A late, but interesting report from a commercial fisher (Peter
Hancock of Victoria) working halibut in Hecate Strait, off Prince Rupert,
B.C. On July 7, he and his 15 year-old son saw a bird they believe to have
been an immature Blue-footed Booby. They were able to approach the bird,
which was sitting on a floating log, circle it 3 times, view through a
binocular and note some rather convincing features (including some blue at
the gape) before it flew.

He is a birder to the extent that he looks at sea birds and is familiar with
many species in coastal BC waters. This was different, and his
description fits fairly well with the booby. However, it remains
unconfirmed at this time. The two of them will fill out a Rare Bird Report
Form for review by the BC Records Committee. If accepted, this would be a
first record for BC.

The siting was over a month ago, but if it was a booby, it had to pass
through CA, OR and WA waters and may be returning that way. Heads up!

Bryan Gates, Victoria
bgates at assessment.env.gov.bc.ca