Movements of Wedge-tailed Shearwaters off the Coast of New South Wales

Abstract

A study of the movements of Wedge-tailed Shearwaters Puffinus pacificus in Sydney coastal waters was carried out over the six years 1968-73 inclusive. The birds, normally considered sedentary, gradually departed during April and were completely absent during winter. The first birds usually returned about 20 August with the bulk of the population arriving soon afterwards. Arrival dates at Coffs Harbour, 450 kilometres north, appear to be up to two weeks earlier. Evidence from banding and beach-washed birds supports the conclusion that pacificus is absent in winter. The significance of three recoveries of birds banded in New South Wales in the Philippines is discussed. The status of pacificus in Queensland and Western Australia is reviewed briefly and a historical record documented.