California Fish and Game
V. 2 1916
Bound volume
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V. 2 1916
Bound volume
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California Resources Agency Library
1416 9th Street, Room 117
Sacramento, California 95814
fObl CALIfy
CONTENTS.
Pagr
GAIME CONDITIONS IN GRKAT BRITAIN vs. CONDITIONS IN CALI-
FORNIA Carl Westerfeld 3
THE EFFECT OF STRYCHNINE SULPHATE ON CALIFORNIA
VALLEY QUAIL C. C. Pierce and M. T. Clcgg 11
FISHING AT SANTA CATALINA ISLAND— ITS DEVELOPMENT AND
METHODS Dwight G. French 14
SCIENCE AND PROGRESS IN THE PROTECTION OF FOREST, FISH
AND GAME Clias. C. Adams 19
CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE LIFE HISTORY OF THE PACIFIC COAST
EDIBLE CRAB F. W. Weymouth 22
EDITORIAL 28
lATCHERY AND FISHERY NOTES 38
CONSERVATION IN OTHER STATES 44
IFE HISTORY NOTES 4G
ILD LIFE IN RELATION TO AGRICULTURE 49
OMPARISON OF THE LEADING FISH AND GAME COMMISSIONS
OF THE UNITED STATES 51
REPORTS—
Violations of Fish and Game Laws 52
Seizures and searcties 53
Financial report 54
20G77
California Fish and Game
" CONSERVATION OF WILD LIFE THROUGH EDUCATION "
GAME CONDITIONS IN GREAT BRITAIN VS. CONDITIONS IN
CALIFORNIA.
By Carl Westerfeld, Member California Fisli and Game Commission.
The San Francisco Examiner, in its editorials entitled "Breeding
Game in Scotland," published July 31, 1915, and "New Proof of Our
Game Law Folly," published November 3, 1915, commends to the
"prayerful consideration of the Fish and Game Commission the study
of game conditions under the Scottish practice of breeding and killing
game. ' '
We were already familiar with game condition.s prevailing in Great
Britain, but in order to refresh our memories we took some pains to
review the game laws and conditions of that country.
We are indeed surprised that the Examiner, which has hitherto so
severely criticized the gun clubs and game preserves of California,
should now suggest to Governor Johnson the upsetting of "the entire
project of conserving game for the few and .substituting for it the
honest, well-established method of conserving it for the many," as
practiced in Scotland. The preserve system Avhieh the Examiner has
so bitterly condemned flourishes to a greater extent in Great Britain
than in any other countrj^ There a few of the nobility and millionaires
own all the land where game is found and only the.se men and their
friends are permitted to hunt.
On examining the "game conditions under the Scottish practice of
breeding' and killing game" we find at the very outset that the game
laws of Scotland and those of the United States rest upon entirely
different foundations. In America the wild game belongs to the people
in their sovereign capacity and is not subject to private dominion to
any greater extent than the people through the legislature mav see
fit to make it. (Geer vs. Ct., 161 U. S. 519; Ex parte Maier, 103 Cal.
476; Kellogg vs. King, 114 Cal. 388.)
On the other hand, in Great Britain there has been grafted much
legislation upon the rules of the common law "which up till the end
of the eighteenth century was framed for the preservation of deer and
game for the recreation of persons of fortune and of preventing per-
sons of inferior rank from squandering, in pursuit of game, time, which
their stations in life required to be more profitably employed." (XI
Encyclopedia Brittanica, 11th edition, p. 440.) The right to take game
was made to depend on the social rank of the person. Even now in
Scotland the right to hunt is theoretically reserved to persons who have
inherited that unknown quantity, a "ploughgate of land." (Scots
Act 1621, c. 31) ; and in Ireland qualifications by estate are necessary
for killing game and keeping sporting dogs. (Irish Act 1698, 8 Will.
Ill, c. 8.)
In Great Britain, where the right to take deer and game is not in the
crown by prerogative, or by franchise {raiionc privilegii) in the
grantee of the rights of chase, park or free warren, which are anterior
^2^
■i CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
to and superior to those of the ownner or occupier of the lands
over which the privilege has been granted, ''the right to take or kill
■wild animals is treated as a proiit incidental to the ownership or occu-
pation of the land on which they are found, and there is no public right
to take them on private land or even a highway, nor is there any method
known to the law where the public at large, or an undefined body of
persons, can lawfullv acquire the right to take wild animals in alinio
solo." (XI Ency. Brit., 11 ed., p.^MO; The Laws of England [The
Earl of ITalsbury] Vol. 15, p. 212.)
To preserve this right to the owners or occupiers of the land the
most drastic trespass laws have been enacted in Great Britain. A tres-
passer on another man's land in pursuit of game renders himself both
criminally and civilly liable. In a criminal action the penalty for tres-
passing on the land of another in pursuit of game is very severe; if
done in the day time the offender is liable to a penalty of £5. If the tres-
passing is in search of game or rabbits in the night time the maximum
penalty on a first conviction is imprisonment with hard labor for not
over three months; on a second, imprisonment with hard labor not over
six months. For the first or second offense the conviction is summary,
i. e., without trial by jury, subject to appeal to a court of session, but
for a third offense the offender is tried on indictment and is liable to
penal servitude from three to seven years, or imprisonment with hard
labor for two years. If the offenders assault or offer violence by fire-
arms or offensive weapons they are liable to be indicted, and on con-
viction punished to the same extent as in the last offense (The Night
Poaching Act 1828, 9 Geo. IV, c. 69). In 1844 the above penalties were
extended to persons found by night on highways in search or pursuit
of game. If three or more trespass together on land by night, or destroy
game or rabbits, and any of them is armed with firearms, bludgeon
or other offensive weapons, they are liable to be indicted, and on con-
viction sentenced to penal servitude, from three to fourteen years, or
imprisonment with hard labor for two years (Act of 1828, Sec. 12;
Act 1831. Sec. 34). The Game Act of 1831 gives lords of manors and
privileged persons certain rights to appoint gamekeepers with special
powers to protect game in districts over which their rights extend.
(Sec. 13, 14 and 16.) It is not necessary in Great Britain for the owner
to summon a public officer in order to make an arrest lor trespassing
in pursuit of game. This may be done hy the owner or occupier of the
land, his servants or gamekeepers. Even in the Night Poaching Act
of 1844, which applies to highways, the arrest of offenders is made
by owners, occupiers and their gamekeepers.
The term "game," as defined by the Night Poaching Act of 1828
and the Game Act of 1831, includes pheasants, partridges, red grouse,
bustard and hare. Deer are considered even more sacred than game.
It is a fclojiij to hunt or kill deer in enclosures, in forests, chases or
purlieus, or in enclosed land where deer are usually kept, or after a
previous conviction to hunt or kill deer in the open parts of the forest.
(Larceny Act 1861.)
These are the laws wliich the Examiner so prayerfully commends to
the consideration of the Pish and Game Commission. Does the Exami-
ner advocate the adoption of similar laws in the State of California?
Is this the Exaimtner's "honest, well established method of conserving
(game) for the many?"
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME. O
As a result of these laws game and deer in Great Britain are most
carefully protected by the owner or occupier of the land. Pheasants,
partridges and other game birds and deer are reared artificially in
great numbers, very much in the same manner as poultry and cattle
are reared in California. The laws of Great Britain guard the interests
of the land owner in game and deer so well against poaching that it
is to the financial interest of the owner to protect it.
In many parts of Great Britain the importance of the sporting rights
of an estate now more than counterbalance its agricultural value, and
enormous sums are annually devoted to the artificial production of
game. Taking all contingent expenses into consideration, the average
cost of every head of game killed (this does not include deer) may be
taken as not less than three shillings. A hand-reared pheasant can
scarcely be brought to the gun for less than seven or eight shillings;
and these birds in particular — the partridges and wild ducks to a
lesser but steadily increasing extent — are reared in tens of thousands,
every year. (XXIV Ency. Brit. 11 Ed. p. 995.)
The nobleman who kills over 1,000 brace of grouse or hand-reared
pheasants in a single day, or 200 stags in a season, can not, of course,
eat them all himself, and in order to lessen the tremendous cost of
artificially rearing and protecting game and of maintaining his hunting-
preserve, he sends to the market the game he can not eat. Because
of the value of the game to the land owner and his right to control the
hunting of it on his property, limit laws are unnecessary in Great
Britain. Every owner permits only such hunting as will not impair
his breeding stock, just as cattle men or poultry raisers in California
kill or ship only the surplus cattle or chickens to market and retain a
sufficient number as breeding stock.
It is true as said in the Examiner ' ' that although Scotland is a small
and well populated country" and "although game has been hunted
and killed in Scotland for hundreds of years" certain species of game
are still plentiful. This is due to artificial propagation and the fact
that owing to the rigid trespass laws only the owners or occupiers of
the land are permitted to hunt. It is not true, however, that under
the Scottish practice the "common people" are entitled to hunt, or
that the game is preserved for them, nor is it true that the wild fowl
is still plentiful in Scotland, or anywhere else in Great Britain. The
natural wild fowl have been almost exterminated in Great Britain — ■
"the districts are unhappily few and far between where even a mod-
erate bag of edible wild fowl can be made nowadays." (XXIV Ency.
Brit., 11 ed., p. 998.) "Wild fowl are migratory and can not be kept
upon any man's land except to a slight extent when raised artificially.
The deer and game birds of Scotland too would have been exterminated
long ago were they not so carefully preserved for the land owner and
occupier, i. e., the nobleman and the millionaire.
"Any person before he shall in Great Britain take, kill or pursue
or aid or assist in any manner in the taking, killing or pursuing by
any means whatever * * * any game * * * or any deer shall
take out a proper license to kill game," costing £3 or $15.00. (Game
License Tax 1860.) Gamekeepers and servants who assist the wealthy
sportsmen as gun bearers, beaters, etc., must under this act have a
game license, but even including all these only 68,000 game licenses are
issued annually in Great Britain and Ireland and the population of.'
Great Britain and Ireland is 45,250,000.
2—20677
b CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
In California with a population of 2,500,000 over 164,000 hunting
licenses costing only $1.00 apiece are sold annually.
If hunting licenses were sold in Great Britain and Ireland in the
same proportion to the population as they are in California almost
3,000,000 licenses would be sold there annually.
In California one out of every fifteen men, women and children
hunts, while in Great Britain and Ireland only one out of every 665
has that privilege. In other words, in proportion to the population,
forty-four times as many people hunt in California as in Great Britain
and Ireland. Evidentlj^ the "common people" do not have much
opportunity to hunt under the Scottish system. Do these figures show
that in California game is being conserved for "the few" and that in
Great Britain it is being conserved for "the many"?
Neither grouse shooting nor deer hunting in Scotland is a poor man's
sport. j\lr. Grimble in his work "Deer Stalking and the Deer Forests
of Scotland," p. 89, says: "In the two counties of Argyle and Inverness
only and leaving Mr. Winans out of the calculation, there are a dozen
deer forests which let at a total of £25,000! — an average of over £2,000
each per year. For practically two months' sport, a rental of £250
a week, or over £40 a day is paid. This sum does not include attend-
ants' expenses, which sum sometimes amounts to very nearly as much
again." And Lord Lovat in "Grouse in Health and Disease,"
p. XVIII, says: "It has been estimated that the approximate value
of the grouse moors in Scotland is about £1,000,000 a year in gross rent,
and in England not less than £270,000."
The total area of Scotland is 19,069,500 acres. Of this more than
one-fifth, 4,000,000 acres, is devoted to deer forests, and these 4,000,000
acres are owned by less than seventy individuals, most of whom belong
to the nobility and all of whom are extremely wealthy. The Duke of
Sutherland alone owns 257,000 acres of deer forests in Scotland, the
Duke of Fife 110,000 acres, and Lord Lovat 101,000 acres. Nobody is
permitted to hunt on any of these lands without the consent of the
owners. Less than seventy men therefore control all the deer hunting
of Scotland. These men carefully conserve the game on their lands
and but comparatively few^ men are invited to hunt. For example,
the Duke of Fife, the o-wTier of the Forest of Mar, consisting of 110,000
acres, limits the hunters to five a day and does not permit more than
200 stags per year to be killed. (Grimble, Deer Stalking and the Deer
Forests of Scotland, p. 172.) So in the smaller forest of Glenealley by
Glenilsa, consisting of 3,000 acres, only one person per day is permitted
to hunt during a limited season of two months, and the kill of stags
averages about twenty-seven a year. (Ihul., 209.) The author of the
book, Mr. Grimble, in the preface, himself laments that he can no
longer hunt in certain forests because the former owners (his friends)
have died. He says:"* * * Avoe is me that I am unlikely ever again
to spy their splendid corries, for, alas ! the four kind friends who respec-
tively held them in the days when I first wrote have all joined in the
great majority."
It is the same with the hunting of grouse, pheasants, blackcock, part-
ridge and all other game birds. Immense tracts of land w'hich are
rigidly preserved are owned by a few nobles and millionaires. Only
they and their friends are permitted to hunt to the utter exclusion of
the inferior classes.
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
The Examiner in its editorial of November 3, charges that "the
deer are preserved for the rich sportsmen friends of the Fish and Game
Commission." Let us examine the facts. The official railroad map of
California, issued by the Railroad Commission of the State of Cali-
fornia, showing the National Forest Reserves, shows that these reserves
include the districts where the best deer hunting in California is to be
had. They include nearly all of Trinity County and a large part of
Del Norte, Siskiyou, Shasta, Modoc, Lassen, Plumas, Sierra, Nevada,
Placer, Eldorado, Alpine, Tuolumne, Mono, Mariposa, Madera, Fresno,
Inyo, Tulare, Kern, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Ventura, Los
Angeles, San Benito, Orange, Riverside, San Diego, Monterey, San
Bernardino, Lake, Mendocino, Glenn, Tehama, and Humboldt counties.
Fig. 1. Map of California showing National Forests, in which, with the exception of those
forming game refuges, hunting is free to all. The National Forests in California com-
prise 19,000,000 acres. (Courtesy United States Forest Service.)
8 CALIFORNIA FISH AXD GAME.
In all there are almost 19,000,000 acres of land included in these
forest reserves and there are over 21,000,000 acres of government land
outside of the reserves, makincr over 40.000.000 acres of Ihe best deer
(.'ountry in the State of Calif urnia, owned by the United States govern-
ment, upon which any citizen may hunt by procuring a license costing
one dollar. None of this land is, or ever can be "preserved for the
rich sportsmen friends of the Fish and Game Commission." As a
matter of fact there are very few acres in the State of California which
are preserved for the purpose of hunting deer. A few clubs exist for
that purpose in the counties of ]\Iarin and San ]\Iateo, but elsewhere in
this state they are practically unknown.
The people of California have, therefore, government lands equal
to twice the area of Scotland on which to hunt deer, besides all the land
which is privately owned and upon which hunting by the public is
permitted.
Practically the same method of conserving game as that practiced
in California is followed throughout the United States.
In estimating the whole number of hunters in the United States
we arrive at some astonishing results. In an article in the Saturday
Evening Post of November 13, 1915, it is said :
"Covering the year 1913 — the latest available in view of the conflictinp: dates of
the several fiscal years — the association's report (American Game Protective and
Propagation Association) shows that two million three hundred and twenty-five
thousand shooting licenses were issued by the several states. It is estimated that
in the year 1915 this number will exceed two million five hundred thousand. It is
concluded that a million men hunt who are exempt from license requirements. In
addition to these legal exemptions it is likely that more than a million men evade
the law and hunt illegally.
"Taking figures and estimates combined, it seems fair to suppose that there are
five million hunters in the United States. This is also about the estimate made by
the Department of Agriculture.
WHAT AMERICAN HUNTERS SPEND.
"Of shotgun ammunition alone more than a billion shells are sold in the United
States each year. (Retailing at about $30,000,000.) There are thirty-five million
clay birds or targets shot at every year in America (costing the shooters about
$500,000). There are five hundred thousand shotguns and rifles sold to sportsmen
in America each year (bringing easily from $10,000,000 to $15.0OO.OO!>). There are
forty-five hundred gun clubs in the United States. On the whole, the outdoor
sportsmen of America who do not confine their enjoyment altogether to proxy
sports or commercialized sports — the men who at least have smelt powder — make a
very respectable nucleus of military possibility. Rather let us call it efiicient busi-
ness possibility.
"The capitalization of American outdoor sports runs into very large figures.
When we come to transportation, hotel bills, guides, equipment and so on. as
required by the sportsmen tourists who hunt and fish, we run into very many mil-
lions of dollars."
There can be no question but what the training these men obtain in
the pursuit of game develops the very qualities which make good sol-
diers. This training has been in the past and will be in the future a
tremendous a.sset to tlie United States in the event of war. Colonel
Roosevelt in the introduction to his work on "The Deer Family" at
page 24 says :
"There are many sides to the charm of big game hunting; nor should it be
regarded as being without its solid advantages from the standpoint of national
character. Always in our modern life, the life of a highly complex industrialism,
there is a tendency to softening of the fibre. This is true of our enjoyments ; and
it is no less true of very many of our business occupations. It is not true of such
work as railroading, a purely modern development, nor yet of work like that of
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME. 9
those who man the fishing fleets ; but it is pre-eminently true of all occupations which
cause men to lead sedentary lives in great cities. For these men it is especially
necessary to provide hard and rough play. Of course, if such play is made a
serious business, the result is very bad ; but this does not in the least affect the
fact that within proper limits the play itself is good. Vigorous athletic sports
carried on in a sane spirit are healthy. The hardy out-of-door sporls of the wilder-
ness are even healthier. It is a mere truism to say that the qualities developed by
the hunter are the qualities needed by the soldier ; and a curious feature of the
changed conditions of modern warfare is that they call to a much greater extent
than during the two or three centuries immediately past, for the very qualities of
individual initiative, ability to live and work in the open, and personal skill in the
management of horse and weapons, which are fostered by a hunter's life. No
training in the barracks or on the parade ground is as good as the training given
by a hard hunting trip in which a man really does the work for himself, learns to
face emergencies, to study country, to perform feats of hardihood, to face exposure
and undergo severe labor. It is an excellent thing for any man to be a good horse-
man and a good marksman, to be able to live in the open and to feel a self-reliant
readiness in any crisis. Big came hunting tends to produce or develop exactly these
physical and moral traits. To say that it may be pursued in a manner or to an
extent which is demoralizing is but to say what can likewise be said of all other
pastimes and of almost all kinds of serious business. That it can be abused either
in the way in which it is done, or the extent to which it is carried, does not alter
the fact that it is in itself a sane and healthy recreation."
The chief complaint of the Examiner seems to be that game is not
as plentiful in our markets as in the markets of Europe. Game possibly
would be plentiful in our markets if the shooting were limited as in
England to the owner or occupier of the land on which it is found,
but this would mean the adoption of the European system under which
only the wealthy can hunt. Instead of five million hunters in the
United States there would be about one-fiftieth of that number or
100,000. The poor man under the European conditions can not afford
to hunt.
A supply of game in the markets would be of no particular benefit
to the poor man because under ordinary conditions he could not afford
to buy it. In thickly populated countries game always has been and
always will be a luxury. It costs more than other meat because it is
not so plentiful and is more expensive to raise. If at any particular
time game has cost less than beef it was due to some unusual condition
which was only temporary.
In California every effort has been made by the present Fish and
Game Commission to have people engage in the business of raising game
for the markets. One of the principal reasons for the establishment of
the State Game Farm at liayward was to instruct people how pheasants
and other game birds could be raised artificially. Since the establish-
ment of the game farm hundreds have been raising pheasants for the
market and these birds can now be had in any first-class restaurant in
San Francisco. In 1913, owing to the efforts of the Fish and Game
Commission, the "Bowman Act" was passed, which permits the raising
and sale in California of all .kinds of hand-reared game. For several
years past reindeer meat has been offered for sale in the markets and
restaurants of San Francisco. Several men are now engaged in raising
deer in captivity and hope some day to supply our markets with veni-
son, but this will take time and the expenditure of much money. For
example, under the ''Scottish practice of breeding and killing game
} )
10 CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
enormous sums have been spent in the raising of deer. A witness who
was examined before the Royal Commission testified:
"I have planted S.OOO acres with twenty-four million trees, and that I am going on
with as quickly as the season permits ;
"I have put up more than scvouty-slx miles of my own internal fences, and I
haA'e joined with my neighboring proprietors in putting up more than thirty-four
miles of march fence.
"I have made 473 miles of open drains ; I have made over twenty miles of car-
riage road and more than eighteen miles of pony tracks and walks; the whole outlay
I have made during twelve years has been £180,000. or an average of £15,000 a
year spent entirely in the county!" (Grimble, "Deer [?talkiug and the Deer Forests
of Scotland." p. 91.)
From this testimony it would appear tliat the raising of deer for
sport or foi- the market is no small undertaking.
In no place, not even in Scotland, have game breeders had any suc-
cess in hand rearing grouse or quail. The moors on which the.y are
found in Great Britain are protected against trespassers, the birds are
fed and the vermin are killed. All this is done there by the owner or
occupier of the land and until the right to take or kill wild animals
in this country is treated as a profit incidental to the ownership or
occupation of the land on which they are found, no owTier or occupier
will bother himself much about the protection or propagation of the
game on his land.
While private preserves often serve a most useful purpose and should
be encouraged within reasonable limits, it would be a great misfortune
if they increased to such an extent that all the available hunting ground
fell into the hands of a few very wealth.y men, as it has done in Scot-
land under the "Scottish practice of breeding and killing game."
In the United States millions of dollars are spent annually in the
pursuit of game and millions of men find renewed health and strength
in the exercise and outdoor life which it entails. The prohibition or
curtailment of field sports is highly undesirable, both from the stand-
point of economics and of health.
Furthermore, the great arm}^ of hunters forms a nucleus from which
in time of need an army of soldiers could be recruited for national
defense. For, as Colonel Roosevelt has said :
"The qualities that make a good soldier are in large part the qualities that make
a good hunter. Most important of all is the ability to shift for oue"s self, the mix-
ture of hardihood and resourcefulness which enables a man to traniii all day in the
right direction and when night comes, to make the best of whatever opportunities
for shelter and warmth may be at hand. Skill in the use of the rifle is another
trait; quickness in seeing game, another; ability to take advantage of cover, yet
another ; while patience, endurance, keenness of observation, resolution, good nerves.
and instant readiness in an emergency, are all indispensable to a really good hunter
* * *_
"It is utterly foolish to regard proper game laws as undemocratic, unrepublican.
On the contrary, they are essentially in the interests of the people as a whole
because it is only through their enactment and* enforcement that the people as a
whole can preserve the game and prevent its becoming purely the property of the rich
who are able to create and maintain expensive private preserves. The very wealthy
man can get out hunting anyhow, but the man of small means is dependent solely
upon wise and well executed game laws for his enjoyment and the sturdy pleasure
of the chase.
"The game should bo conserved so that it shall continue to exist for the benefit
of all lovers of nature and to give reasonable opportunities for the exercise of the
skill of the hunter whether be is or is not a man of means."
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME. 11
THE EFFECT OF STRYCHNINE SULPHATE ON CALIFORNIA
VALLEY QUAIL,
By C. C. Pierce, Senior Surgeon, and M. T. Clegg^ Bacteriologist,
United States Public Health Service.
For the past several years the United States Public Health Service
has been conducting a campaign for the eradication of ground squirrels,
in co-operation with the California State Board of Health. This work
is being carried out under a state law, and on account of plague infec-
tion existing among California ground squirrels.
One of the methods used to destroy squirrels is to distribute poisoned
barley over infected lands during the dry season. Barley is the only
grain used for this purpose and was selected because the squirrels take
it readily, while birds are not particularly attracted by the barbed
grain, the spines not being removed in the cleaning process.
