicate - many.<br />
Worm tubes under coralline coating.<br />
Small anemones - many.<br />
Metridium ?<br />
Strongylocentrotus drobachiensis - many, all sizes.<br />
Epiactis ? - frequent.<br />
Acmaea scutum ?<br />
Worm tubes protruding from sponges.<br />
Haliclystis - large, on Constantinea.<br />
Chitons - on Constantinea.<br />
Sabellid worm with large purple bronchiae.<br />
Pink Alcyonarian.<br />
Small s<strong>of</strong>t-bellied blue Anomuran crabs.<br />
Microporina sp. - especially on vertical surfaces.<br />
Cryptochiton - several.<br />
Schizobranchia ? - scattered clumps on rock.<br />
Caprillids<br />
562
17<br />
Type <strong>of</strong> bottom:<br />
Boulders with solid smooth rock between, some gravel. Boulders are<br />
<strong>of</strong>ten covered with coralline alga.<br />
Methods used:<br />
Qualitative species collections and photography. The water was choppy<br />
and there was a fair surge.<br />
Assessment <strong>of</strong> methods & future recommendations:<br />
This would be a good monitoring site <strong>for</strong> use <strong>of</strong> systematic photography<br />
and collecting.<br />
August 20, 1975 - First Site - Captains Bay, Arch Rock (near Dutch<br />
Harbor, Unalaska).<br />
Divers: Barr, Ramm, MacKinnon, Calvin, Ellis.<br />
Depth: 90 ft. 30 min.<br />
Preliminary species list:<br />
Algae seen:<br />
Laminaria groenlandica - cover heavy to 30 feet, sparse below, none<br />
fertile, many very small L. groenlandica to 90 feet.<br />
Cymathere triplicata - shallow.<br />
Schyzymenia ? - to 80 feet.<br />
Ulva or Monostroma - heavy cover shallow.<br />
Alaria fistulosa - near shore, not fertile.<br />
Encrusting dark red - 80 feet.<br />
Animals seen:<br />
yncnoodia helianthoides - few.<br />
Strongylocentrotus drobachiensis - mostly medium to small at 30 feet.<br />
Microporina - much, jointed bryozoan.<br />
Euasterias sp. - just subtidal.<br />
Chitons: Tonicella sp.<br />
Placiphorella uschakoui ?<br />
Much encrusting bryozoa.<br />
Flustra?<br />
Heteropora ?<br />
Seapulid worms - few.<br />
Spirorbis sp. - heavy at 15 feet.<br />
Cucumaria - black and orange cucumbers.<br />
Cribrinopsis - anemone with shrimp.<br />
Puncturella<br />
Ophuiroids - brittle stars, extremely numerous in gravel at 30 feet.<br />
563
18<br />
Type <strong>of</strong> bottom:<br />
Boulders in highest zone, cobbles and rocks, sand, etc. on slope lower.<br />
August 20, 1975 - Second Site - Captains Bay, west side <strong>of</strong> Bay.<br />
Divers: Ellis & Calvin, 50 ft. 15 min., 40 ft. 15 min.; Barr & MacKinnon,<br />
85 ft. 35 min.<br />
See Barr's report <strong>for</strong> species.<br />
Ellis and Calvin used these dives to collect two samples.<br />
Samples collected:<br />
Samples 1 and 2, 1/16 m 2 , collected at 40 feet with airlift sampler,<br />
to depth <strong>of</strong> 6-7 cm. Areas were chosen at random on sand and small<br />
rock bottom, chosen <strong>for</strong> substrate similarity to each other.<br />
Third Site - Captains Bay, west side <strong>of</strong> entrance.<br />
Divers: Ellis & Calvin, 30 ft. 10 min.<br />
This dive was made <strong>of</strong>f a rock reef bench that looked like a possible<br />
intertidal collecting site to be used in case we are "stuck" in Dutch<br />
Harbor some day and want to do something useful. The purpose <strong>of</strong> the<br />
dive in the bed <strong>of</strong> Alaria <strong>of</strong>fshore was to reconnaissance the area as<br />
a future diving study site also.<br />
Type <strong>of</strong> bottom:<br />
Rock rubble and boulder with some coralline alga coating. This is<br />
a bed <strong>of</strong> Alaria fistulosa. There is much Desmarestia viridis ? covered<br />
with exceptionally dense white Haliclystis. Much Agarum.<br />
I would recommend this area, intertidal and subtidal, be considered<br />
as a sampling site if the ship is delayed in Dutch Harbor.
National Marine Fisheries Service<br />
P. 0. Box 155<br />
Auke Bay, Alaska 99821<br />
Attention: Dr. Steven Zimmerman<br />
Gentlemen:<br />
Anchorage, Alaska<br />
October 21, 1975<br />
Progress Report - Summer 1975<br />
Ecological Assessment <strong>of</strong><br />
Sublittoral Plant Communities in the<br />
Northern Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
We would like to report on the subtidal baseline investigation<br />
that was initiated in <strong>July</strong> 1975, in conjunction with the NMFS intertidal<br />
program <strong>for</strong> the northern Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska. Three locations were selected<br />
by the Auke Bay Fisheries Laboratory <strong>for</strong> inclusion in the nearshore pro-<br />
gram:. (1) Latouche Point - Danger Island; (2) Macleod Harbor, Montague<br />
Island; and (3) Zaik<strong>of</strong> Bay, Hinchinbrook Entrance (Figure 1). Reconnais-<br />
sance dives and beach surveys were conducted in these locations during<br />
August-<strong>September</strong> 1974 and in April 1975. The background in<strong>for</strong>mation<br />
gathered in each site provided us with a general knowledge <strong>of</strong> the area<br />
prior to initiating the current research program. These pre-OCS data have<br />
not been published to date; however, they will be included in the overall<br />
final report.<br />
565
National Marine Fisheries Service<br />
October 21, 1975<br />
Page -2-<br />
NMFS established intertidal baseline monitoring sites in each <strong>of</strong><br />
the previously mentioned locations during 1974-75. Our task was to expand<br />
the biological data acquisition in each location by extending the sphere<br />
<strong>of</strong> observation into the sublittoral zone adjacent to the shoreline. All<br />
<strong>of</strong> our sampling and observations were to be made while diving at depths<br />
between 5 in and 30 in below MLLW.<br />
On <strong>July</strong> 22, 1975, we began the summer OCS field work in Prince<br />
William Sound and returned to the three stations in mid-<strong>September</strong>. During<br />
<strong>July</strong>, we recorded an intrusion <strong>of</strong> "red tide" into Zaik<strong>of</strong> Bay and Latouche<br />
Passage. However, by <strong>September</strong> the din<strong>of</strong>lagellate bloom was no longer vis-<br />
ible in the water column. Concurrently, measurements <strong>of</strong> water transparency<br />
and downward irradiance increased dramatically after the planktonic bloom<br />
had disappeared from the Sound. Although we saw no deleterious effects on<br />
the sea life in these locations, we did document an extensive kill <strong>of</strong> clams.<br />
and snails in Kachemak Bay that was believed to be related to the red tide<br />
phenomena.<br />
Latouche Point - Danger Island<br />
OBSERVATIONS AND PRELIMINARY RESULTS<br />
On the west end <strong>of</strong> L touche Island, between Montague Straits and<br />
Latouche Passage, lies a reef that extends seaward <strong>for</strong> approximately 4 km.<br />
The entire area underwent considerable change in elevation during the earth-<br />
quake <strong>of</strong> March 27, 1964 (lational Research Council, 1971). The uplift most<br />
567
National Marine Fisheries Service<br />
October 21, 1975<br />
Page -3-<br />
certainly affected not only the physiognomy <strong>of</strong> the shoreline but also the<br />
nearshore reefs and associated marine life. The sublittoral zone was heter-<br />
ogeneous in relief; the substratum was composed <strong>of</strong> boulders, shale pavement,<br />
outcrops and patches <strong>of</strong> sand or shell debris.<br />
During the summers <strong>of</strong> 1974 and 1975, the largest stand <strong>of</strong> the<br />
bull kelp Nereocystis luetkeana in the Prince William Sound region was<br />
found on the reef between Latouche and Danger Island. Attached bull kelp<br />
was found growing from the intertidal-subtidal fringe down to depths <strong>of</strong><br />
20 m. Most <strong>of</strong> the Nereocystis plants examined in <strong>July</strong> 1975 were robust<br />
and fertile;.however, by mid-<strong>September</strong> these same individuals had lost<br />
most <strong>of</strong> the blade material above the bladder. Densities <strong>of</strong> Nereocystis<br />
in belt transects ranged from 0 to 0.12 individuals/m2 within the 200<br />
square meters <strong>of</strong> sea floor quantitatively sampled.<br />
The summer macrophyte assemblage was multilayered with a canopy<br />
<strong>of</strong> Nereocystis floating on the sea surface above an understory <strong>of</strong> shorter<br />
statured algae. The most conspicuous algae observed during the summer<br />
season are listed in Table 1. Additional algal species will be added to<br />
this inventory when our identifications are verified by taxonomic experts.<br />
Laminaria groenlandica was the most abundant brown alga in the understory<br />
complex with densities from 3.96 to 10.04 individuals/m². Other conspicu-<br />
ous browns were Cymathere triplicate, Pleurophycus gardneri and Agarum<br />
cribrosum. Beneath this dense canopy was usually found another vegetative<br />
layer composed <strong>of</strong> the foliose and peltate reds. Encrusting and articulated<br />
568
TABLE 1<br />
TENTATIVE LIST OF MACROALGAE<br />
COLLECTED IN SUBLITTORAL ZONE OFF<br />
LATOUCHE POINT - DANGER ISLAND<br />
569
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October 21, 1975<br />
Page -4-<br />
corallines and non-calcareous <strong>for</strong>ms such as Hildenbrandia grew on most <strong>of</strong><br />
the cobbles and boulders.<br />
The macrophytic understory provided food and cover <strong>for</strong> the animal<br />
components <strong>of</strong> the system. It also served as living substrate <strong>for</strong> nestling<br />
orepiphytic <strong>for</strong>ms such as Musculus spp., a small filibranch mussel common<br />
to the open coast <strong>of</strong> southern Alaska. Musculus was found attached to the<br />
marine vegetation; some <strong>of</strong> the kelps were almost completely covered. It<br />
also adhered to rock surfaces. Population structure is being examined<br />
and samples taken within 1/4 square meter quadrats. For example, within<br />
one quadrat that contained two attached laminarian kelps we removed 521<br />
Musculus. Individuals ranged from 4 mm to 13 mm in shell length (Figure<br />
2). Newly settled spat (
MUSCULUS<br />
SIZE CLASS DISTRIBUTIONS<br />
FROM A SUBTIDAL .25 M 2 QUADRAT<br />
OFF LATOUCHE ISLAND<br />
571
National Marine Fisheries Service<br />
October 21, 1975<br />
Page -5-<br />
feeders; there<strong>for</strong>e the amount <strong>of</strong> organic material that must be available<br />
to support the vast amount <strong>of</strong> biomass in the nearshore system is certainly<br />
impressive.<br />
Members <strong>of</strong> the ichthy<strong>of</strong>auna observed repeatedly in the shallow<br />
sublittoral zone <strong>of</strong>f Latouche Point were the black rockfish, kelp and rock<br />
greenling, northern ronquil, Irish lord and juvenile tomcod. Marine mam-<br />
mals appear to be represented on either a transitory or year-round basis<br />
by the sea otter; harbor seal, Steller sea lion and killer whale (ADF&G,<br />
personal communication). Apparently this is an important feeding area <strong>for</strong><br />
marine mammals.<br />
Macleod Harbor<br />
Macleod Harbor, situated on the southwest end <strong>of</strong> Montague Island<br />
is semi protected from the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska; however, it does receive some<br />
ocean swell and storm surf. The northern shoreline from the entrance at<br />
Point Woodcock to about midway into the harbor is rocky and irregular.<br />
The southwest coast <strong>of</strong> Montague Island was raised by as much as 10 m during<br />
the Good Friday Earthquake <strong>of</strong> 1964 (National Research Council, 1971). One<br />
effect <strong>of</strong> the quake was to separate the pre-earthquake littoral zone from<br />
the post earthquake shoreline. At present, the shoreline is characterized<br />
by a narrow band <strong>of</strong> solid substratum with a number <strong>of</strong> small pro;;otories<br />
extending into the shallow subtidal zone. Bordering the rocks is a s<strong>of</strong>t<br />
bottom composed <strong>of</strong> sand and moderate amounts <strong>of</strong> shell material. The surface<br />
572
National Marine Fisheries Service<br />
October 21, 1975<br />
Page -6-<br />
<strong>of</strong> the sand was covered by a thin film <strong>of</strong> benthic diatoms; sulfur bacteria<br />
discolored or spotted numerous areas <strong>of</strong> the sea floor.<br />
The rockweed Fucus distichus <strong>for</strong>med the most conspicuous algal<br />
belt in the intertidal zone during <strong>September</strong> 1975. Below this band, in<br />
order <strong>of</strong> relative abundance, were the kelps, Laminaria groenlandica,<br />
Agarum cribrosum, Alaria sp., Pleurophycus gardneri, Costaria costata,<br />
and Cynathere triplicata. Also scattered along the rocky shoreline were<br />
small beds <strong>of</strong> bull kelp. Within these same floating kelp beds, we esti-<br />
mated Nereocystis density at 0.46 individuals/m 2<br />
The sandy bottom adjacent to the shoreline supported an assem-<br />
blage <strong>of</strong> epifaunal invertebrates that are "characteristic" <strong>of</strong> this habitat.<br />
The snail Olivella baetica was very abundant in this location and appeared<br />
to spend much time on the surface <strong>of</strong> the sand plowing through the interface.<br />
The sabellid worm Chone sp. <strong>for</strong>med thick-walled, sandy tubes on the sea<br />
floor. It occurred in densities <strong>of</strong> approximately 1.0 individual/m2. Yellow-<br />
fin sole Limanda aspera were also common in this area. Frequently when the<br />
s<strong>of</strong>t substratum was disturbed by our sampling techniques, the soles attacked<br />
and fed upon the exposed polychaetes. Along the reef complex where the sand<br />
and rock merged was a zone <strong>of</strong> high biological activity. Our observations<br />
and underwater sampling were conducted from the base <strong>of</strong> the rocky substratum,<br />
at a depth <strong>of</strong> 12 m below the sea surface, to the lowest reaches <strong>of</strong> the tide.<br />
573
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October 21, 1975<br />
Page -7-<br />
The conspicuous macroinvertebrates were examined within large<br />
quadrats varying in size from 10 n x 0.5 m to 25 m x 2 m, depending on the<br />
area <strong>of</strong> the reef we sampled or the organisms counted. We quantitatively<br />
examined 235 square meters <strong>of</strong> sea floor during this sample period.<br />
The sun star, Pycnopodia helianthoides was the most abundant<br />
macroinvertebrate in this assemblage with densities from 0.04 to 0.33<br />
2 2<br />
individual/m2, and a mean density <strong>of</strong> 0.17/m2. Other echinoderm species<br />
in order <strong>of</strong> numerical rank were Dermasterias imbricata, Henricia .eviuscula<br />
and Orthasterias koehleri.<br />
For smaller animals, particularly sessile or colonial <strong>for</strong>ms, we<br />
sampled within 1/4 square meter quadrats. Data were gathered on density<br />
and percent cover. An example <strong>of</strong> the kinds <strong>of</strong> field data and groups under<br />
consideration is presented in Table 2. In addition to our quantitative<br />
in<strong>for</strong>mation, we have a tentative list <strong>of</strong> the macroalgae, marine invertebrates<br />
and fishes that are known to inhabit this location. A species inventory will<br />
be presented in a later report following taxonomic confirmation <strong>of</strong> a number<br />
<strong>of</strong> species.<br />
Zaik<strong>of</strong> Bay<br />
During <strong>July</strong> 1975, we made dives in the shallow sublittoral zone<br />
adjacent to the NMFS intertidal station in Zaik<strong>of</strong> Bay. The bottom is char-<br />
acterized by relatively low pr<strong>of</strong>ile reefs, boulders and a s<strong>of</strong>t bottom com-<br />
posed <strong>of</strong> fine dark sand. A fine layer <strong>of</strong> silt covered much <strong>of</strong> the solid<br />
574
TABLE 2<br />
MACLEOD HARBOR<br />
(1/4 m 2 quadrats - sheer rock face)<br />
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National Marine Fisheries Service<br />
October 21, 1975<br />
Page -8-<br />
substratum; silt also accumulated on the macrophyte understory. Shell<br />
debris was common between the rocks and boulders. Shells <strong>of</strong> the clam<br />
Humilaria kennerlyi were the major components <strong>of</strong> this debris. Many<br />
appeared to have been broken and eaten by sea otters. Drift macrophytes<br />
were present along the bottom. Patches <strong>of</strong> sulfur reducing bacteria were<br />
common in this location, <strong>for</strong>ming a white film on the surface <strong>of</strong> the sand.<br />
On the shallow rocky substratum, the near bottom kelp assemblage<br />
was dominated numerically by Laminaria groenlandica and Agarum cribrosum.<br />
Beneath the algal understory was a coralline turf composed <strong>of</strong> both encrust-<br />
ing and articulated corallines. Arborescent bryozoans such as Microporina<br />
borealis were also common on the rocky substratum. A species inventory<br />
was started <strong>for</strong> this location. The list will be updated as more plants<br />
and animals are collected and identified.<br />
On <strong>July</strong> 24, 1975, a dense "red tide" moved into Zaik<strong>of</strong> Bay. The<br />
discoloration <strong>of</strong> the water and the reduction in available light made observ-<br />
ations along the bottom nearly impossible. When we returned to Zaik<strong>of</strong> Bay<br />
in mid-<strong>September</strong>, gale winds and rain storms lashed Hinchinbrook Entrance<br />
<strong>for</strong> more than three days. Wind speeds in excess <strong>of</strong> 60 mph were recorded<br />
by the "R.V. Montague." The overall weather and inability to anchor safely<br />
in the vicinity <strong>of</strong> the study site <strong>for</strong>ced us to return to Cordova.<br />
SAMPLING AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS<br />
Several types <strong>of</strong> quantitative data are being collected on the<br />
conspicuous species present in each study site. Included are estimates<br />
576
National Marine Fisheries Service<br />
October 21, 1975<br />
Page -9-<br />
<strong>of</strong> relative abundance (density-number <strong>of</strong> individuals per square meter) and<br />
some measurements <strong>of</strong> linear size (length, width, aperture width, etc.) and<br />
weight (wet or dry weight <strong>of</strong> s<strong>of</strong>t tissue). This in<strong>for</strong>mation will assist<br />
in describing variations in conditions at the study sites and will permit<br />
examination <strong>of</strong> differences between them. Specifically, we want to be able<br />
to compare population structure among different areas, or at the same site<br />
under different conditions. Accompanying biomass estimates will be gener-<br />
ated <strong>for</strong> selected species at these study sites. These data will provide<br />
in<strong>for</strong>mation on temporal variations in population structure at specific<br />
sites and allow assessment <strong>of</strong> the effects <strong>of</strong> unnatural perturbation.<br />
We will employ several statistical techniques in data analysis.<br />
Size-frequency data will be compared with the Kolmogorov-Smirnov two-<br />
