PRESERVING WILD LIFE

Press, Volume LXXXV, Issue 25812, 25 May 1949, Page 6

PRESERVING WILD LIFE

REVIEW OF CONTROLS URGED MR A. P. HARPER SUGGESTS CONFERENCE Mr A. P. Harper, Dominion president of the Forest and Bird Protection Society, intends to arrange a conference of forest and bird lovers, mountaineers, trampers, shooters, naturalists, and Government officers interested to review the whole question of protection and extermination among various groups of New Zealand launa. He told the Canterbury branch of the society last evening that the balance .of control was shifting continually and frequent reconsideration of the situation was desirable. Dr. Olaus Murie and Colonel John Howard, American leaders of the Fiordland expedition, reported that such collaboration in- the United States had produced satisfactory results, he said. In some parts it was necessary to protect wild life. In others systematic control was essential to preserve their fauna and plant life. The growing menace of opossums to rata forests in particular was mentioned by Mr Harper. It was ridiculous to talk about exterminating them in such difficult country, he continued; but the utmost control should be encouraged. The effect of deer and chamois on native growth varied from place to place. Hunters could be offered sport in some areas where serious damage was apparent. in others, shooting could be restricted. Incidentally, Mr Harper mentioned that in one damaged beech forest he had noticed recently that natural regeneration with young totaras was progressing fast. The virtual extermination of certain native birds in some areas was also discussed. Members told Mr Harper that in the Riccarton bush. German owls, magpies, and cats were a menace to small birds. Cats abandoned on the Port Hills had turned wild and were living off the few remaining small birds. A woman claimed that there was a mai mai in the Sumner estuary. Mr Harper reported that native pigeons and tuis had been found shot in the bush. On the other hand, keas were blamed for damage which was unproved in many instances. Several speakers criticised alleged indiscriminate destruction of trees by tl e Post and Telegraph Department in establishing new circuits. One man said that between Ross and the Franz Josef glacier many magnificent trees bordering the glorious drive were marked, apparently for removal, when a new telephone line was strung. He suggested that by using long cross arms the wires could be attached to the trees instead of sinking poles. Other members said destructive practice was evident elsewhere. The society was not satisfied about the Waipoua forest and unless better assurance on its preservation was received .from the Government a new petition would be made. About 50,000 signatures were volunteered last year. Canvassing would produce 150.000 names, “which will not be ignored in an election year,” Mr Harper said. Advocacy for a national parks policy in New Zealand was receiving widespread support throughout the country, he added.