h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Hi all,

Following the recent discussion about providing a log of birds seen on a daily basis for the web, I suggested it would be worthwhile to also keep detailed and accurate records of birds seen, in a format that would allow publication at the end of the voyage, as either a seperate report, or as a paper in a refereed journal. These records could then be summarised on a daily basis into a similar table such as Nick directed us to on the Oceanwings site. This is a great opportunity to further our knowledge on at sea distribution and behaviour of seabirds, and I think we need to put a little thought into how best to make the most of our observations.

I would be interested in hearing peoples thoughts on what sort of techniques we should be adopting. Would 10-minute counts, along the lines of the methods outlined by Tasker et al 1984 AUK 101 567-577, be the best strategy? These seem to be the most accepted methodologies - what do people think? (If you don't have this article or access to it then I can post it to you).

Once we sort out the methodology I can put a data collection sheet together and email to everybody - or if others already have something like this then please let me know.

Nick/John - I presume we will have access to Lat/Long info at any stage during daylight hours? This sort of info is vital for our observations.

Regards,
Brent

Hi Brent

Yes, using GPS we will know our position at all times.

Re the reference you gave - I presume that isn't on the web anywhere?

When I visited Birds Australia last week we discussed this a little and they pointed me to the lengthy Introduction to the recently published Birds Australia Monograph 4, Seabird Atlas of South-eastern Australian Waters, by Reid T A, HIndell M. A, Eades D.W, and Newman M, pub by Birds Australia, 2002. This also dicusses this topic. Sorry its not on the web as far as I know.

Nick

Hi Nick,

No, unfortunately the reference is not on the web that I know of. If you email me privately with your postal address I can send you a copy.

Will look up the Birds Australia Monongraph, thanks!

This is a tricky topic, but I think it is worth getting organised early, and having a solid game plan.

Cheers
Brent