sample test (Siegel, 1956). Differences in density and biomass data gen-<br />
erally will be compared using the Student's t-test or analysis <strong>of</strong> variance<br />
methods (Sokal and Rohlf, 1969). Most <strong>of</strong> the biomass data will be recon-<br />
structed by using the size-frequency data in conjunction with site-specific<br />
size-weight regressions. This will only produce first approximations, but,<br />
in view <strong>of</strong> the nature <strong>of</strong> the study and the poor understanding <strong>of</strong> the quali-<br />
tative features <strong>of</strong> the various systems, it appears that the major portion<br />
<strong>of</strong> our initial ef<strong>for</strong>ts would be more usefully spent in general endeavors<br />
such as describing species composition and the natural relationships (e.g.,<br />
predator-prey and other trophic relationships).<br />
577
National Marine Fisheries Service<br />
October 21, 1975<br />
Page -10-<br />
Population structure will be examined using a series <strong>of</strong> equations<br />
based on Brody-Bertalanffy growth curves (Ebert, 1973). This method,<br />
especially applicable to survey work, uses easily gathered size data to<br />
produce useful first approximations <strong>of</strong> growth and mortality rates, and also<br />
generates a life table. The parameters required <strong>for</strong> computation are the<br />
means <strong>of</strong> the size distributions from two large samples (300 measurements;<br />
the means must closely estimate the parametric mean <strong>for</strong> the sampled popula-<br />
tion), times <strong>of</strong> sample collection relative to the time <strong>of</strong> "recruitment" in<br />
the sampled population,-and maximum (asymptotic) size attained by the<br />
species at the collecting site.<br />
-o 0 o -<br />
Ebert, T.A. 1973. Estimating growth and mortality rates from size data.<br />
Oecologia 11:281-298.<br />
Siegel, S. 1956. Nonparametric Statistics <strong>for</strong> the Behavioral Sciences.<br />
McGraw-Hill Book Co., New York. 312 pp.<br />
Sokal, R.R., and F.J. Rohlf. 1969. Biometry. W.H. Freeman and Co.,<br />
San Francisco. 776 pp.<br />
578
National Marine Fisheries Service<br />
October 21, 1975<br />
Page -11-<br />
Our fall survey in Prince William Sound is scheduled <strong>for</strong> the<br />
month <strong>of</strong> November. We have arranged to be in Juneau on October 29, 1975<br />
to discuss the project with you. However, if you have any questions re-<br />
garding the report be<strong>for</strong>e this time, please do not hesitate to call on us.<br />
RJR:DCL:lf<br />
cc: Mr. Ted Merrill<br />
579<br />
Yours very truly,<br />
DAMES & MOORE<br />
Richard J. Rosenthal<br />
Senior Marine Biologist<br />
Dennis C. Lees<br />
Senior Marine Biologist
Appendix II -- Species List <strong>for</strong> Code Through 1 October 1975<br />
PORIFERA CHONDROLLADIA ALASKENS 32<br />
MYCALE AWHERENS<br />
MYXILLA INCRUSTANS<br />
Leuconia heathi FORCEPIA USCHAKOWI 32<br />
Halichondria sp.<br />
32<br />
HYDROIDEA<br />
Endendrium rameum 3301080102<br />
Endendrium annulatum 3301080103<br />
Sertularia tricuspidata 3301130213<br />
TURBELLARIA<br />
RHYNCHOCOELA<br />
Emplectonema gracile<br />
POLYCHEATA<br />
POLYNOIDEA<br />
35<br />
40<br />
40030101C2<br />
480101<br />
Harmothoe imbricata 4801011002<br />
Gattyana treadwelli 4801010806<br />
Gattyana ciliata 4801010602<br />
SIGALIONIDAE<br />
Phloe minuta<br />
PHYLLODOCIDAE<br />
480105<br />
4801050101<br />
480112<br />
Phyllodoce maculata 480112<br />
Genetyllis castanea 4801120801<br />
Eteone longa<br />
4801120203<br />
Mysta barbata 4801120701<br />
Eulalia viridis 4801120301<br />
Eulalia sp. 48011203<br />
SYLLIDEA<br />
480122<br />
Exogone sp. 48012207<br />
Exogone lourei 4801220703<br />
Exogone Verugera 580 4801220706<br />
Exogone molesta 4801220704<br />
Exogone gemnifera 4801220702
SYLLIDEA (cont.)<br />
Typosyllis pulchra<br />
4801220505<br />
Typosyllis stewarti<br />
4801220506<br />
Typosyllis alternata<br />
4801220501<br />
Typosyllis variegata<br />
4801220512<br />
Typosyllis a. adamantea<br />
Typosyllis fasciata<br />
Typosyllis elongata<br />
Eusyllis bloomstrandi<br />
Shaerosyllis hystrix<br />
Odontosyllis parva<br />
Odontosyllis phosphorea<br />
Syllis armillaris<br />
Autolytus (R) prismaticus<br />
Autolytus trilineatus<br />
Autolytus cornutus<br />
Brania clavata<br />
Brania brevipharygea<br />
Paleontus bellis<br />
Amandia brevis<br />
Ammotrypane aulogaster<br />
Abarenicola pacifica<br />
Notophyllum imbricatum<br />
4801220509<br />
4801220507<br />
4801220504<br />
4801220601<br />
4801220803<br />
4801221102<br />
4801221103<br />
4801220502<br />
4801220103<br />
4801220105<br />
48012201<br />
4801220902<br />
4801220901<br />
4801070101<br />
4801560202<br />
4801560101<br />
4801600102<br />
4801120402<br />
NEREIDAE<br />
Nereis cf. zonata 48012304<br />
Nereis sp.<br />
48012304<br />
Nereis procera 4801230404<br />
Nereis vexillosa<br />
4801230405<br />
NEPHTYIDAE<br />
Nephtys cornuta 4801240107<br />
Nephytys ciliata 4801240102<br />
Nephytys coeca 4801240103<br />
GLYCERIDAE 480126<br />
Glycera capitata 4801260101<br />
SPHAERODORIDAE 480125<br />
Sphaerodoropsis minutum 4801250101<br />
GONIADIDAE 480127<br />
Glycinde picta<br />
58.1<br />
4801270101
GASTROPOD (cont.)<br />
Margarites helicinus M. GIGANTEUS 4905060302<br />
Margarites pupillus 4905060308<br />
Littorina sitkana L. ALEUTICA 4905090101<br />
Littorina scutulata 4905090104<br />
Lacuna marmorata LAMELLARIA sp. 4905100304<br />
Lacuna vincta 4905100305<br />
Lacuna sp. 49051003<br />
Odostomia sp. ONCHIDIDPSIS<br />
HANNAI 49054201<br />
Nucella lamellosa 4905310102<br />
Nucella lima 4905310104<br />
Nucella canaliculata 4905310101<br />
Buccinum baerii 4905320129<br />
Buccinum polare Volutharpa ampullacer 4905320126<br />
Velutina velutina Volutharpa perey 4905270201<br />
Mitrella tuberosa VELUTINA plicatilis 4905340202<br />
Searlesia dira 4905320201<br />
Cylichna occulta 4905490201<br />
Cylichna sp. 49054902<br />
Cylichna alba 4905490203<br />
Turbonilla sp. 49054202<br />
Collisella pelta C. instabilis 4905040201<br />
Alvinia compacta 4905110106<br />
Siphonaria thersites 4905760101<br />
AMPHIPODA<br />
Paramoera columbiana 5331201001<br />
Paramoera carlotensis 5331201002<br />
Ampithoe rubricata 5331040101<br />
Ampithoe rubricatoides 5331040102<br />
Anisogammarus subcarinatus 5331210101<br />
Anisogammarus lacustoides 5331210102<br />
Allorchestes maleolus 5331240101<br />
Corophiidae sp. 533115<br />
Oligochinus lighti 5331120901<br />
Parapleustes nautilus 5331430301<br />
Parapleustes pugettensis 5331430302<br />
Melita sp. 53312120<br />
Calliopiella pratti 5331121001<br />
Pontogencia Kondokovi 5331201201<br />
Ischyrocerus Krascheninnikovi 5331270201<br />
Hyale rubra frequens 5331510201<br />
Jassa pulcella 5331270301<br />
Parallonchestes sp. 53312404<br />
Photis reinhardi 5331260202<br />
Parallorchestes ochotensis 5331240401<br />
Photis cf. brevipes 53312602<br />
582
POLYPLACOPHORA 4903<br />
Cynoplax dentiens CRYPTOCHITON STELIERI 4903020201<br />
Kathorina tunicata 4903050301<br />
Tonicella marmorea 4903020603<br />
Tonicella lineata 4903020602<br />
Tonicella rubra 4903050401<br />
Mopalia ciliata 4903050401<br />
Mopalia mucosa 4903030408<br />
Hanleya hanleyi 4903080101<br />
Schizoplax brandtii 4903060101<br />
Leptochitona sharpei 4903020401<br />
PELECYPODA Pododesmus macroschisma 4904<br />
Hiatella arctica 4904290201<br />
Musculus discors 4904070402<br />
Mytilus edulis 4904070101<br />
Protothaca staminea 4904210701<br />
Macoma balthica 4094240117<br />
Macoma obliqua 4904240106<br />
Macoma sp. 49042401<br />
Clinocardium nuttallii 4904200102<br />
Clinocardium clilatum 4904200101<br />
Mya arenaria 4904280201<br />
Nucula tenuis 4904020201<br />
Dacrydium sp. 49040705<br />
Turtonia minuta 4904190101<br />
Axinopsida serricata 4904150201<br />
Modiolus modiolus 4904070601<br />
Saxidomus gigantea 4904210201<br />
Nuculana pernula 4904030201<br />
GASTROPOD<br />
Nassarius mendicus 4905350101<br />
Grepidula nummaria 4905230201<br />
Bittium mumitium 4905200101<br />
Amphissa columbiana 4905340101<br />
Irichotropis insignis 4905240202<br />
Fusitriton oregonensis 4905290101<br />
Acmaea rosacea 4905040105<br />
Acmaea digitalis 4905040202<br />
Acmaea persona 4905040209<br />
Acmaea mitra 4905040203<br />
Acmaea scutum 4905040209<br />
Acmaea fenestrata 4905040210<br />
Cerithiopsis stejnegeri 4905200201<br />
Cerithiopsis stephasae 4905030204<br />
Puncturella cucullata 4905030204<br />
Onchidella borealis 4905750101<br />
DIODORA ASPERA<br />
ANSALES ROSEA<br />
583<br />
DIAPHANA MINUTA<br />
BULBUS FRAGILIS
AMPHIPODA (cont.)<br />
Photis spasskii 5331260203<br />
Parhyle zibellina 5331240402<br />
Ampithoe delli 5331040103<br />
Pontogeneia andrijaskhevi 5331201202<br />
Metopelliodes sp. 53314804<br />
Caprellid<br />
ISOPOD<br />
Cleamis occidentalis 533000501<br />
Gnorimosphaeroma sp. 53300303<br />
Exosphaeroma sp. 53300304<br />
Dynemonella sheari 533003<br />
Synidotea sp. 53300202<br />
Sphaeromatidae 533003<br />
Exosphaeroma amplicauda 5330030401<br />
Dynemonella glabra 533003<br />
Parasitic Isopod (Bopyridae) 533008<br />
Pentidotea wosensenskii 5330020302<br />
Gnorimosphaeroma oregonensis 5330030301<br />
Munna stephenseni 5330070101<br />
Munna chromatocephala 53300701<br />
laniropsis kincaidi kincaidi 5330060201<br />
PYCNIGONIDA<br />
Achelia chelata 5200040201<br />
Ammothea alaskensis 5200040101<br />
ACMELIA Ammnothea gracilipes 5200040102<br />
SAmmothea latifrons 5200040103<br />
Ammothea pribil<strong>of</strong>ensis 5200040104<br />
Phoxichilian fernoratum 520OO30102<br />
CUMACEA<br />
Cumella sp. 53280801<br />
Diastylis sulcata 5328050120<br />
Eudorella emarginata 5328040201<br />
Campylaspis affinis 53280701<br />
THORACICA<br />
Balanus balanoides 5318020101<br />
Balanus cariosus 5318020103<br />
Balanus glandula 5318020107<br />
Balanus rostratus 5318020111<br />
Chthamalus dalli 5318020201<br />
DECAPODA<br />
Cancer sp. 53331701<br />
Pagurus h. hirsutiusculus 5333100213
DECAPODA (cont.)<br />
Pagurus beringanus<br />
Pugettia gracilis<br />
Heptacarpus brevirostris<br />
Telmessus cheiragonus<br />
Chinocetes megalops<br />
DERMATURUS MANDTII<br />
ASTEROIDEA<br />
Evasterias troschelia<br />
Leptasterias hexactis<br />
Dermasterias imbricata<br />
Henricia cf. dyscrita<br />
Pisaster ochraceus<br />
Pycnopodia heliathoides<br />
ECHINOIDEA<br />
Strongylocentrotus drobachiensis<br />
TELEOSTEI<br />
PHOLIDIDAE<br />
Pholis laeta<br />
COTTIDAE<br />
Clinocottus acuticeps<br />
TANAIDS<br />
Tanais portiatus<br />
Tanais Loricatus<br />
Leptochalia sp<br />
ACARINA<br />
Halacaridae<br />
COPEPODA<br />
Harpactacoid<br />
ADDITIONS<br />
585<br />
5333100209<br />
5333160503<br />
5333050510<br />
5333180101<br />
53331603<br />
6801<br />
6801120302<br />
6801120409<br />
6801010101<br />
68010801<br />
6801120502<br />
6801121201<br />
79<br />
791613<br />
6802040201<br />
7916130305<br />
791504<br />
7915040701<br />
5329<br />
5329010102<br />
5329010101<br />
5101<br />
510101<br />
5310
CHLOROPHYTA<br />
Ulothrix laetevirens 0401010103<br />
Monostroma fuscum 0401030103<br />
Entermorpha intestinalis 0401030306<br />
Entermorpha linza 0401030309<br />
Ulva sp. 04010304<br />
Ulva fenestrata 0401030401<br />
Ulva lactuca 0401030402<br />
Rhizoclonium riparium 0404010102<br />
Urospira mirabilis 0404010302<br />
Cladophora flexuosa 0404010501<br />
Cladophora sp<br />
Spongomorpha sp 04040106<br />
Codium fragile 0405010101<br />
Monostroma zostricola 0401030109<br />
Lola lubrica 0404010201<br />
Ulothrix implexa 0401010102<br />
Chaetomorpha cannabina 0404010401<br />
Cladophora seriacea 0404010505<br />
586
ADDITIONS (cont.)<br />
Metridium senile<br />
Ostracod<br />
3303<br />
5308<br />
Lepidonotus squamitus 4801011103<br />
Autolytus verrilli 4801220106<br />
Prionospio cirrifera 4801420502<br />
Oligocheates<br />
480201<br />
Brachiopoda 67<br />
Terebratulina transversum 6702030102<br />
Psuedoscorpion<br />
Insecta 54<br />
5102<br />
Bryozoan 66<br />
Microporina sp. 66010801<br />
Black Blob = BB = Aglaja diomedium<br />
587<br />
4905790101
RHODOPHYTA<br />
Bangia fuscopurpuea 1301020101<br />
Porphyra sp. 13010202<br />
Cryptosiphonia woodi 1303010101<br />
Endocladia muricata 1303030101<br />
Gloiopeltis furcata 1303030201<br />
Neoagardhiella baileyi 1304020101<br />
Lithothamnion sp 13030610<br />
Bossiella chiloensis 1303060602<br />
Bossiella plumosa 1303060605<br />
Corallina vancouvenensis 1303060803-<br />
Hildenbrandia cf. occidentalis 13030402<br />
Calliophyllis flabellulata 1303080303<br />
Halosaccion glandi<strong>for</strong>me 1305010201<br />
Rhodymenia palmata 1305010304--<br />
Callithamnion piklanum 1306010606<br />
Rhodymenia pertusa 1305010306<br />
Antithamnion Kylinii 1306010105.<br />
Antithamnionella pacifica 1306010202.<br />
Plocamium tenue 1304030101<br />
Ahnfeltia plicata 1304040101<br />
Ahnfeltia gigartinoides 1304040102<br />
Gymnogongrus platyphyllus 1304040401<br />
Constantinea subulifera 1303010703<br />
Gigartina papillata 1304050203<br />
Gigartina agardhii 1304050204<br />
Gigartina lalissima 1304050205<br />
Gigartina stellata 1304050206-<br />
Iridea sp 1304050301-<br />
Microcladia borealis 1306010901<br />
Microcladia coulteri 1306010902<br />
Ceramium 13060108<br />
Ptilota felicina 1306011001<br />
Ptilota tenuis 1306011003<br />
Neoptilota asplendoides 1306011101<br />
Neoptilota hypnoides 1306011102<br />
Iridea cornucopiae 1304050303<br />
Rhodoglossum cali<strong>for</strong>nicum 1304050402<br />
Tokidodendron bullata 1306020602<br />
Polysiphonia hendryi 1306040101<br />
Polysiphonia pacifica 1306040107<br />
Pterosiphonia bipinnata 1306040202<br />
Pterosiphonia dendroidea 1306040204<br />
Rhodomela larix 1306040501<br />
Odonthalia floccosa 1306040603<br />
Odonthalia washingtoniensis 1306040606<br />
Smithora naiadum 1301010301<br />
Iridea lineare 1304050306<br />
Phyllospadix scouleri 3001010101<br />
588
Appendix III -- Example <strong>of</strong> Sorting Results Probided by the<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Alaska Sorting Center.<br />
589
CAPITELLIDAE 480158<br />
Capitella capitata 4801580101<br />
Heteromastus fili<strong>for</strong>mis 4801580201<br />
OWENIIDAE<br />
Ammochares fusi<strong>for</strong>mis 4801620301<br />
Myriochele heeri 4801620201<br />
AMPHARETIDEA<br />
Ampharete arctica 4801650201<br />
Psuedosabellides littoralis 4801681501<br />
Glyphanostomum pallescens 4801651101<br />
ORBINIIDAE 480165<br />
Haploscoloplos elongata 4801390102<br />
PARAONIDAE 480140<br />
Aricidea suecica 4801400103<br />
Paraonis gracilis 4801400301<br />
CIRRATULIDEA 480149<br />
Thryx parva 4801490303<br />
Tharyx sp. 48014902<br />
Tharyx multifilis 4801490203<br />
Cirratulus cirratus 4801490101<br />
Chaetozone setosa 4801490401<br />
SPIONIDAE 480142<br />
Spio felicornis 4801420701<br />
Spiophanes cirrata 4801421003<br />
Spiophanes bombyx 4801421001<br />
Polydora sp. 48014204<br />
Boccardia columbiana 4801420801<br />
Polydora ciliata 4801420405<br />
Rhyncospio sp. 48014212<br />
Pygospio cali<strong>for</strong>nica 4801421301<br />
Polydora brachycephala 4801420403<br />
Boccardia proboscidea 48014208<br />
590
Appendix IV -- Literature Survey Forms and Results.<br />
581
may be necessary)<br />
11. DATA BASE(S) TO BE SEARCHED - (See user's guide <strong>for</strong> list <strong>of</strong> available data bases; consultation with OASIS personnel<br />
12. PURPOSE Of SEARCH - (PIes. Indlira rh. p.nupe IDM whirh thia i *ch wilt be Ued, iJrfnJ *peclC d.tlI that will put ywo<br />
requt Intle asteiL e.f.:<br />
pnte.mntl.d at manlere. e<br />
aienlng reenlch, projeilte<br />
r.)<br />
rrea, prteetuon <strong>of</strong> c, bec chptor. Jown·l rtiesjr p.pseJo be<br />
Ongoing research<br />
Preparation <strong>of</strong> research <strong>reports</strong><br />
13. SEARCH REQUIREMEiNTlS (Pleao hek aon the b. below r tIo eIathe t. awr.r -p. rew'ul-<br />
I M<br />
] CONTIMNUNG CURENKT AWARKNE-SS (3DI) (ONE T E RETROSPECTIVE $SARCn<br />
[goTHR eR3,m. Current awarness through Septembn-rx 10Q76 .- . )<br />
14. SCOR DESIRIED (Pt.... himLe et. the hob- h-I.)<br />
SBROAD SEtACH DESIONED TO RETRIEVE AS MANY A3 POSSIBLE OF THE RELEVANT CITATIONS, BUT WHICH MIGHT<br />
ALSO RETRIEVE MANY IRCELEVANT CITATIONS.<br />
j NARROW SEARCH DISIGNED TO RETRIEVE SOME OF THE RELEVANT CITATIONS, BUT WITH FEW ACCOMPANYING<br />
IRREiLEVANT CITATIONS.<br />
15. KNOWN RELEVANT PAPERS - e(Suppy hidliLUegophli litaIamu /.l a! the Ieanl sllju irteil 7 he, arrltd arya.ur as .ello..<br />
4i no aL-ei e ep.-- Are b..e l.,, elae0 "NOHN".)<br />
16. APPgaVAL. AND ACCIPTANCE OP CHAR" FOR PERFORMANCE Of WORK<br />
NSATUR U ~4 %J<br />
_Q ý A Ago ORCANIATIO<br />
INDICATE ACCOUNT TO WHICH SERVIC-S SHOU.LD Bt p- ek e -eam p.yrb*. le U7e. IL>r.ejr Cwre... lwoAA)<br />
CHARGEO:<br />
OR'G. CODE __TASK NO. ] 1.L_______<br />
SEND THIS FORN WITH PAYMENT, IF APPROPRIATEVTQ<br />
Techbical In<strong>for</strong>=atido Dirisioa (DI32)<br />
Natiocal Oceanic Iad A~-os2 he:i Adia~iscratoa<br />
Vashinagon, D. C. 20235<br />
IP SP!CIAL ASSISTANCE IS HEEDED FOR COMPLETIOM OF THIS FORM, CALL-<br />
OASES Technical LI<strong>for</strong>=3--oo Specialise<br />
Area Code (202) 343-6-454<br />
Workida Hou:s: 7:30 A. .J. :o 4:C0 P. M. Easre-a Time<br />
594<br />
6PO 87T-30s
MOAA FORM24-21 U.S. DEPAlTmENTT OF COMMERCE DATE<br />
|11 73) NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATNO5;PMEIC ADMINISTRATION<br />
REQUEST FOR OASIS SERVICES<br />
(OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION SYSTEM) 9-25-75<br />
ATTACHMENT NO. 2<br />
1. NAME OF PERSON SUSBMITTING REQUEST (Last. FuirL. Middl.) 2. PHOME HO. (lacl.te A.C.)<br />
Haugland. Palmer I Iron 71 7<br />
S (17<br />
3. ADDRESS - NUMBERI ANO STREET<br />
P. O. Box 155<br />
CITY STATE ZIP CODE.<br />
Auke Bay Alaska 99821<br />
4. INDIVIDUAL TO ACTUALLY USE THIS SEARCH (La. First. Middli)<br />
Koski, K. V. and Edson, S. A.<br />
5. TITLE AND ORGANIlATION 6. PHONE NO. (Lah.l A.r_<br />
ich.. p TRini Ali'k Ba FiSheriq5 Lab. 1((9q7)7AQ-727l<br />
7. DETAILED SU&JECT AREA REQUIREMENTS - (Ple]*" d4.erl6b 7yi. n e need. .- darnr . spetfie.lr *a po.sibl. IncJrd. as m-n<br />
*ey werd. arilS ayon7Wt* as p4elibl,. indicatilng Wy temsa Luhe any lhave spcial Ima.inj to y0wr "equest. II spiCfit subfjt armens*<br />
o b. eas &>dd bfrm ti prehis. ple*. P et l foI rth *fepariely and cl e*rly izmi tl o er - *Ixcluiim*.)J<br />
Marine algae and seagrasses, intertidal and subtidal biota, benthic littoral<br />
flora, life history, growth, reproduction, predation, distribution, abundance<br />
taxonomy, methodology, beach sampling, enviromental factors. For all speci s<br />
<strong>of</strong> marine algae included in the following Phylla: Chlorophycophyta,<br />
Pheophycophyta, Rhodophcophyta. and the following flora <strong>of</strong> sea grasses:<br />
Phyllospadix, Ruppia, and Zostera<br />
& GEOGRAPHIC RUTRICTIO-xb - (7f en, nrf.inB a*.r c 01f AIntlet. li th bih-n<br />
Benthic littoral areas Cintertidal and subtidal) within the boundaries <strong>of</strong> the<br />
continental shelf <strong>of</strong> the North Pacific and Arctic Oceans adjoining the<br />
countries <strong>of</strong> Canada (British Columbia, Northwest Territories), United States<br />
(Alaska), Russia, and Japan.<br />
9. AUTHORS - (WlJa ary e b*hew W- sfr. w ttinnre am Intermee, prcifyng" firtin ad sidde ne - en fl a-rn) u<br />
M. J. Wynne<br />
Isabella Abbott<br />
10. LIST ANY JOURHALS WHOSE CONTENTS SHOULD SE EXCLUDED FRO, THIS SEAaC<br />
None<br />
Ut:. *.
