THE NEWTOVVN ZOO.

Dominion, Volume 4, Issue 968, 8 November 1910, Page 7

THE NEWTOVVN ZOO.

EXTENSION FORESHADOWED. Speaking yesterday on the "zoo," Mr. J. P. Luke, M.P., chairman of tho Re-' serves Committee of the City Council, made it clear that he does not regard the extreme economy with which tho "zoo" is now administered as a policy to be permanently maintained. Littlo more than expenses of administration were provided" for at. the present time, Mr. Luke remarked, but shortly more ample funds would have to be obtained in-order to extend tho "zoo" and procure additional' animals. An extension of paddocking was already necessary for the larger animals, and a division of existing paddocks, in order to permit of proper classification of their occupants. To meet urgent requirements tho council had, authorised the immediate erection of dividing fences in one of tho deer paddocks,, but next year an increased expenditure in this direction would bo necessary. The '-zoo," Mr. Luke maintains, has* by no means reached tho limit of its usefulness. By judicious extension it can be made a, place of great educational value, apart from its more popular appeal. Mr. Luke would liko to see- school children taken to the "200" for organised ■ instruction. They would not merely gain a grounding in natural history, but would learn to appreciate' in n practical way the desirability of treating animals humanely and with kindness. When the business' of appointing a superintendent hnd been disposed of, Mr. Luke stated, the committee intended to seriously approach tho question of extending and improving the "zoo." If the finances of the council should prove unequal to the demand, a direct appeal would be made to the people for supplementary funds to carry out tho work. The appeal might justly bo made, for the aim was not merely to contribute to thn pleasure of residents and visitors who found recreation at tho "zoo." Tho primary object of the committee was to educate young people in and around this district in natural history, and to oncourago tlio "Towth of humane sentiments in regard to tho treatment of animals.