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Statistics of catches have also been compiled from the diaries of private anglers, and this year has seen greater co-operation in this method of procuring data. This was only the second year of operation and it is hoped the coming years will find an even greater measure of co-operation. (7) Field Observers' Reports Further conservation directives were issued to field officers to encourage recording of rare species of native birds. The response has been gratifying and has assisted in clarifying contemporary distribution. (8) Field Records and Library The indexed collection of photographs is steadily growing. Reports on wildlife and the collection of data are being registered and these, together with pictorial illustration, are proving to be of great value and interest. A recent addition to the photographic collection included a series depicting the takahe. The field staff have shown a keen interest in the library established for their use. Reference material was catalogued and arranged on the basis of an orthodox library system in order to make the contents more easily available. (9) Other Research Worlc In the course of the expedition to Fiordland last year a visit was paid to Resolution Island by a biologist to search for takahe and to determine the suitability of the island as a sanctuary for kakapo which are rapidly decreasing. Large numbers of these birds were transported there at the end of the nineteenth century by Mr. R. Henry, an eminent authority on New Zealand native birds. It was unfortunate that the visit was hampered by bad weather and only a limited survey could be made of the high country of the island. No positive signs of the birds were found. Small numbers were found, however, in the area between Charles and George Sounds. In conjunction with Dr. 0. J, Murie, the scientific leader of the expedition, a study was made of the effects of red deer and wapiti on the forests of Fiordland. Before Dr. Murie's return to America the material collected was examined and assessed by departmental officers. Data obtained from this study has been the subject of an internal departmental report, but further work will be necessary before this information can be published. An interim report on the whole of the activities of the Fiordland expedition is in course of publication as an interdepartmental report. The possibility of using virus disease to destroy the cat population on Great Barrier Island was studied. Studies of quail and chukor were conducted mainly in the Southern Lakes Acclimatization District, and a short preliminary paper on the findings of these investigations in regard to chukor has been published. A full survey was made of the distribution and economic importance of Canadian geese. They have proved to be destructive to farm lands at Lake Ellesmere, but they are a difficult game bird to shoot and, except during the moulting season, are difficult to control. Measures are at present being considered when control can be obtained at the breeding-grounds in the ranges. • C. Administration of Animals Protection and Game Act, 1921-22 (1) Absolutely Protected Birds The second meeting of the committee of field ornithologists took place in September. This committee was set up to advise the Department on measures required for the protection of rare native birds. The preservation of the takahe, kiwi, kakapo, brown duck, native crows, and other birds was discussed. Action was taken in regard to the Committee's recommendations.

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