A late report from Jon Anderson, skipper of the Canadian Hydrographic/
Fisheries vessel "Tulley" of a sighting of a sub-adult SHORT-TAILED ALBATROS
just 70 km (~40 miles) west of Tofino, west coast of Vancouver Island -- seen
Feb. 23, 1996. Jon is a keen observer of seabirds, is faily certain of this
sighting, although his admittedly poor view of leg colour (appeared darkish)
was the only feature that left a little doubt in his mind. Otherwise, I have
no reason to question his report.

The latest references that I have indicate that perhaps 200-300 individuals
of this species remain in the world, most (all?) nesting on Torishima
Island, south of Japan. Some of you may have recent references to bring us
up to date on population status.

The species is listed on the Checklist of Birds of Victoria and Southern
Vancouver Island on the basis of 2 specimens collected in Juan de Fuca Strait
off Victoria in 1887. Another specimen was found dead on the beach at
Esquimalt (just west of Victoria) in 1893. Early records and midden
excavations indicate that the Short-tailed Albatros may have been seasonally
fairly common off our coast.

I know of no pending pelagic trips out of Tofino/Ucluelet, but it may
be possible to put something together...if there is interest. Let me
know. Remember that an albatros can cover a lot of miles in a week.
Other species reported by Jon include Black-footed and Laysan albatros,
Black-legged Kittiwake, Fork-tailed Storm-Petrel and the usual
gulls, murres, etc. Although not mentioned, it is likely that a few
shearwaters would be present, as well.

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