REPLY TO CRITICISM.

Hokitika Guardian, 3 October 1928, Page 1

REPLY TO CRITICISM.

(To the Editor.) Sir—The writer would like to make a few remarks with reference to the criticism levelled by the Westland Acclimatisation Society with regard -to the opossum question. , Acclimatisation Societies are charged with a very important work in administering the Animals Protection Act 1921-22 and it is to be hoped that the question of controlling wild life matters is viewed from a National point and not merely from a revenue point of view. Some of the remarks of the President do not seem to convey this desire, but nevertheless it is hoped they are misleading. Most of the arguments expressed by trappers and others could with equal if not greater force be applied to. rabbits and yet we do not want them. Opossums have been proved to be adepts at catching such birds as sparrows and starlings when confined commodiously in captivity, and the feathers and fledglings have been found in opossums taken at Kapiti sanctuary, where trapping goes on all the year round by an officer of the Department of Internal Affairs, besides by other people. The method of poisoning, as mentioned in an article written by the writer is no secret and it is probable that more skins are secured nojv by this illegal method than by trapping. It is the business of Acclimatisation {Societies to check the practice. The complexity of wild life is very great and the casual observations of the trappers and the like are usually not of sufficient value to weigh in the matter. A case has been made out for investigation and surely the business like way is To take time and have accurate scientific research made before recommending any further spreading of a doubtful .proposition. Acclimatisation in the past has brought many costly evils to New Zealand and surely it is not desired to add to these. Then let us make sure before acting lest posterity be afflicted with still greater burdens. On the other hand nobody wishes to hinder the good use of any asset when it is proved to be such and Aeelimatisaiton Societies will he increasing their maim, if they make sure before acting and l>e' content at present with asking for research and that the question, be decided on the basis of the welfare of New Zealand bis a whole.—l am etc., < i E. V. SANDERSON. Wellington. Sept. 27th.