FIFTEEN ALBATROSSES

Otago Daily Times, Issue 27241, 18 November 1949, Page 6

FIFTEEN ALBATROSSES

Observed At Taiaroa Head

STERN WARNING ISSUED

Recently 15 albatrosses—the biggest number he had yet seen—had been ashore at Taiaroa Head and he had high hopes for the future safety of the eclony, said Mr L. E. Richdale, the well-known ornithologist, in a letter to the Otago Harbour Board. At a meeting of the board last night, the chairman, Mr W. R. Clarke, issued a warning that anyone caught interfering with the birds would be liable to prosecution.

“Last Sunday week, November 6, there were 15 albatrosses ashore at the same time, which was easily the greatest number I have ever seen," said Mr Richdale in his letter to the board. “To-day (his letter was dated November 14), there were five females each with an egg, which is most satisfactory.” Mr Richdale did not think that there would be any more eggs this year.

“Altogether the situation is very encouraging,” he continued. “We still have a long way to go before we are sure that the colony is safe for ever. If we can only rear the chicks and encourage strange birds to come to the area, we should, in the course of time, be successful. Three of the 15 chicks already reared have returned, which is also most satisfying.” The albatrosses had been “ knocked about” a little during the war, but since the war ended a lot had been coming back, said the chairman. The establishment of an albatross colony was in the interests of the whole Dominion. The board was relying on the public to protect the colony and proceedings would be taken against any person caught interfering with the birds “ The board is determined 'to establish this colony,” declared Mr Clarke. “No other place in New Zealand has got what we have here in Otago. Great credit must go to Mr Richdale for the time he has spent out there and it is up to the public to protect the birds.” Mr F. E. Tyson said that Mr Richdale must have a heart like a lion. Ever since he (Mr Tyson) had been on the board, Mr Richdale had been trying to establish a colony. Mr Tyson suggested that it was essential to have the co-operation of the staff at the lighthouse as they were the only ones who would make suitable rangers. Mr A. Mcßae said that most of the board members had sefen “ the things going on by youths and others,” and he hoped that the appeal by the chairman would be heard. He was satisfied that the board’s staff at the lighthouse felt the responsibility and would stop unauthorised persons from approaching the birds, said the chairman. One or two honorary rangers had been appointed and they must not be afraid to take action. ■ The board decided to send a letter of appreciation to Mr Richdale for his valuable work at Taiaroa Head.