CHAMOIS FOR THE ALPS.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume L, Issue 57, 15 March 1907, Page 2

CHAMOIS FOR THE ALPS.

GIFT OF Tills AUSTRIAN EMPKUOIt, Per Press Association. Wellington, March I t. Eight chamois, tho gift of the Emperor of Austria to tho INow Zealand Government, arrived by tho Turakina this morning. tlic introduction of (lie chamois to Now Zealand was really due to Commander L. Hitter von Hochne), who whs in New Zealand two years ago in the Austrian cruiser Panther. Commander vjii Hoclmel, wlio has dono a great deal of exploration in East Africa, and who is a keen observer of thy flora and fauna of tho countries which he visits, was much struck wlmn in Southern New Zealand with the suitability of the alps for chamois. In Wellington lie met Sir Joseph Ward and mentioned the matter to J"" 1 - Sir Joseph took up the projected introduction ot chamois most warmly, and Commander von Hoelinel, in order to n.ake some return for tho great kmdncsi which he received in New /inland from the Government and people, promised to bring the matter before tho hmperor. Arrangements were accordingly made, and the chamois, which camo to hand 1.1.1 -v are tlie result. Twenty-four u„i. uul were caught in the Tyrol after great dillieulty, but somo of the animals were old, and therefore unsuitable for shipment, and others agum were so wild that Lh'-y died, hastening their ' death by their violent behaviour in confinement, '