The government formula and method of preparing this poisoned
barley are as follows :
Whole barley (recleaned) 18 pounds
Strychnine sulphate 1 ounce
Soda (bicarbonate) 1 ounce
Saccharine 1 dram
Thin starch paste 1 pint
Corn syrup (Karo or equal) 2 ounces
Dissolve the strychnine in hot water ; thicken with starch to about the consistency
of thin soup. Dissolve the soda in one-half pint of hot water and add a little at
a time to the poisoned starch until effervescence ceases ; then add the syrup and
saccharine, mix well and apply to the sraiu. stirring constantly until the poison is
evenly distributed throughout, and the grain is thoroughly dry.
This formula is particularly advantageous on account of the fact
that the bitter taste of the strychnine is delayed for several minutes
and squirrels can pick up and place in their cheek pouches a consider-
able quantity before any bitter taste is noted; it is- then too late for
the squirrel to get rid of the poison, as enough of it has been absorbed
through the mucous membranes of the cheek pouches to kill the animal.
Extensive experience with this type of poisoned barley has shown an
efficiency far ahead of any other type of poisoned grain tested. Young
or half-grown squirrels have, in most instances, been practically exter-
minated and the percentage of adults or full-grown squirrels destroyed
is far higher than with other types of poisoned grain used.
At various times the effect which the extensive use of this poisoned
grain might have upon valley quail has been questioned. The officers
and employees engaged in squirrel eradicative work have never observed
any mortality among quail as a result of the poisoned grain. In order
to give a definite and scientifically proven answer to the State Fish
and Game Commission, the following experiments were carried out
at the Federal Laboratory, San Francisco, to determine the minimum
lethal dose of strychnine sulphate for the California valley quail, and
further to determine what effect the poisoned barley, distributed under
the direction of the United States Public Health Service for the
destruction of the ground squirrels {Citellus heeclieyi) might have
upon the quail. It was found that of four quail tested, the minimum
12
CALIFORXIA FISH AND GAME.
lethal dose of strychnine sulphate given subcutaneoiisly was four milli-
grams for each 100 grams of body weight.
TABLE NO. 1.
Shoivhiff the Minimum Lethal Subcutaneous Dose of Strychnine Sulphate for Quail
Compared with Guinea Pigs and Ground Squirrels.
Subject
Weight
In grams
Dose in
milligrams
Dose In
milligrams
per 100
grams body
weight
Besult
Quail No. 1
Quail No. 2
Quail No. 3
Quail No. 4
Guinea pig No. 1
Guinea pig No. 2
Guinea pig No. 3
Squirrel No. 1
Squirrel No. 2
, 150
145
148
147
381
201
362
450
530
2
4
' 4
6
4
4
2
2
0.5
1.3
2.7
2.7
4
1.05
2
0.5
0.4
0.09
No symptoms.
No symptoms.
No symptoms.
Death.
Convulsions; death.
Convulsions; death.
Convulsions; death.
Convulsions; death.
Convulsions; recovery.
It will be noted that the amount of strychnine reckoned by body
weight fatal for quail No. 4 was ten times greater than the fatal dose
for squirrel No. 1 and forty times greater than that which produced
convulsions in squirrel No. 2.
FEEDING EXPERIMENTS. USING PURE SULPHATE OF STRYCHNINE.
Forced feeding was carried out. This experiment, of course, does
not show the amount of strychnine that would be fatal were they fed
under natural conditions, as a certain amount of the strychnine was
absorbed through the upper membranes during the process of feeding.
Four quail were used. Six milligrams for every 100 grams of body
weight produced convulsions but not death.
FEEDING EXPERIMENTS. USING POISONED BARLEY.
The l)arley used in these experiments was obtained from the con-
tractor furnishing poisoned barley for the Public Health Service,
mixed according to the government formula and containing 10 milli-
grams of strychnine sulphate to each 2.9 grams of weight, or 70 grains
of barley. Four quail, the heaviest weighing 170 grams and the light-
est weighing 153 grams, were fed varying amounts of the barley. The
feeding time in one case was ten minutes. This quail consumed
70 grains of barley containing 10 milligrams of strychnine. Another
con,sumed 140 barley grains containing 20 milligrams of strychnine
during a period of twenty-four hours, and one consumed 280 barley
grains containing 40 milligrams of strychnine during a period of forty-
eight hours. In none of the quail were there any symptoms of poisoning.
In order to test the toxicity of the barley, four squirrels were fed
the following amounts :
19 grains of barley containing 2.7 milligrams of strychnine.
30 grains of barley containing 4.3 milligrams of strychnine.
33 grains of barley containing 4.7 milligrams of strychnine.
40 grains of barley containing 5.7 milligrams of strychnine.
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
13
TABLE NO. 2.
Test to Determine the Amount of Poisoned Barley Fatal to Quail, Compared with
That Fatal to Squirrels.
Subject
Weight
in grams
Number of
grains of
barley
Amount of
stryclinine
sulphate
(in
milligrams)
Time
consumed
in feedingi
Results
Quail A
153
70
10
10 min.
No symptoms.
Quail B
173
140
20
24 hrs.
No symptoms.
Quail 0
157
?
?
24 hrs.
No symptoms.
Quail D
168
280
40
48 hrs.
No symptoms.
Squirrel A
455
40
0.7
1 hr.
^Convulsions; death.
Squirrel B
440
33
4.7
1 hr.
^Convulsions; death.
Squirrel 0
445
30
4.3
2 hrs.
Convulsions; death.
Squirrel D
425
19
2.7
10 min.
^Convulsions; death.
i"Time consumed in feeding" designates the time occupied in giving the amount of
strychnia indicated. Quail A had been starved for 48 hours; Quail B, C and D were
fed on non-poisoned grain before receiving the poisoned barley. Cages were then
cleaned of all food and a definite number of grains of poisoned barley were placed
in the feeding pans.
^Convulsions occurred within thirty minutes after the poisoned barley was pouched
by the squirrels, and death within two hours.
=Death occurred in one and a half hours.
In each ease convulsions and death occurred within a period of two
hours after administering the barley and in each case the barley was
reclaimed from the pouch of the squirrel after death, showing what
had already been proven, that strychnine is rapidly absorbed through
the membranes of this organ.
CONCLUSIONS.
(1) California valley quail may be fed under natural conditions
relatively large amounts of strychnine sulphate without showing toxic
symptoms.
(2) The minimum lethal dose by subcutaneous injection is four milli-
grams per 100 grams of body weight.
(3) The California ground squirrel (Citellus heecheyi) is very sus-
ceptible to strychnine sulphate ; .09 milligrams per 100 grams of body
weight produced convulsions.
(4) Nineteen grains of barley containing 2.7 milligrams of strych-
nine sulphate, when retained in the pouch of the ground squirrel,
proved fatal.
(5) Poisoned barley as used for ground squirrel eradication does not
cause the death of California valley quail under natural feeding con-
ditions.
3—20677
14 CALIFORNIA PI81I AND GAME.
FISHING AT SANTA CATALINA ISLAND—ITS DEVELOPMENT
AND METHODS.
By DwiGHT G. French.
Probably at no other place, up to the present time, has the art of
angling been given such a distinct and carefully worked out technique
as at Santa Catalina Island, off the coast of Southern California,
where, in the last fifteen years, its growth has been most rapid. The
story of its development forms a very interesting chapter in the history
of the piscatorial art.
In 1886 the waters off Catalina Island contained vast numbers of
game fish. At that time there was on the island but one boatman,
"Mexican Joe" who, with a large dor}^ took passengers for hire.
All fishing Avas done with hand lines. It was necessary to go only two
or three miles from Avalon, the town on the island, to make a good
catch of tuna, albacore, yellowtail, white sea bass, and many other
game fish. As Mexican Joe's trade increased others began to take
up the occupation, but hand lines and row boats prevailed for many
years, and little or nothing was done with the fish caught. Later a
power boat, or launch, was introduced to tow boatmen, passengers and
rowboats to and from the fishing grounds. As all fishing at Catalina is
done by trolling, with the exception of black sea bass and rock bass,
the more enterprising boatmen began to build their own launches and
fish directly from these, trolling their lines behind.
In 1898 a grand leader and true sportsman, Charles F. Holder,
founded the Tuna (Jlub. With the founding of this club, rods and reels
began to supplant the hand lines, for the Tuna Club offered prizes for
the largest game fish landed on specified tackle.
Two distinct types of rods were specified, one kno^Mi as heavy tackle,
a wooden rod not shorter tlian six feet nine inches in length and weigh-
ing not more than sixteen ounces, the other known as light tackle, a
rod not shorter than six feet over all, the tip, not including the butt,
to weigh not more than six ounces. The line specified for the heavy
tackle rod was a twenty- four strand line with a breaking strain of
forty-eight pounds, that of the light tackle a line of nine strands with
a breaking strain of eighteen pounds. Here also might be mentioned
the tackle known as "three-six." the rod not to be longer than six feet
over all and butt and tip to weigh not more than six ounces. The line
is of six strands and breaks at twelve pounds. This latter class is not
so generally used as the two described above.
No specifications were laid down with regard to reels. The reels
first used had straiglit, stiff handles and leather tluimb-drags, these
drags being the only means of checking a fish 's run. The reels held six
hundred feet of the specified line. Following straiglit stiff-handled
reels came an adjustable friction drag attachable handle. Its purpose
was to do away with the leather drag as much as possible and act also
as a saver of lines, for inexperienced anglers would often, in their
excitement, press too heavily on the leather drag and so break the line.
The drag handle once being set, all that remained to be done was to
hold the handle until the fish had spent its run, then by a pumping
process the line could be reeled in, ready for another rush of the fish,
A 900-foot reel replaced the 600-foot one, for often 600 feet of line was
not enough.
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME. 15
The 900-foot reel, with its adjustable friction drag handle, has been
further improved by putting in a spring catch, so that the handle is
caught or released at will. When the catch is released, the handle being
caught, one can use both hands to pump and it is not necessary to use
the handle except to reel in the line. Another type of reel has gained .
much favor, but as yet is not in general use. This reel combines the
improvements described above, and in addition has a handle that locks
at any position, and also a drag that can be adjusted to a given tension
at any instant.
The seining and gill-netting operations of market fishermen at
Catalina Island for a number of years past have so depleted the fish
that it has become necessary for the boatmen who angle for sport to
find some means to entice the fish to strike other than trolling the
bait behind the boat in the old manner. The more naturally a bait can
be made to act in the water the greater is the possibility of a fish strik-
ing. The yellowtail and the tuna are the most desirable of the game
fish, consequently some improvement on the old method of trolling a
sardine or flying fish had to be devised. AVhen the yellowtail and
tuna are feeding, sardines can be seen jumping on the top of the
water and flying fish making their torpedo-like flight. Two very
ingenious methods have been contrived for "jumping" the bait, the
kite and the sled. The kite is the oldest and by far the most effective
in its particular use, namely, in skipping the bait (a flying fish) for
tuna fishing. (See sketch.) The originator of kite fishing is Captain
George Farnsworth, one of the oldest boatmen and most experienced
fishermen at Catalina. He claims to have used this method since 1909,
but kept it a secret, pledging all of his anglers to secrecy before allowing
them to use it, and then permitting its use only under his supervision
and many miles away from chance spiers. In 1911 his secret leaked
out through some unscrupulous anglers who, it is said, had given their
word of honor not to divulge it, so that now the method is in more
general use.
Two persons are required in the use of the kite, the boatman manip-
ulating the boat and kite, the angler the bait. From 500 to 1,000 feet
of kite line are necessar3^ The method of putting out the kite is as
follows: The boatman puts the kite in the air and plays out about
200 feet of line or more, as circumstances require ; a similar cord from
ten to twenty feet in length is then tied to the kite line, and to the
free end of this cord is tied a short piece of line that will break at
about twelve pounds strain. The end of this line is then fastened to
the wire leader of the angier's line. The boatman and angler then play
out line together. In this manner the bait can be carried to any distance
from the boat that is desired, the kite holding all lines clear of the
water and allowing only the bait to touch the surface. On hooking a
fish the light line between the kite line and the angler's line breaks,
thus letting the angler free to fight the fish and the boatman to reel in
the kite.
In the past three or four years several styles of kites have been tried
and used. The first constructed were paper box-kites, but these proved
of little value; they either pulled too strong and raised the flying fish
from ten to fifty feet in the air, or else at the critical moment ceased
to fly. Next followed the home-made kite, constructed of cloth, either
thin muslin or silk. No glue is used in these kites, consequently they
16 CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
are little affected by water. Two kites are necessary, one that can be
used in a heavy wind, and one that can be flown in a very light breeze
or by the speed of the boat alone. These kites must be so constructed
and have such lifting powers that the bait is seldom raised more tlian
three feet above the surface of the water. One can scarcely imagine
the perseverance and patience Captain Farnsworth used in experi-
menting and constructing a kite to meet all weather conditions and
yet be under perfect control, and one can not help lauding him,
especially if tliey have had the pleasure of working with him one
summer.
Often at Catalina tuna can be seen schooling on the surface when not
a breath of wind is stirring. At these times it is practically impossible
to get a strike by other means than with a kite or sled. At such times
the no-wind kite, as I will call it, must be used. Most fishing launelies
at Catalina have a maximum speed of between seven and ten miles
per hour, and going at full speed a kite, if properly constructed, will
fly, but then almost directly astern of the boat. With proper maneuv-
ering of the boat by turning, and the kite flying high enough, the bait
can be carried off to the side and skipped over the school of surfacing
fish. Only for a short period can this be done, however, for during
the turning period the kite will begin to drop, and one must go ahead
on it to cause it to raise. Let the slightest breeze come up and the
no-wind kite will fly as nicely as could be wished. From the sketches
(Fig. 2) it can be seen that there are no lines in the water, only the
bait on the surface. "With experience this bait can be made to skip
and jump in the school of tuna, and to all appearances to act as if it
were making frantic efforts to escape. The skipping is accomplished
by raising and lowering the rod in a jerky manner. Tuna seem unable
to resist these actions of the bait and often three or four will make their
lightning-like strike for it. It matters not whether the bait is on the
surface of the water or three feet above, they seem possessed with the
mad desire to have the bait.
I have said nothing of the arrangement or location of the hook in the
flying fish. This is very essential, for often the flying fish is struck and
the tuna not hooked. The hooks used are of a distinct type, being
about three inches long and one and one-half inches across the throat.
The point of the hook points toward the shank to allow free hooking
and yet as far as possible prevent unhooking. The using of two hooks
is not advisable as often the tuna becomes bridled and the chancCvS of
landing him are thus lessened. One hook placed within two inches
of the flying fish's tail, and the wire leader I'un through the body so
that the fish will pull straight and by the head, seems to work the best.
"When feeding on flying fish a tuna generally strikes the head, it being
necessary for them to swallow the fish head first so that the wings will
not interfere. "When the flying fish is used with tlie kite, however, the
tail is nearest the water ; consequently the hook is placed there.
When there is sufficient wind so that it is not necessary to run the
boat to keep the kite flying, different tactics are used than when there
is no wind. For illustration, let the wind ])e blowing from the west
and the boat be traveling north, then the kite will be on the starboard
or right side of the boat. A school of tuna being sighted, the boatman
runs on the west side opposite the school, puts his helm to port and
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
17
18 CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
stops. The wind being sufficiently strong to hold the kite up, the bait
remains directly over the school ; tlien hy jerking the rod the bait can
be made to dance.
I have given but two illustrations of the use of the kite, one under
favorable conditions and one under poor. On paper these illustrations
look easy to follow, but in actual use they are difficult to work out.
Kite fishing is one of the best, most interesting and surest methods of
causing tuna to strike; but only an experienced boatman and angler
can manipulate the kite with continuous success.
The sled has been in use but a little over three years. Just who the
originator was I can not say, there being some dispute. Its coming
was not kept secret, neither was so much comment made at its initial
appearance. The first year it was little used, as boatmen were rather
skeptical of its value. The scarcity of yellowtail served, however, to
give it prominence and showed that it had qualities that were at first
underestimated. Only a general building plan of the sled can be given,
because of all the sleds in use at Catalina no two are built alike. Each
boatman seems to have his own idea as to the best. The sled has two
wooden runners ranging from three to five feet in length and from six
to ten inches in depth and about three-quarters of an inch in thickness.
These runners are curved up at the front end, making about a 45°
angle with the horizontal. At the rear end they are cut away slightly to
leave as little wake as possible. The runners are held together by two
braces, the under side of these braces being cut away toward the rear
so as to assist in sliding over obstacles and through the water.
Using the sled does not require as much skill or experience as the kite,
though two ])ersons are necessary to work it to advantage. A line
with a breaking strain of from 90 to 120 pounds and from 100 to 200
feet in length is run from the mast of the launch to the side of the
sled, the sled thus pulling from the side (see sketch). When the launch
is started the friction of the water on the sides of the runners causes
them to act as a rudder, and the sled instead of running astern of the
boat runs off to the side and a little abaft of the beam. By tying the
sled-line to a different point on the runner the sled can be made to run
more nearly parallel or more astern of the laimch as desired. With
a new sled the point at which it will run best is found by trial and the
line always made fast to this point afterwards. A mast of reason-
able height must be used, or the sled-line does not make a sufficiently
large angle with the water. It can easily be seen that the taller tlie
mast, the longer the sled-line can be and consequently the farther from
the boat the sled can be made to run. The sled, like the kite, keeps
all lines out of water. At some point about two-thirds the length of
the sled-line from the boat a short piece of heavy cord is tied to the
sled-line and on the free end of this cord is fastened a short piece of
line which will break at about ten pounds .strain. The light line is
then tied to the wire leader of the angler's line. A honked fish breaks
the light line, leaving the sled on the sled-line and the fish on tlie
angler's line. The bait used is the flying fish Avhich, when skidded
along on top of the water, the yellowtail will strike. For inshore
fishing over or near kelp beds the sled has no equal, as the curved-up
runners of the sled slide smoothly over the kelp without fouling. Tlie
yellowtail is an inshore fish and is seldom taken more than a half mile
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME. 19
off shore. For this reason the sled is best adapted for yello-wtail
fishing, the kite seldom if ever beinsf nsed. The sled works best in
smooth water or in water which is only sliofhtly rough. In rough water
or heavy swells it has a tendency to jump or dive, and as the s^eed
of the iDoat is increased, these actions are more pronounced. "When
running in the trough of the sea the rolljng of the boat and mast cause
severe strains on the sled and sled-line. To eliminate this as much
as po.ssible a spring or heavy elastic cord is inserted at the mast.
Because of rough water the sled is seldom used for tuna fishing, the
kite being superior for all weather conditions met with in this branch
of the sport.
In this article on the fishing methods in vogue at Catalina Island,
an effort has been made to show something of the evolution that has
taken place in salt water fishing at the southern island — an evolution
which has brought the sport from the erudeness of hand-line days to
the perfected art of kite and sled fishing with rod and reel and to a
better utilization of the fish caught.
SCIENCE AND PROGRESS IN THE PROTECTION OF FOREST,
FISH AND GAME ANIMALS *
By Dr. Chas. C. Adams, Forest Zoologist.
New York State College of Forestry, Syracuse, N. Y.
I. INTRODUCTORY.
I have recently come to this State from the Middle West, where the
sportsmen of New York State have the reputation of being among
the most progressive, intelligent and public spirited men in the propa-
gation, preservation and legal protection of fish, game and other wild
animals. They have led the entire nation in their high standards of
sportsmanship.
It is therefore with much pleasure that I have this opportunity
to speak to such a representative audience upon a subject of so much
importance and of so much interest to me personally. I wish to urge
the desirability and necessity of investigating the forest, fish and
game animals if we are to use intelligently the very exceptional animal
resources which this State possesses. No other state equals or sur-
passes it in these features.
II. URGENCY OF INVESTIGATION OF THE STATE ANIMALS.
I take it that the most important practical problem is to execute all
plans to the limit of our knowledge and to the best of our ability. This
is so self-evident that I will not discuss it. The problem of next prac-
tical importance is to acquire ne^w knowledg-e — an equally difficult
matter. There are many reasons for this. There are fewer workers
with the proper technical training, the personal rewards are generally
less, and the investigator must not only wrestle with the problems he
is attempting to solve, but he must also persuade others to furnish
him with the means and support for his investigation, because he can
seldom devote himself solely to investigation and support himself and
familv on the side or incidentallv.
*A paper presented at the annual meeting of the New York State Fish, Game
and Forest League, Utica, N. Y., December 10. 1914, and taefoi-e the Anglers Asso-
ciation of Onondaga, Syracuse, February 8, 1915.
20 CALIFORNIA FISIT AND GAME.
What are some of the problems awaiting solution in this State? As
far as fish are concerned, listen to Dr. T. H. Bean, fish culturist of the
State Conservation Commission, the best informed man on New York
fish and a man wliose reputation as a fish culturist is not surpassed in
America. He says (16th Ann. Rep. Forest, Fish and Game Comm.,
pp. 137-138, 3911), ''It is unfortunate but true, that the life of the
inland lakes of New York, numerous and important though they are,
is as little known as that of some of our remote possessions. New York
ranks among the greatest of the states in the value of its fisheries and
its waters contain undeveloped resources of unusual importance. We
know little more than the names and spawning seasons of our common
fishes. The interrelation of species in their effects, one upon the other,
is almost a sealed book to us. In fish culture the state is occupied with
only about thirty species, and these are under observation for the
most part of the spawning season only. [There are about 150 species
of food and game fishes in the State.] AVhat is going on in the open
waters of our streams and on the bottoms of our lakes is little under-
stood, and yet it is of vital importance to the success of our work.
The State ought to devote more time and money to the study of its
natural aquatic resources. Such investigations would yield unexpected
and most gratifying returns. It is time that the importance of the
fisheries to the general public as well as to the angler was fully recog-
nized and acknowledged."
When, as a new-comer in the State, I endeavored to learn what
detailed studies of the fish had been made in our lakes and streams,
I was soon impressed very foi'cibly with the truth of Dr. Bean's
remarks. Much the same condition holds also for the game, fur-bearing
and other forest animals. I do not wish to belittle the good work
already done, but certainly we have no detailed study of the animals
comparable with that which has been devoted to the geological survey
of the State, nor with tlu^ detail that we have from some other states.
III. SAMPLE PROBLEMS NEEDING INVESTIGATION.
The following may be given as examples of some of the problems
which need investigation :
1. What is the maximum crop of game and food fish which should
be produced in our lakes such as in Lake George, Chautauqua
Lake, or Oneida Lake?
2. How many grouse and quail should we secure from a given area
of woods?
3. How many deer should we be able to secure from 500 acres of
hardwood or coniferous forest?
4. To protect trees from insects, how many woodpeckers would it
be desirable to have nesting in a square mile of forest?
5. What is the status of the red squirrel? Does the good it accom-
plishes lialance the harm done?
f). Should gnrter snakes and water snakes be killed?
7. What is the extent, character of bottom, depth of water on the
best breeding grounds for our most valuable lake and stream
fishes? What is now being done to care for these grounds
properly ?
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME. 21
8. How do the different systems of forest management influence the
abundance of fish in the included streams? How are the game
and fur-bearing animals influenced?
9. How do the different types of storage reservoirs influence the fish
productivity of such waters?
10. How do the various water power plants and their dams influence
the fish in streams.
11. What is the influence of industrial waste, the sewage of cities,
and similar products on the fish productivity of lakes and
streams ?
12. How can the abundance of suckers, gars, lampreys and ling be
reduced in our waters? Our ignorance concerning these fishes
is amazing. We can not subdue them and remain so ignorant
of their habits. Knowledge is power under such circumstances.
13. Why are not frogs and turtles cultivated extensively in this State ?
14. An exhaustive study has never been made of the animals in an
American trout stream and who will say it is not worth while?
15. How can we control the epidemics among fish and game animals ?
IV. NEED OF TRAINED INVESTIGATORS.
I wonder how many of you feel competent to undertake the solution
of all the problems involved in these questions. I for one make no
claim to this. This is is not a one-man job, and to undertake such a pro-
gram upon so small a scale is utterly unworthy of a state. If bureaus of
municipal research are needed to solve the problems of our cities, many
experiment stations are already at work on agricultural problems,
surely forest, fish and game problems should be adequately handled by
an able corps of technically trained investigators. Can men without
adequate training hope to solve such problems?
