THIRTY GUINEA FOWL LIBERATED IN THE WAIMARINO DISTRICT

Wanganui Chronicle, 25 October 1950, Page 4

THIRTY GUINEA FOWL LIBERATED IN THE WAIMARINO DISTRICT

RAETIHI. Last Night (OC).—A liberation of 30 guinea fowl was made by the Waimarino Acclimatisation Society at the week-end, the birds being released on Mr D. McGregor’s property on the Oruakukuru Road. The birds, bred by Mr E. T. Archer, of Manunui, were a healthy, well-grown Jot and comprised 17 cocks and 13 hens.

Earlier in the year, 48 birds were liberated in what appeared to be suitable country, but few have been seen since. It is too early to say whether success has crowned the society's venture. One unsatisfactory feature about birds reared under domestic conditions is that tney are, tc some degree, denatured, and with the loss of some of the instinct of self-preser-vation, there is the possibility that a percentage will fall victims to cats,

stoats and other vermin. On the other hand, should these birds succeed in rearing broods, these clutches should develop all the wiliness for which the breed is noted.

The guinea fowl have been introduced to fill the gap caused by the diminishing pheasant, and if they become established they will, in clue course, be listed by the society as a game bird to be taken under licence.

During the year 960 new members were elected and 558 transfers and resignations were received.

An excess of £lO5 income over expenditure was revealed in the financial statement. Income amounted to £9l6] and expenditure £9556.

The breakdown service was of great assistance to members. During the year 652 members took advantage of the service.

The thanks of the association were extended to all local bodies, and Government departments for the consideration always given to its representations and for the steady improvement being made on all main highways throughout the district. The election of officers resulted: — President. Mi. G. W. Sampson; vicepresident, Mr. R. G. Taiboys; executive council, Messrs. W. E. Fossettc, .K Lambert, W. S. N. Rennie (three years), and A. Muller (one year).