OPEN WILDFOWL SEASON

Evening Post, Volume CXXXV, Issue 67, 20 March 1943, Page 6

OPEN WILDFOWL SEASON

The Wellington Acclimatisation Society has been granted an open season for wildfowl from May 1 to May 16 inclusive, stated a letter read at the meeting of the society on Wednesday. Longer periods will be granted for other game where recommended by the societies.

The chairman, Mr. D. J. Gibbs, said that only 150 members out of 1034 required ammunition. Ducks were more plentiful than for some years, owing to the closed season. Large numbers of swan and ducks were to be seen on Wairarapa Lake and its surrounding lagoons. It had been a good breeding season, reported Ranger Andrews, and mallard duck were well established throughout the Wairarapa. Paradise duck were increasing. Reports of damage to wheat crops had been received from some districts, and in others where the weather had flattened the crops the ducks were taking ad-, vantage of the position. The fact that there would be a certain amount of revenue was appreciated by members. It was suggested that, as there were a number of sportsmen amongst visiting marines, posters should be sent to various camps. Having been undisturbed for so long, the birds are expected to be very tamo, but it is anticipated that, as has happened on so many previous openings, they will speedily realise what is afoot, and will in large numbers? take to the open sea as soon as the battle starts.