We can profitably compare investigators to the spies, scouts and
aviators of an invading army who bring in information about the
enemy. Of course, an army can get along without them for a time and
under some circumstances, but in this modern world, to ignore this
assistance in military operations is to invite disaster. The State of
New York has for years been, conducting its campaign for forest, fish
and game animals with little assistance from this kind of scout service.
Is this wise?
The complexity of these problems awaiting investigation is well shown
by Forbes (Bull. 111. State Lab. Nat. Hist. vol. 1, p. 20) as follows:
' ' If one wishes to become acquainted with the black bass, for example,
he will learn but little if he limits himself to that species. He must
evidently study also the species upon which it depends for its existence,
and the various conditions upon which these depend. He must likewise
study the species with which it comes in competition and the entire
system of conditions affecting their prosperity. Leaving out any of
these, he is like one who undertakes to make out the construction of a
watch, but overlooks one wheel ; and by the time he has studied all
these sufficiently, he will find that he has run through the whole com-
plicated mechanism of the aquatic life of the locality, both animal and
vegetable, of which his species forms but a single element."
This statement about the bass calls to mind the oft quoted statements
from Darwin that the amount of clover seed in a neighborhood may
be directly related to the number of cats in the vicinity. Speaking of
4—20677
22 CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
the dependence of the clover upon the humblebees in producing
numerous seeds, he says (Origin of Species, N. Y. 1876, pp. 57-58) :
"Hence we may infer as highly probable that, if the whole genus of
humblebees became extinct or verj^ rare in England, the heartsease
and red clover would become very rare or wholly disappear. The
number of humblebees in any district depends in a great measure on
the number of field mice which destroy their combs and nests ; and
Colonel Newman, who has long attended to the habits of humblebees,
believes that '^lore than two thirds of them are thus destroyed all over
England.' Now the number of mice is largely dependent, as everyone
knows, on the number of cats ; and Colonel Newman says, ' Near villages
and small towns I have found the nests of humblebees more numerous
than elsewhere, which I attribute to the number of cats that destroy
the mice.' Hence it is quite credible that the presence of a feline
animal in large numbers in a district might determine, through the
intervention first of mice and then of bees, the frequency of certain
flowers in that district."
This quotation calls to mind the familiar story of our childhood about
the "House that Jack Built." Only a moment's reflection upon the
network of relations between the bass and other water animals and
the bees, field mice and cats, will convince anyone that the network of
relations existing between the fish, game and forest animals is an
intimate and complexly balanced one. However, a technically trained
investigator will take these complex problems, and perhaps after months
and years of work, reduce them to such simple procedure that a two-
dollar-a-day man will apply the results every day as a matter of
routine; just as we vaccinate for tj^phoid fever, after the expert bac-
teriologists have solved the problems involved and reduced it to a
simple routine.
CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE LIFE HISTORY OF THE PACIFIC
COAST EDIBLE CRAB.
By F. W. Weymouth.
[The British Columbia Fisheries Department has receutl.v issued a report
(Rep. of the Comm. of Fisheries for year ending Dec. 31, 1914, Victoria, B. C,
pp. 123-129) which is of especial interest and value to California. The report is
entitled: "Contributions to the Life History of the Pacific Coast Edible Crab
(Cancer magister)'' and is by F. W. Weymouth of Stanford University. The edible
crab has a wide distribution, being found from I'nalaska to Magdalena Bay, but it
is not commercially important south of Monterey. The descriptiun of the fishing
methods at San Francisco along with the observations under the headings, "IIoop-
nets." "Habits," and "Soft Crabs," are of such interest that they are here given. —
N. B. SCOFIBXD.]
The hoop-net furnishes the method most widely used in commercial
fishing, and the only one possible in "outside" fishing on bars and off
sandy beaches where there is surf and strong tides, as at San Francisco,
Eureka, and in parts of British Columbia. For these reasons it
deserves a more particular consideration. As San Francisco furnishes
the largest fishery of the coast, a description of the conditions at this
port will serve as an example. Among the crab fishermen power-boats
have completely displaced sailboats, though some of the latter are still
used by the salmon fishermen. As all the fishing is here done outside
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME. 23
on the bar, where at times heavy weather is encountered, these boats
are of necessity seaworthy craft. They are usually twenty-five to thirty
feet over all, commonly of the "pinkie" or sharp-sterned type, though
some of the Italian boats have the launch or rounded stern.
All the boats are partially decked over and provided with hatches,
so that as used only a cockpit remains open, extending about amidships
to near the stern. Under cover just in front of the cockpit is located
the four- to eight-horsepower gasoline engine, and in some of the newer
boats the steering wheel as well. Since the nets are hauled over the
right side, this allows one man to control the boat and handle the nets.
Such boats range in price from $300 to $500 for secondhand, and $600
to $1,000 for new boats. This with the equipment of nets and other
necessary gear brings the cost to from $500 or $600 to $1,200.
* * * [The net] is constructed on two iron rings; the upper, of
about one-half inch rod, is two and one-half to three feet in diameter;
the lower, of somewhat lighter rod, measures fifteen to eighteen inches.
These are connected with rather coarse netting, so that the lower ring
hangs about a foot below the upper, giving the whole a shape not unlike
a deep dish. The lower ring is stiffened with six spokes, and to the
center is lashed a hemispherical cap of woven wire to enclose the bait.
The spaces between the spokes are covered with netting, which, like that
on the sides, should be coarse enough to permit the escape of undersized
crabs. The whole is attached by a bridle of three strands to a coil of
stout line (from fifteen to twenty or twenty-five fathoms, according: to
the depth) which is made fast to a float. The float may be of cork, of
hollow wood painted, or of copper. The cork is cheapest, but lasts only
one season, and even when new is more easily swept under by strong
tides. The hollow wood and the copper floats, though more expensive,
last for many years if kept painted, and are more buoyant.
The bait consists of small fish of various kinds taken by seines in
the bay. The amount used is not large and the fishermen seldom catch
it themselves, being supplied by Italian seiners. The small fish are
placed under the wire bait-cover already mentioned, which serves to
prevent its being too rapidly eaten by the crabs, which might otherwise
clear out the net and leave before it could be hauled.
The fishing is done on a sandy bar outside the Golden Gate in depths
of from five to ten fathoms. Here the series of about twenty nets are
thrown overboard as the boat runs slowly up against the tide, so that
they form a line. The boat then drops back to the first net, which is
hauled a half hour or more after being set. Where the tides run strongly
it requires no little skill to manage the boat and haul the nets suc-
cessfully, as the latter must not be stirred on the bottom until they are
lifted completely or the crabs will be frightened away. To accomplish
this the boat is run up against the tide, the float caught and lifted
aboard, and the line carefully coiled in until the boat has reached a
point directly above the net, when it is raised with a quick haul and
drawn to the surface. The crabs are sorted, those of marketable size
being thrown into a compartment in the stern and the remainder over-
board. The boats usually go out to the fishing grounds early in the
morning and are at work by sunrise. The nets are hauled at intervals
of a half hour or more until the early afternoon, when the boats return,
and the crabs are transferred to floating live boxes, from which they
are later sent to market.
24
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
This method, with variations in the completeness of equipment and
the substitution of rowboats for launches on more sheltered waters,
furnishes most of the markets as well as private tables with crabs.
Habits.
In all the regions examined the crab is found in greatest abundance
in shallow water on a sandy bottom, only chance individuals frequenting
rock}^ or nmddy bottoms. It ranges from low tide to a depth of fifty
fathoms,* though its relative abundance at these different depths varies
in different parts of its range. In California it is not taken in shallower
water than about two fathoms, and pi-actically all fishing is done at
Fig. 3. The edible crab (Cancer magister). The annual catch of crabs in California has
a wholesale value of $120,000.
from four to twelve fathoms, deeper water being avoided because of
the labor of hauling the nets. On Vancouver Island and farther north,
both in British Columbia and in Alaska, the crabs are found not only
at these moderate depths, but also in shallower water, where they may
be seen and taken with dip-nets or spears at low tide. Certain other
species of crab enter shallower water in the northern parts of their
ranges; for instance, Cancer gracilis, a species which is never fished, is
common between tides in Puget Sound, though never found in less than
five or ten fathoms in Monterey Bay. In the case of Cancer magister,
however, this difference in habitat is apparently not the result of natural
causes, but of continued fishing, which has depleted the most accessible
grounds. This is shown by the history of the fishery. The following
quotation pictures the condition about 1880: "The common crabs are
caught along the sandy beaches on the San Francisco side of the bay,
Note. — *M. J. Rathbun. Harriman Alaska Expedition, Vol. 10, p. 177.
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME. 25
especially on the south side of the Golden Gate between the city and
the sea. They are taken in immense numbers in seines, together with
many shoal-water species of fish, yet the supply seems to be undimin-
ished. Three or four good-sized crabs sell in the market at retail for
twenty-five cents." Today no crabs could be taken by shore-hauled
seines in the locality mentioned, and very few of marketable size by any
method in any part of the bay ; profitable fishing is confined to the bar
three or four miles outside of the Golden Gate. One good-sized crab
sells for twenty-five cents in the market on rare occasions, but more
commonly for thirty or thirty-five cents. The supply seemed "to be
undiminished" only because of the short time under observation. The
history of this fishery, which even under protective legislation has
markedly diminished in thirty years, is significant for yet unexploited
regions.
At Eureka the course of events was similar. In early days in Hum-
boldt Bay a skiff might be filled by spearing the crabs in shallow water
with a pitchfork, where now bay fishing even in deep water is unprofit-
able. While found in shallow water, at least at one time, throughout
its range, the edible crab is seldom or never seen between tides as are
many smaller forms.
Cancer magister shows a distinct preference for sandy bottoms.
Occasionally it is found in the fine sand or mud of bays, but such are
always recognizable by their discolored appearance. It is found at
times on gravel, but never, as far as I know, on rocky shores. This
preference for a sandy bottom is correlated with certain structural
peculiarities and a group of habits which may be briefly mentioned here
on account of their bearing on the methods of fishing. Observation of
the crab where accessible in shallow water and of the young in aquaria
furnish the following facts : The crabs may often be seen moving quietly
along over the bottom ; where buoyed up by the water they move lightly
over the ground on the tips of their legs, presenting a striking con-
trast to their heavy and clumsy movements as ordinarily seen on land.
If frightened they dart away with surprising speed. Some of the fish
eaten by them must require much agility in their capture, though how
this is accomplished is unknown. For the greater part of the time,
however, they lie almost entirely buried in the sand, as may be seen
from observation in the aquarium or in shallow bays. If examined
at such a time, only the stalked eyes, antennules, and antennae will be
visible, and below these a sort of chink between the anterior part of
the shell and the flattened maxillipeds which are held slightly sepa-
rated from the body. From this cleft issues a current, evident if the
water is roily, or in the laboratory if India ink, for instance, be added.
When thus buried two conditions must be met : First and most
important, a supply of fresh water for respiration must be obtained;
and, second, the animal must be informed of the presence of food or
enemies. Under ordinary conditions the water is forced through the
gill cavity by the rhythmic beating of a specialized appendage lying in
an anterior prolongation of the chamber; the water is drawn in near
the bases of the legs and escapes near the mouth, forming the exhalent
current already noted. When buried, the water must be drawn from
the surrounding sand, but it must also be freed from fine sediment
which soon coats the plates of the gills and interferes with respiration.
If India ink be discharged on the surface of the sand above a buried
26 CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
crab, it will be drawn into the sand along two lines corresponding to
the front borders of the shell, and closer observation Avill show that it
passes into a crevice between the shell and the large pincers wliieh,
when folded, accurately fit the contour of the sides of the body, licre
covered M'ith a dense plush-like coat of hair. The teeth on the over-
hanging edge of the shell exclude large grains of sand, while the hair
acts as a very efficient strainer, removing all fine particles from the
inhalent stream. At times the direction of this current is reversed.
These facts explain certain of the habits. Other forms, though closely
related, may lack this straining apparatus and thus be unable to burrow
in sand ; this is the case with Cancer productus, which, as a result, is
restricted to rocky or gravelly bottoms. In the edible crab this
straining apparatus, though efficient in removing the sediment found
in the sand, seems less satisfactory in dealing with the finer particles
of muddy bottoms, and crabs found in these locations have the gills
badly discolored and seldom appear healthy. Other questions, such
as food and the adaptation of the legs to sand burrowing, may have
some influence, but the preference for sand is largely due to the method
of respiration.
The second condition, that of information of possible food or enemies,
is equally well met. The exhalent current constantly bathes the
antennules, which are thus in a position to sample all the water drawn
from the immediate surroundings or coming on the tidal currents
from considerable distances. The antennules have been looked on as
organs of smell, and though this has been questioned in certain quar-
ters, experimental work which I have recently carried out (unpublished)
leaves no doubt of the correctness of this conception. In the edible
crab and in the other species tested they are clearly the most sensitive
organs for detecting minute amounts of food juices in the water.
Hemigrapsus oregonensis, a mud-loving species of this coast, will, for
instance, go long distances up the small drain sloughs of the marshes
to reach meat placed in the running water, but this reaction is pre-
vented by the removal of the antennules, though the even greater injury
of cutting off the stalked eyes has little or no effect. A crab buried in
the sand will instantly come out in search of food when the current
bearing the meat juice reaches it. On the other hand, the eyes appear
to be of little use in food getting. Though quick to detect rapid move-
ments, Hemigrapsus oregonensis, when moving over the surface of the
mud left bare by the receding tide, will ignore food lying in plain view
until the legs actually touch it. Moreover, at the depth of ten fathoms
the amount of light is probably too small to make recognition of food
possible, even if this were the habit in shallower water.
The bearing of the facts just presented on crab fishing is evident.
On this coast all the forms of fishing depend on bait. The crab is
reported among fishermen to be capricious, "biting" at certain times
of tide or day and refusing to "bite" at others. Some fishermen believe
that "bright" bait, by which they mean bright, silvery fish, is better,
as it is more readily seen. This is undoubtedly an error, as sight plays
little or no part in food-gettinir. On the other hand, the bait should
not be dry, but with enough liquids to furnish juices to the surround-
ing water. The crab is exclusively carnivorous, and examination of
stomach contents shows fish to be the most common article of diet,
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME. 27
with shrimps and small crabs next in importance. Fish would, there-
fore, form the most natural bait; its "freshness," aside from dryness,
is quite secondary, as crabs are far from dainty, according to our
standards.
At slack water the juices are diffused only a short distance and will
attract few crabs; with the beginning of flood or ebb they are scattered
far down current and call the crabs even if buried in the sand. The
stronger currents of later ebb or flood seem to drive the crabs to cover,
though for what reason I can not say; possibly they are swept along
unless they bury themselves. It is worthy of note that traps are being
operated successfully at Boundary Bay without the use of any bait
whatever.
"Soft" Crabs.
Cancer magisier is never marketed in the ''soft" or recently moulted
condition, as is the blue crab (Callinectes sapidus) of the Eastern
United States. In this respect it is similar to the edible crab of the
North Sea. Since the question of "soft" crabs is often misunderstood,
it may be well to point out the difference in this regard between the
Pacific Coast species and the blue crab. "Soft" crabs are not, as often
thought by the fishermen, a different kind or species of crab, but merely
individuals which have "cast" or "moulted" their hard outer shells
and in which the new shells have not yet hardened. This moulting is
general among the Crustacea. The hard shell, while it serves many
important purposes, absolutely prevents srrowth. At intervals of about
one year, in the case of the adult crab, the shell is cast, and durmg the
few days before the new shell becomes calcified the animal undergoes
a surprisingly rapid growth, increasing sometimes as much as a third
in breadth, after which its size remains fixed until the next moult.
The blue crab of the Eastern United States is taken immediately
after, or more often just before moulting, and kept in enclosures until
it moults. It must be used for food as soon after shedding as possible,
since the new shell rapidly hardens, and this, together with changes
in the flesh incident to the rapid growth, renders it unsuitable for use.
It is also used in the "hard" condition, but this is only after the shell
has regained its hardness and the flesh has returned to its normal
state after the period of growth. It is possible to obtain this crab in
the "soft" state, because it is found in the shallow sheltered' waters of
such bays as the Chesapeake, where it can be taken by dip-nets or by
dredges. At this time the crabs are defenseless and inactive, so that
only these methods of fishine- are effective — thev will not come to bait.
The edible crab on the Pacific coast, on the other hand, is taken on a
commercial scale only by fishing with bait; hence no recently moulted
individuals are obtained. "When they are finally hard enousrh to enter
nets they are the least valuable for food because of the changes in
the flesh already mentioned. In consequence they can only be used
when completely hard. Even if they could be obtained immediately
after moulting it is doubtful if they could be used, as the blue crab is,
for frying, since on account of the greater size of the crab the shell,
even when softest, would be leathery and unpalatable.
28
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME
A publication devoted to the conser-
vation of wild life and published quar-
terly by the California State Fish and
Game Commission.
Sent free to citizens of the State of
California. Offered in exchange for
ornilholosical, mammalogical and similar
periodicals.
The articles published in California
Fish and Game are not copyrighted and
may be reproduced in other periodicals,
provided due credit is given the Cali-
fornia Fish and Game Commission. Edi-
tors of newspapers and periodicals are
invited to make use of pertinent material.
All material for pul)lication should be
sent to H. C. Bryant, Museum of Verte-
brate Zoology, Berkeley, California.
January 15, 1916.
"If bureaus of municipal research
are needed to solve the problems of
our cities (many experiment stations
are already at work on agricultural
problems) surely forest, fiish and game
problems should be adequately han-
dled by an able corps of technically
trained investigators." — C. C. Adams.
DO WE WANT SCOTLAND'S GAME
LAWS?
The San Francisco Examiner per-
sists in being antagonistic to the work
of the California Fish and Game Com-
mission and continually attempts to de-
lude its readers as regards that most
important subject, the nonsale of game.
For instance, on November 3 the follow-
ing note appeared among the editorials
under the title "New proof of our game
law folly" :
"We wish to call the attention of the
California Fish and Game Commission to
tliis little note from the London 'Daily
Mail' :
Venison was on sale at four pence
a pound at the Ladenhall Market
yesterday.
"They have been killing deer in Eng-
land for century on century — and yet
they are able to sell deer meat to the
people in the public market at four pence
the pound. In California, where we have
been killing deer in any considerable
number only about sixty-five years, the
people can not buy venison in the public
mart at any price. To sell the venison
Is a crime. The deer are preserved for
the rich sportsmen friends of the Fish
and Game Commission."
The following quotation from an edi-
torial appearing in the Fresno Repub-
lican clearly shows the untenable posi-
tion taken by the Examiner :
"Once more the Examiner returns to
its muddle-headed crusade in behalf of
the poor who wish to buy pheasants in
the St. Francis grill. This time it quotes
a note in the London Daily Mail to the
effect that 'venison was on sale at four
pence a pound in the Ladenhall market
yesterday,' and goes on to argue that
'they have been killing deer in England
for century on century — and yet they are
able to sell deer meat to the people in the
public market at four pence the pound.
London and Berlin sell pheasants in the
open stall where all may buy. But in Cali-
fornia (he sick poor can not purchase a
ouail without danger of the constable and
the jail.'
"It is, of course, true that they sell
venison in London and pheasants in Ber-
lin. But that venison is not wild game.
There are no wild deer in England or in
Germany, and have not been for cen-
turies. When we raise game in Cali-
fornia commercially, then we may safely
sell it commercially. The wild game can
not compete with commercialism. Ven-
ison at four pence a pound is too cheap,
anyway. It cost the man who produced
it several times that sum. If it is tem-
porarily sold at any such price it is by
some dumping process. But we can have
game in California as a commercial prod-
uct whenever we will go into the busi-
ness of producing it commercially.
"Meantime, one of the interesting spec-
tacles in the State will be the Examiner's
continuous argument in favor of the
'democracy' of game. The Examiner
will continue to argue that the only thing
which the poor possess is money, and
that the only thing which is the monop-
oly of the rich is leg power and eyesight.
The 'sick poor' who desire quails or
pheasants could no doubt all have them
if they were for sale for money. But if
the only way to get a quail is to go out
into the fields and shoot it, obviously the
only persons able to walk far enough or
shoot straight enough to get the quail are
the rich.
"However, the poor have at least this
consolation : The chief sport in hunting
game is its elusiveness. The Examiner's
logic is quite as elusive — and you can
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
29
buy the Examiner for a nickel or read
it free in the public library."
We are very glad to call the attention
of our readers to an article appearing in
this issue written by Mr. Carl Westerfeld,
one of the Fish and Game Commissioners,
in which attention is called to game con-
ditions as they now e.xist in England and
Scotland. No one, after reading this
article, will desire to attain similar con-
ditions for California. We want the
game to be free to everyone, rich and
poor, and we will always fight any propo-
sition which delegates hunting privileges
to a favored few.
It would be easy to write a long obitu-
ary, but not a short one, as I am re-
quested.
His birthplace was Lynn, Massachu-
setts. Being the son of Dr. John Bassett
Holder and Emily A. Gove, he was a di-
rect descendant of Christopher Holder,
who established in 1656, the first Quaker
society in America.
His early education was in the Friend's
School at Providence, Rhode Island.
Although not closely connected in later
years with "The Meeting," he was at
heart ever a Quaker. The latest impor-
tant work of his life, and a labor of love,
was the writing of a book, "The Quakers
Fig. 4. The bantam eyes with displeasure her charge's fondness for water. Photograph
taken at State Game Farm by W. N. Dirks.
FISH AND GAME DEPUTIES GIVEN
INSTRUCTION.
In order to improve the warden service
trained deputies are being sent out to
work with resident wardens. An exchange
of ideas is mutually helpful and better
co-operation is certain to result. In this
way also the new recruits of the patrol
sei'vice are taught the "tricks of the
trade."
DR. CHARLES FREDERICK HOLDER.
In the death of Dr. Holder October 10,
1915, at the age of sixty-four, the friends
and guardians of animal life sustalneu
an irreparable loss. He was a rare man.
in England and America," recently given
to the booksellers. It is and probably
will continue to be the best, well illus-
trated, condensed history of Quakerism
to be found. It is a book for the library
of every student of religion and sociology,
every broad-minded lover of humanity.
Dr. Holder as a youth had passion-
ate fondness for the water, and for the
study of its various forms of life. He
thought at first of being a seaman, and
at the age of eighteen entered the United
States Naval Academy. But he discov-
ered before graduation that his scientific
bent should take him in other directions.
Two years later, 1871, he became assist-
ant curator of zoology in the American
Museum of Natural History in New York
30
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
City. In 1879 he married Sarah Eliza-
beth Ufford of Brooklyn, New York, who
survives him. Five or six years later ill
health compelled his removal to a differ-
ent climate, and he came to California.
By this move he obtained, as he stated
in his last illness, a thirty year lease of
life amid delightful surroundings.
And in this thirty year period he became
a power, for education, for advancement
of science, for social betterment, for ad-
vance of every good cause. He had initia-
tive, and set on foot movements that
others took up with enthusiasm and car-
ried forward. He was so evidently honest,
sincere, high-minded, so courteous, so dig-
nified, so perfectly unselfish, that he won
the confidence of all who knew him. The
fact alone that he had espoused a cause
was enough in the minds of many to claim
attention and insure support.
It was largely his personal influence
that secured in southern California a pre-
ponderating vote for the nonsale law in
the last general election.
