Game In N.Z.

Star (Christchurch), Volume XLIV, Issue 43, 20 February 1931, Page 6

Game In N.Z.

To the Editor. Dear Sir,—l am glad to see that the Acclimatisation Society has decided to start raising grey duck, Californian quail, and pheasants in captivity. Although New Zealanders are reputed to be a sporting com* rnuoity, the variety of winged game to be had in plentiful numbers is very small, and only by extensive conservation will the wing shooting ever reach the high standard which has been reached in America. For years the Americans have been rearing their sporting birds and there are many sanctuaries where the game is kept under close observation. By the means of rigorous conservation, remarkable results have been obtained. Amercian sportsmen—the real sportsmen —have found that the only way to get their sport is to support the conservationist. Nearly all the sporting magazines issued in the United States arc strong supporters of conservation, and have done nearly as much as the societies themselves for the protection of game. Sucli measures must be taken up in New Zealand or there will be, sooner or later, a shortag# of game. There are numerous other thing# to consider also. At present there is a dangerous increase of mallard ducks in Canterbury, and if it continues, there is a grave possibility of the grey duck being exterminated.—l am, etc., CONSERVATION. t