Seabirds Recorded Off Wollongong, New South Wales 1984-1990

Seabirds observed on 99 pelagic trips off Wollongong, New South Wales, in the period August 1984 to December 1990 are analysed . A systematic discussion of 70 species is made showing seasonal occurrence, observation frequency, zonal preference and abundance. The overview provided by this paper summarises all sightings. Although the majority of species were recorded within the expected seasonal periods, the data obtained on species previously regarded as rare or unusual increase the documented knowledge of these species' occurrence in the waters off eastern New South Wales , especially those birds frequenting the pelagic region. Although not discussed in detail, the variation in abundance of some species was apparent, but the magnitude and cause of this fluctuation has not been ascertained.