Dr. Holder was indeed a many-sided
man ; he wrote upon a variety of sub-
jects, always writing well. He was a
lover of play and took recreation reli-
giously. To this he was greatly indebted
for the prolongation of his life. His fish-
ing trips, especially, formed the founda-
tion for many charming magazine arti-
cles. "The Big Game Fishes of the
United States" is one of the most popular
books of its kind, and "The Fishes of the
Pacific Coast" is the best handbook on
Pacific Coast fishes on the market. Al-
though his scientific books were of the
popular kind, designed for tourists and
sportsmen, they lacked but little in scien-
tific accuracy. The first issue of Cali-
fornia Fish and Game contained an
article by Dr. Holder on "Attempts to
Protect the Sea Fisheries of Southern
California."
But sportsmanship, of which he wrote
so charmingly, was really a minor part
of his serious life. If you doubt this,
read the historical book first mentioned,
and others. The list of his books, printed
on the flyleaf of his latest, comprises
thirty-two ; and besides these he had made
hundreds of contributions to magazines
and newspapers.
I will repeat in closing a paragraph
from an article written and published the
day following his death :
"Dr. Holder was a man of the finest
fiber, lover of all that is good, a hater of
evil and despiser of shams. He will ever
remain in the memory of those who knew
him best as a type of the truest gentle-
man, a loving husband, a faithful friend, a
patriotic citizen." — Garrett Newkirk.
ARE WE COMING TO THIS?
A newspaper item in the Saturday
News of Lewisburgh, Pennsylvania,
states that the quail season opens Octo-
ber 15 and closes November 1. The limit
is four birds in one day, ten in a week,
and twenty in the season. Evidently both
season and bag limit are down to a micro-
scopic limit. Will twenty years more
hunting in California bring this State to
the same short season and small bag lim-
it? The answer is "Yes," unless we
profit by the experience of such states
as Pennsylvania.
GAME FARM EXHIBIT AT EXPOSI-
TION.
During the Poultry Show and the Chil-
dren's Pet Show at the Panama-Pacific
International Exposition there were on
display a number of birds from the State
Game Farm. Two cages contained uiifer-
ent species of pheasants, while a third
which attracted a great deal of attention
contained mountain and valley quail and
bob-white quail. Perhaps most attractive
of all was a small pond on which were
exhibited more than ten varieties of water-
fowl, among which were mandarin and
wood ducks and fulvous tree-ducks as well
as all of the commoner species.
DEER RECEIVE ADDED PROTEC-
TION IN CONTRA COSTA COUNTY.
The supervisors of Contra Costa County
recently adopted an ordinance prohibiting
the killing of deer and antelope within
that county. The ordinance reads :
"Every person who pursues, hunts,
takes, kills or destroys any deer or any
antelope within the county of Contra
Costa is guilty of a misdemeanor and
upon conviction thereof, shall be punished
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
31
by a fine not to exceed five hundred dol-
lars ($500) or by imprisonment in the
' county jail for a term not to exceed six
months or by both such fine and impris-
onment."
No limit as to the length of this closed
season was set. The increase of deer
and antelope will alone decide when the
season will again be opened.
PREDACEOUS BIRDS AND MAMMALS.
We hear it constantly said that the
best method of increasing our game is to
destroy predaceous birds and mammals.
The people who make these statements
More game means more food for the ene-
mies of game, and naturally an increase
of them.
The argument is not that it is useless
to destroy the enemies of game, but that
this method of increasing game species is
overemphasized. The hunter too often
places the blame for the scarcity of game
on hawks, weasels, skunks, etc., when the
real blame should go on the hunter him-
self. So far as we can see predaceous
birds and mammals do not greatly de-
crease any game species under natural
conditions. The prime reasons why game
is scarce is because too large a toll has
Fig. 5. Transporting cages of ring-necked pheasants for liberation at Lake Chabot, Ala-
meda County. Photograph by W. N. Dirks.
fail to take into consideration that there
are many factors which govern the in-
crease or decrease of species and that the
effect of predaceous birds and mammals
is but slight in comparison with many
other factors. Investigate conditions
where game is most numerous and one
will find that hawks and other vermin are
also very abundant. Not only was game
extremely abundant in early days in Cali-
fornia, but predaceous birds and mammals
were also abundant. There seems to be
a balance established between the two.
been taken by the hunter and food and
cover for game has been greatly reduced.
LEADING FISH AND GAME COMMIS-
SIGNS OF THE UNITED STATES.
On another page (p. 51) we print an
interesting comparison of some of the
leading fish and game commissions of the
United States. Of course many of the
comparisons are rather unfair because of
the very different conditions existing in
the various states. However, some idea
32
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
of the comparative size and the work
accomplished by the different commis-
sions is apparent. It will be noted that
in a number of respects California is well
in the lead.
RING-NECKED PHEASANTS REARED
AT GAME FARM PLANTED IN
DIFFERENT PARTS OF STATE.
Although no attempt was made to rear
large numbers of pheasants at the State
Game i'arm in 1915, yet a number of
birds have been planted in different parts
of the State. Over one hundred ring-
necked pheasants were liberated near Sac-
increased and there is every reason to
believe that these new birds will also
thrive. The very best protection is af-
forded them on the island and at seasons
when food and water are scarce, these are
supplied. About three hundred valley
quail reared at the State Game Farm
were liberated near the farm in Hayward.
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME COM-
MISSION EXHIBIT IN PANAMA-
PACIFIC INTERNATIONAL
EXPOSITION.
The California Fish and Game Com-
mission and the California Academy of
Fig. 6. Ring-necked pheasants being liberated at Lake Chabot, Alameda County, October 11,
1915. A plant of fifty pheasants was made.
ramento and a like number in the river
bottoms near Edgewood, Siskiyou County.
Very favorable conditions exist in the
latter locality and ranchers of the vicinity
have promised to give the birds careful
pi'btection. Especially good results are
therefore expected from this plant. The
Santa Clara Valley was restocked in sev-
eral places and seventy-five birds were
sent to Calisloga, Napa County. Fifty
pheasants were planted near Lake Chabot.
Alameda County (see Figs. 5 and 6)
In all 581 ring-necked pheasants were
liberated.
As an experiment twelve golden pheas-
ants, ten silver pheasants and forty-four
valley quail were liberated on Goat Island,
in San Francisco Bay. The pheasants
placed on the island several years ago have
Sciences co-operated in installing a most
striking exhibit of the game resources of
California in the Palace of Food Products.
Several habitat groups of game mammals
furnished by the California Academy of
Sciences were conspicuously placed in
appropriate surroundings. Some desert
mountain sheep on a mountainside, sur-
rounded by cactus and sagebrush, and a
family of deer resting in an open forest
glade, formed the two most imposing
groups (.see Fig. 7). In a rocky cave a
black bear watching her cubs at play
could be seen, and in a similar den a
mountain lion guarded her kittens while
they fed upon a dead fawn.
A typical hunter's camp among red-
woods appeared very realistic with its
painted background (see Fig. 8). In the
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
33
camp were hung some of the different
species of game birds, and tree squirrels
and mountain bluejays perched in the
trees overhead looked very lifelike. A
glass case contained the common shore
birds, and hanging on the walls of the
booth, where attendants were on duty,
were examples of practically all of the
game birds of the State.
That living things are always more
interesting than mounted specimens was
demonstrated by the crowds attracted to
SQUIRREL POISONING AND VALLEY
QUAIL.
The extensive poisoning operations car-
ried on in our national forests by the
United States Bureau of Biological Sur-
vey have not been instrumental in de-
stroying game birds. For proof of this
statement attention is called to the article
on page 11. The following quotation from
a letter from Dr. A. K. Fisher, in charge
of economic investigations, United States
Biological Survey, is also of interest :
Fig. 7. Desert mountain sheep group at exhibit of California Fish and Game Commission
and California Academy of Sciences, at Panama-Pacific International Exposition. Photo-
graph by Cardinell-Vincent Company, Official Photographers.
the aquarium containing trout. Some
golden trout from the Whitney region,
considered the most brightly colored of
all the trout species, were on display for
several months. Running water and an
abundance of beautiful ferns surrounding
the aquaria made this part of the exhibit
particularly refreshing.
"In all our poisoning experience in
California, our men have found no evi-
dence of the poisoning of valley or moun-
tain quail. Moreover, we never have
poisoned any doves, except in one or two
instances when wheat accidentally got
into the barley, which we universally use
for poisoning. In our prairie dog work
34
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
we use oats, and so far as I know it
never poisoned any game bird. We occa-
sionally kill a few horned larks, jays,
and magpies."
WILD DUCK FOODS.
The United States Biological Survey
continues to furnish valuable information
regarding important wild duck foods. In
a recent bulletin of the United States
Department of Agriculture (No. 205) by
W. L. McAtee, eleven different kinds of
duck foods are described. A discussion
of each plant and its distribution is given,
OUR ANNUAL CATCH OF FUR-
BEARING MAMMALS.
The following table is interesting as
showing the number of fur-bearing mam-
mals killed in this State during 1914.
The table is far from complete, not only
because reports are at hand from but
few of our national forests, but because
the forest deputies reporting were unable
to secure definite information. These
incomplete returns, however, demonstrate
the fact that in our fur-bearing mam-
mals we have a resource which brings
Fig. 8. Hunter's camp, part of exhibit of California Fish and Game Commission and Cali-
fornia Academy of Sciences at the Panama-Pacific International Exposition at San Fran-
cisco. Cardinell-Vincent Company, Official Photographers.
the value as a duck food is discussed, and
a note as to the ease with which it can
be propagated is added. This bulletin,
along with two others previously pub-
lished ("Three Important Wild Duck
Foods," Bureau of Biological Survey Cir-
cular No. SI ; and "Five Important Wild
Duck Foods," United States Department
of Agriculture Bulletin No. 58) will help
any one interested in furnishing an in-
creased food supply to our wild fowl.
many thousands of dollars into the State.
If conditions are to improve, or even to
remain as they are at present, added
protection must be given the fur-bearers.
The most needed legislation is a law
protecting fur-bearing mammals during
the summer season, when their fur is
not prime, and one allowing but a short
open season on the black bear.
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
35
Fig. 9. Wild valley quail feeding in dooryard. Photograph by J. H. Gyger taken at Elsi-
nore, California, August 1, 1915.
INCOMPLETE RECORD OF FUR-
BEARERS KILLED IN NATIONAL
FORESTS IN 1914.
1^
&
D.2.
Kg
1"
Sierra
(Idis
B
1
a.
a
a
]
r-*
{
1
1
J
1
2 w
Mountain lion ..
Black bear
River otter .-_--
Fisher
Marten
Red and cross
fox
Foxes
Mink
Weasel
Wildcat
Raccoon
Ring-tailed cat..
Spotted skunk-—
Striped skunk...
Coyote
Badger
5
30
10
75
5
20
300
100
24
U
9
37
105
41
114
105
56
30
230
131
10
35
25
62
19
80
65
25
10
10
28
10
*25
70
68
*In November, 1914.
SHORE BIRDS AND THEIR FUTURE.
The Yearbook of the United States
Department of Agriculture for 1914 con-
tains a paper by Wells W. Cooke, assist-
ant biologist of the Bureau of Biological
Survey, entitled "Our shore birds and
their future." A discussion of the history
and status of the important shore birds,
the Wilson snipe, woodcock, and upland
plover, and also of certain others of less
importance are given. Particular em-
phasis is placed upon the great decrease
in the numbers of these birds. In the
discussion of the Eskimo curlew the blame
for its total disappearance is placed upon
the hunter.
The following conclusions are reached :
"It is evident that shore birds are an
important asset in the country's wealth ;
that their recent decrease in numbers has
been due principally to excessive shoot-
ing ; that state laws have proven inade-
quate to check this diminution ; that the
only hope of preserving shore birds lies
in federal legislation ; but that with a
wise federal law, wisely administered, and
with an awakened and enlightened public
sentiment to aid in its enforcement, there
is every reason to believe that the shore
birds will again become common enough
to enliven the beaches and lake shores
with their welcome presence and to afford
the hunter a fair amount of legitimate
sport"
GAME REFUGES.
According to the United States Depart-
ment of Agriculture (Farmers' Bulletin
No. 692) two national bird reservations
have been created by executive order —
one on a small island in Mille Lachs Lake,
Minnesota, and one on Big Lake, in Mis-
sissippi County, Arkansas— and at least
fourteen states enacted legislation affect-
ing refuges for game. California estab-
lished three large refuges in national for-
ests ; Idaho two refuges, one of which
was stocked with fifty elk from Yellow-
stone National Park ; Montana enlarged
one of its refuges and decreased the area
of another. Oregon abolished three
36
CAUFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
refuges, created two years ago, and Wyo-
ming established one refuge and changed
the boundaries of two others.
Illinois, Pennsylvania, and West Vir-
ginia authorized their fish and game com-
missions to enter into contracts for the
establishment of game refuges on private
lands. California already has such a law.
West Virginia, lest too much land be sot
aside for the purpose, limited the area in
any one county to ten thousand acres.
It can be seen from the above that
interest is now centered in the game refuge
as a factor in game conservation. Judging
fornia has shown little originality in its
game laws. Instead of profiting by the
experience of Eastern stales she has fol-
lowed along in their footsteps and now
faces conditions which might have been
averted had more originality been shown
in the formulation of game laws.
VIOLATORS OF THE GAME LAWS.
Ill November, violators of the game
laws in the vicinity of Los Banos, Mer-
ced County, fired upon deputies of the
Fish and Game Commission. The depu-
ties secured Winchesters aud thereafter
Fig. 10. Members of National Association of Fish and Game Commissioners visiting State
Game Farm at Hayward, California, September 9, 1915. Photograph by G. H. Graham.
from the reports coming from states in
which game refuges have been estab-
lished for a number of years, sentiment
in favor of conserving game by means of
the sanctuary is growing and the next
few years will doubtless see many thou-
sands of acres added to the already
extensive refuges.
CALIFORNIA AND SPIKED BUCKS.
A bulletin of the United States Depart-
ment of Agriculture intimates that Cali-
fornia is the first state to protect spiked
bucks," or deer with unbranched horns,
instead Oi aeer with horns of a certain
length. As has been proven by the past
open season, this law can be easily en-
forced. Except in this instance, Cali-
wore not molested. This locality seems
to be a hotbed for violators of the type
that "keep an extra cartridge in the gun
for the game warden," for it will be
remembered that in the same locality
last year a game warden was killed when
he attempted to search a wagon loaded
down with ducks.
DISTRIBUTIONAL LIST OF
BIRDS OF CALIFORNIA.
THE
There has just come from the press
what is without doubt the most valuable
reference work on California birds pub-
lished up to the present time. The title,
"A Distributional List of the Birds of
California," gives but an incomplete idea
of the contents of the work. Introductory
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
37
chapters deal with theories and principles
concerning the distribution of animal life
with especial reference to conditions in
California. Then follows an up-to-date
summary of the manner of occurrence of
the 541 species and sub-species of birds
now authentically credited to the State.
A supplementary "Hypothetical List" per-
tains to such species as have been accred-
ited to California on insufficient grounds.
the reader might wish to verify, consist-
ing mainly of references to literature, or
to specimens existing in collections.
The index is an extremely valuable fea-
ture of the publication, including as it
does, besides the currently accepted names
of the species, all the synonyms under
which they have been known in Cali-
fornia ornithological literature, so that
the general reader will be able to ascer-
Fig. 11. Fish and Game Commissioners Avery
of Minnesota and Crampton of Con-
necticut with pet valley quail at State
Game Farm, Hayward, California. Photo-
graph by G. H. Graham.
with the author's reasons for doubting
the authenticity of the records.
Each species is accorded the following
treatment : First, the accepted name,
English and scientific, followed by a com-
plete synonymy of all the names under
which the species has been known in
literature pertaining to California. Then
a statement, as concise as possible, of the
exact range in California, and, in gen-
eral, its status as resident, or migrant,
etc., as the case may be. Authorities are
given for practically every statement that
tain at once the exact status of any bird
he may happen to read about, no matter
under what name it be listed.
Careful research and the gathering of
series of museum specimens have led to
a great advance in knowledge of Cali-
fornia birds during the past few years.
The pioneer ornithologist, Dr. J. G.
Cooper, was able to catalog but 353 dif-
ferent varieties in 1868. By 1S92, 445
different species were known, 491 in 1902,
and 530 in 1912; whereas this last list
enumerates 541. Of the number now
38
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
known to exist within our State, 168 are
wator birds, 373 land birds, and 108
game birds. Members of tlie sparrow fam-
ily are most numerous, 9C different vari-
eties being known in California. A large
number of the additions to the State list
are what are known as stragglers — birds
which only occasionally wander into Cali-
fornia. Notable among some of the out-
of-the-ordinary birds whose occurrence
has been noted in California, are the
Wilson stormy petrel (Mother Carey's
chicken ) , the w^atcr turkey, eastern sea
brant, roseate spoonbill, Tennessee war-
bler, and Louisiana water thrush.
The author of this distributional list
is Dr. Joseph Grinnell, director of the
University of California Museum of Ver-
tebrate Zoology, one of the foremost orni-
thologists of the Pacific coast. He is also
editor of the "Condor," the ofiicial organ
of the Cooper Ornithological Club, and
one of the foremost of the ornithological
periodicals of the country. The "Distri-
butional List of the Birds of California"
is numlx'r eleven of the series of Cooper
Club publications known as the "Pacific
Coast Avifauna." It can be procured
only from Mr. Lee Chambers, business
manager of the Cooper Ornithological
Club, Eagle Rock, California, at three
dollars per copy, unbound. Members of
the Cooper Club are enabled to obtain
the book at half price.
LECTURES ON WILD LIFE.
The Bureau of Education, Publicity and
Research is in a position to furnish gratis
to a limited extent, stereopticon lectures
on the following subjects to organizations
that make application :
1. The Game Birds of California.
2. The Game Mammals of California.
3. "Our Vanishing Wild Life."
4. A Scientific Basis for Bird Protec-
tion.
Ti. Methods of Game Conservation.
G. The Economic Value of Birds.
HATCHERY AND FISHERY NOTES.
CRAB FISHERIES AND THE CRAB
LAW.
The crab season opened in this State
on November 15 and will remain open
until July 30. The rest of the year is
closed in order to protect the crabs during
the breeding and moulting times. Besides
this closed season crabs are given addi-
tional protection by prohibiting the sale
or possession of female crabs and the
possession or sale of male crabs measur-
ing less than seven inches across the
back.
California has become a crab-eating
state, and crabs find here a better mar-
ket than in any other Western state.
There are taken annually in the waters
of California 60,000 dozen crabs, and we
import from the North 15,000 dozen more.
These crabs are brought to the wholesale
markets in sacks, two dozen to the sack,
and in two grades, large and medium.
Large crabs average twenty-four pounds
per dozen, medium crabs twenty pounds
per dozen. The fishermen get from $1.25
to $2.25 per dozen and the consumer pays
from twenty-five cents to thirty-five cents
apiece. Over two hundred crab boats
operate out of San Francisco and Sausa-
lito and about thirty-five in Monterey
Baj-, while minor fisheries are located at
Fort Bragg, Eureka, and Crescent City.
The value of boats and nets engaged in
the fishery in this State is near $200,000,
and the crabs caught have a wholesale
value of $120,000.
Until within the last three years crabs
have not been taken in Monterey Bay in
sufficient quantities to be commercially
important. In 1913 a few crabs were
shipped from Monterey and Santa Cruz
and before the salmon run took the time
of the fishermen, twenty-five boats were
operating and catches of as high as twenty
dozen to the boat were made. The crabs
were taken principally with three mesh or
trammel nets set on the bottom off the
sand beaches. Fishermen say that at-
[ tempts to catch the crabs with the hoop-
nets as used at San Francisco have not
been successful. The law prohibited the
use of trammel nets in the years 1011
and 1912, but during the years prior to
that time when trammel nets were used
the take of crabs was unimportant. On
resuming the use of trammel nets in 1913
emits were taken in paying quantities
and during 1914 the catch was so good
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
39
that the opening of the season in the
present year found thirty-five boats oper-
ating. Trammel nets were again for-
bidden in Monterey Bay by the last State
Legislature, for it was found that fully
20 per cent of the fish caught in these
nets, set on the bottom, were destroyed
by hag fish, or "eels," as the fishermen
call them, before they could be removed
from the nets. Large numbers of un-
dersized and female crabs were often
caught in the pockets of the nets, and
the easiest way to remove them was to
kill what would not shake out. Other-
wise the crabs would hang on with their
pincers and it would take hours of time
and much patience to remove them.
With these nets forbidden under the
present law, single meshed gill nets have
been employed with more or less success.
Fish and Game Deputy P. H. Oyer reports
that during the latter part of November
the boats from Monterey each took an
average of six dozen crabs a day with
these nets and that the crabs are excep-
tionally large, measuring over seven and
one-half inches across the back. The
fishermen report that they see no female
crabs. They think that the single meshed
net catches crabs as well as the trammel
and the undersized crabs are easily re-
leased. In fact, with the seven and one-
half inch meshed nets which they are
using they say they catch no female crabs
and very few crabs that are undersized.
Fish and Game Deputy R. B. Heacock
reports that the Santa Cruz crab fisher-
men are not having the success they
anticipated. The twelve boats fishing on
that side of the bay take from thirty to
forty dozen crabs a day. They started
fishing in fourteen to sixteen fathoms of
water but have found the crabs more plen-
tiful in deeper water, several of the boats
fishing in thirty-five fathoms. They think
the single mesh net is not as effective as
the trammel, but, on the other hand, if
a mesh no smaller than seven and one-
half inches is used most of the females
and undersized males escape and those
that are caught can be more easily re-
moved without injury. The paranzella
trawl nets fishing in forty-five to fifty-five
fathoms of water west of Santa Cruz
each take about two dozen crabs a day,
while fishing for "soles" and "sand-dabs."
In June, 1914, it was reported that
large numbers of dead crabs were being
washed on the shore at Monterey and
their destruction was laid to the trammel
nets. On visiting Monterey on June 22,
many of these "dead crabs" were still
in evidence and were found to be the
cast shells of crabs averaging six inches
across the back. Fishermen of experi-
ence had taken these for dead crabs.
The crab season opens on November 15,
at which time the crabs have shed their
old shells and the new ones have become
hard and the flesh has lost its watery
consistency and is again good to eat.
From the following observations it appears
that the moulting season may be later in
northern California.
Fish and Game Deputy E. C. Boucher
saw on September 30, 1915, at Crescent
City, Del Norte County, more than a
hundred cast shells of the edible crab
which had just been washed on the beach.
Most of them were very large, measuring
near nine inches across the shell. A
few days later he noticed fresh cast shells
on the beach at the mouth of Smith River.
Deputy H. S. Prescott reports that on
November 20 at Crescent City, he saw a
crab which had just moulted and was
still in a watery condition, and adds:
"The fishermen here think the season
opens two Aveeks too early as this shed-
ding condition is general at this time of
the year."
SUMMER MIGRATION OF EDIBLE
CRABS.
During the siummer months there is a
considerable movement of small, edible
crabs into the lower ends of the rivers
and creeks flowing into San Francisco
Bay. These crabs, which are immature,
average about four inches acress the back.
Their migration, which undoubtedly is the
result of a search for food, is probably
regulated by the advance of salt water into
the lower streams caused by the lessened
flow of water during the dry summer
months. The crabs are strictl.y salt water
animals and die if placed in fresh water.
As the salt water moves up into the stream
on a flood tide they advance and occa-
sionally are caught by the fresh water
during the ebb and to escape this they
crawl out on to the mud or into the tules
and it is reported they occasionally die
here by the thousands. They are numer-
ous during the summer in the Carquinez
Straits and have been found as far up
as Pittsburg, on the San Joaquin River.
40
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
SOFT-SHELLED CLAMS PLANTED IN
MORRO BAY.
Dr. Harold Heath of Stanford Uni-
versity has just completed a preliminary
survey of the clam and shell-fish beds of
California, and the Fish and Game Com-
mission expects to publish his report in
the near future.
Under the supervision of Dr. Heath,
two thousand Eastern soft-shell or mud
clams (Mya arenaria) were on the fourth
and fifth of November, 1915, set out along
five different beaches in Morro Bay, San
NEW FISH CANNERY ON SAN DIEGO
BAY.
