DUCK SEASON AND PUKAKO

Otago Daily Times, Issue 26473, 29 May 1947, Page 4

DUCK SEASON AND PUKAKO

Sir,—l .have read and heard of some very disappointing of the duck shooting this season with various opinions given as to the reason. In my opinion, as well as that of numerous other sportsmen in Central Otago; especially un the Lauder-Becks area the reason is crystal clear. It is caused mainly by the pukeko, which is the ducks' enemy No. 1. In the hatching season the pukekos have been seen smashing hundreds of eggs as well as killing numerous young ducklings which were lucky enough to be hatched, with one blow from their beaks, and carrying them off. This pest is causing a serious reduction in the duck population, and unless something is done and very soon, the position is going' to get more serious. This statement can be substantiated by dozens of sportsmen, as well as farmers, who view the position seriously. I would like to see an open season declared immediately for pukekos, and a drive organised to take place soon after the duck shooting season closes in each district where the pukekos are plentiful, with a proviso that a member of the Acclimatisation Society accompanies each party. Thus we could clean out the pest wherever it is, even in the sanctuaries, as this is where they make for immediately shooting commences r to be safe from the guns. There thev remain and multiply, to play havoc with next season’s ducks. The pukeko is a very poor sporting bird, and I am confident if something along the lines mentioned is carried out by the Acclimatisation Society immediately it will have the approval and support of 90 per cent, of the licence-hold-ers.—l am, etc., R. D. Reid. Fruillands, May 25.