OPOSSUMS.

Hokitika Guardian, 22 May 1923, Page 1

OPOSSUMS.

Tt is notified in this issue that the Opossum season opens on Ist. June, and extends over two months. Opossums may bo taken or killed only as prescribed in the gazetted rogoJations. Poisoning by evnide or other means is a serious offence ancl offenders will lie prosecuted. It is notified for general information that an open season for the taking or killing of opossums bad been declared in the Westland Acclimatisation district for the period commencing on June Ist., and ending on the Hist July. Licenses to take or kill opossums may, on the payment of the sum of i'2 10s, be obtained from the Postmasters at Hokitika, Kumarn, Ross. or Okanto.

Opossums may lie taken or killed only in tile following manner;

(a) By means of a tunning noose, fixed, in such a manner that the head of the animal will pass through the noose.

(b) By shooting with a Pea. Rifle except in scenic district,

(el By means of a trap known as the American Jump Trap, with or without teeth, or bv the Box Trap, or Ivy the ordinary rabbit trap. (cl) All such traps for the taking ol opossums must be placed on the ground while in use.

The Rangers of the Westland Acclimatisation Society, or any authorised Ollicer, is empowered to seize any trip s that are illegal for the taking of opossums, if being used or found in Use by any trapper.

All traps or other appliances used fm the purposes of taking opossums must lie visited by the Licensee at least cine clailv.

Any person who commits a broach of the regulations respecting the taking or killing of opossums, is liable on conviction to a line not exceeding £SO, in each ease, and any opossum skins

in bis possession in respect to any breach, shall be forfeited and become the property of the Crown. Opossums may not bo taken or killed by the laying of poison. Any person so attempting to take or kill opossums, commits a breach of the regulations and is liable to be proceeded against.