The Neptune Sea Food Company of
San Diego, of which Mr. F. W. Johnson
is president, has just completed and
started to operate a new fish cannery on
San Dioffo Bay. Its principal business
will be the canning of California sardines.
It is the intention of this company to put
out a very fine article in oil in quarter-
pound flat cans. It will also can the
larger sardines soused in one-pound oval
cans. The plant is also equipped to dry
Fig. 12. Eel River Hatchery where salmon were spawned in the fall of 1915 to obtain eggs
for hatching. The run of salmon on the Eel River was up to the average in the fall of
1915.
Luis Obispo County. These clams, which
were introduced into several of our bays
some fifty years ago, have never before
been "planted" in Morro Bay. Dr. Heath
reports the conditions most favorable and
states that a "set" of young clams may
confidently be expected in the latter part
of next August.
REPORTS ON THE SALE OF FISH.
Monthly reports of the fish handled in
the State are being regularly submitted
to the Fish and Game Commission. They
are sent in by handlers of fish in com-
pliance with a law recentl.v passed, and
we hope with the next issue of this maga-
zine to commence making quarterly re-
ports of the quantity of each variety of
fish, mollusk and crustacean taken in the
State.
and pickle fish by means of the latest
sanitary methods.
CAVIAR FROM SALMON AND SHAD
EGGS.
Mr. A. CotofF, a Russian expert in the
manufacture of caviar and other fishery
products, has recently arrived in San
Francisco, and in company with Mr. B.
Nosov, is trying to interest local fish
dealers in manufacturing caviar from sal-
mon and shiul roe, which at the present
time is being thrown away in enormous
quantities. Mr. Cotoflf was astonished to
find that here fish roe and milt are little
used, especially as there is an excellent
local market for the roe in the form of
caviar. Imported caviar is sold at from
.f;2.50 to $2.75 a pound, and he says he
can manufacture a superior article here at
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
41
a cost of thirty cents per pound. If some
good use can be made of the roe and milt
as food, what is now a waste product
will be utilized, for half a million pounds
of salmon roe alone are thrown away each
year in the State.
FISHERIES OF LOWER CALIFORNIA
UNPROTECTED.
It is reported that representatives from
the Pacific Coast will ask our government
to seek the purchase of Lower California
from Mexico. Lower California, besides
the harbor of Magdalena Bay, possesses
valuable fishery resources. Many of the
sea fishes taken in California waters spend
their spawning season off Lower Cali-
fornia. In fact, that is their principal
residence and they follow their food into
California waters during the summer time.
To properly conserve these fish, the most
important of which is the long-finned
tuna, it will be necessary to protect the
young and the spawning fish in Lower
California waters. The value of the long-
finned tuna pack in California exceeds
$1,500,000 a year and the stability of this
great industry will depend on the pro-
tection the fish get in Lower California.
TTiis protection could best be given if the
United States government had control, for
Mexico has not protected her west coast
fisheries in the past and is not likely to
do so for some time in the future.
THE HUMPBACK AND DOG SALMON
TAKEN IN SAN LORENZO RIVER.
During November of this year Deputy
H. B. Heacock took several humpback
salmon {Onchorhynchus gorbuscha) and
three dog salmon (O. keta) in the San
Lorenzo River, Santa Ciniz County. This
is not the first time the humpback has
been recorded from this stream. It ap-
pears here only occasionally, however,
and is far out of its natural range. Stray
individuals have been taken in the Sacra-
mento also, but as far as is known the
San Lorenzo is the most southerly point
from which it has been recorded. The
humpback salmon reaches a weight of
from three to six pounds and matures at
two years. The spawning males are thin
and compressed and have a decided hump
just back of the head. The color of the
fish is bluish above with numerous round
black spots, which on the tail are large
and oblong in form. The scales are
smaller than in any other salmon, there
being over two hundred transverse rows
along the side of the body.
The dog salmon has been reported from
the Sacramento River also, but never
before from a point as far south as the
San Lorenzo River. As a result four
out of the five species of salmon have
been taken in the latter stream : the
quinnat, silver, humpback and dog. The
remaining species, the blue-back or sock-
eye, does not appear in California except
as stray individuals are occasionally taken
in our northern streams. Mr. G. R. Field
reports that about twenty sockeye salmon
were taken in the nets on the Klamath
River this summer. He also records the
capture of a striped bass just outside of
the mouth of Klamath River about Au-
gust 1, 1914. The fish was six or seven
pounds in weight. — N. B. Scofield.
THE FALL RUN OF SALMON.
The fall run of salmon on the Sacra-
mento River has been a very light one
this year. The take of salmon eggs at
the spawn-taking stations, which may be
taken as an index of the size of the run,
was no more than half the usual amount.
The runs on Eel, Klamath, and Smith
rivers, however, have been good and up
to the average. On I5el River two species
of salmon are taken, the quinnat (known
in the North as king and chinook) and
the silver salmon. The netting season
now opens on this stream on October 7,
a much better arrangement, for the fish
caught on the opening day were in excel-
lent condition this year, which was far
from the case in previous years, when the
season opened later. The netting season
now closes on December 7, which may be
a little late to give the best protection
to the two species of salmon and to the
steelhead, which begins running in in-
creased numbers late in November, but it
is far better than the old law which
allowed netting until the end of January.
Large numbers of the two species of sal-
mon on Eel River are shipped fresh to
San Francisco. A few are salted and
mild cured. Salmon have not been canned
on this stream for several years.
On Klamath River two species, the
quinnat and silver, are taken, and prac-
tically all are canned, very few being
.shipped fresh.
42
CALIFORNIA KlSll AND GAME.
On Smith River also both quinnat and
silver salmon are found. Here the fish
are canned, none being salted or shipped
fresh.
Quinnat salmon are caught in commer-
cial quantities in Monterey Bay in June,
July and August. They are caught en-
tirely by trolling (see Fig. 13). The
catch this past summer exceeded two and
a half million pounds, slightly exceeding
the catch of last year, which was the
largest catch ever made m the bay up to
that time.
DO HOOKED FISH DIE AFTER BEING
RETURNED TO STREAM?
There has been considerable discussion
as to whether undersized trout taken with
GG per cent of the undersized fish taken
with baited hook, returned to the stream
by the angler, die. — W. T. Clarke.
FLY-CAUGHT FISH NOT INJURED.
The statement has been so often made
that it is useless to return a hooked fish
to the water because it will die anyway,
that most anglers have come to accept
it as an axiom ; yet the idea is erroneous.
When the anglers of California shall
have learned that it is not necessary to
take the life of a young fish merely
because it becomes impaled upon a fly-
hook, thousands of immatui'e fish will
annually be returned to the water to
grow up sizeable fish ere they find their
way into the baskets of the angling
Fig. 13. Salmon boat on Monterey Bay with outriggers for trolling.
N. B. Scofield.
Photograph by
baited hook live after being returned to
the stream. On the supposition that a
large percentage of them die, the law was
changed a few years ago so that there
is now no size limit. In order to test
out exactly what the death rate on the
hooked fish really is, one hundred under-
sized steelhead trout were carefully taken
from the hook and placed in a box along-
side of the Noyo River, Mendocino County,
through which a good running stream
passed. In reality the fish were simply
held in a portion of the river by means
of screens. Of the one hundred fish
experimented upon, sixty-six died within
ten hours after being hooked. Judging
from this experiment, therefore, about
fraternity. For, anglers as a class are
not wantonly destructive ; and it is wan-
ton destruction to knowingly take twenty
fish from a stream in order to secure as
much fish in pounds weight as one fish
out of the twenty would amount to if
permitted to remain in the stream for
another season or two.
The best answer to the statement that
hooked fish will die when returned to
the water is to point to the fact that
most of the waters of a vast section of
the Sierra Nevada Mountains have been
stocked with fish which were taken with
hook and line. In all the hundreds of
plants which we have made in the barren
waters of the San Joaquin, Kings,
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
43
Kaweah and Kern River watersheds
with fish taken from their native habitat
by means of a fly, there is no record of
a failure to successfully establish the fish
in the new waters. Nor can doubt 'be
cast on this kind of evidence by sug-
gesting that for all our success, the per-
centage of fish which actually survive
being hooked, might have been very
small ; for the reason that all the evi-
dence points to the conclusion that the
percentage of losses among hooked fish
must have been a negligible quantity.
For instance, I recall one stream. Kaiser
Creek, in the San Joaquin watershed,
which was stocked with only three fish
taken from the main San Joaquin River.
A plant of three fish does not allow for
a considerable percentage of loss if the
stream is to become stocked. In many
other instances where we have planted
but a few fish in comparatively insignifi-
cant streams, such streams were always
found a few years later to be well
stocked with fish.
Again, in the office of the Fresno divi-
sion of the Fish and Game Commission,
we have the record of many long carries
of adult fish, which were taken with
hook and line, to be transplanted in
far distant barren waters. Repeatedly
we have taken and held such fish in the
cans for periods of from seven to fourteen
days. Overlooking the hazard which
always accompanies holding large num-
bers of fish in a can and taking no
account of the trying experience of being
carried in such cans on the backs of
pack mules over the roughest of the
Sierra Nevada Mountains for many suc-
ceeding days, the percentage of losses
from all causes among such fish is very
small indeed. There is no more delicate
fish to successfully carry than the golden
trout, yet in his official report, now before
me, I find that Deputy S. L. N. Ellis,
of the Fresno division, in September,
1913, carried 821 golden trout from Whit-
ney Meadows to the Roaring River water-
shed. The actual carry was six days
successive travel and the total time which
the first of the hooked fish had been in
the cans until they were finally liberated,
was fourteen days. The fish, according to
Deputy Ellis's report, were planted in
good condition with a loss of only five
fish.
In 1914 the Fish and Game Commis-
sion, through deputies of this Fresno
division, took with hook and line, from
Volcano Creek at Whitney Meadows,
over 5,000 golden trout, which were used
in stocking barren waters along the Sierra
summit, and most of these fish were
carried on pack mules for periods of
from four to fourteen days. Commis-
sioner Mr. Carl Westerfeld was present
during many of these operations and
will, I am sure, bear witness to the fact
that the losses among such hooked fish
were practically nil. Out of one lot of
1,080 golden trout, all taken with hook
and line, and held in cans from seven to
ten days, of which most of the time they
were en route via pack train to their
destination in new waters, there was a
total loss, from all sources, of just three
fish. These are but typical instances.
In eighteen years of experience while
planting hundreds of barren waters with
thousands of fish taken with hook and
line, I have found that with reasonable
precaution, at least 95 per cent of all
trout taken with a fly are not fatally
injured.
Conceding that much of the success
in preserving the lives of these hooked
fish was due to skillful handling, the
proof is, nevertheless, that it is not
necessarily fatal to a fish to become im-
paled upon a barbed hook. I am quite
willing to concede that a hooked fish can
be fatally injured by rough or careless
handling; and I know that if a trout is
hooked deeply in the throat or gullet it
will probably die, but to avoid killing
the greater percentage of hooked fish is
an easy matter ; nor does it require an
unusual amount of skill, time or patience.
In taking up fish for transplanting we
naturally try to take as many fish as
possible in a short time ; hence we can
not devote much special care to saving
each fish. The man who fishes for
pleasure can easily duplicate our meth-
ods in avoiding injury to the fish.
In the first place, of course, we take
our fish for transplanting entirely with
"flies." By using a No. 8 or even a
No. 10 hook, the small fish do not readily
swallow the hook and thus when impaled,
they are hooked in the cartilage about
the mouth. Taking hold of the fish with
a wet hand in order to avoid breaking
44
CALIFORNIA FIST! AXD GAME.
down the scales, we gently disengage the
hook and the fish is then as free from
injury as though it had never taken the
lure. While it is undoubtedly the chief
thrill of the angler to take a large fish
on a small fly, at the same time Midget
flics will hook more small fish deeply
than larger flies. Some day anglers may
make it a rule to use small flies when
fishing in watere where big fish ijredomi-
nate, and is'o. 8 flies in streams where
the fingerlings greatly outnumber the
sizable fish. Again, the destruction of
immature fish by the use of very small
bait hooks must be great. Even this dif-
ficulty could probably be avoided (if peo-
ple must fish with bait hooks) by using
larger hooksi. The point is that, unless
hooked deeply in the throat or gullet,
practically no fish need be killed by rea-
son of having been taken with hook and
line, provided reasonable care is used in
taking the fish from the hook and in
returning it to the water. If a trout is
deeply hooked to the extent that much
blood is drawn when taking it from the
hook, such fish may just as well be put
in the basket and become one of the day's
catch ; but all the while it should be
borne in mind that with reasonable care
the percentage of such small fish which
must necessarily be creeled, is compara-
tively infinitesimal.— A. D. Ferguson.
CONSERVATION IN OTHER STATES.
BULL FROGS INTRODUCED INTO
OREGON.
lu the last number of The Oregon
Spori^sman a writer states that the edible
bull frog, originally imported from
France and established near Boise,
Idaho, has been introduced into Oregon.
Thirty dozen tadpoles and about six
dozen adult frogs secured in Idaho, have
been placed in the ponds and sloughs
of Baker and Grant counties. It is said
that frog hunting is considered great
sport in parts of Idaho. The frogs are
taken by using a .22 calibre rifle or by
lowering over their heads a hook baited
with red flannel. As great caution must
be used in appi'oaching the big ones as
is used in angling for an old and wary
trout. The introduction of the edible
frog has been made in order that recre-
ation and food may be had in localities
where game does not abound.
A CONNECTICUT POSTER.
Connecticut is attempting to educate
her citizens regarding wild life by dis-
playing throughout the state placards
bearing the following information :
The very startling statements made
by the Hon. Wm. C. Redheld, Secre-
tary of Commerce, in his address
before the National Fish and Game
Commission held in Washington in
September last, prompts the Com-
mission to make this vigorous appeal
to you. Secretary Redfield stated
that insects cause an annual loss of
two and one-half billion dollars to
the agricultural interests of the
United States.
Forty years ago, the preservation
of wild life was regarded chiefly as
a sentimental cause, of practical in-
terest to the sportsman only. Today,
that cause is not only acutely senti-
mental, but it has also been intensely
practical to millions of American
producers and consumers. It affects
the lumber pile and the market
basket, and it is of such practical
importance that it demands the at-
tention of the public at large.
COUNTIES MAY CLOSE SEASONS ON
GAME IN PENNSYLVANIA.
Local protection is given game in
Pennsylvania by a law which gives the
board of fish and game commissioners of
the commonwealth power to close, for
a term of years, all hunting of elk, deer,
squirrels, wild turkey, ruffed grouse,
quail, ring-necked pheasants and Hunga-
rian partridge, or either of them, as it
may appear necessary to the citizens of
any county. Whenever at least two hun-
dred citizens of a county, through writ-
ten petition, certify to the board of game
commissioners that, in their opinion, an
absolutely closed season is necessary to
insure the better protection and subse-
quent increase of such game and shall
have furnished the commissioners with
proper information relative to the status
of game and shall have published for at
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
45
least three consecutive weeks in two or
more prominent newspapers a statement
that such a petition has been filed, the
commissioners are empowered and di-
rected to declare a closed season not to
exceed five years. Although this law is
not yet a year old, many counties in
Pennsylvania have taken advantage of it
to close the season on deer and elk and
in some cases on ruffed grouse and quail.
SHARP-TAILED GROUSE IN OREGON.
In that the sharp-tailed grouse was
formerly numerous in northeastern Cali-
fornia but is now extinct, the following
good news from Oregon is particularly
interesting. Had California taken better
care of her game resources this species
would still be a member of her fauna.
"Mr. E. F. Averill, of Pendleton, Ore-
gon, reports that in 1912 there was a
small "band' of Columbian sharp-tailed
grouse or prairie chickens on the farm
belonging to J. M. Tabor, Hermiston,
Oregon. These birds have been carefully
protected by Mr. Tabor, and last winter
Mr. Averill counted over 150 birds in the
flock". He thinks it has increased to at
least 200. This bird has been very rap-
idly disappearing in Oregon, and this
seems to be one of the few places where
they are not only holding their own, but
increasing." — The Oregon f^portsman,
October, 1915.
PROTECTION REMOVED FROM BUZ-
ZARDS AND CORMORANTS.
Legislation relating to game in 1915
showed a tendency to remove protection
from the turkey buzzard and cormorants.
The former is accused of carrying dis-
eases of cattle and hogs, and the latter
are doomed to destruction because of
their voracious appetites for fish. Dela-
ware. Florida, and North Carolina re-
moved protection from the turkey buzzard
and Illinois and North Dakota from
cormorants.
STATE LAWS HARMONIZED WITH
FEDERAL REGULATIONS.
A recent government report states that
a number of bills have been introduced in
various state legislatures for the purpose
of harmonizing the state laws on migra-
tory birds with the federal regulations.
In at least nine states changes have been
made which bring the seasons into sub-
stantial agreement, viz : California, Con-
necticut, Maine, Michigan, New Hamp-
shire, Tennessee, and West Virginia ; in
Illinois the seasons for all migratory
birds except coot and waterfowl, and in
Washington for the smaller shore birds.
Uniformity was also secured by provi-
sions in the laws of Connecticut, Maine,
New Mexico, North Dakota, Washing-
ton, and Wisconsin, prohibiting hunting
between sunset and sunrise. On the
other hand, Delaware adopted a resolu-
tion opposing the migratory bird law, and
Ohio and Rhode Island, which had har-
monized their seasons in 1914, changed
the laws on waterfowl this year.
THE "OREGON SPORTSMAN" IN NEW
FORM.
With the October issue The Oregon
Sportsman changed from a monthly to a
quarterly publication. In its new form
it contains more than three times as
much reading matter. As in the past,
it will treat of all the phases of game
protection and propagation and will em-
phasize the importance of making fish-
ing and hunting a valuable resource of
the state. Under the editorship of three
men, C. D. Shoemaker, state game warden,
W. L. Finley, state biologist, and G. P.
Putnam, secretary of the Oregon Fish
and Game Commission, it becomes more
distinctly a state publication. The sub-
scription price, fifty cents a year, remains
the same.
BISON HERD INCREASED.
Recent reports state that ten calves
have been added to the government's herd
of buffalo on the Wichita National For-
est in Oklahoma, which is also a federal
game preserve. Eight of the calves are
females, and bring the number of heifers
and cows up to thirty. The bulls num-
ber thirty-two and have been placed in a
separate pasture. The herd now com-
prises sixty-two specimens in all, and is
in good condition.
46
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
LIFE HISTORY NOTES.
GREEN-WINGED TEAL NESTING IN
ALAMEDA COUNTY.
It has boon coucoded generally that the
green-winged teal {Nettion carolinense)
does not nest commonly in the State of
California. Definite records of nesting
are limited to Ventura County, Tulare
Lake, and Sierra Valley, Plumas County.
It was of interest, therefore, to find this
teal breeding in numbers in the marshes
near Alvarado, Alameda County. On
June 22, 1910, a female green-winged teal
and four young almost as big as herself
were seen here on a pond, and one of the
j'oung was captured. On June 2G, in
marshes north of Alvarado, five green-
winged teal, part of them young birds,
were seen. On the 29th of the same
month a young green-winged teal about
two weeks old was captured, and the fol-
lowing day three downy young, but three
or four days old, were obtained. The
mother accompanied these ducklings and
was approached within a distance of fif-
teen feet, so that identification was sure.
Again, on July 9, I came upon a female
green-wing with twelve young about her,
apparently about a month old. One of
these birds was secured also. The last
young green-wings were seen on July 14,
when five adults were flushed and three
young birds were captured.
Of the young green-winged teal cap-
tured, a number have grown to maturity
and are now in full plumage, so that
there is no doubt but that identification
was correct. These birds may be seen
on the pond at the State Game Farm at
Ilayward. Several sets of eggs taken in
the same locality in May were hatched
out, and the downy young appeared to be
green-winged rather than cinnamon teal.
Hence, it seems that the green-winged
teal, as well as the cinnamon teal, is a
common breeder in the Alameda County
marshes. — W. N. Dirks.
THE OPOSSUM IN LOS ANGELES
COUNTY.
In Februiiry, 191;"), an adult female
opossum {Didclphis virginiana) was
brought to me at Whittier, Los Angeles
County, having been caught in a trap
in the flats about the San Gabriel River,
a mile and a half from town. She was
found to have ton young in her pouch.
From their size and immaturity, I should
judge they were less than a week old.
The finding of this animal led to re-
ports of many others having been caught
in the vicinity. As usual, many of these
reports, when traced to their source,
proved to be only hearsay, with nothing
definite back of them. Several, however,
proved more reliable. Of these, the first
record was in 1906 by a road overseer,
who ran over an opossum within about a
mile from where the one brought to me
was found. He said two others were
taken the next day near the same place.
According to his report there "seemed to
be lots of them in the river bottoms, just
like the ones we used to get back in Mis-
souri and Arkansas ; only these were uot
so big. They seemed to be a smaller
kind."
The next record was in February,
1912. An old opossum was taken in a
chicken yard some little distance from
the river. Another has since been re-
ported from the same place, taken in
October, 1915.
In June, 1913, an old female opossum
with several young, unborn, was taken
near the place of the first record. This
one was mounted and is in the posses-
sion of a taxidermist of this vicinity.
While the above are the only authentic
records, still there seems to be a general
impression that opossums have been
taken occasionally for the last five years,
although several Mexicans and ranchers
living near the river were entirely igno-
rant of the presence of these animals in
the localitj.
The one brought to me was kept for
several months in a cage. She was fed
a variety of substances, but seemed to
prefer fresh liver to any other food. Al-
though it is said opossums will eat car-
rion, this one would not touch it. Occa-
sionally she would eat vegetables, such as
lettuce and tomatoes. She preferred fruit
to vegetables, but would leave even this
untouched if fresh meat were given her.
During all the time of her captivity,
from February till September, neither
she nor the little ones showed any signs
of domestication. The .voung ones con-
tinued to snap and even jump at any one
putting his hand in the cage ; the old one,
according to niv observation, did not at
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
47
any time snap at any one, although she
would open her mouth at the slightest
disturbance. The young developed this
trait of opening the mouth as soon as
they left the pouch, and exercised it upon
every occasion possible.
When the mother was brought in, one
of the young was taken from the pouch
with great difficulty. It was clinging to
the mammary gland so tightly that
enough force to all but pull the little one
in two was needed before it could be dis-
lodged. The young all appeared to have
clinched their jaws so that they could
not loosen, for it was several weeks be-
fore any of them were observed to be free
from their mother. They then began to
crawl about within the pouch and even-
tually to venture outside it. The one
taken from the pouch, and preserved, is
A'ery undeveloped. Although there was a
small lobe for the ear, there was no
opening connecting with the interior, and
the eyes were still closed. Apparently no
distinct lids had been formed. It was
over a week before such openings could
be detected. The legs also were very
small and undeveloped compared to the
rest of the body, as is seen in all em-
bryos.
Although a large cage was made for
the opossums and a small tree was put
inside it, they were never seen to climb
and their legs became bent and gnarled
from lack of use. This might have been
partly due to the fact that the mother
was crippled and did not move about
freely.
The hot weather in August apparently
was too much for them. First the mother
died and then one by one the little ones. —
Etta Y. Little.
CANADA GEESE SUCCESSFULLY
BRED IN CALIFORNIA.
The statement that Canada geese
(Branta canadensis canadensis) had not
been . bred successfully in California,
which appeared in a recent number of
Califobnia Fish and Game, has
elicited the following communication
from Mr. George Neale of Sacramento :
"Mr. Henry Schook of Yreka, Siskiyou
County, California, for many years raised
a large number of Canada geese. Some
years ago I saw a number of young and
old birds of this siiecies at his place and
Mr. Schook also showed me the nesting
places in some old barrels in his yard.
On the other hand, Mr. A. W. Stuart of
Grand Island, Sacramento County, has
kept eighty wild geese of all the varieties
common to California for many years.
