THE SMALL-BIRD PEST.

Otago Witness, Issue 2892, 11 August 1909, Page 7

THE SMALL-BIRD PEST.

WELLINGTON, August 3. At the meeting of the Agricultural Conference to-day a brief discussion took place regarding the small-bird pest. Mr P. Pattullb moved on behali of the North Otago Association :— ' That the Government be requested' to place on the 'Estimates a earn, of money as a bonus or prize for tie discovery of an effective poison for small biras." Mr X G. Wilson seconded the motion. He said he thought the sparrow was not much of an enemy to- the insect pest. Other speakers questioned the ability of the sparrow to cure the insect pest. Mr Pattullo agreed to alter his motion by making it read : " Poison " or other means for the effective destruction of small birds. The motion was carried. Mr J. G. Wilson on behalf of the Mariborugh Association, moved — "That in-

quines be made as to the advisability of importing- swallows and martins into the Dominion." Mr T. W. Kirk expressed a doubt as to whether they would ever succeed in keeping the black swallows. There was not much chance of keping migratory birds unless they could discourage sportsmen. There was little hope of establishing new birds in New .Zealand. The sparrow did a certain amount of good, but his wages were too high. If they could, however, get the Australian swallow, even for the summer, they would do a deal of good for little cost. He added that as a result of investigation he found that sparrows reared about six broods a year, and by the time the sixth arrived the first born were also taking unto themselves^ wives and rearing families. Some of the delegates said that 15 years ago Australian swallows were seen in Canterbury. They were apparently blown across the Tasman Sea, and, after a season's sojourn in New Zealand', they f.ed4> the call of home, and flew back to Australia. They did not return to New Zealand. Mi Wilson's motion was agreed to.