OUT-OF-SEASON KILLING OF BIRDS REPORTED

Wanganui Chronicle, 11 March 1947, Page 4

OUT-OF-SEASON KILLING OF BIRDS REPORTED

Illegal destruction of birds, particularly tiie pukeko, has been flagrant in the Wanganui district, it is stated. Steps to tighten up on this breach of the law are to be taken.

Self-styled sportsmen shooting out of season were liable to face Court action if they were caught destroying these birds, stated the local ranger under the Scenic Reserves Act, Mr. A, L. Nalder.

“The pukeko is definitely a protected bird at this time ot the year," Mr. Nalder stated. It was acknoweldged the bird could be destructive, but proper channels were provided for its destruction when it proved troublesome, he added.

The procedure he outlined was to apply to the secretary of the local acclimatisation society, and so set in train the necessary machinery to obtain Ministerial permission.

“TJie pukeko is quite a good sporting bird, but people musn’t taif? the law into their own hands and destroy it,” Mr. Nalder said.

Cases of shooting of ducks and pheasants have I’lso been reported to Mr. Nalder. “This is hardly a fair thing to the genuine sportsmen, who obey the law," he commented.

Legislation had recently been introduced for the appointment of more rangers under the Scenic Reserves Act.