These geese, however, have never laid an
egg. It seems, therefore, that in all prob-
ability Canada geese can be successfully
reared only at elevations of over 2,000 or
2,500 feet.
A letter from Mr. Schook of Yreka
states : "I tipped the wings of two honker
geese, and then took them home and doc-
tored them up. It just happened that
they were a pair. In the spring the female
began laying and reared six young. The
next season the old birds raised twelve
more and a pair of those raised the pre-
vious year raised five. At one time I had
thirty-eight birds. Children and strange
dogs have killed them all so that I have
none at the present time. A friend of
mine to whom I gave one that I had
raised, still has it. It must be very
nearly twelve years old." — H. C. Bryant.
VALLEY QUAIL SUCCESSFULLY
PROPAGATED.
About June 15, 1915, I discovered that
the one pair of valley quail I had in
captivity was nesting. The nest on that
date contained eight eggs. The number
soon grew so that I could not count them
without disturbing the birds. I did not
go near them till I thought it about time
for the female to be sitting, but she
showed no signs of doing so. About the
first week of July, fearing she would not
sit, I took twelve of the eggs and gave
them to a bantam hen ; she sat and
hatched nine and raised seven of them.
Shortly afterwards I took the remainder
of the eggs, fourteen in number, and gave
them to another bantam ; she hatched
eight, but trampled four of them, and one
got away, so only three remained.
Later I discovered the quail was still
laying. Twenty eggs were, therefore,
taken and given to a third bantam, but
only two of the twenty were fertile.
These hatched and were successfully
reared. Later I found four more eggs,
making fifty eggs for the season.
A few days before the quail were due
to hatch I put some meat scraps aside to
raise maggots, wliirh I fed to the quail
48
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
after they were twenty-four hours old.
I also fed them chick feed and chopped
cabbage. They thrived on this feed and
I do not think I lost one from sickness.
As they hatched I put them in a box
about three by four feet with sand and
dust in the bottom and wire over it, and
at about six weeks, I moved them to a
larger pen made of one inch wire. By
this time they left the hen, to her dis-
comfort, and roosted in the bushes. —
L. A. Ward.
FALL ARRIVAL OF THE WILSON
SNIPE.
The first Wilson snipe (GalUnago
delicata) which I noted this fall were
seen on Winters Island. Contra Costa
County, September 27, 1915. On this
date about eighteen birds were seen. On
October 3, snipe were again seen, but in
fewer numbers. — H. E. Foster.
MALFORMED ANTLERS.
It is a well known fact that the antlers
of a deer are connected with the sexual
organs in such a way that any change or
injury to these organs is quickly reflected
in the horns. The accompanying photo-
graph (Fig. 14) shows the malformed
antlers in the velvet of a black-tailed
buck {Odocoilcus coliimbianus colum-
biantis) which showed injury of this
kind, taken in the Alameda County hills.
This is the fourth malformed deer head
I have handled in the last three years,
all killed in California within a six-mile
radius. If the velvet were rul)bed off
there would be two hundred and two per-
fect little points from one-half to one
and one-half inches long. The main tines
measure fifteen inches in length and
fork about half way up. The velvety
condition almost gives the antlers the
appearance of a sponge. — F. D. Hoyt.
Fig. 14. Malformed antlers of black-tailed
buck deer taken in Alameda County, Cali-
fornia. Photograph by F. D. Hoyt.
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
49
WILD LIFE IN RELATION TO AGRICULTURE.
ARTIFICIAL VS. NATURAL METHODS
OF INSECT CONTROL.
Mr. E. G. Dudley makes the statement
in the Sierra Ranger (May, 1915) that
there are two ways in which the forest
may be protected from bark beetles:
"One is to burn the host trees when they
are found harboring- the broods, and the
other is to raise and liberate wood-
peckers to feed upon the larvte. Under
the present system of burning the host
trees, the woodpeckers are becoming re-
duced in numbers, owing to the cutting
oif of their food supply." An interesting
problem is here presented and one which
should be thoroughly studied. The ten-
dency up to the present has been to make
use of the artificial methods of control.
Optimism as to the results of such meth-
ods is rife. Meanwhile some of our best
bird friends are left to starve to death.
The solution of the problem is difiicult,
but not impossible.
THE RING-NECKED PHEASANT AS
AN INSECT DESTROYER.
A recent report of the Massachusetts
Commissioners of Fisheries and Game
(House, No. 2019, January, 1913) de-
fends the ring-necked pheasant as a valu-
able insect destroyer. Stomach exam-
ination of wnld birds taken in March
showed that they had been feeding to a
considerable extent on certain weeds and
grain, but that in addition they were
taking such pests of the garden as tomato
worms, wireworms, cutworms, potato
bugs ; such fruit pests as plant lice, cod-
ling moth, tent caterpillars, and tussock
moths ; and such other pests as mosqui-
toes, house flies, gypsy and brown-tailed
moths, and elm-leaf beetles.
Mr. W. L. Finley, state biologist of
Oregon, is quoted as follows : "Examina-
tion of a number of Chinese pheasants'
stomachs show that they eat a consider-
able amount of wheat, oats, peas and
corn, but this damage is far overbalanced
by the amount of noxious weed seeds,
especially the Scotch thistle, which they
destroy. They also destroy large num-
bers of injurious insects, such as crickets,
grasshoppers, snails and cutworms. A
female pheasant, killed November 1, had
thirty-four grasshoppers, three crickets,
and eight beetles in its crop, besides 2S0
noxious weed seeds. Another crop taken
in November contained 303 cutwoi'ms and
sixty blue-fly larvae."
DUCKS VS. RICE.
Newspapers delight in exaggerating
greatly the damage done by ducks in the
rice fields of the Sacramento Valley.
Many reports have recently appeared
stating that thousands of dollars have
been lost through the depredations of
these birds. The injury actually done,
however, is almost negligible, as is evi-
denced by the following quotation from
a letter received from W. K. Brown,
manager of the Moulton Irrigated Lands
Company : "While this year's harvest is
our fifth crop of rice, I have never been
able to discover any material damage
that the ducks have done. In my opin-
ion the rice which the ducks eat is that
which has already been knocked out of
the head by the blackbird."
Mr. M. L. Carr of Colusa also writes :
"This is to certify that the report re-
cently made that I had lost 100 acres of
rice by the wild ducks this year is abso-
lutely false. The ducks did me no dam-
age whatever."
Deputy S. J. Carpenter made a per-
sonal investigation on the Blevine and
Mallon tract and found that the ducks
were not damaging growing grain. The
grain that the ducks were feeding upon
was the waste caused by cutting or
threshing or that which had been knocked
out of the heads by blackbirds.
It is true that the gullets of many
ducks killed this season have been filled
with rice, but this was evidently gleaned
from the ground and not from the heads.
Wild ducks feed in the very same way
on the rice fields as the geese do on the
stubblefields ; they are gleaners. The
mowers and binders knock out a quantity
of grain while cutting, and this conse-
quently remains on the ground. And it
is this grain that we find in the gullets
of ducks and geese. People who do not
understand the situation infer that be-
cause a mallard has a throat full of rice
he has been lighting on the growing grain
and destroying it. This is obviously
ridiculous. And beside, as a matter of
fact, ducks do not relish growing rice.
It is too tough. Blackbirds do the most
50
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
damage to rice crops, for they pick the
grain from the stall<s before it is ripe
and thresh large quantities out with their
wings while feeding. — George Neale.
BLACK BASS EAT MOSQUITOES,
Reading the very interesting article
in the October number of California
Fish and Game by Mr. N. B. Scofield,
in charge of the Department of Com-
mercial Fisheries, regarding mosquito
control by the use of the stickle-back fish
in the bay region, brought to my mind
that before the introduction of the black
bass into the Sacramento and San Joa-
quin valleys the problem of mosquito
extermination was one of the most vexed
with which the health authorities had to
deal. A large number of small lakes and
ponds north and west of Sacramento
Citj% caused by winter overflows, were
the breeding places of myriads of these
pests. Crowds of disease carriers would
blow into the city, making it almost im-
possible for any one to rest night or day.
However, a few years after the introduc-
tion of the black bass a noticeable decrease
in the number of mosquitoes was appar-
ent, until today it is an unusual occur-
rence to find them in this locality. Rec-
lamation is no doubt responsible in some
degree for the near extermination, but
I attribute the almost entire absence of
mosquitoes at this time to the presence
of black bass in the overflowed waters.
From my own observation I know that
the young black bass, from feeding stage
to a vear old. feed on the Inrvre of the
mosiiuilo. I have found the stomachs of
the young bass gorged with the larva; of
the mosquito. I once placed over twenty
small bass in a barrel of stagnant water
alive with mosquito larvae. In a day or
two there was no sign whatever of any
larvae remaining.
Mr. Scofield notes that what adds to
the difllculty of exterminating the mala-
rial mosquito is the presence of rice fields
in some of our worst malarial districts.
Now, the waters adjacent to the rice
fields, sloughs, creeks, and rivers, are
literally alive with black bass. Every
ditch contains them in some quantity.
The fish come in from the large over-
flows below the rice fields and not from
the intake above, as many people believe.
As the water recedes the bass back into
the drainage waters or overflows which
comprise the duck shooting grounds of
Sutter and Butte counties, or, at least,
as many as can possibly back out without
becoming stranded. Many black bass are
reported to be lost in these places. If
they have served their purpose of de-
stroying the mosquito larva; it is no loss,
to my mind, to lose a few of the bass.
I have learned from some of the oldest
residents in the Butte Creek section that
many years ago, before the introduction
of the black bass, it was almost impos-
sible to live, owing to the enormous num-
l)er of mosquitoes. So bad were they at
times that stock were sometimes worried
to death or drowned in seeking refuge
from them in the water.— George Neale.
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
51
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CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
REPORTS.
VIOLATIONS OF THE FISH AND GAME LAWS.
September 1 to November 30, 1915.
Offense
Number
of arrests
Fines
Imposed
Game.
Hunting without a license
Deer, close season, killing or possession and sale
Female deer, spotted fawns, spiked bucks, killing or pos-
session
Illegal deer hides and failure to exhibit fekin and portion
of head bearing horns
Ducks, close season, killing or possession, excess bag limit..
Quail, close season, killing or possession, excess bag limit-
Wild pheasant, killing
Rabbits, close season, killing or possession
Squirrels, close season, killing or possession
Wild geese, close season, killing or possession
Wild pigeon, close season, killing or possession
Shore birds, close season, killing or possession
Non-game birds, close season, killing or possession, shipping
Sea otter, possession
Hunting game (quail) inside refuge
Shooting at wild ducks from power boat in mocion
Total game violations
Fish.
Angling without a license
Fishing for profit without license
Dealing in fish without wholesale dealers' license
Underweight striped bass, taking or possession
Undersized black bass, taking or possession
Salmon, close season, Fish and Game District No. 15, taking
or possession
Trout, excess bag limit
Underweight sturgeon in possession
Abalones, undersized, taking or possession
Lobsters, under and over sized, close season, possession
and sale
Crabs, close season, possession
Dried shrimp, possession, buying and selling; Chinese
shrimp nets
Clams, undersized
Illegal nets
Fishing within 50 feet of fishway -
Dynamiting fish
Allowing crude oil to pass into the bay
Total fish violations
Grand total fish and game violations
61
11
21
170
15
31
1
5
1
2
1
4
2
4
1
$830 00
235 00
750 00
4
225 00
10
190 00
24
600 00
1
25 00
5
110 00
1
1
25 00
1
16
425 00
10
180 GO
1
1
2
35 00
$3,630 00
$300 00
400 00
20 00
65 00
25 00
80 00
40 00
140 00
9 70 00
1 5 00
27 660 00
1
2
1
108
$1,865 00
278
$5,495 00
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME. 53
SEIZURES— FISH, GAME, AND ILLEGALLY USED FISHING APPARATUS.
September 1 to November 30, 1915.
Fish.
Striped bass 440 pounds
Salmon - 574 pounds
Trout - 59 pounds
Miscellaneous fish 11 pounds
Dried flsh - 50 pounds
Clams 50 pounds
Crabs 1,266
Shrimp 894 pounds
Abalones 4
Lobsters 114
Illegal nets and traps 12
Game.
Deer meat 550 pounds
Hides 5
Quail 52
Ducks 2,118
Geese 953
Cottontails 36
Doves 27
Shore birds 55
Non-game birds 42
Miscellaneous game 24
Searches.
Illegal fish and game 40
54
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME,
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CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME,
55
Balances September and October, 1915,
September
October
Support and Maintenance of Hatch-
eries Fund-
In state treasury _ _ _
$22,687 88
5,200 00
$27,887 88
$73,149 56
$27,947 88
2,390 00
In bank _ _ _____ _ ._
$30,337 88
Fish and Game Preservation Fund —
In state treasury __ _
$68,264 56
4,885 OO
$55,195 83
2,260 00
In bank ._ _ __ _ . _ „..
$57,455 83
Totals _-
$101,037 44
25,286 34
$87,793 71
Less monthly bills _. __
26,383 61
Balances _ __ _
$75,751 10
$61,410 10
CONTENTS.
Page
SHAD IN CALIFORNIA H. B. Nidever 59
DOES THE GRIZZLY BEAR STILL EXIST IN CALIFORNIA?
Joseph Dixon 65
THE CALIFORNIA VALLEY ELK Barton Warren Evermann 70
THE NEED OF CO-OPERATION IN FISH AND GAME PRESERVA-
TION Ernest Schaeffle 77
HABITS AND HUNTING OF THE SEA OTTER____ Chase Littlejohn 79
CALIFORNIA'S PREHISTORIC GAME Harold C. Bryant 82
EDITORIALS 83
HATCHERY AND FISHERY NOTES 95
CONSERVATION IN OTHER STATES 108
LIFE-HISTORY NOTES 110
UNITED STATES FOREST SERVICE CO-OPERATION 111
REPORTS—
Seizures 113
Violations of Fish and Game Laws 114
Lion Bounties 115
Financial Report 116
2—22417
California Fish and Game
" CONSERVATION OF WILD LIKE THROUGH EDUCATION "
Volume 2
SAN FRANCISCO, APRIL 15, 1916
Number 2
SHAD IN CALIFORNIA.
By H. B. NiDEVER.
Tlie shad {Clupea sapidissima) , which is found in such great num-
bers in the Sacramento and San Joaquin rivers, is not a native fish,
but was introduced into our waters from New York about fortj^-five
years ago (see Fig. 15). The undertaking of bringing out thousands
of shad fry just hatched was one which seemed ahnost certain to
result in failure, for fish culturists at that time had never tried any-
thing approaching it in difficulty. The success of the experiment was
Fig. 16. Typical outfit of shad fisherman.
a great achievement in the art of fish culture and was due to the energy
and initiative of the first California Fish Commissioners, Messrs. B. B.
Redding, S. R. Lockmorton, and J. D. Farwell, and to the great skill of
the famous fish culturist of Rochester, New York, ]\Ir. Seth Green.
Mr. Green and an assistant left New York on June 20, 1871, with
15,000 shad fry just hatched, contained in eight tin cans holdins-u
twelve gallons of water each. He arrived at Tehama on the Sa'"f£iia
mento River on June 27, with 10,000 of the fry in good order. P .^
liberating them he found, on putting some in a glass of river of
that they begaK actively to feed on some minute particles in th Jogs,
60
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
Mr. Green was afraid that the water, at that time very muddy on
account of the raining operations, might not agree with them, but he
hoped they might be wise enough to stay near the surface where the
water was freer from mud. Accounts of this achievement were pub-
lished in the report of the California Fish Commission for the biennial
period, 1870-1871, and in the report of the New York Fish Commission
Fig. 17. Chinese shad saltery on San Joaquin River. Shad are salted here and exported
to China.
for 1871. Extracts from these reports have been printed, along with
luch information regarding subsequent plants and their success, in a
er by Mr. Hugh M. Smith, entitled: "A Review of the History and
^+s of the Attempt to Acclimatize Fish and Other Water Animals
Pacific States." This report appeared in the bulletin of the
"States Fish Commission for 1891.
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME. 61
A second plant of shad was made by Mr. Livingstone Stone of the
United States Fish Commission in 1873. This plant amounted to
35,000 fry planted in good condition in the Sacramento River near
Tehama. All the subsequent plants of shad in California waters were
made directly by the United States Fish Commission in the Sacramento
River at Tehama. Between 1876 and 1880, inclusive, 574,000 fry were
planted. The total number of young shad planted in the Sacramento
River was 619,000. There have been no shad fry planted in California
waters since 1880, and yet they are plentiful at the present time.
A few mature shad were caught in San Francisco Bay in 1873, the
second year after planting. In 1874 and 1875 a larger number were
caught. The number then steadily increased each year until in 1877
the California Fish Commission reported that they were becoming quite
numerous. When the plants of shad were made the fry were taken up
the Sacramento as far as Tehama before liberating because, as it was
stated, "the instinct of the shad is, like that of the salmon, to return to
spawn at the same place where it was hatched." The shad have not
returned unerringly to the waters of the Sacramento, for the San Joa-
quin gets its full quota of shad and they are scattered along the coast,
some having been taken in the Columbia River in 1876 and 1877.
There is no question but that these shad in the Columbia resulted from
plants made in the Sacramento River, for there were no plants made in
the Columbia River or any place but the Sacramento River until 1885.
The southern range of shad at the present time is Monterey Bay,
although a few stray ones have been reported by fishermen as far south
as Newport Beach, in Orange County.
Shad first appeared in numbers on the markets in California in the
spring of 1879, when several thousand were sold in San Francisco. In
1886 the California Fish Commission estimated that in that year a
million mature shad were taken from the waters of the State. From
the time they were first introduced in our waters they have steadily
increased until now they have, without doubt, reached their maximum
height of production. When shad first became of real commercial
value and were being sold in the California markets, the price was
very high, as they were still quite scarce and the demand for this fish,
then regarded as a curiosity, was very great. Instances are recorded
where from $10.00 to $15.00 was paid for a single fish. Many brought
from $1.00 to $1.50 per pound. By the year 1880, the number had so
increased that consumers could obtain them for 20 cents to 25 cents
per pound. By 1888 they could be obtained for 10 cents per pound,
and during the height of the run the markets would become glutted and
the price would fall to 5 cents per pound. As they increased from
year to year the price gradually dropped until the wholesale price had
fallen to 2 cents or less in 1894, about the same as we have today during
the height of the run, and many fish could not be disposed of at any
price. On the Columbia River the increase was about the same as on
the Sacramento and the fall in price has corresponded to that in
California. Just why this condition should have come about is per-
plexing. There can be no doubt that the shad have now the same good
food qualities that they had when they were first caught in California
when the retail price was $1.00 a pound. r
of
dogs,
62
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
The latest availal)]c statistics on California fisheries are those of
the Bureau of Census for 1908. In that year 1,169,000 pounds of shad
were caught in this State which was valued at $12,000.
From the time sliad l)ecarae abundant in our waters up to 1912 they
were utilized almost entirely by fresh markets. But in the spring of
1912 several salting stations for shad were established on the San Joa-
quin River by Chinese companies (Fig. 17, a and h). These continued
for only two seasons, for they did not seem to pay. Later a salt shad
market was estahlished in China and practically all the California fish
were shipped there. Several local salmon packers have now taken up
the dry-salting of shad and have packed many tons during the last two
or three years, which they have sold through Chinese brokers in San
Francisco. Fishermen get one-half to one and one-half cents per pound
for shad during the shad run. The roe shad brings one-half cent more
per pound because the roe is removed before the fish is salted and either
IS. <}. Spawning grounds of the shad in the delta region of the San Joaquin River.
b. Fishermen's arks along the Sacramento River. These floating houses are the
homes of the river fishermen for the greater part of each year.
canned, shipped East in cold storage, or sold fresh in the local markets.
Considerable quantities of. shad-roe have been canned on the lower
Sacramento River during the last two years. During the spring of
1915, 100,000 pounds of shad roe were shipped or sold in local markets,
606,048 pounds of shad roe were canned in one-half pound cans, 5,400
cases of shad were canned, and 2,400.000 pounds round fish were dry
salted.
The principal shad fisheries of California are in the upper San Fran-
cisco Bay and in the delta region of the Sacramento and San Joaquin
rivers. The vast delta basin of the lower San Joaquin has proven an
ideal spawning place (see Fig. 18, a and 6). Shad are occasionally
taken in Monterey Bay, but these are utilized by the fresh markets, for
they are here taken when they are not running in large numbers in the
rivers. Shad ascend the Sacramento River for 300 miles or more. Here
they are caught in bass or salmon nets. Because of the inconvenience
of shipping from this district and because of the low prices prevailing,
xtensive fishing is here hardly warranted, and often after the fish are
iht they are dumped overboard.
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
63
Shad fishing in California is practically all done with drift gill nets
having a drawn mesh of from 5-| to 6| inches. The regular salmon
boat (Fig. 16) and gear are used, but the gill net is of smaller mesh
and of somewhat lighter twine. The nets are from 150 to 350 fathoms
long and 25 to 65 meshes deep.
There is but one distinct run of shad into the Sacramento and San
Joaquin rivers each spring and this lasts about three months, beginning
about the first of March and lasting until the first of June. The height
of the run is in April. A few shad, however, are taken in striped bass
and salmon nets practically the year round.
It seems strange that with the occurrence of the shad in abundance
in California its desirability as an article of food has fallen so low.
Shad in the eastern states are considered a luxury, and the western
shad is thoroughly equal in quality. It seems strange, too, that, consid-
ering the present high price of most of the other fish as well as the
high price of meat, a fish with the food value of the shad should not be
Fig. 19. Mending shad nets.
put to more profitable use than dry-salting for the markets of China.
The shad is more difficult to prepare because it is more bony than other
fish, but the flavor is unsurpassed and should outweigh the difficulty
of preparation. The feeding habits of the shad are likewise in its favor.
This fish spends the greater part of its life along the ocean shore and
feeds principally on shrimps, sand-fleas, and other crustaceans. It
comes into fresh water for only a short stay during the spawning season
and returns thereafter to the ocean. During its stay in fresh water
it feeds but little, if at all.
The unpopularity of the shad seems traceable to three factors : flrst,
the abundance makes this fish undesirable; second, the delicacy of the
fish makes it more difficult and more expensive to get them to the con-
sumer in attractive form; third, the boniness of the fish has prejudiced
the public against it. All of these objections could be largely over
come. ^^
dogs,
64
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
The glutted condition of the shad market at the height of tlie spring
run can be relieved if the public can be made to realize the delicacy
and the high food value of this fish and if they can be kept informed,
through advertising, of the state of the market and of the low prices at
•vhich the fish can be bought. The difficulty of handling and shipping
can also l)e remedied. Shad are now shipped in much better condition
Fig. 20. Fisherman unloading his catch of shad at Bouldin Island on the
San Joaquin River.
than they were a few years ago and can be had in good sanitary con-
dition any place in the State where a demand is created for them. The
difficulty of preparing the fish and removing the bones can be obviated
by proper splitting and dressing before cooking and by proper carving
before the fish is served.
California should avail herself of her valuable resource of shad fish-
eries, a truly enviable resource which at the present she is, to a large
extent, wasting.
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
65
DOES THE GRIZZLY BEAR STILL EXIST IN CALIFORNIA?
By Joseph Dixon.
[Contribution from the Museum of Vertebrate Zoology of the University of
California.]
So conspicuous an animal as was the grizzly in the early days of
California would seem hardly able to occur at large in any part of the
State at the present time without the full knowledge of people living in
the vicinity. Yet great tracts of wild mountain land, almost inacces-
sible and practically in its primitive condition, still exist in remote
portions of California; and from time to time rumors reach the news-
papers, and are eagerly printed, setting forth with more or less circum-
stance an encounter of some hunter with an alleged grizzly. In several
instances where attempts have been made to "run down" these rumors,
failure has resulted from inability to find the man or men said to have
vouched for the story. The case dealt with in the present paper broke
the record, in that as a result of the inquiry, not only the man was
found, but the skull and head of the animal in question was secured for
scientific comparisons.
