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(4) Imported and Native Game Shooting seasons were declared in all acclimatization districts. Throughout the year special permits were issued to destroy Canada goose and pukeko where damage was being done to private property. Inquiries in regard to the habits and the food of the Australian stubble quail were completed. (5) Importation of Animals and Birds A large number of applications for permission to import animals and birds was received. Authority to import several undesirable species was requested. After careful consideration such applications were declined. Requests to release the ban on the importation of parrots were received, but after consultation with interested Departments it was decided that the ban was to stand, because the risk of introducing parrot fever was too great. (6) Opossums Further representations have been made that a flat rate of bounty on opossums should be paid generally throughout New Zealand. The field survey, which should be completed during the coming year, already shows, however, that the problem differs greatly in various parts of the country. It is apparent from the evidence available that any bounty suggested would be costly with no guarantee that the money expended would bring about any marked improvement in vital watershed areas. To ensure the achieving of such an improvement a high rate of bonus coupled with adequate field supervision would be necessary. A grant of £l,OOO was made to assist the Egmont National Park Board in coping with the special situation which has arisen in the area under its control. This sum has been used by the Board to augment its own available funds in payment of a bounty in that area. This scheme, carried out under strict supervision by the Board's field staff, has obtained useful results. Further proposals are under consideration, and the methods employed are being closely watched to see whether or not they are useful for adaptation elsewhere. (7) Acclimatization Societies At meetings of the North and South Island Councils several questions of administrative importance have been discussed. The lively initiative of societies in such questions as the amalgamation of small societies into stronger units more in keeping with modern communications, technical training for their employees, financial assistance for weaker societies, and research into vermin problems is most encouraging. Departmental officers have, by invitation, attended several meetings relating to amalgamations and have given all possible assistance. (8) Animals Protection and Game Act, 1921-22 It has long been realized that the existing Act, which has not been substantially amended since it came into force in 1922, was in need of overhaul and amendment in order to orient it to present-day conditions but the extremely difficult staffing conditions have, in the past, precluded the undertaking of this work. During the year it has been found possible to assign an officer of the Branch to this work and considerable progress has been made.

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