NEW ZEALAND BIRDS

Dominion, Volume 25, Issue 171, 15 April 1932, Page 11

NEW ZEALAND BIRDS

Protection from Invaders SOCIETY’S OBSERVATIONS “Any proposal for the introduction of foreign birds or animals will require our close attention,” said Mr. It. A. Anderson, C.M.G., president of the Native Bird Protection Society, at the annual meeting last evening. “We have the stoats and weasels moving further out into the wilds of Fiordland, and cleaning up our ground birds, and not confining their depredations to these alone. Then we have the grey owl, and this bird is playing havoc with the fantail, robin and other small birds. “In my own bush, which is a declared sanctuary,” continued Mr. Anderson, “I have noticed a distinct diminution in the number of birds visible this year, due entirely, I believe, to the grey owl. As this bird comes out only at night there is little chance of destroying it. “The society has been Instrumental in educating the general public to the value of New Zealand’s unique plant and bird life, and has, I believe, done a great deal toward the good work of establishing forest reserves and bird sanctuaries in different parts of the Dominion., Bird and plant life go hand in hand, and who among us does not deeply deplore the waste that has taken place in connection with our forests? “We have in this Dominion some very unique birds—the kiwi, weka, kakapo, and, lovliest of all, the pigeon—and unless we rigidly protect these we shall find their names added to the long list of extinct birds, wiped out through human agency, he said. This society Is the organ to assist and direct a common effort on the part of those who wish our birds and plants saved. “During the year just' closed the funds from the art union came to account, and the balance of £13,514/1/4 was placed in a trust endowment fund with the Public Trustee. The interest on this fund is to bo used for educational purposes in connection with the society’s objects,” continued Mr. Anderson. In the annual report it was stated that the art union fund would return an income- of £6OO per year. The election of officers resulted as follow:—President, Mr. It. A. Anderson, C.M.G. (Auckland); council, Messrs. B. C. Aston, Johannes C. Andersen, W. H. Denton, W. R. B. Oliver, and Mrs. P. Moncrieff; secretary, Mr. E. V. Sanderson; treasurer, Mr. G. C. Fache.