On December 2, 1915, the State Fish and Game Commission received
a letter from Deputy Fish and Game Commissioner H. S. Prescott, of
a
Fig. 21. Profile across top of skull between eyes; black and grizzly bears; natural size.
a. Black (cinnamon) bear, No. 22978, Mus. Vert. Zool., head of Boulder Creek,
Humboldt County, California.
b. Alaska grizzly bear, No. 4705, Mus. Vert. Zool., Yukon Valley, Alaska.
Crescent City, Del Norte County, California, to the effect that John
McMillan, of Requa, in the same county, had informed him that a
grizzly bear had been killed by Leslie Fearrien on "Tom Bair's
Range," at the headwaters of either Boulder Creek or Redwood Creek,
in Humboldt County.
On December 13, 1915, Mr. H. E. Wilder, of Carlotta, Humboldt
County, wrote to the Director of the California Museum of Vertebrate
Zoology detailing the following report, which had come to him. That
the two accounts pertain to the same incident is obvious.
Mr. Fearrien, who is foreman and professional hunter on the Bair
Range (stock ranch) on Boulder Creek, bayed a bear with a pack of
twelve ^dogs; the animal refused to run, but calmly faced the dogs,
66 CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
killing four and crippling others before the hunter arrived and shot
him. All who saw tlie bear, including Fean-ien, wlio had killed up-
wards of one hundred bears, commented on its peculiar color and great
size. The skull also was claimed to be different in sha])? from any of
the black bears killed in the region. They estimated the weight to bo
between 900 and 1,000 pounds. The head was taken home and weighed
50 pounds. Fat to the extent of 250 pounds was also taken home. The
fur was in poor condition and the skin was not saved. xVecording to
this report as it reached Mr. Wilder, all who had seen it pronounced
the bear to be a grizzly. Addresses and other useful information were
supplied by Mr. Wilder.
The explicitness of the above two reports is seen to have been unusual,
and hence to warrant extra effort in following them up. Letters were
promptly written to all the parties concerned, without, however, within
a reasonable length of time, eliciting any replies. Through the especial
interest of Miss Annie M. Alexander, and at her suggestion, the Avriter
was then detailed to go to Humboldt County and ascertain the facts.
The trip occupied the period from January 13 to 18, 1916.
Fortunately I was able to find both of the men most intimately con-
nected with the incident : Mr. Albert L. Fearrien, who shot the bear, and
Mr. Fred Bair, who mounted and now owns the head. The former was
in Eureka at the time of my visit, the latter at his ranch on Mad River,
near ]\Iaple Creek post office. Through the kindness of Mr. Bair I
was enabled to take the mounted head back with me to the museum at
Berkeley where the skull could be removed, examined and compared
with the numerous specimens of grizzly, black and brown bears in the
museum so that its identity might be established with certainty. Mr.
Fearrien related the essential facts of the case to me, as follows :
n
c\-
Fig. 22. Relative length of the three upper back teeth in grizzly and
black bear skulls; natural size.
(7. Grizzly from Idaho, No. 4832, Mus. Vert. Zool.
b. Alaska grizzly, No. 4705, Mus. Vert. Zool.
c. Black (cinnamon) bear, No. 22978, Mus. Vert. Zool.
The bear, a large male, was killed about six miles below the head of
Boulder Creek, a tributary of Mad River, Humboldt County, California,
on November 6 or 7, 1915. Fearrien was out with the dogs hunting for
coyotes. The dogs struck a "hot" trail and disappeared around a
bend in the river, while Fearrien struck across the ridge in the hope
of heading them off. He found he could not cross at this point, how-
ever, and so turned back and followed along the bed of the stream. All
five dogs were heard when they first bayed the bear, but soon only two
were barking. At this point five more dogs w^ere turned loose and
they reached the bear in advance of the hunter. The latter did not
know that it was a bear, not a covote, until he arrived at the scene of
combat, after a hard scramble over rough rocks. As he rushed up he
saw the dogs fly at the bear's neck, and saw the bear seize them one
after another with his paws and chew them to joieces. Six dogs were
killed befoi'e the third shot struck the bear in the neck and ended the
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
67
fight. The dogs were accustomed to taking hold of ordinary bears, and
flew unhesitatingly at this one, only to find that it proved too much for
them.
Upon skinning the bear Fearrien found that the first two bullets
of the 30-40 (1906 rimless) had gone through the bear's body behind
the shoulders, one bullet going clear through while the other lodged in
the shoulder blade on the farther side. The dead bear was dragged or
rolled out on a gravel bar and skinned. The head and part of the neck
attached was taken to the ranch without being skinned and "weighed
50 pounds." The fat that was saved "weighed 250 pounds," while the
bear was estimated to have weighed about 950 pounds when alive.
Numerous cattle had died on the higher ranges from eating larkspur,
Mr. Fearrien said, and he attributed the fatness of the bear to this
plentiful food supply. The ranchmen had seen and heard nothing of
this particular bear previously; he had certainly not been bothering
the sheep, as far as they knew, although they had sustained considerable
damage from bears at one time or another. The pelage of the bear
consisted only of guard hairs with little or no under fur, so the skin was
considered of little value and was given to an Indian to tan. It spoiled
during the process, and when someone went to get the claws he was
informed that the skin had washed away down the river.
a
Fig. 23. Outline of left back upper molar tooth in black and grizzly bears; natural size.
a. Black (cinnamon) bear, No. 22978, Mus. Vert. Zool.
b. Alaska grizzly, No. 4705, Mus. Vert. Zool.
c. Grizzly from Idaho, No. 4832, Mus. Vert. Zool.
None of the men that I interviewed were in favor of protecting bears
as big game mammals. They Avere men who lived in the eastern part
of Humboldt County on the land that they owned and upon which
they paid taxes. These men were the ones who were in closest contact
with bears the year through. As the principal industry of a great part
of that country is stock and sheep raising, it is no small wonder that
there is little sentiment in favor of protecting bears. The professional
hunter and trapper, or city sportsman, would doubtless view the matter
from a different angle. The impracticability of raising bears, hogs and
sheep on the same range seems too evident to merit discussion, and the
sentiment of the cattlemen was crj^stalized by Mr. W. J. Gordon, of
Carlotta, who has been engaged in the sheep business for nineteen years,
when he said : ' ' They will be wanting to protect the coyote next. ' '
68 CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
That bears, of the black or cinnamon gronp, are far from extinct in
Humboldt Conuty, will be easily proven to anyone who will take a trip
through the back country. He will probably actually see no bears, for
they have learned to keep out of sight; but tracks in the road made
during the night are of every-day notice, and during the winter season
mangled sheep give gruesome evidence of their presence. According
to Mr. Gordon, a large part of the damage is caused by the sheep becom-
ing panic-stricken when a bear invades a flock, the sheep thereupon
stampeding, often jumping off high banks or piling up in deep gullies
in their mad haste to escape.
That true grizzlies once occurred quite commonly in the more open
parts of Humboldt County, such as the Eel River Valley, seemed to bo
abundantly borne out by what numerous old settlers told me, and inas-
much as the stories coincided as to essential facts, I see no reason for
doubting them. I could not ascertain any definite records of real griz-
zlies having been killed in the county during the past 26 years, and
most of the grizzlies referred to were killed 40 and 50 years ago.
Fig. 24. Outline of typical claws of grizzly and black (cinnamon) bears from California;
twelve-thirteenths natural size.
a. Third right claw (front foot) of grizzly from Kern County.
b. Third right claw (front foot) of black (cinnamon) bear from Siskiyou County.
The skull of the Humboldt bear which was at the bottom of the
present inquiry, upon being removed from within the mounted head,
revealed characters which placed it at once and clearly with the black
(or cinnamon) group of bears and not with the grizzlies. As an
example of Mr. Fred Bair's generosity, so well known in the region,
the skull upon which this investigation is based is now number 22978 in
the California Museum of Vertebrate Zoology at Berkeley, where it can
be examined by whomever wishes at any time in the future. The brain
case, above the eyes, is very high and rounded, with a slight medial
depression (see Fig. 21, a). This "high-brow" character of the black
bears of the North Pacific Coast region has been noted by scientists and
has been deemed of such importance that this form of bear has been
called Ursus americanus altifronialis, or "high-browed" black bear.
Contrasting to this, the usual grizzly bear skull is flattened, with a
decided depression or trough between and above the eyes (see Fig.
21, b). The Humboldt skull, like other black bear skulls, has a very
short muzzle as compared with the grizzly skulls. The size of the back
teeth or molars is much greater in grizzlies than in black bears. The
upper hack molar is extreme in this particular (see Fig. 23, a, h and c),
and even in skulls of approximately the same size, this tooth is usually
about one-quarter of an inch longer in a grizzly than in a black bear.
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME. 69
The longest upper back molar of a black bear that I have found in the
museum collection measured, in length, one and three-sixteenths inches,
or thirty millimeters. The shortest corresponding tooth that I have
found in an adult grizzly was over one and five-sixteenths inches, or
thirty-four millimeters in length. The combined length of the three
upper back teeth seems to be a good index to the length of the muzzle
of the bear. In adult grizzlies these teeth measure at least one-half
inch more, in length, than the corresponding teeth in black bears.
This difference is shown in Fig. 22, a, h and c.
Considerable importance was attached by local people to the high
ridge or sagittal crest on the Humboldt skull. This feature is pretty
sure to be an age character, however, and seems to be most highly
developed in old males. It is not a distinctive grizzly character, as it
is often considerably higher, in proportion to the size of the skull, in
certain black bears than it is in many grizzlies.
The claws of the front paw of a California grizzly from near Fort
Tejon, Kern County, are long and only slightly curved (see Fig 24, a),
Avhile those of the black (or cinnamon) bear average shorter and are
much more curved (see Fig. 24, b, which is a typical northern Cali-
fornia cinnamon bear claw).
As far as California is concerned, brown or cinnamon bears may be
considered as of the same species with black bears. They have l3een
generally believed to be simply color phases of the black bear. The
pelage of the Humboldt bear was cinnamon-brown on the neck and
head, with the hairs about the nose and lips much lighter in color.
No one regrets more than we do here at the Museum of Vertebrate
Zoology, that the Humboldt bear turned out to be a black bear instead
of a grizzly, as especial watch has been maintained for several years in
hopes of securing a complete grizzly (skull, skin and skeleton) from
California, which might thus be preserved for the State as an example of
what was once our most noteworthy mammal. Definite information
regarding either the past or present occurrence of grizzly bears within
the State will therefore be much appreciated if sent to the Museum of
Vertebrate Zoology, University of California, Berkeley, California.
Any large, brownish bear with long, slightly curved claws and the
following skull characters is worthy of being brought forward as a
grizzly candidate: (1) a long muzzle and low forehead with depres-
sion or trough above and between the eyes; (2) three upper back teeth,
totaling more than two and three-quarters inches in length; (3) upper
back tooth measuring more than one and one-quarter inches in length.
February 5, 1916.
70 CALIFORNIA FISH ANP GAME.
THE CALIFORNIA VALLEY ELK.
By Barton Warren Evermann,
Director of the Museum, California Academy of Sciences.
Ill California Fish and Game for April 10, 1915 (Vol. I, No. 3,
pp. 85-96), a brief account was given of the former distribution and
abundance of the California valley elk (Cervus tiannodes). In that
article evidence was ]>resent('d cnnvincin^ly showing tliat this fine ani-
mal formerly ranged over tlie entire San Joaquin Valley and adjacent
foothills, and through Livermore and Sunol valleys across to the Santa
Clara Valley and even to IMonterey where Don Sebastian Viscaino
found them alnmdaut when he landed there December 10, 1602. Evi-
dence was also presented showing that the range of this elk extended
well up into, if not throughout, the Sacramento Valley.
Throughout most of its range the species was very abundant in those
early days and it continued to be abundant in the San Joaquin Valley
at least as late as the early fifties. With the rapid increase in popula-
Fig. 25. Caiiluinia valley elk in corral at Buttonwillow, Kern County, ready for shipment.
Photograph by John Rowley.
tion of Calif(nmia following the discovery of gold, the elk had a hard
time of it, and their numbers rapidly decreased. Through persistent
and more or less constant harassment they were soon driven out of the
foothills and down into the valley where they found, when too hard
pressed, a comparatively safe retreat in the tule marshes. But even
there they Avere not secure. The eager hunters soon devised ways and
means by which the animals could be followed into the tule lands, and
their numbers went on decreasing. In the early seventies it is said
cnly a few individuals were left of the once vast herds which only a
decade or two before had roamed over the great interior valley. One
report has it that there was but a single pair. This may not be
literally true, but it doubtless correctly states the general fact that the
species was almost extinct.
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME. 71
Then it was that a man of vision came upon the scene and saved this
magnificent animal from complete extermination. That man was Henry-
Miller, the founder of the great cattle company of Miller and Lux, the
greatest company of the kind in America, if not in the world. It was
Henry Miller who saw the fate which inevitably awaited the California
valley elk unless prompt action were taken to protect the few animals
that were left. Fortunately, the few remaining elk made their last
stand in the southern part of the San Joaquin Valley in the vicinity
of what is now called Buena Vista Lake, and on land owned or con-
trolled by Miller and Lux. There they had been able to secure a
measure of safety in the willows and tules, but it was Mr. Miller's strict
orders to the employees of the company that the elk must not be
disturbed under any circumstances, that saved them.
In the article to which reference has been made, it is told how the
herd increased in numbers until in 1914 there were probably more than
400 animals in it, how the herd was doing considerable damage each
year to the alfalfa and Egyptian corn fields on the Miller and Lux
Kern County ranch, and how the California Academy of Sciences under-
took to reduce the herd somewhat by transferring some of the animals to
suitable places in other parts of the State. It was believed that herds
could be established in a number of reservations and parks in the State
where they would thrive and thus establish several new centers for the
propagation and preservation of the species. The thought was to in-
crease as much as possible the conditions favorable to the preservation
of the species. In pursuance of this policy 54 elk were distributed in
the fall of 1914 to seven different reservations and parks. Many re-
quests for elk could not be supplied at that time, the number of animals
Messrs. IMiller and Lux were able to capture not being enough to go
around. Those who could not be supplied in 1914 were quite anxious
to secure some of the elk and it was decided to make another distribu-
tion in the fall of 1915. This was done. Messrs. Miller and Lux again
built a large corral near Buttonwillow in a field to which the elk were
in the habit of coming at night to feed. The same method was followed
as was pursued the previous year. A total of 100 animals were cap-
tured and 92 of these were distributed to 14 different places.
In order that the record may be complete there is given herewith a
list of all the shipments for the two years, together with the available
data regarding the present condition of the various herds. The distri-
bution in 1915, as in 1914, was under the immediate direction of
Mr. A. L. Bolton of the California Academy of Sciences.
Elk distributed in 1914 by the California Academy of Sciences:
1. Private unfenced reservation of 1,000 acres in the Santa Monica
Mountains near Los Angeles, owned by JMr. J. M. Danziger, of
Los Angeles, 3 males and 3 females.
On October 28, 1914, Mr. Danziger reported: "I believe the elk
are going to stay where they were put on my place. They were
seen the next day and I have traced their tracks up and down the
road to water, which indicates they are staying there, and I hope
they will become acclimated. My foreman Avas cutting alfalfa
today, and one elk stood watching him at close range. If you can
arrange to get me two more young ones, I shall be more than
pleased."
72 CAIJFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
On February 8, 1916, Mr. Danziger wrote: "We have not seen
the elk for a long time. Since the winter rains came on, they
apparently get all the feed they want in the mountain ranges, and
do not come into the canyon. Of the elk that were shipped, I
know that two have died. One got across the great valley between
the mountain range in which I am situated and the range back of
Playa del Rey. When I heard about this I sent a man to look
after it, but the elk had either been shot or it died from lack of
water. Then on a very foggy day when we could not see the city
from our hills, one of the elk strayed away down across the in-
habited valley just on the outskirts of the city of Los Angeles,
and then people began chasing the animal and chased it clear into
the heart of the city where it was finally lassoed by a motorcj^cle
policeman, but it soon died."
2. Private reservation of 640 acres (enclosed with elk-proof
fence) in the Santa Monica Mountains, near Los Angeles, owned
by Mr. E. L. Doheny of Los Angeles, 6 males and 4 females.
A report dated February 8, 1916, says these elk are doing well,
and that several of them will have fawns very shortly, if they do not
already have them. He can handle a few more at any time. The
advantage is that his are within the great enclosure and. can be
seen at any time.
3. Private park of 700 acres belonging to Mr. S. C. Evans, of
Riverside, 1 male and 3 females. This park is at the edge of the
city of Riverside and is essentially a city park. On January 11,
1916, Mr. Evans wrote: "The four elk received by me have always
done well and have never given me any trouble nor shown any
inclination to jump the fence. These elk have become quite tame
and are certainly a great attraction. I do not, however, think it
safe for anyone to go inside the enclosure, at least without keeping
a close watch, as the big bull will come toward one. His horns
have come out very nicely and M'ill soon be shed. One of the cows
died without any apparent reason. She never did get as fat as
the others, but seemed to be in good order and never showed any
indication of sickness — we simply found her dead one morning.
Up to the present time no fawns have been born, and I think
perhaps I had better enlarge the enclosure to give them a little
more exercise. (Up to this time Mr. Evans kept the elk in an
enclosure of but a few acres.) I would very much like to receive
two more. If at any time you are shipping grown ones this way
and can not get young ones, T shall be glad to get the old ones, as
I am anxious to make this a success."
4. Balboa Park, San Diego, 8 males and 4 females. On Febru-
ary 22, 1915, Mr. J. B. Pendleton, secretary of the Board of Park
Commissioners, write: "Regarding the elk, I beg to advise that
some of them seem to have been badly bruised either in catching
them or in the corral, or in transit; three have died and two others
are in bad shape. The elk have a splendid corral, are well cared
for, and have become very tame. They create a great deal of
interest among visitors. Those that remain should do well. We
hope you may be able to furnish us a few more female elk."
CALlFORNIxV FISH AND GAME. 7^
5. Enslen Park, Modesto, 2 males. This is a city park contain-
ing about ten acres. Two males were supplied because in the 1914
shipments we had a surplus of males. On January 18, 1916,
Mr. H. S. French, secretary of the Modesto Elks Lodge, which
organization furnished the elk to the city, wrote : "I wish you
could see the elk now. They have grown wonderfully and seem
quite content and healthy. One had the misfortune to break about
six inches off his first pair of antlers. They are quite tame. They
will come to the fence and eat from your hand, if you offer them
anything they really want. Their feed consists mostly of alfalfa
hay and meal, crushed barley, and quite often vegetables of which
they are very fond.
"We are very anxious to get two females and hope you may be
able to supply them. At present the enclosure for the elk is a
fraction under two acres, but if we receive the females the park
commissioners will double the area."
6. California Redwood Park Association, Boulder Creek, Big
Basin, 5 males and 5 females. On November 3, 1914, Mr. H. L.
Middleton, a member of the Association who has taken an active
and intelligent interest in stocking the Big Basin with elk, wrote:
"We succeeded in transporting the elk from the car to their future
home without serious accident to any of the animals with the excep-
tion of the very young one (a female) which died the day following
their release. The two bucks fought viciously at times in the
wagon, but since being liberated they seem to give one another
no trouble."
On November 14 Mr. Middleton reported that another (a male)
had died. "We are feeding the animals wheat and oat hay and
have recently added alfalfa to their diet. They seem to eat well. ' '
7. Del Monte Park, Monterey, 5 males and 5 females. This is
the large reservation of the Pacific Improvement Company of 6,000
acres, through which runs the famous Seventeen Mile Drive. The
elk were supplied to this park at the instance of Mr. Ney Otis, of
Monterey, on behalf of the Monterey Elks lodge.
On November 19, 1915, Mr. S. F. B, Morse, general manager for
the Pacific Improvement Company, reported: "The elk that we
have are doing very well, indeed. I saw them only last Saturday
and they were in splendid condition. We need more females and
would like very much to receive some from you." A week later
Mr. R. H. McKaig of the Pacific Improvement Company reported :
"Of the ten elk turned loose in the forest last fall, one young doe
died shortly afterward and we think she must have been injured in
transit. One calf has been born and one cow is missing ; we think
she has been hiding with her calf somewhere in the forest and will
join the herd later. We frequently see nine. They make their
home in the sand dunes near the ocean. The last time I saw them
they were very fat and healthy looking.
"We have heard of only one instance of any of the animals
wandering away ; that was when a bull wandered out of the forest
into an alfalfa field in Carmel Valley, but he returned to the herd
within 36 hours.
4—22417
74 CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
"The elk seem to be getting tame very fast. I have stopped
my car within 50 feet of the whole herd and they did not seem at
all troubled. As you doubtless know, the game in our forest is
protected by rangers and we allow no shooting and no dogs. ' '
On January 4, 1916, Mr. McKaig reported that the herd was in
good condition. One calf had been born (sex not determined) and
doing Avell. One adult female still missing. The animals find an
abundance of food and it has not been necessary to feed them.
Elk distributed in 1915 hy the California Academy of Sciences:
1. Mooney Grove, half way between Visalia and Tulare, 1 male
and 3 females. This is a public park under the management of
the Tulare County Board of Forestry, of which Mr. Thomas Jacob
is the efficient acting president. It was through Mr. Jacob's
interest in the matter and that of the Visalia Elks lodge that the
elk were secured for this park.
On November 26 Mr. Jacob reported : ' ' The four elk arrived in
fine shape and were turned out in the park (lOi acres), an ideal
place for them, I think; plenty of grass, water and shade."
2. Roediug Park, Fresno, 1 female. This park contains a total
of 117 acres, of which about six acres were enclosed for the elk.
The local Elks lodge co-operated with the city park commissioners
in securing the elk. They desired two males and two females, but
it was convenient to supply only one at this time. It is understood
they already had a bull elk secured from some other source.
3. Zapp's Park, Fresno, 1 male. This elk was sent at the request
of Mr. W. D. Wallis, of Miller and Lux Company. On January
13 Mr. Zapp reported: "The elk you sent me is doing fine. He
has the run of ten acres. I also have a female ; lost a male this
summer. I received the pair five years ago from my uncle's
ranch at Chico — the John Crouch ranch, four miles south of Chico
on the Dayton road. I have never raised any young; I don't know
from what cause. ' '
4. Private park of P. H. Loinaz, Fresno, 1 male and 1 female,
sent at the request of Mr. E. F. Ogle, of Miller and Lux. Reported
to have arrived in good condition and doing well.
5. Private reservation of Mr. A. V. Lisenby, of Fresno, 1 male
and 2 females. This ranch is in Madera County, eight miles from
Friant. It consists of 1,800 acres in one tract and 320 in another
near by. The elk arrived in good condition and were temporarily
placed in an enclosure of about two acres which has since been
enlarged to about 15 acres. Mr. Lisenby on January 4 reported
that he was feeding them alfalfa hay and that they seemed to be
doing very Avell indeed.
6. Alum Rock Park, San Jose, 2 males and 2 females. Mr. John
Varcoe and Dr. Fred A. Curtiss, representing the Elks lodge of
San Jose, and Mr. Walter L. Chrisman of the Board of Alum Rock
Park Commissioners, co-operated in securing these elk for Alum
Rock Park. This park is about seven and one-half miles north-
east of San Jose. The elk were liberated in an enclosure of seven
or eight acres. Mr. Elmer J. Ware, the park superintendent,
reported on January 14 that "the four elk donated to Alum Rock
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME. 75
Park by the California Academy of Sciences reached the park in
good condition and are doing very well." On February 23
Mr. Ware reported that ' ' one of the male elk died last week. Do
not know just what was the cause. The others are doing very
well."
7. Petaluma City Park, 2 males and 10 females. Mr. E. B.
Dykes, supervising principal of the Petaluma public schools and
secretary of the Board of Park Commissioners, was active in secur-
ing this shipment for the city of Petaluma.
