Observations on the Behaviour of Certain Arctic Birds

Abstract

Report on observations on 14 species of birds (loons, old squaw, ptarmigan, plover, jaegers, sandpipers, phalarope, gulls, tern) made in Mackenzie District in summer 1955, mostly near the mouth of the Anderson River (69 59 N, 129 W). Calls, alarm or distraction behavior, play, courtship, attack real or feigned, display flights, etc., are noted. Two general observations are included: on distraction displays and falcon hunting habits in the presence of a human intruder.