Beachcombers look out for ambergris as flotsam. Empty seashells are often found washed up on beaches by beachcombers. Empty seashells are often picked up by beachcombers. It is estimated that 75% of beachcombers were sailors, particularly whalemen, who had jumped ship. They have become a popular collectors' item for beachcombers and decorators. It is estimated that in 1850 there were over 2,000 beachcombers throughout Polynesia and Micronesia. Many beachcombers made the transition to becoming island traders. Beachcombers who returned to Europe conveyed tattoo styles of the Pacific islands. The TV movie "The New Beachcombers" (2002), was dedicated in his memory. He now has a band of his own called Riker and The Beachcombers. Some beachcombers traded between local tribes, and between tribes and visiting ships. He was performing with a semi-professional band called the Beachcombers, and wanted to play full-time. The show was based on Jackson Davies's "Beachcombers" character Constable John Constable. Valdy appeared on the CBC TV show "The Beachcombers" as the environmental activist "Halibut" Stu. The Beachcombers continued as a local cover band after his departure.