NATURALISTS’ FIELD CLUB

Evening Star, Issue 18336, 25 July 1923, Page 5

NATURALISTS’ FIELD CLUB

VISIT TO THE MUSEUM. On Saturday last a large gathering of members visited the Museum for the purpose of becoming better acquainted with our native birds. The party was under the leadership of Mr W. J. Williams, who gave much first-hand information regarding the birds which the preserved specimens represent. The notornis and huia are now believed to be extinct, while many of the other species are found only in remote districts. Afterwards a very interesting time was spent in the Maori section. The large case, representing a scene in the Antarctic, and containing representative specimens of the whole of the animal and bird life found there, afforded great interest, as did also a sledge and other smaller articles used by Captain Scott and members of his party in his famous Antarctic expedition. Tnat very interesting creature, the tuatara, was brought to.light for the benefit of the visitors. The indoor meeting called for Monday evening was very largely attended, but when the president announced the death of one of the club's most valued members, in the person of Mr H, E. Shaddock, the meeting was adjourned, Mr Shaddock was a member of long standing—a link connecting the past with the present. In the scientific researches of the club he had always taken the keenest interest; but not less so in the comfort and welfare of its members. His kindly disposition made him a friend to all, and his Joss to the club is a very severe one indeed.