BIRDS AS HEALERS

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXII, Issue 22200, 29 August 1935, Page 8

BIRDS AS HEALERS

PATIENTS BENEFIT MENTAL HOSPITAL CASES -r It may come as a surprise to many to know that aviculture is being of material benefit to many of the iufr mates of the Auckland Mental Hospital, states Mr. 6. Rowland Hutchinson in the sixth bulletin of the Aviculture Society. The matron, who is a member of the society, has been taking a personal interest in aviculture and has aviaries of birds of the more common kinds in four different parts of the institution. When sufferers are admitted for observation, they live in quarters facing a large aviary containing different coloured budgerigars, Java sparrows, and zebra finches. It gives them something to watch and occupies their minds, and is of material benefit in the treatment of their complaint. The principal aviary, however, is one in full view of the really chronic cases. These unfortunates, some of whom are really great sufferers and have not noticed anything for years, have been observed watching the ,birds intently.' The quickness of the ,'Pekin robin flying around, the antics ! of the budgerigars, particularly during ? the breeding season, the penny-trumpet ■ call of the zebra finch, and the splash ;of coloub of weavers and wydahs, } all assist in bringing to life faculties • • ! which have lain dormant for years. During a recent visit to the hospital, Mr. Hutchinson was informed of the unmistakable improvement in the condition of some of the worst sufferers, owing to their faculties being reawakened by the birds. Truly, Mr. Hutchinson states, aviculture has many uses and is, at present, a blessing to many sufferers. In the courtyard, which is overlooked by quartern of many chronic patients, it is hoped in time to erect a large aviary about 100 feet in length by 12 4 feet wide. So optimistic concerning the benefits derived from aviculture are the authorities that they have already planted this area and at one end built a lily pond with, a rustic bridge. Ultimately it is hoped to enclose the whole of this area with wire netting.