NATIVE BIRDS IN CAPTIVITY

Press, Volume LXXIV, Issue 22436, 24 June 1938, Page 11

NATIVE BIRDS IN CAPTIVITY

FLIGHT AT AUCKLAND ZOO SUGGESTED IXBK PRESS SpecUl Service.] AUCKLAND, June 23. “It seems quite impossible to know of the tui, belibird, parakeet, or kaka at close quarters, and it. appears unfair that the average New Zealander has to gain a knowledge of his native birds from illustrations or from stuffed specimens in museums,” said Mr G. Rowland Hutchinson, at the annual meeting of the Auckland Zoological Society. He said he believed there was now an area at the Auckland zoo containing food-bearing shrubs and trees, which would form an admirable flight for New Zealand birds. A member of the City Council, Mr J. L. Coakley, said the area referred to as a suitable location for a native bird flight was in a gully opposite the tea kiosk. The estimated cost of the work was about £IBO, but no action could be taken until the council’s estimates were considered. Efforts had been made in the past to take varieties of native birds into captivity, said Dr. H. A- Chatfield. One of the principles of the society was the protection of these birds and to interfere with the act would, in his opinion, prove a mistake. Mr Hutchinson said he understood that an objection had been entered by the last Minister for Internal Affairs until a proper enclosure, containing shrubs and food-bearing native trees, was available. Now that these facilities could be provided, it might, be an opportune time to revive the subject. The birds would be kept under ideal conditions. It was decided to refer the question to the consideration of the incoming committee.