SPORT AT MOUNT COOK

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 75, Issue 177, 29 July 1932, Page 10

SPORT AT MOUNT COOK

CHAMOIS AND THAR. RAPID SPREAD IN RANGES. Not the least of many successful experiments in acclimatisation in New Zealand has been tho introduction of Austrian chamois and Himalayan thar to tho Mount Cook region. The appearance of numbers of both species within sight of the Hermitage created interest among the 60 or 70 visitors who assembled for the championship sports meeting last week. The history of the introduction of the chamois is interesting. On a visit to New Zealand in 1906 an admiral of the German Fleet secured a number of skins of th 0 kiwi, tho kea and other native birds, and upon his return to Europe presented several specimens to the Emperor Franz Josef of Austria. As an expression of his gratitude the Emperor sent to New Zealand seven Austrian chamois, which were liberated in the Alount Cook district. These and other chamois imported subsequently thrived exceedingly and have multiplied until now they are to be found in considerable numbers over a great length of the Southern Alps and an odd one or two have been reported as far north as the Nelson Province. Grazing on mountain herbs, the •chamois are usually to be’found about the 4000 ft.. level, but often—particularly in tho winter—they roam the lower roaches, and at present parties on the route to the Ball Hut frequently sight herds of 10 to 15. There are many in tho Mueller, Hooker, and Tasman Valleys, and stalkers using the Hermitage as a base have enjoyed good sport in recent weeks. Keen of sight and hearing, the chamois is difficult to stalk, but is attracting increased attention from sportsmen. The hides dress well and, like the horns, which range up to over 12in. in length, make handsome trophies. The chamois in the Southern Alps grow to a greater size than in their natural habitat, and a good buck weighs from 801 b. to 901 b. Himalayan llmr. imported about 1908, have kept pace with the chamois, but have not spread over as wide an area of the Alps. They are found mostly on the Sealey Range, preferring slightly higher altitudes than chamois. The thar, also, grows to greater size here than in Asia and a good buck will weigh up to 2401 b. They are seldom found in association with chamois and they herd to a greater extent.