pDATA AUi3) TO B« 51AMCHAo - 3*. tue.' a-J. I Ailso Use I .. iab deoe be; cen.«allte ti with OAsl » _ l ,7<br />
12. PURPS0 0P S3EARCH - (Pl**e* jAdJ·Wl* We* epop Iw M*ish bls *e*aru ,wU be us, glra.<br />
qutn<br />
apf-cjj<br />
I ll*.T.t<br />
d*.aitj<br />
..<br />
u~<br />
k«<br />
. -J t<br />
*u i<br />
pur yi<br />
alaa rusu»n p**,Iu-- ***eu, ampsedanhov be sh upk Sapl*a. n Aueu aril 1<br />
pwnIed at tooawm** e1s.) p. ar he<br />
-<br />
Ongoing research'<br />
Preparation <strong>of</strong> research <strong>reports</strong><br />
13. SXARcQ Rsu9OIManrSe ( a. a w -0 U m*. bega hlw sbo w* * yr *eruJ.L yrw u-Va)<br />
COMTw m*se CURANTY AwAMXrdss 1<br />
(=Dao O N<br />
TIME RETOTSPCCTnVE SEANRC<br />
Q---F-.^ C-rr ffnlt i~t^mgnp'i g t«h hrnniea Con-cwtbpr 19)76i (ftz ct ) ----<br />
14. 1caPS D pSLAO (pMr.. a-a -a o AS .. e- a .><br />
1 s aOAQ SR ACM O3sGioCEO 70 ITO TRIEV AS MANY AS t5iK<br />
ALSO RETRIEVE MANY IRMLEVM.ANT CITATIONS.<br />
0 THE RELEVANT CITATIONS, BUT WWICH MaCNTr<br />
7 nNf OWKEARC aSIGNED TO RNTRETVC3<br />
S0M Of Tm RELEVANT CITATIONS. BUT WtiY FEW ACCOMiPANYIN<br />
-AtiKL.VA*T CIATIONa.-<br />
13. XMOWN MILIYANT PAPERS - fl hdm»aY lAw.ma.indl. Sakse. lar A law at As sirnan awre.lo a w. u"<br />
VU<br />
-rrl.ed<br />
- anry<br />
a.m wr Own ar-vt..<br />
b - A isna -u : .1 "fl. OMEo<br />
Nakatani, Roy E., and Robert L. Burgner. 1974. Amchitka bioenvironmental .<br />
program research program on marine ecology, Amchitka Island, Alaska. Annual<br />
Progress Report and Summary Report 1967-1973. Fish. Res. Inst., U <strong>of</strong> Wash.<br />
Pavlovskii, E.N. 1955,- Atlas <strong>of</strong> the invertebrates <strong>of</strong> the Far Eastern Seas f<br />
the USSR. Translated from Russian by the Israel Program <strong>for</strong> Scientific<br />
Trczt, tirz, IP-^L OP * POEf-- PERPOENAN-CE OP WONK-<br />
17. PR I rai zs sa rram -- a pi) 17i, PAYMAGT po SE VICeYS gr-o oAA -<br />
OCSEP ncipal Investig ator- o- vas ew.a s --<br />
Y17b PAYMENT POR SIEVICS3 (WOVAA On*-"OY) t( eaba u.a-dr ** wlr . -<br />
INQICATE ACCUNT TO WIC SX neVICES SWOULO * 0XECI*O e *U*- *.S. 1-. Du-t. rt CAM-..w.OAA)<br />
CHA*RED:<br />
ORG. Coot . TA3K NO. "*ILL.<br />
SND THIS PORM W*rr PAYMNMT, If APPROPRIATE.TO<br />
Technicjl Iniconstcoa Divisioa (Da32)<br />
NarioIal Oceaic and A=ospheric AdieidalE atio<br />
SWabshiaon, D. C. 20235<br />
SIP PECIAL. ASITAJNC IS MEEDID rOR COMPLETION OF THIS pORM, CALLI<br />
OASIS TechLical Lisrsaioa Specialisc<br />
Area Code (202) 343-6454<br />
Workiaa Hours: 7:30 A. M. to 4:00 P. m. Eastcc. Tiea<br />
596<br />
G596O 7-320
i____<br />
Appendix IV<br />
NOAA FORM 24.L2 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE O^ AT<br />
H1z-n) NATIONAL OCEANIC ANO ATMOSPMERIC A3MIMI5TRATION<br />
REQUEST FOR OASIS SERVICES<br />
(OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION SYSTEM) 9-25-75<br />
ATTACHMENT No. 1<br />
1 NAME OF PERF OH SUBMITTING REQUEST (Las. First, Middl.) 2. PHONE NO. (Inli. A.C.)<br />
Haugland, Palmer I _ CrO7_7Qn-72-.<br />
3. ADDRESS - NUMaIK ANO STRCYT -<br />
P.O. BoX 15<br />
CITY STATE I2PCOOE<br />
Auke Bay, Alaska Alaska QQ8<br />
4. INOIVIDUAL TO ACTUALLY UIS THIS SEARCH (Last. FUi, Midl.)<br />
Koy;ki. K. V. and F.dqon, S. A-<br />
5. TITLE AND ORGAcAIZATION<br />
Fish. Res. Biol. Auke Bay Fisherpes T.artory<br />
6. PHONE N NO.<br />
)7 -<br />
lM. eA. C-)<br />
7. DETAILID SUIJICT ARSA RIQUIREMENT3.- (Plan ddartr y iear nl.olaq. nda a aprcJ llyr..tJI pon.ise . Includw. . aa<br />
key -jw witr a~rylrymna as peeibl, IdJeSA4jinlW aF leae lA ay OW here ajr nairning O( yr rlqu*r. It p*Jsi llis uke ,wa as.<br />
to be mcasd r m thl e l. prIWdle. 1** 8l th1A frtA sepmtIly and ssla Imentif theas e Xelallt.)<br />
Marine invertebrates, intertidal and subtidal biota,benthic littoral fauna,<br />
beach sampling, life history, growth, reproduction, predation, distribution,<br />
abundance, taxonomy, methodology, environmental factors. For all species in<br />
the following Phylla: Porifera, Coelenterata, Annelida, Echiuroidea,<br />
Sipunculidea, Arthropoda, Mollusca, Echinodermata, Chaetognatha, al Chordata.<br />
(See attached species list <strong>for</strong> an example)<br />
L. CEOGRAM#C RgSTRCTICONM tfy ap *S 0 *. anm .n *0 , Us- t'w4 ahm)<br />
Benthic littoral areas (intertidal and subtidal) within the boundaries <strong>of</strong> the<br />
continental shelf <strong>of</strong> the North Pacific And Arctic Oceans adjoining the<br />
countries <strong>of</strong> Canada (British Columbia and Northwest Territory), United States<br />
(Alaska), Russia and Japan. -<br />
9. AUTHORS - (Us4 ou M.# w nL* arnro. -a *I aln. nyS y has tIn a dlmriJ* "n'a f r.n r><br />
NA<br />
10. LIST ANY JOURNALS WHOSa CONTENTS SHOULD Ba EZXCLUDID FROM THIS SEARC<br />
None<br />
597
I. Geographic Area<br />
(Subject) INDEX<br />
Arctic: Bering: Russia: Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska:<br />
Southeastern: B.C.: / Other areas:<br />
II. Zonation<br />
Intertidal: / Subtidal: Drift:<br />
III. Habitat Types:<br />
A. Exposed: Rocky: Sand-mud: - Other:-<br />
B. Unexposed: / Rocky: Sand-mud: / Other:<br />
IV. Taxonomic Groups 75 marine benthic algae species<br />
- V. Type <strong>of</strong> Study<br />
Survey and reconnaisance:/ Life history:<br />
Taxonomic keys:/<br />
VI. Environmental Factors<br />
Oil:_ Ming:_ Logging:_ Estuary<br />
Nuclear tests: Pollution: Natral phenomenon: /<br />
VII. Methodology<br />
Bioassay: Transects: Culture__<br />
AnalysisCOmmunity<br />
Field observations: Diving:__ Other<br />
VIII. Date<br />
techniques<br />
598
Citation: i, J -r -, S.
I. Geographic Area<br />
(Subject) INDEX<br />
Arctic: / Bering:_ Russia: Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska:<br />
Southeastern: B.C.: Other areas:<br />
II. Zonation<br />
Intertidal: Subtidal: Drift:<br />
III. Habitat Types:<br />
A. Exposed: Rocky: Sand-mud: / Other:<br />
B. Unexposed: Rocky: Sand-mud: _ Other:<br />
IV. Taxonomic Groups<br />
V. Type <strong>of</strong> Study<br />
Survey and reconnaisance: Life history: /<br />
Taxonomic keys:<br />
VI. Environmental Factors<br />
Oil: Mining: Logging:. Estuary:_<br />
Nuclear tests: Pollution:_ Natural phenomenon:__<br />
VII. Methodology<br />
VIII. Date<br />
Bioassay: Transects: _ Culture:<br />
Field observations: / Diving: Other:_<br />
600
St c C7 T 31 4,1. - 1 s.<br />
Im an arctic ^mridal covirottment on Hudson Bay, Macoe balhica have a high--r<br />
-. -. j-t C.<br />
Abstrcty ro tfactor lveandsum r air te pay a major ro Th imated<br />
growth Ra- 1973.c Growth and mortality i an oarct<br />
aithiaz<br />
intertidal<br />
(Peletypod,<br />
population<br />
Tc)imdi4<br />
<strong>of</strong><br />
. Fish.<br />
iManw<br />
Rca. Board Can. 30: 1345-1348. . -<br />
In an arctic inttidal avironmet on Hudon Bay,<br />
growth<br />
Maca,<br />
rat<br />
a<br />
at<br />
balthica<br />
a tidal<br />
have<br />
level<br />
a<br />
<strong>of</strong><br />
hish-<br />
1.1 m above man low water than at the mean<br />
in terms<br />
low<br />
<strong>of</strong><br />
water<br />
both<br />
level,<br />
length and dry weight. Temperature, rater than<br />
mary<br />
food,<br />
proximate<br />
appears<br />
factor<br />
to be<br />
involved,<br />
the pri-<br />
and summer air temperarura play<br />
growth<br />
a major<br />
rats<br />
role.<br />
are<br />
The<br />
comparable<br />
etimated<br />
to reported growth rat <strong>for</strong> intertidal<br />
Scotland<br />
M'oman<br />
and<br />
populations<br />
the Netermland<br />
in<br />
A partial life table calculaed from the<br />
that<br />
detha<br />
Maes<br />
asemblae<br />
at 1.1<br />
indicates<br />
m above mean low water have an annual mortality<br />
* about<br />
which<br />
20%<br />
increase<br />
at a<br />
from<br />
2 a to about 50% at aga 7 ycr.<br />
601<br />
-
Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
Intertidal Sampling Sites Geographic Location<br />
1. Spectacle Island 55°07.2'N 159 0 44.6'W<br />
2. Chirik<strong>of</strong> Island 55°49.6'N 156 0 44.1'W<br />
3. Cape Nukshak 58 0 23.4'N 153°59.4'W<br />
4. Sundstorm Island 56°41.5'N 154 0 08.6'W<br />
5. Three Saints Bay 57 0 07.8'N 153°28.7'W<br />
6. Sud Island 58054.3'N 152°12.4'W<br />
7. Port Dick 59°13.3'N 151°10.0'W<br />
8. Day Harbor 59059.7'N 149 0 06.0'W<br />
9. LaTouche Point 59°57.1'N 148°03.4'W<br />
10. MacLeod Harbor 59°53.4'N 147°47.7'W<br />
11. Middleton Island 59 0 25.2'N 146 0 22.5'W<br />
12. Zaik<strong>of</strong> Bay 60°17.9'N 147°00.0'W<br />
13. Port Etches 60°21.2'N 146036.3'W<br />
14. Boswell Bay 60024.6'N 146 0 06.3'W<br />
15. Katalla 60°16.5'N 144°36.5'W<br />
16. Cape Yakataga 60 0 03.8'N 147 0 25.9'W<br />
17. Yakutat 59°32.3'N 139°52.5'W<br />
18. Kayak Island 59°48.2'N 144°35.9'W<br />
Bering Sea<br />
1. Akun Island 54°08.5'N 165°3S.7'W<br />
2. Ainak Island 55°24.1'N 163° 0 9.3'W<br />
3. Crooked Island 58039.3'N 160°1.6.5'W<br />
4. Cape Pierce 58°34.4'N 161°45.5'W<br />
5. Point Edward 5559.5'N 160°51.6'W<br />
6. Cape Mordvin<strong>of</strong> 54°55.8'N 164°26.S8'<br />
602
Boring Sea continued<br />
7. Makushin Bay 53°44.0'N 166 0 45.8'W<br />
8. St. George (Zapadni Bay) 56°34.1'N 169°39.8'W<br />
9. Otter island 57°03.0'N 170°23.8'W<br />
603
Plankton <strong>of</strong> the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska - Ichthyoplankton<br />
Departmental Concurrence:<br />
(Research Unit #156/164a)<br />
First Semi-Annual Progress Report<br />
31 October 1975<br />
T. Saunders English<br />
Department <strong>of</strong> Oceanography<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Washington<br />
Seattle, Washington 98195<br />
OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF ENERGY Program<br />
JUNEAU PROJECT OFFICE<br />
P.O. Box 1808<br />
JUNEAU, ALASKA 99802<br />
Francis A. Richards<br />
Associate Chairman <strong>for</strong> Research<br />
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I. Task Objectives<br />
The task <strong>of</strong> primary emphasis is to determine the seasonal density distributions<br />
and environmental requirements <strong>for</strong> <strong>principal</strong> species <strong>of</strong> ichthyoplankton<br />
in the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska. This program will also cooperate with the zooplankton<br />
program to examine organisms generally larger than copepods.<br />
II. Field Activities<br />
Three field trips were planned within the period <strong>of</strong> this report:<br />
ACONA 29 August - 15 <strong>September</strong><br />
SURVEYOR 29 <strong>September</strong> - 27 October<br />
DISCOVERER 21 October - 14 November<br />
A cruise plan <strong>for</strong> the ACONA is appended to this report. The cruise was<br />
aborted by engine trouble. The logistic support by the Seward station <strong>of</strong><br />
the University <strong>of</strong> Alaska was exemplary.<br />
The SURVEYOR cruise accomplished as much or more than envisioned in the<br />
appended cruise plan. The appended cruise report contains dates, personnel,<br />
methods, sample localities and data collected.<br />
The DISCOVERER cruise is underway with Jerry Larrance as Chief Scientist.<br />
We expect to have taken at each station a bongo net haul taken in the MARMAP<br />
manner. Project Instructions RP-4-DI-75C describe the cruise to the best<br />
<strong>of</strong> our knowledge.<br />
III. Results<br />
The results <strong>of</strong> all <strong>of</strong> our work to date are qualitative. The ACONA appears<br />
to be a suitable vessel <strong>for</strong> work inside Prince William Sound. Some modifications<br />
would be necessary to tow larger nets from the stern.<br />
The SURVEYOR is a good working plat<strong>for</strong>m <strong>for</strong> our purposes. Slight modifications<br />
would make it easier and safer to handle gear such as NIO and bongo<br />
nets over the side. The hull-mounted Ross 105 kHz transducers, when compared<br />
with our usual research transducer, were found to be inadequate <strong>for</strong> the<br />
purpose <strong>of</strong> detecting smaller biological targets in the water column.<br />
We did catch larger zooplankton and ichthyoplankton in our net hauls. The<br />
samples are enroute to Seattle.<br />
IV. Preliminary Interpretation<br />
It is too early <strong>for</strong> any interpretation <strong>of</strong> our results.<br />
V. Problems/Changes<br />
Most <strong>of</strong> our problems have been start-up difficulties which have been settled<br />
in the course <strong>of</strong> our work.<br />
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I am still concerned that I am not confident that my programs are optimally<br />
responsive to OCSEP aims and intentions. I am particularly in doubt about<br />
the geographic responsibilities and aims <strong>of</strong> the biological portions and<br />
the total program.<br />
Additional In<strong>for</strong>mation<br />
1. I continue to feel that future research should follow the directions<br />
we all discussed in our meeting <strong>of</strong> 1 <strong>July</strong> 1975 at the University <strong>of</strong><br />
Washington in Seattle. We suggested a range <strong>of</strong> methods with which I am<br />
com<strong>for</strong>table and which promise to be valuable <strong>for</strong> baseline, monitoring,<br />
and modeling purposes.<br />
2. The modifications <strong>of</strong> existing ef<strong>for</strong>ts I feel should be made were<br />
discussed on 1 <strong>July</strong>. I urge a geographic focus and a tight time series<br />
<strong>for</strong> the sort <strong>of</strong> biological program I envision (and the kind we do on<br />
Puget Sound).<br />
3. I feel that greater integration can be achieved by a plan imposed from<br />
the top management levels. I believe NOAA has employees perfectly<br />
capable <strong>of</strong> per<strong>for</strong>ming the program definition I envision. Most or all<br />
<strong>of</strong> us in the scientific community should be flattered and willing to<br />
<strong>of</strong>fer advice, but in the crunch one or a few scientists must define the<br />
final, coordinated, integrated program. It seems to me that only NOAA<br />
management can finally match objectives, resources, and research-observational<br />
plans.<br />
4. The best way to focus ef<strong>for</strong>ts is to be explicit about objectives and<br />
the plan to meet them. If the plan is clear and rests on stated assumptions<br />
and available observations, external meddling by industry, politicians,<br />
environmentalists, and others becomes very difficult and must<br />
meet the test <strong>of</strong> comparison with our plan. I have a belief that the<br />
very best program is a respectable environmental and biological'baseline<br />
which expands with monitoring. We are providing input <strong>for</strong> ecosystem<br />
management, and in a managed ecosystem trade<strong>of</strong>fs are necessary and all<br />
values cannot be preserved. The central aspect to be managed is<br />
biological populations--the key organisms are probably those harvested<br />
commercially and by sportsmen. Human health is <strong>of</strong> primary concern;<br />
recreation is secondary.<br />
5. I hope that our activities can generate a genuine constituency <strong>of</strong> user<br />
groups rather than misusers. Our data are useful only in context <strong>of</strong><br />
our objectives and our plan. Within that context, our concern would<br />
seem to be that <strong>of</strong> <strong>for</strong>mat. In our research group we are constantly<br />
trying to devise and improve <strong>for</strong>mats and find it both frustrating and<br />
rewarding. Our results can be in the most useful <strong>for</strong>mats if we can know<br />
the potential applications and questions <strong>of</strong> the user groups. I have the<br />
sense that our program is well started with Mauri Pelto's considerations<br />
<strong>of</strong> basic data management. We use SPSS, SIMPLOT, BMD, PICTURE, and other<br />
packaged programs; earlier we have had written <strong>for</strong> our use composite<br />
frequency plotting and contour plotting programs. We will certainly<br />
modify some <strong>of</strong> our computer programs during the course <strong>of</strong> this work.<br />
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Task Title: Plankton <strong>of</strong> the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska - Initial Zooplankton Investigations<br />
PI: Dr. D.M. Damkaer, PMEL<br />
I. Task Objective (OCSEP A-23) --- To determine the seasonal density<br />
distribution <strong>of</strong> <strong>principal</strong> species <strong>of</strong> zooplankton.<br />
II. Field Activities<br />
Five cruises were proposed in the Scientific Plan, 1 <strong>for</strong> Prince William<br />
Sound in <strong>September</strong>, 1975, on board ACONA (University <strong>of</strong> Alaska research vessel),<br />
the 2nd - 4th in the northeast Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska on board NOAA DISCOVERER, and the<br />
5 th in late summer 1976 on board DISCOVERER in the western Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska.<br />
CRUISE 1<br />
A. ACONA (29 Aug - )<br />
B. Scientific Party (Zooplankton)<br />
Dr. D. M. Damkaer (Principal Investigator) NOAA/PMEL<br />
D. Dey (Oceanographer) NOAA/PMEL<br />
S. Wright (Physical Science Aide) NOAA/PMEL<br />
