Publications Archive

by Ian Saem Majnep and Ralph Bulmer. Illustrations by Christopher Healey; published by Auckland University Press & Oxford University Press, 219 pp., 1977

The Manukau Harbour and Firth of Thames are considered to be among the richest wading bird (sub-order Charadrii) habitats in New Zealand. Annually large numbers of four species of New Zealand’s endemic waders migrate to these, and other, northern harbours for the winter. Thousands of arctic breeding waders winter here during our summer. Small numbers of non-breeders of both these groups of waders remain here during their respective breeding seasons. There are also small numbers of two non-migratory species present. The results of twice yearly censuses of these birds during the period 1960-1975 are summarised, combined with other data where appropriate, and trends in the wader population shown. Although there has been an increase in the total number present, this has been caused by only some species, others remain stable. One species – the Wrybill (Anarhynchus frontalis) – has, on the Manukau Harbour only, fluctuated significantly due to changes to its chosen winter habitat. The general habitats are described and major modifications noted. Lists of waders recorded at times other than censuses are also given. There is a paucity of long-term data on most aspects of the ecology of these species.

This paper presents the results of 1975-76 Reef Heron enquiry in the form of a general account of the Reef Heron (Egretta sacra) in New Zealand, summarised locality reports with two maps and a discussion of the present status of the species.

The breeding and habits of the Antarctic Tern (Sterna vittata) were studied during a summer at the Snares Islands. Daily records were kept of ten nests situated on cliff ledges and rocks. Egg-laying occurred during two periods; late October/early November and late November. The usual clutch was one egg, but some two-egg clutches were laid. Re-laying probably occurred on one occasion when the first clutch was lost. Both parents incubated, and the incubation period averaged 24 days. The chicks were guarded for two to three days after hatching and were fed by both parents. Chicks fledged between 27 and 32 days after hatching. Adverse weather severely restricted chick growth during the early stages of development and was a major factor in chick mortality.