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-6- An Appeal to Robin Watchers

This is an appeal to ask various Ornithologists and Bird—watchers to cooperate in a three year Survey (1978—80) of the American Robin across North America. It is recognized that you may not be able to supply information on every aspect. A yearly report from you is most desired, as this is easier to compile than three years at one time.

Though the Robin is an abundant species, and much has been written on it, there are immense gaps in our knowledge. I am of the opinion from years of study on this bird that too many assumptions have been made. The information desired is as follows:

A. For each of the three years, 1978-80,

1. Arrival and departure dates.

Arrival and departure dates for the bulk of the birds. Arrival of females. ‘

2. First and last dates for nesting beginning or completion. First and last dates for first egg laid, and/or clutch completion. Size of clutch. Last date for last clutch completion; indicate whether 2nd or 3rd brood. Latest date for young in the nest.

B. 1. Your average arrival and‘departure dates, giving the number " of years recorded.

2. Earliest and latest arrival dates in Spring.

3. Earliest and latest departure dates in the Fall.

If you have information for specific 10calities or even sites within a city, please indicate. If you do not have time to evaluate and work out the details, just send me the list of dates, etc. and I will extract the needed date. Send thus: Mar. 12, 1970.

C. Any useful or interesting information will be appreciated. Please send your information to:

Rev. R. Charles Long Apt. # 409 Research Associate 5 Cedar Drive Dept. of Ornithology Scarborough, Ont. Royal Ontario Museum MlJ 3E6

The Natural History Society of Prince Edward island Newsletter is published eight times per year. If you have seen something unusual, please share it with us. It is important to have your observations recorded where others will learn of them.

Society Address Newsletter Editor

PO. Box 2346 do Kathy Martin

Ch lottetown Biology Department

mic» Edward Island University of Prince Edward Island Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

Phone - 8949595 Phone - 892-4121, ext. 253

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The Natural History Society gratefully acknowledges financial assistance from the Department of Tourism Parks and Conservation which enables us to distribute newsletters to schools as well as to

our membership.