A survey <strong>of</strong> the distribution and abundance <strong>of</strong> zooplankton in Prince William<br />
Sound was planned <strong>for</strong> 29 Aug-15 Sept 1975. This was to take place in conjunction<br />
with an ichthyoplankton and sonic target survey by Dr. T. S. English, University<br />
<strong>of</strong> Washington. All preparations were completed and the ship was underway from<br />
Seward with the scientific personnel when serious engine damage occurred,<br />
necessitating the cancellation <strong>of</strong> the cruise. Repairs were not made <strong>for</strong> several<br />
weeks, by which time we had arranged to use NOAA SURVEYOR <strong>for</strong> this investigation.<br />
A'. SURVEYOR (Net Zooplankton Survey, Prince William Sound, 3-10 October<br />
1975).<br />
B. Scientific Party (as above)<br />
C. Methods<br />
1. Field Methods<br />
.Zooplankton was sampled primarily with closing ring nets <strong>of</strong> 60 cm diameter
and 211 µ mesh. These nets were hauled vertically through strata <strong>of</strong> varying<br />
thicknesses, obtaining discrete samples as follows: 25-0 m; 50-25 m; 100-50 m;<br />
300-100 m; 500-300 m; the bottom-500 m. In addition, some samples were obtained<br />
with Tucker trawl, NIO net, and bongo net.<br />
2. Laboratory Methods<br />
Each zooplankton sample is allowed to settle in a graduated cylinder, and<br />
the settled volume <strong>of</strong> the sample is recorded. The large or otherwise conspicuous<br />
organisms are then removed and enumerated. The smaller organisms are identified<br />
and enumerated from a subsample.<br />
This work has begun on 48 samples brought back from the cruise. The remaining<br />
95 samples were stored on SURVEYOR <strong>for</strong> delivery to PMEL when the ship returns to<br />
Seattle mid-November.<br />
D. Sample Localities<br />
Thirty stations were occupied in the Prince William Sound region (Fig. 1).<br />
The first 9 stations were at a single very deep locality well-within Prince<br />
William Sound, and were occupied every 4-6 hours <strong>for</strong> 48 hours. This series<br />
should give a good indication <strong>of</strong> the incidence and magnitude <strong>of</strong> zooplankton<br />
diel vertical migration. The next 20 stations were at various locations and times<br />
throughout the Sound and its major fjords. Station 30 was in the open Gulf at<br />
590 N, 147° W, during the return to Kodiak.<br />
E. Data Collected<br />
Altogether 143 zooplankton samples were taken with the vertically-hauled<br />
net, 9 with Tucker trawl (by A. Adams, University <strong>of</strong> Alaska); 6 with NIO net<br />
and 8 with bongo net (by Dr. English's staff).<br />
CRUISE 2<br />
A. DISCOVERER (21 Oct-14 Nov 1975).<br />
B. Scientific Party (Zooplankton)<br />
D. Dey (Oceanographer) NOAA/PMEL 610
C. Methods<br />
Zooplankton will be sampled with 60-cm closing ring nets <strong>of</strong> 211 µ mesh.<br />
These nets will be hauled vertically through discrete levels as follows:<br />
25-0 m; 50-25 in; 100-50 m; 200-100 m; 500-200 m; each noon and midnight, regardless<br />
<strong>of</strong> the ship's position. In addition, a standard bongo net tow (200-0 m) will be<br />
made at each <strong>of</strong> ca. 42 stations (Fig. 2).<br />
OTHER DATA SOURCES<br />
A series <strong>of</strong> 100 samples (Figs. 3-4) from 1929 were selected from the plankton<br />
collection <strong>of</strong> the International Pacific Halibut Commission. These are being processe(<br />
as outlined in C.2 (above). The series represents ca. 28 stations from 30 Jan-<br />
21 Feb along the northeast Gulf and out from Yakutat, and ca. 22 stations from<br />
23 Mar-8 Apr in a rough transect from both Prince William Sound and Yakutat. Many<br />
stations represent samples from more than 1 depth.<br />
V. Problems Encountered<br />
At the time the budget was submitted, no special Prince William Sound cruise<br />
was anticipated. At the last moment, it was seen that ACONA would be available <strong>for</strong><br />
this, but no additional travel funds were asked <strong>for</strong>. This cruise required about<br />
half <strong>of</strong> the $3K travel budget. When the vessel broke down, this cruise was repeated<br />
a month later by our response to the sudden vacuum left in the SURVEYOR's schedule.<br />
Travel <strong>for</strong> this second cruise nearly exhausted the zooplankton travel budget. The<br />
planned DISCOVERY cruises would usually have required but 1 oceanographer to<br />
supervise the sampling (with the assistance <strong>of</strong> NOS technicians), but the Prince<br />
William Sound cruises on ACONA required and will continue to require other scien-<br />
tific personnel.<br />
It now appears that we can use ACONA in the spring 1976, which<br />
will be desirable. This project may, there<strong>for</strong>e, request additional travel funds.<br />
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VI. Funds Expended (estimated)<br />
Equipment $10 K<br />
Supplies 5 K<br />
Services 8 K<br />
Travel and Shipping 3 K<br />
Salaries 80 K<br />
Response to Amended Instructions<br />
1. Recommendations <strong>for</strong> Future Research<br />
Because <strong>of</strong> the great variability in zooplankton abundance in time and<br />
space, it is clear that 2 cruises in Prince William Sound, 3 in the north-<br />
east Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska, and 1 in the western Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska will not be adequate<br />
to define distributions in these areas. It is essential to continue these<br />
seasonal "baseline" studies probably <strong>for</strong> a minimum <strong>of</strong> 4 more years. Also,<br />
the changes in zooplankton abundance can be very rapid at any one locality,<br />
so that even samples at each season will not suffice to define extremes <strong>of</strong><br />
abundance, much less growth rates, reproductive cycles, and other smaller-<br />
scale features. There<strong>for</strong>e, it would be desirable to have frequent sampling<br />
(bi-weekly to monthly) in one or a few selected localities to complement the<br />
broader coverage <strong>of</strong> the seasonal cruises.<br />
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Figure 1. Sampling stations 1-30, Prince William Sound Cruise, 3-10 October, 1975,<br />
NOAA SURVEYOR.
Figure 2. Sampling Stations 1-42, Northeast<br />
NOAA DISCOVERER.<br />
Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska Cruise, 21 Oct- 14 Nov. 1975,
Figure 3. Sampling stations, International Pacific Halibut Commission Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska plankton<br />
collection, 30 Jan-21 Feb 1929.
Figure 4. Sampling stations, International Pacific Halibut Commission Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska plankton<br />
collection, 23 Mar-8 Apr 1929.
Task Title: Phytoplankton and Primary Productivity <strong>of</strong> the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
PI: J.D. Larrance, PMEL<br />
I. Task objectives<br />
- to describe the distributions <strong>of</strong> chlorophyll a and related<br />
pigments by season in the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
- to describe the distributions <strong>of</strong> <strong>principal</strong> species <strong>of</strong> phytoplankton<br />
occurring in the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska by season<br />
- to determine the seasonal indices <strong>of</strong> primary production in<br />
the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska.<br />
II. Field and laboratory activities<br />
A. Ship schedule. NOAA ship DISCOVERER departed October 21 <strong>for</strong><br />
sampling in the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska and is due to terminate the<br />
trip on 14 November.<br />
B. Scientific Party - NOAA personnel<br />
Jerry Larrance - Oceanographer (Project Supervisor)<br />
David Tennant - Oceanographer<br />
Patricia Ruffio- Technician<br />
C. Methods.<br />
Water samples will be taken at about 40 stations from 7 depths down<br />
to the level where 0.1% <strong>of</strong> the surface irradiance penetrates.<br />
Aliquot portions will be drawn <strong>for</strong> phytoplankton species, pigment<br />
analyses, and primary productivity experiments.<br />
Phytoplankton samples will be preserved and returned to Seattle<br />
<strong>for</strong> microscopical examination, identification, and enumeration.<br />
The Utermohl inverted microscope technique will be employed <strong>for</strong><br />
counting. Chlorophyll a and phaeopigments will be determined<br />
using fluorometeric techniques where fluorescence <strong>of</strong> the sample is<br />
determined be<strong>for</strong>e and after acidification.<br />
Primary productivity will be measured by the carbon-14 technique.<br />
Samples will be incubated under natural light on deck attenuated<br />
by neutral density filters rated to match the ambient light at the<br />
depth from which the sample was taken. Incubations will be <strong>for</strong><br />
1/2 day; dawn to LAN (local apparent noon) and LAN to dark.<br />
Filtered samples from completed experiments will be fumed with<br />
acid, placed in liquid scintillation fluor solutions and returned<br />
to Seattle <strong>for</strong> radioanalysis by liquid scintillation spectrometer.<br />
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Water samples <strong>for</strong> nutrient determinations will also be taken,<br />
frozen and delivered to the Institute <strong>of</strong> Marine Science <strong>for</strong><br />
analysis. Standard wet chemistry methods will be used to<br />
determine phosphate, silicate, nitrate, and ammonia concentrations.<br />
D. Sample localities - see figure.<br />
E. Data collected - none yet.<br />
III. Estimate <strong>of</strong> funds expended.<br />
Salaries and Overhead $21,000<br />
Travel 1,000<br />
Supplies and equipment 23,500<br />
Computer costs 500<br />
Total $46,000<br />
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Proposed locations <strong>of</strong> the primary productivity<br />
stations in-the northeastern Gulf.
OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF ENERGY PROGRAM<br />
JUNEAU PROJECT OFFICE<br />
P. 0. BOX 1808<br />
JUNEAU, ALASKA 99802 ...<br />
<strong>Quarterly</strong> Report <strong>for</strong> Quarter Ending <strong>September</strong> 30, 1975<br />
Project Title: Zooplankton and Micronekton Studies in the<br />
Bering - Chukchi/Beau<strong>for</strong>t Seas<br />
Contract Number: 03-5-022-56<br />
Task Order Number: 13<br />
Principal Investigator: R. Ted Cooney<br />
Institute <strong>of</strong> Marine Science<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
Fairbanks, Alaska 99701<br />
I. Task Objectives<br />
This research addresses six (6) tasks (or parts there<strong>of</strong>)<br />
pertaining to zooplankton and micronekton in the Bering-<br />
Chukchi/Beau<strong>for</strong>t Seas:<br />
1) A-9; describe the food dependencies <strong>of</strong> commonly<br />
occuring species <strong>of</strong> pelagic fishes as this task<br />
applies to dielly migrating bathypelagic species<br />
sampled with bongo nets and NIO Tucker midwater<br />
trawls.<br />
2) A-22; summarize the existing literature and unpublished<br />
data on the transfer <strong>of</strong> synthesized organic matter to<br />
zooplankton and micronekton (including ichthyoplankton).<br />
3) A-23; determine seasonal density distributions and environmental<br />
requirements <strong>of</strong> <strong>principal</strong> species <strong>of</strong> zooplankton,<br />
micronekton, and ichthyoplankton.<br />
4) A-24; identify pathways <strong>of</strong> matter (energy) transfer<br />
between synthesizer and consumers.<br />
5) A-25; identify and characterize critical regions and habitats<br />
required by egg and larval stages <strong>of</strong> fish and shellfish<br />
species.<br />
6) A-31; determine the relationships <strong>of</strong> zooplankton and<br />
micronekton populations to the edge <strong>of</strong> the seasonal<br />
icepack as it occurs in the Bering and Chukchi Seas.<br />
Of the.se tasks, all but A--23 (Organic matter transfer pathways)<br />
have been addressed in some manner. Pathway in<strong>for</strong>mation is<br />
621
expected as a result <strong>of</strong> the major spring cruise (April-May;<br />
1976) at a time when the area is biologically very active.<br />
II Field or Laboratory Activities<br />
A) Ship Schedule<br />
Successful legs have been completed on two cruises <strong>of</strong><br />
the NOAA vessel Discoverer in the Bering Sea; Leg I<br />
and II <strong>of</strong> the late spring and early summer (15 May -<br />
19 June, 1975) and Leg I <strong>of</strong> the late summer, and fall<br />
cruise (August 9-28, 1975).<br />
B) Scientific Party<br />
Mr. Al Adams, Mr. Ken Coyle, Ms. Patricia Wagner,<br />
Mr. Greg Malinky, and Mr. Ted McConnaughey were<br />
field representatives on one or both <strong>of</strong> the cruises<br />
described above. They were responsible <strong>for</strong> the collection<br />
and preservation <strong>of</strong> samples <strong>of</strong> zooplanktor and<br />
micronekton taken aboard the Discoverer in the Bering Sea.<br />
C) Methods<br />
Details <strong>of</strong> the methodology are available as a program work<br />
statement "Environmental Assessment <strong>of</strong> the Alaska Continental<br />
Shelf", No. 3; Fish, Plankton, Benthos, and Littoral; pp. 89-<br />
103. A bongo-net system was not available <strong>for</strong> use; 1-m net.<br />
tows (vertical) and NIO Tucker net hauls were utilized to make<br />
these collections.<br />
D) Sample Localities<br />
Station locations and cruise tackline have been submitted<br />
with cruise <strong>reports</strong> detailing the kind and amount <strong>of</strong><br />
sampling at each geographic location.<br />
E) Data collected or Analysed<br />
l) Number and types <strong>of</strong> samples/observations:<br />
(a) 94 1-m net tows and 45 NIO hauls were made on<br />
Leg I and II <strong>of</strong> the May-June cruise.<br />
(b) 65 1 in net tows and 44 NIO hauls were made on<br />
the August cruise.<br />
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III. Results<br />
-3-<br />
2) To date, approximately 80 1-m net tows and 10<br />
Tucker hauls have been sorted, and identified and<br />
enumerated.<br />
3) Miles <strong>of</strong> tackline; N.A.<br />
There are no "scientific" results to report to date. Lists <strong>of</strong><br />
species by cruise and hydrographic regime, as well as<br />
variance and special numerical analyses will be <strong>for</strong>thcoming<br />
as the laboratory work is completed. At present the processing<br />
<strong>of</strong> samples is on schedule.<br />
IV. Preliminary Interpretation <strong>of</strong> Results<br />
N.A.<br />
V. Problems Encountered/Recommended Changes<br />
Cruises aboard the Discoverer have been surprisingly free <strong>of</strong><br />
"gliches". The vessel crew has demonstrated a willingness<br />
to "make the science go" and has been very helpful in this<br />
respect.<br />
The only difficulty I have encountered so far is in communications<br />
to and from the vessel. The lag time seenms to be inordinately<br />
long. I realize that once a cruise is underway with<br />
project instructions in hand, the scientific party is considered<br />
to be pretty much on its own. I can further understand that<br />
a big stream <strong>of</strong> "scientific" chatter flowing out each day is<br />
very unnecessary. On the other hand, as more junior scientists<br />
begin to assume leadership roles at sea (which I think has<br />
already occurred in a very competent way), I believe there<br />
should be provision <strong>for</strong> quick and accurate exchange <strong>of</strong> in<strong>for</strong>mation<br />
between <strong>principal</strong> <strong>investigators</strong> and our representatives at sea.<br />
Messages I received from Mr. Adams (instructed to report progress<br />
twice weekly) were garbled and slow moving through channels.<br />
Also, there must be some provision (made clear to all <strong>investigators</strong>)<br />
<strong>for</strong> fairly restructuring the ef<strong>for</strong>t on a multi- disciplinary cruise<br />
when days are lost to equipment failure or bad weather . We need<br />
some project <strong>of</strong>fice guidance on this matter.<br />
623
VI. Estimate <strong>of</strong> Funds Expended<br />
-4-<br />
(6 months)<br />
Total Budget Expended* Remaining<br />
Salary & wages 82,764.00 14,556.44 68,207.56<br />
Staff benefits 13,970.00 2,425.97 11,544.03<br />
Equipment 40,000.00 9,051.25 30,948.75<br />
Travel 7,600.00 3,350.03 4,249.97<br />
Other 22,250.00 1,256.39 20,993.61<br />
Total Direct 166,584.00 30,640.08 135,943.92<br />
Indirect 47,341.00 8,326.28 39,014.72<br />
Task Order Total 213,925.00 38,966.36* 174,958.64<br />
* Preliminary data, not yet fully processed.<br />
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OUTER CONTINENTAL<br />
SHELF ENERGY PROGRAM<br />
JUNEAU PROJECT OFFICE<br />
P. 0. Box 188<br />
JUNEAU, ALASKA 99802<br />
<strong>Quarterly</strong> Report <strong>for</strong> Quarter Ending <strong>September</strong> 30, 1975<br />
Project Title: Phytoplankton Studies in the Bering Sea<br />
Contract Number: 03-5-022-56<br />
Task Order Number: 1<br />
Principal Investigator: Dr. Vera Alexander<br />
