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Seabird Ecology in the Bering Sea

Hi Tom

Hows it going. I'm enjoying your posts. I didn't get a chance to step off the ship at the "Prib's" so I'm a little jealous of what you are experiencing there. When I was on the Knorr we were visited by some Red-legged Kittiwakes. I am told that they only nest on the Pribilof's and parts of the Aleutians. Have you seen any? Im hoping that you are enjoying a very special part of the world. Have fun and keep learning Mark

Tue, 07/28/2009 - 09:00

Thomas Harten

Hello Mark!
Thanks for writing. Yes we do see the Red-legged Kittiwakes, sometimes
on the nest. They're not nearly as abundant as the Black-legged, but
they are usually seen each day. They're a little smaller than the
black-legged and have a more slender appearance. They're also a little
bit more of a darker gray on the mantle. Of course, the best clue is
the bright red legs!
Indeed this is a special part of the world. I am learning every day
about the process of field research, both the successes and the
frustrations.
What is really neat to me is the integrated nature of the research. The
scientists here working on birds comparing notes with the scientists
working on seals and communicating with the research vessels that are
working out in the Bering Sea. It's rather phenomenal!
I'm sure that you had a great experience, I really enjoyed your journal
entries! Enjoy the rest of the summer!