DUCK SHOOTING

Otago Daily Times, Issue 21996, 4 July 1933, Page 12

DUCK SHOOTING

IX) THE EDITOR. Sib, —During the last 10 years wild duck .have become scarcer each season, and, with the exception of a favoured few who are fortunate enough to hold the water where the birds feed, “bags" are a thing of the past. A wise Government decreed about 2a years ago that every fourth (or was it third?) season should be a close season for native gapie. This worked quite well for a time, until our Acclimatisation Society saw lit to ask for short seasons. I admit that, if shooting there was to be, this was better than the usual three months —a period which is ■ only catering to the “ pot-hunter,” who watches. the pools on the rivers and creeks where the birds camp during the day prior to open slaughter being carried out on the following morning. With the advent of the shooting license

a close season is a thing of the past. Seemingly the society obtains a steady, income from this source—one that de too: good to forego for a season, for, as each season comes round, we find the. usual notification that “the Minister of In-' ternal . Affairs has agreed to an opemseason for native and imported game, as .recommended by the Otago . Acclimatisation Society.” I consider, Sir, the want of the close season is the primary cause of the shortage of grey duck. The mallard duck makes a good scapegoat. V As to the black swan, it is common knowledge that dozens of swans’ eggs are taken each year from Lakes Waihola and Waipori for human consumption. This is a ipatter for the.rangers. Possibly some of the license money could be spent this way. Certainly no other; iV spent in shooting interests.—l am, etc.: 7 Waipori., ...