Pr<strong>of</strong>essor <strong>of</strong> Marine Science<br />
Institute <strong>of</strong> Marine Science<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
Fairbanks, Alaska 99701<br />
I. Task Objectives<br />
To study the dynamics <strong>of</strong> phytoplankton populations at the edge<br />
<strong>of</strong> the retreating ice pack in the Bering Sea in order to assess<br />
the significance <strong>of</strong> the ice edge in the productivity <strong>of</strong> the Bering<br />
Sea. Secondly, to assess the levels <strong>of</strong> productivity (phytoplankton)<br />
in the S. B. Bering Sea during the late summer in<br />
order to compare seasonal phytoplankton activity.<br />
II. Field Activities<br />
Two major cruises were undertaken in the Bering Sea, in May<br />
and August. Both were on the Discoverer. The first cruise<br />
emphasized the dynamics <strong>of</strong> the ice edge, and a total <strong>of</strong> 62<br />
stations were occupied, 55 <strong>of</strong> them directly related to the ice<br />
edge study. A series <strong>of</strong> zig-zag transects were carried out<br />
in the 2 5-mile corridor adjacent to the ice and penetrating<br />
into the ice <strong>for</strong> several miles. At these stations, conductivity,<br />
temperature, chlorophyll concentrations were determined, with<br />
dissolved oxygen, nutrient, primary productivity and phytoplankton<br />
samples taken at selected stations. At three stations<br />
a depth pr<strong>of</strong>ile <strong>of</strong> water samples was filtered <strong>for</strong> C:H:N and<br />
laser Raman carotenoid determination. In addition, stations on<br />
both sides <strong>of</strong> the shelf-break were sampled <strong>for</strong> chlorophyll<br />
and nutrient concentrations, with some phytoplankton samples<br />
and primary production measurements also carried out.<br />
625
III. Results<br />
-2-<br />
The second cruise, from August 9 to August 28, 1975 involved<br />
chlorophyll and nutrient sampling from 48 stations,<br />
with phytoplankton samples also collected at selected<br />
stations. Primary productivity ( 1 4 C) when measured at<br />
stations selected to represent areas with grossly different<br />
oceanographic characteristics such as the area north <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Aleutian Passes, the shelf bench area and the Bering Sea<br />
shelf area. A sediment core was obtained from the shelf<br />
region <strong>for</strong> nutrient analysis and 1 5 N uptake (N0 3 +NH 3 )<br />
was used to evaluate the demand <strong>for</strong> nutrients in the nearbottom<br />
waters. C:H:N and carotenoid samples were<br />
collected from depth probes <strong>for</strong> several stations.<br />
Currently, the nutrient analyses from Leg I, Discoverer<br />
cruise, May 1975 have been completed and the data are being<br />
compiled <strong>for</strong> submission. Chlorophyll concentration calculations<br />
from the May Discoverer cruise have been completed.<br />
Phytoplankton enumeration and identification is underway from<br />
both cruises, and nutrient analyses are currently being run<br />
<strong>for</strong> the remainder <strong>of</strong> the May Discoverer cruise and <strong>for</strong> the<br />
August cruise.<br />
The ice-edge region <strong>of</strong> high primary productivity extends out<br />
to 40-50 miles from the ice edge. In this area, maximum<br />
chlorophyll concentrations occur in surface waters. This high<br />
production zone does not extend into the ice, nor was an epontic<br />
ice community observed. Presumably, the pulse <strong>of</strong> production in<br />
the ice had passed through some time ago. However, some growth<br />
<strong>of</strong> algae on the ice surface in melt-pools was observed. Outside<br />
the high-production ice-edge corridor, maximum chlorophyll levels<br />
were found in water immediately above the bottom, a situation<br />
typically found in the Bering during early summer after the ice<br />
has moved north and the predominant distribution during the<br />
1974 Alpha Helix cruise. Attemps are being made to determine<br />
the activity <strong>of</strong> this deep population, and preliminary data suggests<br />
that it is photosynthetically active and may be dependent on<br />
nutrients from the sediment surface. Sediment cores have been<br />
collected and the intestitial water squeezed <strong>for</strong> nutrient<br />
determination to estimate nutrient fluxes. By August, the<br />
bottom chlorophyll maximum was no longer evident over the<br />
shallow shelf region, and phytoplankton activity was essentially<br />
absent except in areas under influence <strong>of</strong> the Aleutian Passes<br />
and the area immediately to the south <strong>of</strong> the major shelf break.<br />
626
IV. Problems Encountered<br />
-3-<br />
No major problems have been encountered in this work.<br />
V. Estimate <strong>of</strong> Funds Expended<br />
(6 months)<br />
Total Budget Expended* Remaining<br />
Salaries & wages 123,857.00 26,723.37 97,133.68<br />
Staff Benefits 20,912.00 3,714.99 17,197.01<br />
Equipment 13,200.00 626.19 12,573.81<br />
Travel 7,000.00 2,444.36 4,555.64<br />
Other 16,900.00 2,533.74 14,366.26<br />
Total Direct 181,869.00 36,042.65 145,826.35<br />
Indirect 70,846.00 15,285.77 55,560.23<br />
Total Task Order 252,715.00 51,328.42* 201,386.58<br />
*Preliminary cost data, not yet fully processed.<br />
627
OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF ENERGY PROGRAM<br />
JUNEAU PROJECT OFFICE<br />
P. 0. Box 180 NOV 06 1975<br />
Semi-Annual Report <strong>for</strong> the period <strong>July</strong> 1-<strong>September</strong> 30, 1975<br />
RU 174 -- Baseline Studies <strong>of</strong> Demersal Resources <strong>of</strong> the Northern<br />
Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska Shelf and Slope: An Historical Review<br />
Because <strong>of</strong> preoccuptation with completion <strong>of</strong> a final report on<br />
the NEGOA project, a demersal fish and shelfish otter trawl survey in<br />
the northern Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska in 1975, progress on 3RU 174 has been limited<br />
during this reporting period.<br />
I. Task Objectives<br />
A. Review existing data sources on the demersal fish and shellfish<br />
resources residing in Continental Shelf and Slope waters <strong>of</strong><br />
the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska between the Semidi Islands and Yakutat Bay.<br />
B. Provide growth and age composition in<strong>for</strong>mation on certain<br />
demersal fish species <strong>of</strong> importance to man as food resources.<br />
II. Field or Laboratory Activities<br />
A. Ship or Field Trip Schedule -- None<br />
B. Scientific Party (all are Northwest Fisheries Center Personnel)<br />
C. Methods<br />
Lae1 L. Ronholt (Principal Investigator)<br />
Herbert H. Shippen<br />
Ronald A. Payne<br />
Eric S. Brown<br />
1. Laboratory analysis <strong>of</strong> age structures will follow standard<br />
techniques.<br />
2. Literature and documentary research <strong>of</strong> published and<br />
unpublished materials will follow normal procedures.<br />
629
. ample localities<br />
-2-<br />
1. The area <strong>of</strong> eonsideration is the Continental Shelf and<br />
Slope <strong>of</strong>f Alaska from the Semidi Islands (1570 W. long.)<br />
to Yakutat Bay (140° W. long.).<br />
2. The growth and age composition in<strong>for</strong>mation to be provided on<br />
important food fishes is from specimens collected between<br />
Cape Clears (142° 30' W. long.) and Yakutat Bay.<br />
E. Data collected and analyzed<br />
1. Trawl catch data from the International Pacific Halibut<br />
Commission's survey <strong>of</strong> 1961-63 have been entered on ADP<br />
cards so that they may be analyzed <strong>for</strong> comparison with<br />
results <strong>of</strong> the 1975 NEGOA field survey.<br />
2. Approximately half (about 2500 observations) <strong>of</strong> the age<br />
structures (otoliths and scales) collected from 7 species<br />
<strong>of</strong> demersal fishes in 1975 have been read by the Age<br />
Deternination Unit <strong>of</strong> the Northwest Fisheries Center.<br />
F. Activities planned <strong>for</strong> the next six months<br />
1. Completion <strong>of</strong> age readings from age structures collected<br />
during the 1975 field study, and analysis <strong>of</strong> these data<br />
by species and sex.<br />
2. Compilation,and Analysis <strong>of</strong> historical data and preparation<br />
<strong>of</strong> report.<br />
3. Comparison <strong>of</strong> NEGOA field study results with historical<br />
data.<br />
630
III. Results<br />
-3-<br />
Alas ka catch and production statistics <strong>for</strong> fish and shellfish<br />
from the Copper River-Prince William Sound area have been<br />
tabul ated.<br />
IV. Preliminary interpretations <strong>of</strong> Results<br />
None<br />
V. Problems Encountered and Recommended Changes<br />
None<br />
631
SJUNEAU<br />
PROJECT OFFICE<br />
P. 0. BOX 1808<br />
Semi-Annual Report: April 1 to <strong>September</strong> 30,<br />
1975<br />
NOV 06 1975<br />
RU 175 Baseline Studies <strong>of</strong> Demersal Resources'<strong>of</strong> the Eastern Bering<br />
Sea Shelf and Slope. N E G A<br />
Principal Investigators: Walter T. Pereyra, PhD., Jerry E. Reeves, PhD.,<br />
and Richard G. Bakkala.<br />
Task A-13<br />
I. Task objectives:<br />
Summarize existing literature and unpublished data on the<br />
distribution, abundance, and productivity <strong>of</strong> demersal<br />
fish, shellfish, and other epibenthic organisms.<br />
II. Field or laboratory activities:<br />
A. Ship or field trip schedule - none<br />
B. Scientific party<br />
1. J. R. Dunn, NWFC, Seattle.- Responsible <strong>for</strong><br />
summarization <strong>of</strong> demersal fish literature and<br />
historical data.<br />
2. Doyne L. Kessler, NWFC, Kodiak. Responsible<br />
<strong>for</strong> summarization <strong>of</strong> shellfish literature and<br />
historical data.<br />
C. Methods<br />
1. Literature concerning the distribution,<br />
abundance and productivity <strong>of</strong> target species <strong>of</strong><br />
groundfish and shellfish are searched, catalogued<br />
and annotated.<br />
2. Unpublished data on the distribution, abundance<br />
and productivity <strong>of</strong> target species <strong>of</strong> groundfish<br />
and shellfish are collected and examined <strong>for</strong> use<br />
as a historical base and <strong>for</strong> comparison with<br />
existing data bases.<br />
D. Sample localities/Ship or aircraft tracklines<br />
Not applicable<br />
633
III. Results<br />
E. Data collected or analyzed<br />
1. Literature files in the NWFC have been catalogued<br />
and searches <strong>of</strong> North American Scientific Journals<br />
- have been started.<br />
2. Historical data from U.S. crab surveys (1965-70),<br />
joint crab-groundfish surveys (1971-75), Japanese<br />
research vessel surveys (1966-71), <strong>for</strong>eign fishery<br />
statistics (1964-73) and the U.S. <strong>for</strong>eign observer<br />
program (1972-74) exist either in documents or on<br />
ADP cards.<br />
F. Activities planned <strong>for</strong> the next six months<br />
As the current field season nears termination, ef<strong>for</strong>ts<br />
will be directed toward completion- <strong>of</strong> the literature<br />
survey and in collation and analysis <strong>of</strong> historical data.<br />
A. Approximately 500 pertinent bibliographic citations have<br />
been assembled on demersal fishes <strong>of</strong> the Bering Sea.<br />
B. Analysis <strong>of</strong> historical data has not begun.<br />
IV. Preliminary interpretation <strong>of</strong> results<br />
none<br />
V. Problems encountered/recommended changes<br />
none.<br />
VI. Estimate <strong>of</strong> funds expended<br />
Task A-14<br />
$250 salary, part-time temporary assistance.<br />
I. Task objectives: Determine the distribution and abundance<br />
<strong>of</strong> demersal fish, shellfish, and other epibenthic organisms.<br />
Estimate the productivity, length, weight, and age distribution<br />
<strong>of</strong> selected demersal fish and shellfish. To develop growth<br />
models and to provide a data base against which later changes<br />
in these parameters may be compared.<br />
II. Field Activities<br />
A. Ship Schedules:<br />
1. Anna Marie (chartered), <strong>July</strong> 25-October 12<br />
(Seattle to Seattle), Bering Sea trawling.<br />
2. Pat San Marie (chartered), <strong>July</strong> 25-October 12<br />
(Seattle to Seattle), Bering Sea trawling.<br />
634
3. Miller Freeman (NOAA), August 11-October 24,<br />
(Seattle-Bering Sea-Kodiak), Bering Sea trawling.<br />
B. Scientific Party<br />
1. Anna Marie: Steve Hughes and Don Gunderson.<br />
NWFC, Seattle, Scientists in charge (SIC), and<br />
four technicians.<br />
2. Pat San Marie: Jack McBride and Doyne Kessler,<br />
NWFC, Kodiak, SIC; Don Day, NWFC, Seattle and<br />
four technicians.<br />
3. Miller Freeman: Robert Wolotira, Richard Bakkala<br />
and Kenneth Waldron, SIC, Dr. Michael Tillman, Fred<br />
Wathne, Rene Cerda and Bill Grondlund, plus three<br />
technicians, all <strong>of</strong> NWFC.<br />
C. Methods<br />
The survey utilized a modified 400-mesh eastern trawl<br />
fished <strong>for</strong> one-half hour periods. Catch composition<br />
determined by weight and numbers, and <strong>for</strong> selected<br />
species, data on size, sex, weight and age structures<br />
collected. Vertical water temperature pr<strong>of</strong>iles were<br />
obtained by XBT casts (Anna Marie and Miller Freeman).<br />
Six days <strong>of</strong> comparative fishing was conducted among<br />
the three vessels to adjust catches <strong>for</strong> differences<br />
in fishing power.<br />
D. Sample localities<br />
The vessel tracklines are depicted in Figures 1-3.<br />
E. Data collected or analyzed<br />
A total <strong>of</strong> 651 stations were successfully occupied<br />
by the three vessels.<br />
Data from all three vessels are now being checked<br />
<strong>for</strong> completion and correctness <strong>of</strong> IBM <strong>for</strong>mat. The<br />
data from the first legs <strong>of</strong> the three vessels have<br />
been keypunched and the printouts are being checked<br />
<strong>for</strong> accuracy.<br />
Computer programs have been written <strong>for</strong> analysis <strong>of</strong><br />
catch by species which will illustrate various levels<br />
<strong>of</strong> abundance including plots <strong>of</strong> station location,<br />
distance fished, depth contours and catch per depth<br />
interval. Programs <strong>for</strong> biomass estimates and age and<br />
growth have either been written or are in the process<br />
<strong>of</strong> being written.<br />
635
Our attempts to copy field data sheets aboard the<br />
charter vessels proved impractical because <strong>of</strong> space<br />
limitations and the slowness <strong>of</strong> the reproducing<br />
equipment used.<br />
636
III. Results<br />
F. Activities planned <strong>for</strong> next 6 months<br />
Emphasis in the next six months will be directed toward<br />
analysis <strong>of</strong> the data collected this summer and in<br />
planning <strong>for</strong> the spring, 1976, Bering Sea survey.<br />
As the charter vessel surveys were completed on October 2<br />
and the Miller Freeman survey on October 24, none <strong>of</strong> the<br />
data has been analyzed.<br />
All the stations in the survey area were successfully<br />
sampled except those in sub-area V, a low priority area,<br />
and five stations north <strong>of</strong> 60°N in the western portion <strong>of</strong><br />
sub-area IV. Certain stations in sub-area I were resampled<br />
to provide estimates <strong>of</strong> intra-area variation in<br />
catches.<br />
The successful completion <strong>of</strong> the survey was due to<br />
reasonably good weather conditions, lack <strong>of</strong> vessel breakdowns<br />
and particularly to the outstanding ef<strong>for</strong>t <strong>of</strong> the<br />
vessel captains, their crews and the'scientific parties.<br />
IV. Preliminary interpretation <strong>of</strong> results<br />
As none <strong>of</strong> the data have been analyzed and have only been<br />
cursorily examined to date, we can <strong>of</strong>fer no preliminary<br />
conclusions.<br />
V. Problems encountered/recommended changes<br />
The surveys progressed very well and few problems were<br />
encountered.<br />
During the survey it became apparent that more ef<strong>for</strong>t was<br />
needed on the slope where rapid changes in species<br />
composition occurred with changes in depth. For the 1976<br />
spring survey, we plan to trawl five stations on the edge<br />
rather than the two stations sampled this year.<br />
Radio communication was very poor between the Pacific<br />
Marine Center and the Miller Freeman. This was a problem<br />
<strong>for</strong> us during the comparative fishing as we planned to<br />
analyze the data and transmit the results back to the<br />
Freeman. We recommend that the Miller Freeman be equipped<br />
with teletype equipment next year to improve frequency<br />
and speed <strong>of</strong> communication.<br />
63 7.
