BBC 'EXTREME PELAGIC' BOAT TRIP to CONTINENTAL SHELF 28 JUNE 2008.

[Richard Heil]

'EXTREME PELAGIC' BOAT TRIP - 28 JUNE 2008

Join the BROOKLINE BIRD CLUB on 28 June 2008 for an extensive all day PELAGIC BOAT TRIP out of HYANNIS, MASSACHUSETTS to the deep, warm, blue waters of the CONTINENTAL SHELF in the vicinity of VEATCH and HYDROGRAPHER CANYONS.  These waters are truly the last frontier in Massachusetts and New England ornithology. 

Last season I made a list of possible rarities to find on our trips, then we set out with the goal of finding a new state record in these largely unexplored waters.  Well we did it, nailing the first New England and third North American record for MACARONESIAN (LITTLE) SHEARWATER (Puffinus baroli)!   The bird dog Captain Joe of the fast, 100 foot, comfortable 'Helen H' skillfully followed this bird for an extended period of time, allowing observers good views, and some dozen photographers on board the ability to obtain excellent documentation.  The 2008 Macaronesian Shearwater event was an excellent start, but there is more out there waiting for us!

We have never run a June trip before, but June is a very exciting time to get out there, and may be our best chance for Pterodroma petrels such as Black-capped, Bermuda, Fea's, and Herald (Trinadade).  Other mega-rarity real possibilities include Cape Verde Shearwater, Bulwer's Petrel, European Storm-Petrel, or either tropicbird.  We are closer to the breeding grounds of many of these seabirds than is Hatteras, and there is no reason that they could not also occur here if only we could get out there more often to find them.  

I should mention the more ho-hum possibilities such as Audubon's Shearwater, Leach's and Band-rumped Storm-Petrel, Great and South Polar Skua, and Long-tailed Jaeger.  However, there are no guarantees, in life, or on pelagic boat trips.

The marine mammal show can be spectacular (chance for Sperm Whales, beaked whales, Grampus, etc.) along with other fascinating marine life (sea turtles-we've had Leatherback and Loggerhead; Mola mola, Hammerhead and other sharks, flying fish, and giant Manta Rays).   

This is a rare opportunity that may not last forever, to explore seas seldom surveyed by birders, armed with a knowledge of the possibilities and the skill to achieve them.  We still need about 25 more people to make this trip happen.  It would be a shame if we are forced to cancel.  I urge those interested in pelagic birds and mammals, and those seeking a chance to find and observe the truly rare, to join us on this exciting cruise.

Richard S. Heil
S. Peabody, MA
rsh...@comcast.net

Further information:
  
Marshall Iliff, Steve Mirick, Jeremiah Trimble, and I will be spotting and calling out the birds. Each trip is limited to 73 people, and individual trips cost $120.00 for BBC members and $140.00 for non-members.*
To reserve a space on any trip, send a check for the full amount along with a signed waiver to:

BROOKLINE BIRD CLUB AGENT
Ida Giriunas
83 Summer Avenue
Reading, MA, 01867

Please be sure to include either your email or your postal address for confirmation, boarding instructions, and further information.
Boarding will be in according to the order in which you sign up and agree to the necessary waiver.
For additional information and the waiver to be signed, contact Ida at 781-944-5135 or id...@verizon.net
The trips will be cancelled if the quota is not met.
Food is available on board. There is limited free parking.
*Please be advised that because of the possible increase in the cost of fuel, there may be a surcharge to cover the extra expense.