VALUE OF EFFICIENT SANCTUARIES.

Forest and Bird, Issue 17, 1 April 1929, Page 15

VALUE OF EFFICIENT SANCTUARIES.

It has been said of the Icelander that if an Eider duck saw fit to build its nest in a man’s bed he would without demur leave the bird in full possession and himself sleep on the floor, so great is the value of the down, about 255. per pound. In Iceland the asset which these birds are has long been recognised, and they are rigorously protected and farmed. Not so, however, in Labrador, where the species was, owing to uncontrolled slaughter, on the verge of extinction, before the Canadian Department of Interior took the matter in hand and made sanctuaries of their old nesting grounds and put efficient men in charge of these. The result is that the following telegram has been received by the American Nature Association from an ornithologist (Howard H. Cleaves) deputed to insoect the position on the spot.

Eiders numerous along Canadian Labrador coast due to excellent protection by this (Canadian) Government. Have seen personally more than two thousand breeding birds in ten days’ cruising. Hundreds of them in each four sanctuaries visited to date. Three hundred seventy-five seen from one hill top. As I walked over one island to-day many nesting birds flew up on all sides. Despite lingering snowbanks and passing icebergs some young eiders have already hatched. Realise this fine bird is making wonderful recovery from shadow of extinction. With good weather large increase will take place this year.