Fig. 1. Station Sampling Plan, Anna Marie, 1975
Fig. 2. Station Sampling Plan, Pat San Marie, 1975
Fig. 3. Station Sampling Plan, Miller Fr an, 1975
Data Management Plan <strong>for</strong> OCS Project RU 175<br />
Project Name<br />
Baseline Studies <strong>of</strong> Demersal Resources <strong>of</strong> the Eastern Bering<br />
Sea Shelf and Slope.<br />
Dr. Walter T. Pereyra and Richard Bakkala<br />
Northwest Fisheries Center<br />
National Marine Fisheries Service, NOAA<br />
2725 Montlake Boulevard East<br />
Seattle, Washington 98112<br />
and<br />
Dr. Jerry E. Reeves<br />
Northwest Fisheries Center<br />
National Marine Fisheries Service, NOAA<br />
P.O. Box 1638<br />
Kodiak, Alaska 99615<br />
Identification <strong>of</strong> Data<br />
Schedule<br />
The items <strong>of</strong> data which will be submitted in partial fullfillment<br />
<strong>of</strong> this contract include:<br />
1. Field records on trawl catches <strong>of</strong> fishes and invertebrates,<br />
and associated data.<br />
2. Data on length, weight and age <strong>of</strong> selected species <strong>of</strong><br />
demersal fishes.<br />
3. Data on size and weight <strong>of</strong> selected species <strong>of</strong> invertebrates<br />
and associated data.<br />
4. Interpretation and analysis <strong>of</strong> the above data.<br />
1. Field data will be submitted on tape to the OCSEP <strong>of</strong>fice<br />
no more than 120 days after keypunching.<br />
2. The interpretation <strong>of</strong> the data will be submitted no later<br />
than <strong>September</strong> 30, 1976.<br />
Data Format<br />
All data will be submitted on 9 track magnetic tape with the<br />
<strong>for</strong>mat corresponding to OCSEP data management plan.<br />
Data Documentation<br />
All documentation necessary to read the above data will be<br />
provided, including complete <strong>for</strong>mat description.<br />
641
Calibration and quality Control<br />
There are no instrument calibration requirements implied by<br />
this work. Comparative fishing among the three vessels used<br />
in 1975 (Anna Marie, Pat San Marie, and Miller Freeman) vill<br />
enable comparison <strong>of</strong> the relative fishing power <strong>of</strong> the three<br />
vessels, effects <strong>of</strong> differing towing times, and variation in<br />
size, age and sex composition <strong>of</strong> catches.<br />
Data uantities and Data Flow<br />
A. Quantities<br />
1. Approximately 300 cards per sampling station.<br />
2. Approximately 210 sampling stations per cruise.<br />
3. Approximately 6 cruises conducted by the contractor<br />
(3 cruises in 1975; 3 cruises in 1976).<br />
4. There<strong>for</strong>e, approximately 380,000 cards will be<br />
submitted on tape.<br />
B. Data Flow (the dates given are <strong>for</strong> the first three<br />
cruises only).<br />
1. Last cruise, 1975, completed on October 24.<br />
2. Groundfish field data keypunched and pro<strong>of</strong>ed by<br />
January 24, 1976.<br />
3. Groundfish data, consisting <strong>of</strong> about 80,000 cards,<br />
submitted on tape to OCSEP by February 24, 1976.<br />
4. Invertebrate field data keypunched and pro<strong>of</strong>ed by<br />
February 26, 1976.<br />
5. Invertebrate data on tape submitted to OCSEP by -<br />
April 1, 1976. (Approximately 110,000 cards)<br />
642
DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME<br />
October 23, 1975<br />
Dr. Gunter Weller<br />
Project Manager<br />
Arctic Project Office<br />
Geophysical Institute<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
Fairbanks, Alaska 99701<br />
Dear Dr. Weller:<br />
Ru# 233<br />
1300 COLLEGE ROAD<br />
FAIRBANKS 99701<br />
This report is intended to summarize our OCS Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea fisheries<br />
studies during the first quarter <strong>of</strong> field work beginning <strong>July</strong> 1975.<br />
A total <strong>of</strong> 38 days was spent in the field, based out <strong>of</strong> VE Construction<br />
at Deadhorse. Two temporary employees were hired to assist in these<br />
studies. Mike Dean helped organize and implement studies in the field<br />
and Bonnie Friedman worked as a lab technician, collating meristic<br />
and life history in<strong>for</strong>mation from fish samples sent to Fairbanks.<br />
An annotated bibliography <strong>of</strong> fisheries work conducted on North Slope<br />
drainages <strong>of</strong> the Brooks Range and the Arctic Ocean was compiled early<br />
in the season.<br />
Multifilament variable mesh gill nets measuring 125' by 6' were used<br />
most extensively throughout the study area. Bag seines and beach<br />
seines were used in the shallow waters <strong>of</strong> bays and lagoons. A fyke trap<br />
with a 150' lead attached to shore was used to live capture fish. A<br />
try trawl with a 10' headline was used in the vicinity <strong>of</strong> Prudhoe Bay.<br />
Tagging <strong>of</strong> char and whitefish was accomplished using both spaghetti<br />
and FD-67 internal anchor tags.<br />
All fish samples collected thus far have been preserved in 10% <strong>for</strong>malin<br />
or frozen and sent to Fairbanks via commercial airlines. Samples were<br />
then examined in the Fairbanks lab as time allowed. Fish were<br />
weighed to the nearest 0.1 gram on a triple-beam balance. Fork lengths<br />
were measured to the nearest millimeter. Sex and stage <strong>of</strong> maturity<br />
were determined by examining gonads. Both scales and o.oliths are<br />
being used to age the fish. Stomachs have been examined fcr fullness<br />
and the contents preserved in 10% <strong>for</strong>malin <strong>for</strong> future identification.<br />
The above life history in<strong>for</strong>mation is recorded with the capture data<br />
and summarized by species on a single data <strong>for</strong>m. The laboratory<br />
analysis <strong>of</strong> samples is continuing at this time.<br />
643
Thirty sampling stations were established between Point Sorensen<br />
and Brownlow point in the eastern one half <strong>of</strong> our study area. An<br />
attempt was made to sample all <strong>of</strong> the dominant habitat types within<br />
this area. This included outer islands, nearshore islands, spits,<br />
points, bays, lagoons, and river deltas. Chemical and physical<br />
parameters such as salinity, temperature, conductivity and depth <strong>of</strong><br />
water were recorded <strong>for</strong> each station. Notes were also taken on<br />
beach type, wind speed and direction. Transportation to each station<br />
was via helicopter.<br />
A total <strong>of</strong> 1,200 fish representing six families and thirteen species<br />
has been captured. Following is a list <strong>of</strong> the species captured from<br />
Prudhoe Bay east to Brownlow point:<br />
Salmonidae<br />
Osmeridae<br />
Gadidae<br />
Cottidae<br />
Salvelinus alpinus<br />
Coregonus sardinella<br />
C. autumnalus<br />
C. nasus<br />
C. pidschian<br />
Thymallus arcticus<br />
Osmeris dentex<br />
Mallotus villosus<br />
Boreogadus saida<br />
Eleginus gracilis<br />
Myoxocephalus quadricornis<br />
Pleuronectidae<br />
Liparidae<br />
Liopsetta glacialis<br />
Liparis spp.<br />
The most wide spread group <strong>of</strong> fishes captured at our net sites were<br />
the salmonoids. Arctic char were captured at 74% <strong>of</strong> our gill net<br />
644
stations. Arctic cisco and least cisco were captured at 65% and 37%<br />
<strong>of</strong> the stations respectively. Least cisco, however, were captured in<br />
the greatest abundance, followed by Arctic cisco and Arctic char. No<br />
true pattern <strong>of</strong> abundance is indicated by our catches in the marine<br />
study area. Adults <strong>of</strong> these species have been captured in various<br />
near shore habitats and have shown no preference <strong>of</strong> one type over another.<br />
Arctic and least cisco fry were captured in bays, lagoons and along<br />
unprotected beaches in shallow water.<br />
Broad whitefish were captured at 35% <strong>of</strong> our net stations and showed an<br />
affinity <strong>for</strong> mainland lagoons and river deltas. Juvenile broad whitefish<br />
were captured in lagoons and along the exposed beaches <strong>of</strong><br />
Prudhoe Bay.<br />
Three humpback whitefish were gill netted along the eastern margin <strong>of</strong><br />
Prudhoe Bay near the mouth <strong>of</strong> the Sagavanirktok River in early August.<br />
Subsequent test netting, however, failed to capture any humpback<br />
whitefish throughout the rest <strong>of</strong> the study area.<br />
Demersal marine species represented by the flat fishes and a single<br />
member <strong>of</strong> the genus Liparis were the least frequently captured group<br />
thus far. Adult and juvenile liparids were captured in the try trawl<br />
and fyke trap. Fourhorn sculpin were captured at nearly all stations<br />
except those inside the large river deltas. They appear to be<br />
abundant along the mainland shoreline and lagoon areas and were<br />
present but less abundant at the barrier island stations.<br />
Capelin were captured in shallow water along exposed mainland beaches.<br />
Young <strong>of</strong> the year and juvenile capelin were captured in Prudhoe Bay.<br />
Rainbow smelt were captured at two stations, again along exposed<br />
mainland beaches.<br />
The most abundantly caught species thus far have been the cod. Three<br />
hundred and <strong>for</strong>ty-nine Arctic cod were captured in one trap night<br />
(21 hours) with a fyke trap set adjacent to the west dock in Prudhoe<br />
Bay. In early <strong>September</strong>, cod fry (young-<strong>of</strong>-the-year) were captured<br />
throughout "rudhoe Bay. Adult saffron cod were captured in lesser<br />
abundance.<br />
Under ice test netting will be conducted this year to determine the<br />
presence or absence, and habitat requirements <strong>of</strong> overwintering fish<br />
in the near shore areas. Our initial work will be in the Sagavanirktok<br />
Delta at the marine-fresh water interface. We will also be continuing<br />
laboratory analysis <strong>of</strong> samples collected this past field season in<br />
preparation <strong>for</strong> an annual report.<br />
Sincerely,<br />
Eugene A. Roguski<br />
Acting Regional Supervisor<br />
By: Terrence Bendock<br />
Fishery Biologist<br />
Division <strong>of</strong> Sport Fish
DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME<br />
August 20, 1975<br />
Dr. Gunter Weller<br />
Project Manager<br />
Arctic Project Office<br />
Geophysical Institute<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
Fairbanks, Alaska 99701<br />
Sir:<br />
1300 COLLEGE ROAD<br />
FAIRBANKS 99701<br />
JAY S. HAMMOND, GOVERNOR<br />
As requested in your Bulletin #6, the following is the project status<br />
<strong>of</strong> the Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea Estuarine Fisheries Study:<br />
April I - June 30, 1975 No work accomplished other than attendance<br />
at Seattle Work Statement Meeting.<br />
In <strong>July</strong> Mr. Terry Bendock was hired as project biologist. After an<br />
initial trip to the study area in <strong>July</strong>, Bendock commenced fish sampling<br />
in August.<br />
Thus far we have sampled approximately 15 sites, mostly from Prudhoe<br />
Bay east to Flaxman Island. Our Fairbanks lab has received approximately<br />
350 fish <strong>of</strong> 7 species: Arctic char, Arctic cisco, least<br />
cisco, broad whitefish, humpback whitefish, fourhorn sculpin, and<br />
Arctic flounder.<br />
Laboratory analysis <strong>of</strong> these fish is presently underway.<br />
A more detailed report on data collected and project status will be<br />
possible following the first quarter <strong>of</strong> work (<strong>September</strong> 30, 1975).<br />
Sincerely<br />
Eugene A. Rogus<br />
Mgt-Research Coordinator<br />
Division <strong>of</strong> Sport Fish<br />
646
JUNEAU PROJECT OFFICE<br />
P. 0. BOX 1808<br />
<strong>Quarterly</strong> Report <strong>for</strong> Quarter Ending <strong>September</strong> 30, 1975.<br />
Project Title: The Distribution, Abundance, Diversity, and Productivity<br />
<strong>of</strong> Benthic Organisms in the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
Contract Number: 03-5-022-56<br />
Task Order Number: 20 RU 281<br />
Principal Investigator: Dr. Howard M. Feder<br />
Pr<strong>of</strong>essor <strong>of</strong> Marine Science<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
Fairbanks, Alaska 99701<br />
I. Task Objectives<br />
A. Inventory and census <strong>of</strong> dominant species.<br />
B. Description <strong>of</strong> spatial and seasonal distribution patterns <strong>of</strong><br />
selected species.<br />
C. Provide comparison <strong>of</strong> dominant species distribution with physical,.<br />
chemical and geological factors.<br />
D. Provide preliminary observations <strong>of</strong> biological interrelationships<br />
between selected segments <strong>of</strong> benthic marine communities.<br />
GRAB PROGRAM<br />
II. Field and Laboratory Activities<br />
A. Ship schedules and names <strong>of</strong> vessels.<br />
1. 31 August 1975-13 <strong>September</strong> 1975, Silas Bent Cruise #343603<br />
2. USNS Silas Bent, Military Sealift Command and Naval<br />
Oceanographic Office.<br />
B. Scientific Party<br />
1. Grant E. M. M:thleke (Research Assisti-nt and Graduate Stu.'.-: t)<br />
Janice Hanscomb (Research Assistant).<br />
C. Methods<br />
1. 0.3M- van Veen grab was used on all stations. Five replic.te<br />
grabs were taken at all stations except stations 4, 30 ar;,<br />
42 where 10 grabs were taken in order to detern.ine the nu' l.e<br />
<strong>of</strong> grabs required <strong>for</strong> adequate stati:stical precjsi-;.on and<br />
stations 39, 44, 54 and 75 where fewer than 5 grabs were ti!:en<br />
due to incl r:re:nt weathelr aind/or unfavorIab] i ,;ustLirate<br />
composition.<br />
2. A separate si'c.irnint sairpl] was takein fromn one gTa <strong>of</strong> Cec;':<br />
s:tntion <strong>for</strong> si'diment si.ze cnanlysis.<br />
3. I,:.''lr"nr .o v^ a)r!]lyr;i's :at t'l(, .'l.M i-r ' i '6,7 ('e;r.:. , l': \' :<br />
o'f A 'l f: [ r;! , i,:.. v IT ' . rt .... ! i 1 l:I. ' '! I' 1 . -<br />
647
D. Sample Localities<br />
III. Results<br />
-2-<br />
The following stations on the standard station grid <strong>of</strong> the Gulf <strong>of</strong><br />
Alaska Lease Area were taken: Station number 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7,<br />
25, 26, 27, 28, 30, 31, 32, 33, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 48, 49, 50,<br />
51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59A.<br />
None <strong>of</strong> the material collected on the USNS Silas Bent cruise number<br />
343603 has been analyzed to date.<br />
IV. Preliminary Interpretation <strong>of</strong> Results<br />
Not available.<br />
V. Problems Encountered, Recommended Changes<br />
Surprisingly few problems were encountered on this cruise. Almost all<br />
<strong>of</strong> the planned stations were occupied successfully due to the seaworthy<br />
characteristics <strong>of</strong> the USNS Silas Bent and the cooperative and helpful<br />
attitude <strong>of</strong> the Captain, and crew, as well as members <strong>of</strong> the embarked<br />
Naval Oceanographic Office Survey Party.<br />
TRAWL PROGRAM<br />
II. Field and Laboratory Activities<br />
A. Ship schedules and names <strong>of</strong> vessels.<br />
Leg I -- 25 April - 16 May 1975<br />
Leg II -- 21 May - 11 June 1975<br />
Leg III - 26 June - 15 <strong>July</strong> 1975<br />
Leg IV -- 20 <strong>July</strong> - 7 August 1975<br />
F/V North Pacific<br />
B. Scientific Party<br />
1. Names<br />
a. Legs I and II, Mr. Stephen C. Jewett, Research Assistant,<br />
Institute <strong>of</strong> Marine Science, University <strong>of</strong> Alaska,<br />
Fairbanks, Alaska.<br />
b. Legs III and IV, Mr. Max K. Hoberg, Research Assistant,<br />
Institute <strong>of</strong> Marine Science, Univcristy <strong>of</strong> Alaska,<br />
Faribanks, Alaska.<br />
2. Scientific Role - In charge <strong>of</strong> benthic collection <strong>of</strong> invr .<br />
brates and collection <strong>of</strong> fish stomachs.<br />
648
C. Methods<br />
1. Field Sampling<br />
-3-<br />
a. One hour tows were made at p redetermined stat ion locat ions<br />
using a 400 mesh Eastern otter trawl. Invertebrate<br />
samples were sorted, weighed and/or counted, identified<br />
or assigned a type number, and preserved <strong>for</strong> later<br />
examination.<br />
b. Fish stomachs were obtained <strong>for</strong> selected species.<br />
2. Laboratory Analysis<br />
a. Samples were returned <strong>for</strong> examination to the Marine<br />
Sorting Center, University <strong>of</strong> Alaska. Laboratory<br />
analysis has not been completed to date.<br />
D. Sample Locations (see Fig. 1)<br />
III. Results<br />
1. Stations Occupied (see Fig. 1, NEGOA F/V North Pacific)<br />
2. Station numbers: 70A-F; 71 B-D; 72 D-I; 73 A-E; 74 A-C;<br />
and F-I; 75 A and G; 76 A-C; 77 A,B,E,F,H,I; 78 A-C, E, F,<br />
H; 79 A-C, E-G; 80 A-F; 81 A-C; 82 A-F; 83 B,C,E-G;<br />
84 B-C; 85 A; 86 B-D; 87 D; 88 A,B,D; 89 A,C-E; 90 B.C;<br />
91 A-D; 92 C,D; 93 A-F; 94 A-G; 95 C-E; 96 A-G; 97 A-D;<br />
98 A-D; 99 B-E; 100 B-D.<br />
Neither the invertebrates nor the fish stomachs have been completely<br />
analyzed to date.<br />
IV. Preliminary Interpretation <strong>of</strong> Results<br />
Detailed analysis not available. Assessment <strong>of</strong> the ficld-notebook data<br />
indicates a broad spectrum <strong>of</strong> coverage on the shelf <strong>of</strong> the Gulf <strong>of</strong><br />
Alaska in the projected lease areas.<br />
V. Problems Encountered, Recommended Changes<br />
No problems were encountered. The cooperative ef<strong>for</strong>t with the National<br />
Marine Fisheries Service program was most satisfactory. It was possible,<br />
as a result <strong>of</strong> this cooperation to collect much more data than was<br />
originally considered possible. I would highly recommend a continuation<br />
<strong>of</strong> this ef<strong>for</strong>t.<br />
649
VI. Estimate <strong>of</strong> Funds Expended<br />
-4-<br />
Total 3 mos<br />
Budget Expended* Remaining<br />
Salaries & wages 63,564.00 1,511.22 62,052.78<br />
Staff Benefits 10,806.00 256.91 10,549.09<br />
Equipment 4,000.00 75.00 3,925.00<br />
Travel 5,200.00 0 5,200.00<br />
Other 95,700.00 107.00 95,593.00<br />
Total Direct 179,270.00 1,950.13 177,319.87<br />
Indirect 36,359.00 864.42 35,494.58<br />
Total Cost 215,629.00 2,814.55* 212,814.45<br />
* Preliminary data, not yet fully processed.<br />
650
OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF ENERGY PROGRAt<br />
JUN!AJJ rOJLCT OFFICE<br />
P. 0. BOX 1808<br />
JUNEAU, ALASKA 99802 ....<br />
<strong>Quarterly</strong> Report <strong>for</strong> Quarter Ending <strong>September</strong> 30, 1975<br />
Project Title:<br />
Contract Number: . 03-5-022-56<br />
Summarizing <strong>of</strong> Existing Literature and<br />
Unpublished Data on the Distribution,<br />
Abundance and Productivity <strong>of</strong> Benthic<br />
Organisms <strong>of</strong> the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska and<br />
Bering Sea.<br />
Task Order Number: 10 '., Z r 3 c/<br />
Principal Investigator: Dr. -Howard M. Feder<br />
Pr<strong>of</strong>essor <strong>of</strong> Marine Science<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
Fairbanks, Alaska 99701<br />
I. Task Objectives<br />
A. A summary <strong>of</strong> existing data, published and unpublished,<br />
<strong>for</strong> the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska and the Bering Sea.<br />
B. Access to and loan <strong>of</strong> archived material from both <strong>of</strong> the<br />
above areas.<br />
C. Workup <strong>of</strong> archived data and material.<br />
II. Field and Laboratory Activities<br />
IlI. Results<br />
Methods:<br />
1. Literature survey using standard Library Search<br />
techniques has been undertaken. Plans under way<br />
to utilize literature searching organizations; some<br />
correspondence will be initiated.<br />
2. Correspondence will be initiated to locate archived<br />
data and material.<br />
A. 300 references have been located pcirt:ii!iiing 1 t t(ull 'he<br />
<strong>of</strong> Alaska and Bring B and n Sa d the refere(,Inces cataloged .<br />
1? . 12 0 references have been recrivcd ;,ii! e:x:;!iin': l , Ith<br />
r el'c iecrc, l:iv'e been 'ec mN'(ri- d lt il>t,.<br />
' i Iro653<br />
653
-2-<br />
D. All <strong>of</strong> the Bering Sea benthic material c!ll ctccl by Sam<br />
Stoker is presently archived at the Marine Sorting Center<br />
and is available <strong>for</strong> this project.<br />
E. Biological Material collected by Hans Nelson and D. M.<br />
Hopkin during the course <strong>of</strong> the study - Sedimentary<br />
Processes and Distribution <strong>of</strong> Particulate Gold in Nol-thern<br />
Bering Sea - is presently being worked up at the Marine<br />
Sorting Center. The larger mollusks from this study have<br />
already been studied by Rowland <strong>of</strong> USGS.<br />
IV. Preliminary Interpretations<br />
No comments can be included at present. All work is in initial<br />
phases.<br />
V. Problems Encountered<br />
None.<br />
VI. Estimate <strong>of</strong> Funds Expended<br />
(6 months)<br />
Budget Total Expended* Remaining<br />
Salary & wages 51,046.00 1,148.40 49,897.60<br />
Staff Benefits 8,625.00 195.23 8,429.77<br />
Equipment -0- -0- -0-<br />
Travel 3,750.00 -0- 3,750.00<br />
Other 5,200.00 42.05 5,157.95<br />
Total Direct 68,621.00 1,385.68 67,235.32<br />
Indirect 29,198.00 656.88 28,541.12<br />
Task Order Total 97,819.00 2,042.56* 95,776.4,4<br />
*Preliminary cost data, not yet fully processed.<br />
,!
OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF ENERGY PROGRAMy<br />
JUNEAU PROJECT OFFICE<br />
P. 0. BOX 1808<br />
JUNEAU, ALASKA 99802 /<br />
<strong>Quarterly</strong> Report <strong>for</strong> Quarter Ending <strong>September</strong> 30, 1975<br />
Project Title: Food and Feeding Relationships in the Benthic and<br />
Demersal Fishes <strong>of</strong> the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska and Bering<br />
Sea<br />
Contract Number: 03-5-022-56<br />
Task Order Number: 21<br />
Principal Investigator: Dr. Ronald L. Smith<br />
Assoc. Pr<strong>of</strong>essor <strong>of</strong> Zoology/Biology<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
Fairbanks, Alaska 99701<br />
I. Task Objectives<br />
Objectives <strong>for</strong> this quarter include archival <strong>of</strong> guts collected during<br />
the summer in the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska and include arranging <strong>for</strong> gut samples<br />
to be taken in the Bering Sea during the fall cruise <strong>of</strong> the "Miller Freeman".<br />
II. Field and Laboratory Activities<br />
Stomachs from Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska fishes were collected and preserved by personnel<br />
<strong>of</strong> the benthic program under the supervision <strong>of</strong> Dr. Howard Feder.<br />
These activities were carried out during three legs <strong>of</strong> the cruise <strong>of</strong> the<br />
trawler "North Pacific".<br />
Arrangements were made whereby personnel <strong>of</strong> NWFC would collect fish<br />
stomachs during trawling activities on board the R.V. "Miller Freeman"<br />
in the Bering Sea. Also, we were able to put one <strong>of</strong> our men aboard the<br />
"Miller Freeman" on Leg III <strong>of</strong> that cruise.<br />
III. Results<br />
Collections from the Bering (made incidental to Dr. Feder's invertebrate<br />
collections) include the following species and numbers <strong>of</strong> specimens:<br />
Yellowfin sole 111<br />
Alaska plaice 76<br />
Greenland Turbot 73<br />
Pacific herring 51<br />
Saffron cod 47<br />
Rainbow smelt<br />
42<br />
Sturgeon poaches<br />
42<br />
Rock sole 41<br />
Capelin<br />
32<br />
Wattled eelpout 30<br />
Longnose dab 28<br />
Pollock<br />
23<br />
Great sculpin<br />
Steller's grcnlinp 21<br />
14 additional speci ; w tiil 1 Ito 19 spec.inme'.s t, <strong>of</strong>"<br />
" 1 ]II i fl I' , [ ' (i6 i ) ! 1 t! ,', . 1. 0 '::;<br />
o l A li; ;; , . 'Til ; [oh i ;; "l'1 i' i 'i qp Let i on k it i 1i :;. i;; l 'I .i; 1 i \, i: ,;<br />
657<br />
20
<strong>for</strong>malin solution. We expect to buffer these collections in the near<br />
future. Collections from the Gulf include the following species and<br />
approximate numbers <strong>of</strong> specimens:<br />
Black cod 29<br />
Pacific cod 151<br />
Shortfin eelpout 115<br />
Wattled eelpout 62<br />
Eulachon 105<br />
Halibut 45<br />
Pollock 368<br />
Rougheye rockfish 65<br />
Springhead sculpin 67<br />
Yellowbrush lord 47<br />
Searcher 37<br />
Dover sole 142<br />
Flathead sole 247<br />
Rex sole 388<br />
Turbot 350<br />
In addition to these activities, we have made arrangements <strong>for</strong> and received<br />
a retrospective literature search through OASIS, searching five different<br />
data bases.<br />
IV. Problems Encountered<br />
The major problem encountered during this quarter was the very scanty<br />
collections from Leg I <strong>of</strong> the "Miller Freeman" cruise and the lack <strong>of</strong><br />
collections from Leg II. The operational plan <strong>for</strong> that cruise called<br />
<strong>for</strong> the collection <strong>of</strong> 200-300 stomachs from the four or five most abundant<br />
fish species encountered. Instructions <strong>for</strong> sample collection and preservation<br />
materials including cloth bags, <strong>for</strong>maldehyde, labels and buckets were<br />
to be supplied by IMS personnel. The instructions and materials were<br />
supplied, yet the Chief Scientist <strong>of</strong> Leg I did not make any ef<strong>for</strong>t to secure<br />
the required samples. Our only samples resulted from the spare time activity<br />
<strong>of</strong> an IMS technician on board. This un<strong>for</strong>tunate situation has resulted in<br />
the loss <strong>of</strong> a great deal <strong>of</strong> in<strong>for</strong>mation about food and feeding in these<br />
fishes. This situation seems to reflect a real disinterest on the part <strong>of</strong><br />
Northwest Fisheries Center in cooperation to meet mutual goals in what was<br />
supposed to be an integrated program.<br />
Another problem has to do with the buckets we provided <strong>for</strong> storage <strong>of</strong><br />
the stomachs. We had 120 four gallon pails with lids delivered to the<br />
R.V. "Miller Freeman" at least one week be<strong>for</strong>e it sailed <strong>for</strong> the Bering.<br />
Our supplier is reliable and has confirmed that he did deliver the pails.<br />
IMS personnel could not seem to locate these pails on board the "Miller<br />
Freeman" during Leg I. Since our supplies budget has been exhausted ans<br />
since these buckets will be essential <strong>for</strong> any further collections from: the<br />
Bering, it is critical that these pails be found and made available tL i .<br />
Lid'
V. Estimate <strong>of</strong> Funds Expended<br />
Total 3 mos<br />
Budget Expended* Remaining<br />
Salaries & wages 36,609.00 4,821.06 31,787.94<br />
Staff Benefits 6,224.00 702.19 5,521.81<br />
Equipment 490.00 0 490.00<br />
Travel 1,500.00 0 1,500.00<br />
Other 9,400.00 1,300.44 8,099.56<br />
Total Direct 54,223.00 6,823.69 47,399.31<br />
Indirect 20Q940.00 2,767.65 18,172.35<br />
Total Cost 75,163.00 9,591.34* 65,571.66<br />
* Preliminary data, not yet fully processed.<br />
659
OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF ENERGY PROGRAM<br />
JUNEAU PROJECT OFFICE<br />
P. O. BOX 1808<br />
<strong>Quarterly</strong> Report <strong>for</strong> Quarter EndiAHdSN E§~ mW021975 ..<br />
Project Title: Preparation <strong>of</strong> Illustrnted Keys to Skeletal Remains<br />
and Otoliths <strong>of</strong> Forage Fishes<br />
Contract Number: 03-5-022-56<br />
Task Order Number: 22<br />
Principal Investigator: James E. Morrow<br />
Pr<strong>of</strong>essor <strong>of</strong> Zoology and Biological Sciences<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
Fairbanks, Alaska 99701<br />
I. Task Objectives<br />
To develop illustrated keys to skeletal remains and otoliths <strong>for</strong><br />
<strong>for</strong>age fishes in the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska and Bering Sea.<br />
II. Field and Laboratory Activities<br />
Specimens were received from three cruises. The first two sets <strong>of</strong><br />
material were preserved in<strong>for</strong>malin rather than being frozen, so preparation<br />
<strong>of</strong> these materials is much slower than would be the case with<br />
frozen material. Considerable experimentation was needed to develop a<br />
fruitful technique <strong>for</strong> preparing skeletons from <strong>for</strong>maldehyde specimens.<br />
We finally settled on the rotting technique. The specimens are cleaned<br />
<strong>of</strong> as much flesh as possible, then put in jars <strong>of</strong> water. Eventually<br />
a bacterial culture develops, which rots away the flesh. This takes<br />
six weeks or more, but produces a good skeleton. We currently have 22<br />
skeletons in process by this method.<br />
III. Results<br />
Ninety five (95) sets <strong>of</strong> otoliths, representing 16 species have been<br />
taken and mounted. Length data <strong>for</strong> each specimen have been recorded in<br />
the hope that we will be able to include a relation between otolith size<br />
and fish size in the key.<br />
IV. Problems Encounctered<br />
Because <strong>of</strong> the long delay in receiving notice <strong>of</strong> approved funding and<br />
the difficulty <strong>of</strong> finding a qualified technician, said technician was<br />
not hired until 1 <strong>September</strong>. We were unable to find anyone who wanted<br />
to work full time on this project, so hired one half time person. It is<br />
anticipated that another half time person will be hired within the next<br />
week or so.<br />
661
V. Estimate <strong>of</strong> Funds Expended<br />
-2-<br />
Total 3 mos<br />
Budget Expended* Remaining<br />
Salaries & wages 24,318.00 0 24,318.00<br />
Staff Benefits 4,134.00 0 4,134.00<br />
Equipment 0 444.00 (444.00)**<br />
Travel 0 0 0<br />
Other 1,600.00 0 1,600.00<br />
Total Direct 30,052.00 444.00 29,608.00<br />
Indirect 13,910.00 0 13,910.00<br />
Total Cost 43,962.00 444.00* 43,518.00<br />
* Preliminary data, not yet fully processed.<br />
**Request <strong>for</strong> fund transfer in contract <strong>of</strong>ficers hands.<br />
6'6\?
OUTER CONTINENTAL .HELF ENERGY PROGRAM<br />
JUNEAU PROJECT OFFICE<br />
P. 0. BOX 1808<br />
<strong>Quarterly</strong> Report <strong>for</strong> Quarter Ending SepMJCg UrASKAl602 .. .<br />
R q# 318<br />
Project Title: Preparation <strong>of</strong> Illustrated Keys to Skeletal Remains<br />
and Otoliths <strong>of</strong> Forage Fishes<br />
Contract Number: 03-5-022-56<br />
Task Order Number: 9<br />
Principal Investigator: James E. Morrow<br />
Pr<strong>of</strong>essor <strong>of</strong> Zoology and Biological Sciences<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
Fairbanks, Alaska 99701<br />
I. Task Objectives<br />
To develop illustrated keys to skeletal remains and otoliths <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>for</strong>age fishes in the Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea.<br />
II. Field and Laboratory Activities<br />
No cruise has been scheduled into the Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea hence no material<br />
<strong>for</strong> analysis has been received.<br />
III. Results<br />
None.<br />
IV. Problems Encountered<br />
None.<br />
V. Estimate <strong>of</strong> Funds Expended<br />
Total 6 mos<br />
Budget Expended* Remaining<br />
Salary & wages 15,272.00 136.00 15,135.70<br />
Staff Benefits 2,570.00 21.81 2,548.19<br />
Equipment 0 0 0<br />
Travel 750.00 0 750.00<br />
Other 900.00 0 900.00<br />
Total Direct 19,492.00 158.11 19,333.89<br />
Indirect 8,734.00 77.96 8,656.04<br />
Total Cost 28,226.00 236.07* 27,989.93<br />
* Preliminary data, not yet fully processed.<br />
6 63
OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF ENERGY PROGRAM<br />
JUNEAU PROJECT OFFICE<br />
P. 0. BOX 1808<br />
<strong>Quarterly</strong> Report <strong>for</strong> Quarter EndingJLRteUpiAA1A3(a875 ....<br />
Project Title: Literature Search on Density Distribution <strong>of</strong> Fishes<br />
<strong>of</strong> the Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea<br />
Contract Number: 03-5-022-56<br />
Task Order Number: 16<br />
Principal Investigator: James E. Morrow<br />
Pr<strong>of</strong>essor <strong>of</strong> Zoology and Biological Sciences<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
Fairbanks, Alaska 99701<br />
I. Task Objectives<br />
To complete a literature search on the density and distrubiton <strong>of</strong><br />
fishes <strong>of</strong> the Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea.<br />
II. Field and Laboratory Activities<br />
None.<br />
III. Results<br />
Mrs. Wilma E. Pfeifer, a well-qualified reference librarian, was hired<br />
in <strong>July</strong> on a half time basis. To date, Mrs. Pfeifer has located more<br />
than 400 pertinent references and has abstracted about 50 <strong>of</strong> them.<br />
Cooperative arrangements have been established with Ms. Bonnie Friedman,<br />
who is engaged in a similar project <strong>for</strong> the Alaska Department <strong>of</strong> Fish<br />
and Game, Fairbanks, and Mr. Andrew Grossman, working on a summary <strong>of</strong><br />
literature on invertebrates <strong>of</strong> the Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea <strong>for</strong> Dr. Howard Feder in<br />
an Atlantic Richfield Oil Company project.<br />
IV. Problems Encountered<br />
None.<br />
V. Estimate <strong>of</strong> Funds Expended<br />
Total 3 mos<br />
Budget Expended Remaining<br />
Salaries & wages 10,851.00 0 10,851.00<br />
Staff Benefits 1,844.00 0 1,844.00<br />
Equipment 0 0 0<br />
Travel 625.00 0 625.00<br />
Other 475.00 0 475.00<br />
Total Direct 13,795.00 0 13,795.00<br />
Indirect 6207.00 0 6207.00<br />
Total Cost 20,002.0(0 0 20, 002 .00<br />
665
Departmental Concurrence: -<br />
OtTER CONTINENTAL SHELF ENERGY PROGRAM J eC #gj<br />
JUNEAU PROJECT OFFICE<br />
W<br />
P, 0. Box 1808 027 19l<br />
UNEAU ALASKA 99802 NO 0 195<br />
S.GE OQA<br />
Alaska Marine Ichthyoplankton Key<br />
(Research Unit #349)<br />
First Semi-Annual Progress Report<br />
31 October 1975<br />
T. Saunders English<br />
Department <strong>of</strong> Oceanography<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Washington<br />
Seattle, Washington 98195<br />
/<br />
I ( 1' -.<br />
Francis A. Richards<br />
Associate Chairman <strong>for</strong> Research<br />
667
Ichthyoplankton<br />
A key to the pelagic fish eggs <strong>of</strong> Alaskan waters has been constructed.<br />
This key covers 20 species <strong>of</strong> present commercial or possible commercial<br />
value. Several species could not be included at this time because no<br />
in<strong>for</strong>mation is available.<br />
A list <strong>of</strong> commercially valuable Alaskan species has been prepared<br />
including 49 species <strong>of</strong> fish, 2 species <strong>of</strong> shrimps, 3 species <strong>of</strong> crabs,<br />
3 species <strong>of</strong> clams, 1 species <strong>of</strong> scallop, and 1 species <strong>of</strong> abalone. A list<br />
<strong>of</strong> references <strong>for</strong> these species is included.<br />
A list <strong>of</strong> Alaskan fishes with pelagic larvae has been prepared. This<br />
list comprises 173 species from 37 families.<br />
A bibliography has been prepared covering life history in<strong>for</strong>mation on<br />
15 fish species <strong>of</strong> commercial value. There are approximately 100-130<br />
references dealing with pelagic life history studies <strong>of</strong> Alaskan commercial<br />
species although many <strong>of</strong> these species are also found in Cali<strong>for</strong>nian,<br />
Japanese, or Northeast Pacific waters. There is little in<strong>for</strong>mation available<br />
concerning fishes in the Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea.<br />
In addition, a list <strong>of</strong> approximately 100 references to literature<br />
relating to ichthyoplankton and fisheries in Alaskan waters has been compiled.<br />
668
OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF ENERGY PROGRAM<br />
JUNEAU PROJECT OFFICE<br />
P. O. BOX 1808<br />
JUNEAU, ALASKA 99802 -....<br />
Progress Report, BLM/OCS Research Unit #354<br />
NOV 06 1975<br />
.NEGOA<br />
Review <strong>of</strong> Literature and Archived Data on Non-Salmonid<br />
Pelagic Fishes <strong>of</strong> the Eastern Bering Sea<br />
by<br />
Martin 0. Nelson<br />
National Marine Fisheries Service<br />
Northwest Fisheries Center<br />
Seattle, Washington<br />
October 24, 1975<br />
669
i. Task Objectives<br />
II. Background<br />
Review <strong>of</strong> Litera ure and Archived Data <strong>for</strong> Non-Salmonid<br />
SPel4piFishes <strong>of</strong> the Eastern Bering Sea<br />
A. Ley~ew pnfd sbamarize the published and unpublished scientific<br />
literature on the distribution, abundance, life histories and<br />
population dynamics <strong>of</strong> non-salmonid pelagic fishes <strong>of</strong> the<br />
eastern Bering Sea.<br />
B. Examine and summarize unpublished research vessel survey and<br />
commerical fishery data on the distribution, abundance and<br />
size composition <strong>of</strong> the subject species.<br />
C. Prepare data report on records <strong>of</strong> the distribution, abundance<br />
and size composition <strong>of</strong> the subject species.<br />
D. Prepare annotated bibliography and a narrative report which<br />
collates results <strong>of</strong> studies undertaken under objectives (A)<br />
and (B) and describes, within the constraints <strong>of</strong> the available<br />
data, observed temporal and spatial variations in the distribu-<br />
tions <strong>of</strong> the subject species.<br />
In-house meetings were held during the summer to define the geographic<br />
area <strong>of</strong> interest, prospective subject species, the types/scope <strong>of</strong><br />
in<strong>for</strong>mation to be included in the review and to make arrangements <strong>for</strong><br />
employing new personnel. Attention was also devoted to the problem <strong>of</strong><br />
how to treat semi-pelagic species, e.g., pollock and other cods, rockfish<br />
and sablefish, <strong>of</strong> interest to both this project and RU #175.<br />
A. Geographic Coverage<br />
The area which is being considered extends from 520 to 600 north<br />
latitude and from 1800 to the Alaskan coast. Examination <strong>of</strong><br />
670
unpublished catch records is essentially confined to this area.<br />
The literature review work is also confined to this area to the<br />
extent that it is practical.<br />
B. Species<br />
A prospective species list is attached (Appendix A). This list<br />
is based on a preliminary examination <strong>of</strong> the literature and <strong>of</strong><br />
unpublished data files from research vessel surveys. It has been<br />
decided that description <strong>of</strong> the life histories <strong>of</strong> all cods, all<br />
rockfish and sablefish, will be treated in detail by the demersal<br />
resource project (RU #175). However, all in<strong>for</strong>mation on the<br />
pelagic occurrence, distribution, behavior and sampling/detection<br />
<strong>of</strong> these species will be examined and reported on by the present<br />
project. In addition, records are being kept <strong>of</strong> the pelagic<br />
'occurrence <strong>of</strong> flatfishes.<br />
C. Subject Areas<br />
The final report to be submitted <strong>for</strong> this project will include<br />
synoptic in<strong>for</strong>mation from the literature on the life history,<br />
distribution and abundance, population dynamics and (where<br />
applicable) fisheries <strong>for</strong> the subject species. It will also<br />
include detailed records <strong>of</strong> the data on distribution, abundance<br />
and size composition obtained from the examination <strong>of</strong> unpublished<br />
data files. The outline below is being used as a guide in<br />
compiling literature on the subject species, but it should not<br />
be considered a report outline, since the report will necessarily<br />
be much less detailed.<br />
1. Distribution and abundance by life stage (eggs, larvae,<br />
juveniles, and adults)<br />
y71
a. total area<br />
b. relative abundance by time and area<br />
c. ecological/oceanographic determinants <strong>of</strong> distribution<br />
changes<br />
2. Life history and behavior<br />
a. Reproduction<br />
(1) Sexuality, mating and fertilization<br />
(2) Age and size at maturity<br />
(3) Fecundity<br />
(4) Spawning<br />
(a) Seasons, areas, frequency<br />
(b) Egg stage: structure, size, hatching<br />
type, predators and parasites<br />
b. Larval and juvenile histories<br />
(1) Rate <strong>of</strong> development<br />
(2) Feeding and movements<br />
(3) Predators, competitors and survival rates<br />
c. Adult history<br />
(1) Longevity<br />
(2) Hardiness<br />
(3) Predators, competitors, parasites and diseases<br />
d. Nutrition and growth<br />
(1) Food and feeding behavior<br />
(2) Growth<br />
(a) Food types and amounts<br />
(b) Feeding behavior: season, location, time<br />
(a) Age-length :nd age-weight relations<br />
(b) Ralative and absolute growth rates<br />
672
e. Behavior<br />
(1) Migrations<br />
(2) Bathymetric and vertical movements<br />
(3) Schooling characteristics<br />
(4) Behavior in relation to sampling/detection<br />
tactics and strategy<br />
3. Population structure and dynamics<br />
4. Fishing<br />
a. Sex ratio, size composition, age composition<br />
b. Abundance and density<br />
(1) Relative abundance and standing stock estimates<br />
(2) Density estimates and changes in density<br />
c. Recruitment<br />
d. Mortality<br />
(1) Natural mortality rate<br />
(2) Fishing mortality rate<br />
e. Yield models and estimates<br />
f. Population/community/ecosystem relations<br />
a. Vessels, gear and gear selectivity<br />
b. Areas and seasons<br />
c. History <strong>of</strong> fishery<br />
(1) Distribution <strong>of</strong> ef<strong>for</strong>t<br />
(2) Catch statistics<br />
5. Conservation/management regulations<br />
It is apparent that <strong>for</strong> most <strong>of</strong> the subject species,<br />
little or no in<strong>for</strong>mation will be available on many <strong>of</strong> the<br />
items listed. This is primarily because most <strong>of</strong> the data<br />
673
available on non-salmonid pelagic'species (with' the exception<br />
<strong>of</strong> herring and semi-pelagic groundfishes) have been collected<br />
on an incidental basis, and also because most <strong>of</strong> the species<br />
are unexploited.<br />
It should be noted that the nomenclature, taxonomic status<br />
and morphology <strong>of</strong> the subject species will not be described<br />
in any detail. Speciation/subpopulation problems will be<br />
treated <strong>for</strong> those species in which they are important.<br />
No attempt will be made to include references on processing,<br />
utilization or marketing. Also, papers on the effects <strong>of</strong><br />
contaminants on the subject species will not be included and<br />
no attempt will be made to predict the possible impacts <strong>of</strong><br />
petroleum development activities on the subject species.<br />
D. Personnel and the Interaction with RU #64<br />
On <strong>September</strong> 12, Ms. Janet Wall was hired under the present<br />
project to work on the literature review studies. Ms. Wall<br />
is supervised by Mr. Paul Macy and it was decided that their<br />
work will cover both the eastern Bering Sea and Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska<br />
(RU #64) areas. Conversely, Mr. Nick Lampsakis, a GS-9 Fishery<br />
Biologist hired on <strong>September</strong> 29 under RU #64 to work on data<br />
records from the Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska, is also examining the eastern<br />
Bering Sea data sources. Mr. Lampsakis will be supervised by<br />
Mr. James Mason. Although not specified in the project proposals,<br />
this "cross-walking" <strong>of</strong> personnel between the two similar RU's<br />
eliminates the possibility <strong>of</strong> a significant amount <strong>of</strong> redundant<br />
ef<strong>for</strong>t, makes the best use <strong>of</strong> available talents, and should<br />
provide an efficient means <strong>of</strong> accomplishing the objectives <strong>of</strong><br />
both RU's.<br />
674
III. Laboratory Activities<br />
A. Methods<br />
1. Literature Review Studies<br />
The literature review was begun by examining major literature<br />
