A Zoo For Christchurch ?

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31196, 21 October 1966, Page 10

A Zoo For Christchurch ?

Sir,—The allegations made by “Retrogression” in Saturday’s issue are the words of a fool. I have experienced a close friendship with wild animals and witnessed with my own eyes love and affection from them. One has to work with these animals to understand them. To onlookers they look as if they are frustrated and underfed and all the other nameless horrors that is conjured in their minds. I could go on and name the many uses for a zoo in Christchurch. I would mention just one: educational.— Yours, etc., EX-HEAD BEAR-KEEPER. October 17. 1966.

Sir, —Can Christchurch not do better in caring for its animals than at present? Are they of primary or secondary consideration in comparison with creatures imported for zoo purposes? With all the wonderful literature often reviewed in “The Press” replete with animal study and photography, what more is necessary for live animal study? The care and love for a domestic pet as these human-loving companions are termed by owners, is truly more educative than wild creatures stared at in zoos. Do we do all possible for the beasts which serve us in their fields for comfort during their often short lives and travel to the “works”? Why not devote time, and funds towards their appreciation in some measure in return?—Yours, etc., CIVILISATION? October 19, 1966.