Protect Native Birds National Publicity Photograph

TUI The tui is one of our most distinctive native birds. Like most of our bush birds its numbers were serious depleted in the early days of New Zealand settlement. It suffered more than most because it was a highly prized article of food and a popular pet. Today we can no longer afford to kill the tui if we want to maintain its numbers. We must protect it for its value in pollinating the flowers of forest plants and destroying insects, and because it is one of our most remarkable songsters. The law protects the tui and other native birds for our common good. A fine of £50, a further £2 for every bird killed, and the loss of a valued gun are penalties that await those who kill protected birds. Issued By The Wildlife Branch, Department Of Internal Affairs.