indices and some <strong>of</strong> the more comprehensive references on the<br />
subject species. The sequence <strong>of</strong> steps which is being followed<br />
in the literature review process is as follows:<br />
a. Enter complete citation on file card and arrange by<br />
author and year<br />
b. Periodically duplicate accumulated reference cards and<br />
place in file sorted by publication<br />
c. Obtain and examine source literature and verify accuracy<br />
<strong>of</strong> reference<br />
d. Prepare annotation and, if necessary, select pages to<br />
be duplicated<br />
e. Papers and/or pertinent extracted in<strong>for</strong>mation placed<br />
in file arranged in order <strong>of</strong> final report outline<br />
f. Foreign literature translated as necessary<br />
In order to avoid unnecessary duplication <strong>of</strong> ef<strong>for</strong>t, personnel<br />
from RU #175 are working with Ms. Wall and Mr. Macy. Although<br />
it has not yet been necessary, or practical, it is planned to<br />
take advantage <strong>of</strong> computerized literature retrieval services.<br />
2. Examination <strong>of</strong> unpublished data records<br />
The inventory <strong>of</strong> unpublished data was recently initiated and<br />
to date has included the incidental catch records <strong>of</strong> the high<br />
seas salmon purse seining conducted by the University <strong>of</strong><br />
Washington's Fisheries Research Institute (FRI), the NWFC's<br />
high seas salmon gillnetting studies, and the Japanese<br />
675
B. Results<br />
Fishery Agency's high seas salmon gillnetting studies.<br />
The purse seine catch data on non-salmonid pelagic species<br />
were not entered on cards and it was necessary to examine all<br />
<strong>of</strong> the original field data and <strong>for</strong>mat it <strong>for</strong> preliminary ADP<br />
tabulation and analysis. Computer printouts <strong>of</strong> incidental<br />
catches made in gillnets were available. These data were<br />
recently re<strong>for</strong>matted. Decisions as to the final data report<br />
<strong>for</strong>mats will not be made until a preliminary inventory <strong>of</strong><br />
all data sources has been completed.<br />
1. Literature Review Studies<br />
To date, the literature search has produced approximately<br />
600 references on non-salmonid pelagic fishes <strong>of</strong> the eastern<br />
Bering Sea and Gulf <strong>of</strong> Alaska. Many <strong>of</strong> these deal with the<br />
life histories <strong>of</strong> the subject species and the in<strong>for</strong>mation<br />
they contain is germane to both RU #354 and RU #64. It is<br />
expected that the total number <strong>of</strong> papers will not exceed<br />
about 1000 and that additional articles will be obtained<br />
mainly from the literature cited in the papers already located.<br />
Review and annotation <strong>of</strong> the papers available is just now being<br />
initiated.<br />
2. Examination <strong>of</strong> unpublished data records<br />
a. FRI high seas salmon purse seine records<br />
These are available <strong>for</strong> the years from 1956 to the<br />
present. Ef<strong>for</strong>t data is retrievable from IBM cards<br />
by year, INPFC area <strong>of</strong> sampling, set location, set<br />
number and vessel code. Within the area <strong>of</strong> interest,<br />
304 sets were made. Of these, 183 contain useable<br />
676
in<strong>for</strong>mation <strong>for</strong> non-salmonid pelagic species.<br />
b. NWFC high seas salmon gillnetting records<br />
Records are available <strong>for</strong> the years 1955 to 1972.<br />
In the subject area, 213 sets were made, 92 <strong>of</strong> which<br />
contain useable data on incidental catches <strong>of</strong> the<br />
subject species.<br />
c. Japanese high sea salnon gillnetting records<br />
Japanese gillnetting ef<strong>for</strong>t in the subject area was<br />
limited and records presently available at the NWFC<br />
from INPFC contained no in<strong>for</strong>mation on incidentally<br />
caught species.<br />
Iv. Preliminary Interpretation <strong>of</strong> Results<br />
Since results are limited to an inventory <strong>of</strong> selected data sources and<br />
the assembly <strong>of</strong> a literature file, no interpretation is feasible.<br />
However, it can be noted that the inventory <strong>of</strong> high seas purse seine and<br />
gillnet data, together with a rough estimate <strong>of</strong> the amount <strong>of</strong> in<strong>for</strong>mation<br />
available in the data sources not yet examined, suggests that the total<br />
amount <strong>of</strong> catch data on all but a few non-salmonid pelagic species is<br />
quite small.<br />
Potential data sources to be examined during the next few months<br />
include the NMFS Auke Bay Fisheries Laboratory Bristol Bay salmon<br />
research records, Alaska Department <strong>of</strong> Fish and Game data, several U. S.<br />
groundfish survey data files, data from the U. S. observer program on<br />
Japanese commercial vessels, Soviet commercial fishery statistics, and<br />
the Japanese commercial catch and ef<strong>for</strong>t data on herring which is made<br />
available annually through INPFC.<br />
677
V. Problems Encountered/Recommended Changes<br />
It is recommended, if it is administratively feasible, that this project<br />
and RU #64 be combined into one Research Unit. Except <strong>for</strong> the geographic<br />
areas <strong>of</strong> interest, the two projects are essentially identical. There are<br />
no major differences in the species groups <strong>of</strong> concern and putting<br />
in<strong>for</strong>mation on the two areas together in one source would be advantageous<br />
to most people interested in obtaining in<strong>for</strong>mation on the subject species.<br />
Combining the research units would also eliminate a highly significant<br />
amount <strong>of</strong> duplication when reporting, particularly with regard to objectives,<br />
methods, species life history descriptions, descriptions <strong>of</strong> gear types<br />
used on research surveys which covered both areas, etc.<br />
The inventory <strong>of</strong> data records which has been conducted to date<br />
suggests that in some instances: there may be significant errors with<br />
regard to the identification and enumeration <strong>of</strong> the incidentally caught<br />
non-salmonid species. Accurate enumeration was generally not attempted<br />
when the incidental catches were large. In most instances, errors in<br />
identification and enumeration cannot be corrected. However, in those<br />
cases where potential errors could significantly affect results and their<br />
interpretation, the data will be singled out and properly qualified.<br />
It should be noted that there were very significant gaps between times<br />
<strong>of</strong> sampling during most <strong>of</strong> the high seas salmon studies. Usually, ef<strong>for</strong>t<br />
was concentrated in the summer months. As a consequence, seasonal<br />
differencesin the distribution and abundance <strong>of</strong> the subject species will<br />
be difficult to describe in detail.<br />
Although it is perhaps obvious, it should be recognized that none <strong>of</strong><br />
the fishing gearsused during the high seas salmon studies were designed<br />
678
Lamnidae<br />
APPENDIX A<br />
Proposed Species List <strong>of</strong> Non-Salmonid Pelagic Fishes<br />
Salmon shark (Lamna ditropis)<br />
Carcharinidae<br />
Clupeidae<br />
Osmeridae<br />
Gadidae<br />
Blue shark (Prionace glauca)<br />
Spiny dogfish (Squalus acanthias)<br />
Herring (Clupea harengus pallasi)<br />
Capelin (Mallotus villosus)<br />
Rainbow smelt (Osmerus mordax dentex)<br />
Eulachon (Thaleichthys pacificus)<br />
Pacific cod (Gadus macrocephalus)<br />
Pacific hake (Merluccius productus)<br />
Pacific tomcod (Microgadus proximus)<br />
Walleye pollock (Theragra chalcogramma)<br />
Arctic cod (Boreogadus saida)<br />
Saffron cod (Eleginus gracilis)<br />
Scomberesocidae<br />
Bramidae<br />
Pacific saury (Cololabis saira)<br />
Pacific pomfret (Brama japonica)<br />
Trichodontidae<br />
Sandfish (Trichodon trichodon)<br />
167 ,
to be effective <strong>for</strong> the subject species. Consequently, it will be<br />
necessary to be extremely cautious when attempting to describe distribution<br />
and abundance patterns from the data available.<br />
VI. Estimate <strong>of</strong> Funds Expended<br />
680
Zaproridae<br />
Prowfish (Zaprora silehus)<br />
Ammodytidae<br />
Icosteidae<br />
Pacific sandlance (Ammodytes hexapterus)<br />
Ragfish (Icosteus aenigmaticus)<br />
Scorpaenidae<br />
All species in the genera Sebastes.and Sebastolobus which occur<br />
in the study area.<br />
Anoplomatidae<br />
Sablefish (Anoplopoma fimhria)<br />
Hexagrammidae<br />
Atka mackerel (Pleurogrammus monopterygius)<br />
1+51
RU 356<br />
Littoral Survey <strong>of</strong> the Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea<br />
<strong>Quarterly</strong> report covering <strong>July</strong>, August, <strong>September</strong> 1975<br />
was not received in time to be included in this volume.<br />
It will be included with the next quarter' <strong>reports</strong>.<br />
683
Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea Plankton Studies<br />
(Research Unit #359)<br />
First Semi-Annual Progress Report<br />
Departmental Concurrence:<br />
31 October 1975<br />
T. Saunders English<br />
Rita A. Horner<br />
Department <strong>of</strong> Oceanography<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Washington<br />
Seattle, Washington 98195<br />
685<br />
Francis A. Richards<br />
Associate Chairman <strong>for</strong> Research<br />
RU 3S F
I. Introduction<br />
Emphasis <strong>of</strong> the Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea plankton studies project <strong>for</strong> the period<br />
1 April to 30 <strong>September</strong> 1975 has been:<br />
1. To determine seasonal density distribution and environmental requirements<br />
<strong>of</strong> phytoplankton and zooplankton in the nearshore area <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea from Barrow to Prudhoe Bay and at an <strong>of</strong>fshore site on<br />
an ice floe station;<br />
2. To summarize existing literature on Arctic phytoplankton, zooplankton,<br />
and ichthyoplankton.<br />
In addition, we have made arrangements to obtain samples from the Auke<br />
Bay Fisheries Laboratory that were collected during the 1972 WEBSEC<br />
cruise in the Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea and we have compiled lists <strong>of</strong> phytoplankton<br />
and zooplankton species known to be found in the Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea.<br />
II. Field Projects<br />
a. Barrow to Prudhoe Bay<br />
1. Project Personnel and location<br />
Rita Horner 1 - 15 August NARL<br />
Mike Macaulay 4 - 18 August NARL<br />
Rich McKinney 4 Aug - 3 Sep NARL<br />
Debbie White 1 Aug - 2 Oct NARL, Oliktok, Prudhoe Bay<br />
2. Sampling program<br />
Unfavorable ice conditions and logistic difficulties hampered the nearshore<br />
field work. Despite problems, 10 stations <strong>for</strong> phytoplankton<br />
samples and acoustical observations were taken between Pt. Barrow and<br />
Oliktok; 37 phytoplankton stations were taken between Oliktok and Prudhoe<br />
Bay during August and <strong>September</strong> (Fig. 1, 2).<br />
Sampling between Pt. Barrow and Oliktok during August was accomplished<br />
using the USGS Beaver airplane on floats as a sampling plat<strong>for</strong>m. The<br />
plane landed near shore and surface phytoplankton samples were collected.<br />
The plane then taxied toward the ice <strong>for</strong> 5 min to obtain acoustic observations.<br />
Surface phytoplankton samples were collected near the ice at<br />
the end <strong>of</strong> each transect. Transects were made at Pt. Barrow (1), Scott<br />
Point (1), Ross Point (3), Tangent Point (2), Cape Simpson (2), and Drew<br />
Point (1).<br />
During <strong>September</strong>, a cooperative field program with the Morita-Atlas microbiology<br />
project was undertaken. Two samples were taken in Prudhoe Bay<br />
utilizing the Beaver. A Boston Whaler belonging to NARL was obtained at<br />
Oliktok and taken to Prudhoe Bay. Three surface phytoplankton samples<br />
were collected at Milne Point, Egg Island, and in Prudhoe Bay on this<br />
cruise. From 7 to 16 <strong>September</strong>, 36 stations were taken in Prudhoe Bay<br />
686
(Fig. 2) with surface and near-bottom water samples collected at each<br />
station. In addition, phytoplankton net tows were taken at some<br />
stations. In the laboratory the water samples were divided <strong>for</strong> phytoplankton<br />
standing stock, chlorophyll a, primary productivity, and<br />
nutrient determinations.<br />
One additional sample was collected in early August between Reindeer and<br />
Gull islands. The Beaver airplane moved approximately 8 km during the<br />
time a surface and a subsurface sample were collected at the same nominal<br />
site.<br />
3. Logistic support<br />
Logistic support was inadequate. Many more samples in the area <strong>of</strong> primary<br />
interest around Prudhoe Bay could have been collected if the field<br />
facility at Prudhoe Bay had been available to us in early August, with a<br />
Boston Whaler and a competent operator <strong>for</strong> the boat. The lagoon area<br />
was ice-free during most <strong>of</strong> the month. From previous work, we know that<br />
most biological activity occurs during and shortly after break-up. We<br />
were hampered by the lack <strong>of</strong> in<strong>for</strong>mation concerning field operations<br />
that gets to the <strong>principal</strong> <strong>investigators</strong> and to the people in the field.<br />
We knew very little about the capabilities <strong>of</strong> the Beaver airplane be<strong>for</strong>e<br />
we arrived at Barrow. The necessity <strong>for</strong> the plane to be underway at all<br />
times made water sampling extremely difficult and limited sampling to the<br />
surface. It was also difficult to schedule the airplane. Even when the<br />
weather was good, field operations did not get underway until late morning<br />
because the planes were not ready. Gear, such as a winch, <strong>for</strong> use<br />
in the Beaver was also difficult to obtain. We finally used a large<br />
size NARL gas-powered winch that took up most <strong>of</strong> the interior <strong>of</strong> the<br />
plane, had to be vented to the outside with a piece <strong>of</strong> hot pipe, and<br />
would not start readily.<br />
We suggest that some person responsible <strong>for</strong> the logistics arrangements<br />
be in the field, at NARL or Prudhoe Bay, to provide field coordination<br />
and be available when field personnel have problems. Andy Heiberg at<br />
NARL provided some help, although this was not his <strong>principal</strong> project.<br />
Housing at V & E construction was adequate and the people there flexible<br />
and cooperative. Laboratory space is a big problem with the kitchen<br />
area used as a laboratory. This could be extremely troublesome if<br />
<strong>for</strong>malin or other preservatives were being used by one group while<br />
another had to work with live organisms. It is also a problem when radioactive<br />
isotopes are used even when all proper precautions are taken and<br />
only small amounts <strong>of</strong> radioactivity are involved. As a result, little<br />
experimental work can be done at this facility. More freezer space<br />
should be available, i.e., V & E should store its food elsewhere than<br />
the OCS freezer. We did not know the freezer belonged to OCS until late<br />
in the sampling period. If more than two groups are using the camp, a<br />
second truck should be available.<br />
The Oliktok DEW-line site personnel were cooperative and provided transportation,<br />
housing, food, and other support. Arctic Marine Freighters<br />
has always been extremely cooperative with scientific projects at Prudhoe<br />
Bay. They provided un<strong>of</strong>ficial support such as docking space and trans-<br />
689
portation.<br />
3<br />
It would help if NARL and OCS could coordinate their activities.<br />
Adequate radios <strong>for</strong> field parties should always be provided, especially<br />
<strong>for</strong> use during small-boat operations at Prudhoe. These radios should<br />
be able to communicate with the regular Prudhoe Bay radio system in case<br />
<strong>of</strong> emergency. Having a boat operator who knows the area, as well as the<br />
boat, is a must. Much <strong>of</strong> our success at Prudhoe Bay must be credited to<br />
Joe Ningeok <strong>of</strong> NARL, who ran the Boston Whaler <strong>for</strong> us.<br />
b. Ice Floe Station<br />
1. Project personnel<br />
The personnel associated with the UW biology program on the ice floe<br />
station were:<br />
Clarence Pautzke 30 May to 2 October<br />
Jerry Horn<strong>of</strong>f 30 May to 18 <strong>September</strong><br />
Kevin Wyman 30 May to 24 August<br />
Maureen McCrea 18 <strong>September</strong> to 2 October<br />
2. Sampling program<br />
The Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea Plankton studies at the main AIDJEX camp, Big Bear,<br />
began 2 June 1975 and ended 1 October 1975, when scientific personnel<br />
had to be evacuated due to break-up <strong>of</strong> the ice floe on which the camp<br />
was located. During the period 2 June to 5 <strong>September</strong> (last position<br />
available) the ice station traveled more than 703 km in the geographical<br />
area bounded by lines drawn through 76 0 33'N/147 0 58'W, 74 0 00'N/139 0 02'W,<br />
76 0 26'N/149 0 43'W. A map <strong>of</strong> the cruise track will be made available to<br />
us (Figure 3).<br />
Biological studies included net sampling <strong>for</strong> zooplankton and water<br />
bottle casts <strong>for</strong> phytoplankton, chlorophyll a, primary productivity, and<br />
nitrates. Sampling <strong>of</strong> these parameters (except nitrates) was done every<br />
three days to give a continuous record over time at the specific depths<br />
sampled. Maximum depth <strong>of</strong> samples was 150 m, with the majority coming<br />
from the mixed layer above 60 m. In addition, light measurements were<br />
recorded <strong>for</strong> incoming radiation on the ice pack surface and observations<br />
<strong>of</strong> state <strong>of</strong> melt <strong>of</strong> the surface were also logged daily.<br />
In all, the following numbers <strong>of</strong> samples were taken:<br />
Type<br />
Number<br />
Net Zooplankton 994<br />
Preserved Phytoplankton 209<br />
Chlorophyll a 1096<br />
Primary productivity 2941<br />
Nitrates 272<br />
Particulate Carbon 44<br />
690
3. Expected results<br />
4<br />
The results <strong>of</strong> analysis <strong>of</strong> these samples will be used to describe qualitatively<br />
and to model mathematically the planktonic ecosystem <strong>of</strong> the<br />
pack ice zone <strong>of</strong> the Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea area <strong>of</strong> the Arctic Ocean. The dependency<br />
<strong>of</strong> primary production on the incoming radiation and state <strong>of</strong> the<br />
ice cover, the seasonal response <strong>of</strong> the herbivore level to summer changes<br />
in primary production, possible effects <strong>of</strong> grazing on the phytoplankton<br />
populations, and the transition <strong>of</strong> the ecosystem at summer's end in preparation<br />
<strong>for</strong> overwintering will be emphasized. Interpretation <strong>of</strong> the<br />
results will be applied to other oceanic ecosystems that experience<br />
shows seasonal changes in environmental factors.<br />
4. Logistic support<br />
Generous help in getting required supplies was provided by Sally Manning<br />
at NARL and Andy Heiberg, the AIDJEX coordinator at NARL. Both <strong>of</strong> these<br />
individuals responded promptly and efficiently to requests throughout<br />
the summer and helped ensure the success <strong>of</strong> our program. In general,<br />
ice camp maintenance was excellent.<br />
111. chthyoplankton<br />
A key to the pelagic fish eggs <strong>of</strong> Alaskan waters has been constructed.<br />
This key covers 20 species <strong>of</strong> present commercial or possible commercial<br />
value. Several species could not be included at this time because no<br />
in<strong>for</strong>mation is available.<br />
A list <strong>of</strong> commercially valuable Alaskan species has been prepared<br />
including 49 species <strong>of</strong> fish, 2 species <strong>of</strong> shrimps, 3 species <strong>of</strong> crabs,<br />
3 species <strong>of</strong> clams, 1 species <strong>of</strong> scallop, and 1 species <strong>of</strong> abalone. A<br />
list <strong>of</strong> references <strong>for</strong> these species is included.<br />
A list <strong>of</strong> Alaskan fishes with pelagic larvae has been prepared. This<br />
list comprises 173 species from 37 families.<br />
A bibliography has been prepared covering life history in<strong>for</strong>mation on<br />
15 fish species <strong>of</strong> commercial value. There are approximately 100-130<br />
references dealing with pelagic life history studies <strong>of</strong> Alaskan<br />
commercial species although many <strong>of</strong> these species are also found in<br />
Cali<strong>for</strong>nian, Japanese, or Northeast Pacific waters. There is little<br />
in<strong>for</strong>mation available concerning fishes in the Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea.<br />
In addition, a list <strong>of</strong> approximately 100 references to literature<br />
relating to ichthyoplankton and fisheries in Alaskan waters has been<br />
compiled.<br />
IV. Literature review<br />
The literature review <strong>for</strong> Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea phytoplankton and zooplankton has<br />
begun. Approximately 250 references to Arctic zooplankton have been<br />
obtained and checked, and about the same number remain to be checked.
5<br />
Many <strong>of</strong> the references are taxonomic in nature and are not restricted<br />
to Arctic <strong>for</strong>ms. The literature search has been designed to include<br />
references <strong>for</strong> the whole Arctic Ocean and peripheral waters including<br />
the northern Bering Sea, Norwegian Sea, Denmark Strait, Baffin Bay and<br />
Davis Strait because it is impossible to separate the Beau<strong>for</strong>t Sea<br />
biologically from the rest <strong>of</strong> the Arctic.<br />
Approximately 100 phytoplankton references are available, but thus far<br />
most <strong>of</strong> the attention has been toward zooplankton.<br />
A computer processing system, similar to that described by Bridges (1970),<br />
is being planned. This program, called INDEX, provides indexes to<br />
authors, key words, sources, and citations. The program is adaptable<br />
to allow new indexing schemes to be added using existing procedures.<br />
REFERENCES CITED<br />
Bridges, K. W. 1970. Automatic indexing <strong>of</strong> personal bibliographies.<br />
BioScience 20:94-97.<br />
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