On December 21 Mr. Dykes wrote as follows: ''One of the
elk (a doe) sent us, died. It was in bad condition when delivered.
We had a veterinary attend the animal but were unable to save
it. He found, on examination, that its kidneys were in bad con-
dition. It is possible that an injury was received in the car. The
balance of the herd is apparently in good condition. The veterin-
ary advised that we feed them less alfalfa. Will you please send
me a number of copies of the article you published in California
Fish and Game on the Elk of California? I wish to interest the
children in them."
On January 19 Mr. Dykes reported that the old buck which
had had his horns removed had died. Mr. Dykes thinks both that
died "were in bad condition when received and gradually grew
worse. We were very sorry, indeed, to lose the big buck."
8. Eden Valley Ranch, Mendocino County, 2 males and 10
females. This ranch consists of about 25,000 acres, about 60 of
which are under elk-proof fence. The ranch is owned by Hon.
Wm. G. Henshaw and Mr. Henry D. Nichols, and is about thirty
miles northeast of Willits.
On January 3 Mr. Henshaw reported that: "so far the elk are
doing well." On January 27 he reported that 9 of the 12 had
died. The winter in that region has been unprecedentedly severe,
with the worst storms and heaviest snows that have been known
for years.
When the shipment was made to this place it was realized that it
was in the nature of an experiment and that the chances that the
elk would survive were not good, the climatic conditions, the whole
environment, being so decidedly different from that of the natural
habitat of this species. Nevertheless it was felt to be worth while
to try the experiment.
9. Del Paso Park, Sacramento, 3 males and 9 females. This park
contains about 850 acres and is about five miles northeast of the
city on the Auburn boulevard. The elk were secured through the
co-operation of Mr. Frank F. Atkinson, secretary of the Board of
Park Commissioners, and Mr. Walter Leitch, secretary of the local
Elks lodge.
The elk arrived in excellent condition and were placed tempo-
rarily in an inclosure of a few acres. On December 4 Mr. Leitch
wrote: "At a regular session of this lodge, held November 30,
1915, I was instructed by unanimous vote, to express to the Cali-
fornia Academy of Sciences the thanks of this lodge for the mag-
nificent herd of elk that was presented to our city by you through
76 CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
the co-operation of Messrs. ]\Iiller and Lux. The animals arrived
in excellent condition and have been placed in Del Paso Park
where I can assure you they will be given the best of care and
attention. ' '
On January 5 Mr. Atkinson wrote that "One of the elk Avas
so severely injured in transportation that it had to be killed shortly
after arrival here. Our herd now consists of eleven head, all in
good condition. We wish to thank the Academy of Sciences and
Messrs. INIiller and Lux for the courtesy extended in this matter
and to assure you of our appreciation of the same."
10. California Kedwood Park Association, Boulder Creek, Big
Basin, 4 females, sent at the instance of Mr. H. L. INIiddleton, man-
ager of the California Timber Company,
These animals apparently did not arrive in good condition. One
of them died within a few days, and two others died some time
before January 19.
In handling this shipment the railroad unfortunately took the
car on to Santa Cruz and then returned it to Boulder Creek, thu.s
keeping the elk on the road a needlessly long time.
11. Laveaga Park, Santa Cruz, 2 males and 4 females. • This
park is a public one belonging to the city. It comprises about 1,000
acres and is about one mile northeast from the city. About 25
acres have been enclosed with elk-proof fence.
It is said that the elk arrived in good condition and are doing
well.
12. Casa del Rancho, near San Felipe, belonging to Mr. J. F.
Dunne, 1 male and 4 females. This ranch comprises about 15,000
acres, and is entirely enclosed and protected from trespassing.
The elk are temporarily placed in a lot of three or four acres, but
will later be given a much larger area. On February 7 Mr.
Dunne wrote that the elk were doing quite well.
13. Vancouver Pinnacles National . Forest Reservation, 1 male
and 3 females. This is a large national reservation of some 14,000
acres, in San Benito County. The shipment was made at the re-
quest of Mr. Elmer Dowdy, county clerk of San Benito County,
Hollister, Mr. A. T. Hain, of Cook, and Mr. Henry Hollaway, of
Gilroy.
No report has yet been received as to the condition of this ship-
ment.
14. Balboa Park, San Diego, 3 males and 19 females. This is
the large park of the city of San Diego. The shipment was made
at the request of the Board of Park Commissioners through its
secretary, JNIr. J. B. Pendleton. The commissioners and the city
were so well pleased with the small herd sent them in the fall of
1914 that they were anxious to receive more. They were par-
ticularly desirous of securing more females. No formal report has
been received as to the condition of the herd, but people who have
seen them say they appear to be doing well and are a great attrac-
tion not only to the citizens but to the visitors to the Panama-Cali-
fornia International Exposition.
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME. 77-
From the above it appears that the Academy has distributed 146 elk
among 19 different reservations and parks in the State; that of this
number 25 have died as a result of injuries received while being caught
or because of unfavorable climatic conditions, or from unknown causes ;
that at least 3 fawns were born in 1915 ; and that the animals now in
the various reservations and parks total at least 124.
The California valley elk is an extremely wild and nervous animal
under natural conditions and peculiarly liable to receive injury in
handling. It is regretted that several were lost, but the number is no
greater than should be expected in handling animals of such delicate
organization. When these elk become adjusted to their new environ-
ment it is hoped and believed their rapid increase will soon more than
make good all losses that may have occurred.
It is estimated that the number left in the Kern County herd is
between 350 and 400. These, together with those in the new potential
centers of increase, assure with reasonable certainty the preservation of
the species. In some of these centers it is believed they will become com-
mon within a few years. In the meantime the Kern County herd will
go on increasing and will continue to do large annual damage to the
alfalfa and Egyptian corn fields of that region.
THE NEED OF CO-OPERATION IN FISH AND GAME
PRESERVATION.*
By Ernest Schaeffle, Executive Officer, California Fish and Game Commission.
It is generally believed that almost any evil may be remedied through
the enactment of a law and by the subsequent enforcement of the law
by the police authorities. Ask the sportsman what he considers neces-
sary to prevent the too rapid killing off of a species or what is desirable
to accomplish the increase of another species and he will, nine times out
of ten, reply: "Why, just pass a law shortening the season or one reduc-
ing the limit and then make the responsible officers enforce it, and the
thing is done."
We have come to realize, however, that the thing can not be done so
easily as it might seem. We certainly have plenty of fish and game
laws; most officers are conscientious, reasonably well informed and
intelligent; but still we are compelled to realize that laws are being
violated every day and that the fish and game supply is suffering
correspondingly.
Having thus admitted that police methods are not entirely sufficient
in their present development, it becomes easier to work out the prob-
lem, ascertain each weakness, and prescribe the appropriate remedies.
It is axiomatic that no law is enforceable unless it really represents
popular will. Furthermore, few laws are rigidly enforced unless
the police officer feels that the public very strongly wants to have them
enforced. Now, in the case of fish and game statutes, it at least seems
that they have not always expressed public desire, and it is further-
more certain that the public does not, even yet, demand of every
♦Reprinted, with permission, from Pacific Outdoors, February, 1916.
78 CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
responsible official that he do his duty by preventing and punishing
infractions. In most cases, we have reason to believe, the regular fish
and game warden not only is alert to prevent unlawful fishing and
hunting, but expends even more than reasonable effort in the endeavor
to apprehend and prosecute violators. But with the average sheriff,
constable, marshal, policeman (including their many deputies), the case
is radically different; these officials make no attempt to enforce game
laws.
The State Fish and Game Commission tries to obtain a record of
every prosecution made in the State for violations of the so-called "fish"
and "game" laws. It is probable that the record obtained omits the
inclusion of less than twenty-five cases annually, while it shows a total
of around one thousand in each of recent years. As a mere matter of
information, the folloAving table is shown. It indicates the number of
cases made since 1902, with a total around 10.000 :
Biennial period, 1002-04 550 cases
Biennial period, 1904-06 774 cases
Biennial period. 1906-08 1,192 cases
Biennial period, 1908-10 1,771 cases
Biennial period, 1910-12 2.063 cases
Biennial period, 1912-14 1,993 cases
Yearly period, 1914-15 983 cases
For the calendar year 1915 cases made totaled 1,057.
This record is highly gratifying to everyone connected with the State
Commission ; it is believed that few states can show so good a record ;
but the chief value the figures have, to the writer's mind, is their
potential power to arouse in the sportsman a determination that every
police officer in the State sliall in future do his full duty. Exact figures
are difficult to obtain, but it is believed that the hundreds of sheriffs
and constables must have at least twenty-five hundred salaried and
unsalaried deputies. Each of these men has authority to enforce the
"fish" and "game" laws, which comprise merely a small, withal im-
portant, chapter in the Penal Code of the State. Moreover, each and
every one of them has taken his solemn oath to enforce the laws of the
State. Whenever he fails or refuses to enforce a "game" or "fish"
law, he violates his oath and is answerable to the public, and particu-
larly to the sportsmen and others who are directly and most earnestly
interested in keeping up the supply of wild life.
Now, there is something quite definite that the sportsmen — singly and
collectively — can do to bring about a better condition. The sportsmen
certainly favor law observance and enforcement, and by reason of their
present intimate knowledge of the work of the State Fish and Game
Commission realize that the seventy-five wardens maintained by the
State can not be expected to deal with the possible and actual law-
breakers scattered thi-ough the fifty-eight counties. What the sports-
men can do — and will do as soon as they are awakened to the needs of
the situation — is to demand of every police officer the same interest and
action that is demanded of the regular game warden. When the country
constable learns that the sportsmen among his constituents will no
longer tolerate his passive condition he will "stir himself" and treat
fish and game cases as he treats larcenies and other serious offenses
whose importance is due largely to public opinion concerning them.
When we consider the average person's regard for property it is diffi-
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME. 79
cult to understand the apathy of the public, so far as fish and game is
concerned. Undoubtedly, the conservationist's greatest work is to con-
vince the American public that the wild life is public property, of
value to the public, and deserving of even more attention and protection
than is purely private property.
HABITS AND HUNTING OF THE SEA OTTER.
By Chase Littlejohn.
In the early days when venturesome navigators found their way to the
shores of the northern Pacific, sea otter were found in great numbers
on the Alaskan coast and southward as far as Lower California. At
the present time what a change is found ! Of the thousands formerly
existing only single individuals are now found, and these are being
killed so fast that total extinction seems but a short time away. So
rare has this animal become and so prized is its fur that a skin which
in 1880 sold for from $100 to $155, has now advanced to $1,500 and
$2,000.
When Behring first visited Alaska from 1760-1765 he wrote that
sea otters were so numerous that the Aleuts wore long mantles of their
skins and the best ones could be purchased for a scrap of iron. In 1804
Baranov sailed from Alaska with a single cargo of 15,000 skins, and at
the time the Fur Seal Islands were discovered two sailors killed 5,000
the first year. The next year less than 1,000 were taken, and from the
end of the next six years until the present time not a sea otter has been
known there. And so it has been at the other spots where otter were
once abundant. In 1873, when the Americaiis purchased Alaska, nearly
4,000 skins were secured, and in 1880-1881, because of the persistency
with which the animals were hunted by both whites and natives,
between 6,000 and 8.000 were taken, some of which I myself secured
and thus helped, I am ashamed to say, in the general extermination.
By ]890 the use of the modern rifle and destructive nets had so reduced
the income to be derived from sea otter hunting that the hunters were
obliged to enocage in other occupations.
Thirty-eight years ago, on the 18th of March, I sailed on my brother's
ship on my first sea otter hunt. We sailed from San Francisco by way
of the Sandwich Islands. The Kuril Islands were reached in May and
we at once began the hunt. And truly exciting and dangerous sport
it was! To hit with a rifle so small a mark as an otter's head (prac-
tically the only part to be seen) from a bounding boat was at first no
easy matter; but with practice the otter soon stood but little chance
when hemmed in between the boats. The hunting was both difficult
and dangerous, for the waters about the Kuril Islands are at nearly
all times very rough because of the violent winds and rushing tides.
I saM' one hunter caught in a tide-rip : his boat stood on end for a
moment and then plunged beneath the surface. Many lives were lost
in this occupation, and of the hundreds who followed it for a long
period I am perhaps the only one left who can tell from personal
experience about the life and habits of the nearly extinct .sea otter.
My own brother with his crew of about thirty men were the last otter
hunters, so far as I know, to sail from San Francisco. The expedition
left on March 1, 1889, and like many another unfortunate ship that
sailed for the same purpose, was never heard from again.
80 CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
The sea otters were hunted always with three boats which formed a
triangle, one boat ahead, and one on either side. "When an otter was
sighted, the hunter seeing it raised a paddle as a signal and all three
boats would move off toward the animal. After approacliing to within
a reasonable distance, a shot was fired. The bullet, which usually struck
near the animal, would so frighten him that he would dive at once,
without taking time to inflate his lungs enough to take him any great
distance. He could, therefore, not remain long beneath the surface.
If he had taken time to draw a long breath he might have gone so far
as to have entirely escaped the hunter's sight. If the animal was not
captured after the first dive he was but rarely seen again. Swiftness of
action is of the utmost importance in sea otter hunting. This accounts
for the fact that three boats were always used. More boats would have
caused too much complication; they would have been constantly in
each other's way, the lives of the hunters would have been endangered
by the firing, and the precaution needed to prevent loss of human life
would have allowed the otter to escape. He would then hfive been
given time to inflate his lunss sufficiently to make a long dash and
possibly evade the hunter. When the otter is killed he floats, back
up, and the body takes the shape of an inverted letter U, both ends
down. This position causes the air to remain in the lungs and to act
as a float. If by any chance the air escapes the body at once sinks and
is lost.
Many of the otters not killed with a rifle were taken in nets. These
were of large mesh and about six fathoms long and two fathoms deep.
They were anchored at one end so as to allow them to swing with the
tide and with the wind, which blew at times with terrific force. These
winds were advantageous to the hunter, for it was during the wind
storms that the otters were forced to seek shelter behind the reefs and
rocks where the nets were spread. At night, when the animals dove
for food, they were unable to see the nets and were soon enmeshed. In
struggling to free themselves from this new species of seaweed, they
attracted others of their kind and in the general excitement five or
six otters were often caught in one net. At such times every one Avas
for himself and a general fight took place. The infuriated otters would
bite each other and the wooden floats on the nets and within a few
hours all, or nearly all, were drowned.
The habits of the sea otter are extremely interesting. This animal
always swims on its back with head turned upward. Consequently it
swims backward, always, however, keeping an eye in the direction
toward which it is going. When it is about to dive the otter turns over
and goes under back up and remains so while under water, but imme-
diately resumes the opposite position on reaching the surface. While
under water, if not too far from the boat, the otter can be easily dis-
tinguished because it assumes a golden color and looks somewhat like
a sailor in an oil-.skin jacket, although in fact it is a deep black or dark
brown.
The young of the otter are born, as far as I could ascertain, in the
spring, and there is but one young per year. The mother is devoted
to her offspring. She holds it in her arms and fondles and caresses it,
and when danger approaches she risks her own life to protect it. At
such times she at once makes off, sometimes swimming, but oftener
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME. 81
diving at short intervals, for she well knows that if she remains too
long beneath the water the young will perish. Each time the surfa'^e
is reached the little fellow utters a loud cry, and this at once attra^'ts
the attention of the hunter. To deaden the outcry the motluT will
often duck the head of her offspring beneath the water repeatedly.
When the weather is foggy the only otter that can be chased witJi any
degree of success is the mother with her baby, whose cries betray her.
In the early days of my hunting on the Japan coast we found the
otters in their primitive state because they had never been h anted at
sea. There we found them in "schools" and as many as 400 were
sometimes seen in one school. Often just a family would be tog.^tlicr —
a father, mother, young of the previous year, and the baby. These
when pursued would usually still band together, and the whole family
would then be destroyed by the merciless bullets of the hunter. In
Alaska, where the hunting had been carried on for years, the mother
would often desert her young even before a shot was fired. The baby
thus deserted, if only a few weeks old, would drown, but if two rnonths
old he could take good care of himself, for he can then dive from
thirty to forty yards.
■ The food of the sea otter consists largely of sea urchins, for which
the otter dives to the bottom. He comes to the surface with the food,
places it on the breast, where it is torn in halves ; the contents are taken
from each half and the shells are tossed often to a considerable distance.
The otter then washes and cleans his face and "hands" before diving
for more food. Otters also eat seaweed and fish, but probably not nuK^h
of the latter, with the exception of the squid, upon which they are
obliged to subsist when driven far out to sea by constant hunting.
They are unable to reach bottom when the water is much ovt^r sixty
fathoms.
That sea otters eat codfish is in a measure proven by the foUowijig
interesting incident: Our schooner was anchored about twenty miles
from land in sixty fathoms of water. Codfish were abundant, and one
man was fishing while a number looked on. The weather was extremely
foggy, and presently a sea otter, drifting by and apparently mistal^ing
the schooner for a rock, swam towards it. Rifles were at once secured,
but in the mean time the otter had dived and was apparently lost.
Presently, however, the fisherman got a bite, and after hauling in the
fish for a considerable distance, was suddenly surprised to Jind the
strain on his line greatly increased. We were all curious to see w jiat
he had hooked and found an otter clasping the codfish in his paws, A
bullet soon ended his career.
The sea otter displays much common sense and sometimes remarkable
strategy. Its greatest enemy other than man is probably the killer
whale. This animal destroys great numbers of fur seal, which it finds
easy prey. In the excitement of pursuit the seal makes a great commo-
tion by leaping out of the water. This attracts the whale and the seals
are soon dispatched. The sea otter likewise makes off instantly from
this enemy, but if he finds that he has not evaded his pursuer he knows
that flight is useless; he then doubles up as if dead and remains
motionless. The whale does not eat carrion, and thinking this to be
such, he passes on to locate the living otter that has seemingly escaped.
The natives formerly hunted the otter with skin canoes and used
spears instead of guns. These they could throw with great accuracy
5—22417
82 CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
and for considerable distances. After the animal had received several
spears in his body he was unable to dive and was soon dispatched with
a long club. Each native had a private mark on his spear point and
when the otter was killed the native who had struck his spear nearest to
the otter's head claimed the skin. When nnizzle-loading guns were
used many otters escaped after being struck, for the bullets would
sometimes barely penetrate the skin. I myself took several such bullets
from otters which I secured and undoubtedly they had carried them
beneath their jackets for many years, for such rifles had gone out of use
before I lived in Alaska.
Only a few otters are now taken in Alaska, and I know of none tak<'n
about the Kuril Islands. Stringent laws have been passed to pro'cet
any that may be left along the California coast. AYe may hope, tln're-
fore, that this, the rarest and most beautiful of all fur-bearing animals,
in time may be able to re-establish itself to such a degree that future
generations may reap some benefit from its presence along our shores.
CALIFORNIA'S PREHISTORIC GAME.
By Harold C. Bry.\nt.
A visit to the Museum of History, Science and Art in Los Angeles
impresses us with the marvelous forms of animal life in prehistoric
times. Imagine yourself in a region in which the elephant, mastodon
and ground sloth tracked the wilds. Think of the exciting sport of
hunting the saber-toothed tiger, cave bear, wolf and other carnivores
once so abundant in this State.
Authentic evidence of the occurrence of these forms is furnished by
recent finds in the oil fields, which have proven a great storehouse for
prehistoric fauna of this State. Complete skeletons of all of the above
mammals have been dug from the asphaltum of Rancho La Brea, near
Los Angeles. Bones are piled thirty or more feet high and there seems
to be no end to new discoveries. The teeth of the animals have been
wonderfully preserved and in many instances not a bone is found broken.
We are led to conjecture why these many forms of life are now
extinct; they were evidently not exterminated at the hands of man,
and yet they are gone from the earth as completely as are those species
which owe their extinction to the invention of firearms. The ebb and
fiow of life on the earth form an enigma which all our years of research
and study have but slightly cleared up. This fact should drive us to
work the harder to decipher some of the laws which govern animal life.
Nor should a knowledge that many forms of life have become extinct
from natural causes lead us to think that living species are doomed to
extinction and that the toll taken by )nan can make but little difference ;
for whereas, under natural conditions, the death of a species may have
taken thousands of years, man is able to exterminate them entirely in
fifty. Hence, we should remember that man is drawing upon the
supply of wild life faster than the reservoir can be filled. The lifetime
of a species is governed by a higher power than our own, and if we
accelerate by artificial means the forces leading toward extinction,
future generations will suffer for our thoughtlessness.
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
83
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME
A publication devoted to the conserva-
tion of wild life and published quarterly
by the California State Fish and Game
Commission.
Sent free to citizens of the State of Cali-
fornia. Offered in exchange for ornitho-
logical, mammalogical and similar period-
icals.
The articles published in California Fish
AND Game are not copyrighted and may be
reproduced in other periodicals, provided
due credit is given the California Fish and
Game Commission. Editors of newspapers
and periodicals are invited to make use of
pertinent material.
All material for publication should be
sent to H. C. Bryant, Museum of Verte-
brate Zoology, Berkeley, Cal.
April 15, 1916.
FOREST SERVICE CO-OPERATION.
ANEW department in California
Fisii AND Game entitled "United
States Forest Service Co-operation,"
starts witli this issue. Co-operation, sucli
as exists between the Fish and Game Com-
prosecuting many violators of the game
laws. This co-operation is greatly appre-
ciated by the Commission, which in turn
is anxious to be serviceable to the Forest
Service in every way possible. This new
department will afford an opportunity for
forest officers to contribute information on
the status of game and fish and on the
administration of these resources in the
national forests. Mr. .T. M. C. Hodge, in
charge information in this district, will
edit the notes sent in by the forest deputies.
COMMISSION FEEDS DEER AND
QUAIL.
The unprecedented snowstorms in the
northern and mountain districts brought
to light many interesting things in con-
nection with our birds and animals and
no doubt proved very enlightening. One
of the things demonstrated was that the
nonpredatory birds and animals nearlj'
always seek aid from humans when hun-
gry or in distress. Large numbers of deer,
quail, and other birds came to ranches
Fig. 26. Wild deer feeding in barnyard on ranch of A. K. Lea, Cloverdale, Sonoma County,
California, September, 1915. Photograph by Mrs. A. K. Lea.
mission and the United States Forest
Service, is almost inevitable. Both forces
are working for conservation of natural
resources and these resources are mutually
dependent. Forest Service rangers are
deputies of the California Fish and Game
Commission and have been a potent force
in educating the public to the need and
value of game conservation, as well as in
where domestic stock were fed. They also
came to the edge of many towns as though
looking for aid from the residents (see
Fig. 27). The extreme conditions dem^
onstrated that deer are much more numer-
ous in northern California than was be-
lieved. Our private correspondence ' and
reports from deputies tell of large bands
of deer seen in Eldorado, Shasta, Lassen,
84
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
Modoc and Siskiyou counties. They tell
of bands of deer being fed by cattlemen
and farmers. All are authentic. For in-
stance, it is reported that Mr. A. C.
Sprout, of the California and Oregon
Power Company at Copco, on the Klam-
ath River, has fed approximately 300
deer.
Many residents of the northern counties
undertook the work of voluntary feeding of
game without any expectation of payment
or reward, and although Mr. Newbert
acted promptly in the matter, backed up
by the Board of Control in allowing our
estimate for the purchase of feed, it was
owing to the prompt action of the resi-
dents in the different sections which our
deputies could not reach and which were
cut off from communication by mail, that
enormous numbers of deer and quail were
saved. The Sacramento office has written
a large number of personal letters to indi-
viduals and newspapers thanking them
for their co-operation and kindness shown
during the trying period. — George Neale.
PARCEL POST SHIPMENTS OF GAME.
The Fish and Game Commission has
been making such a strenuous fight
against the market hunters who ship their
game to the San Francisco markets by
express, that it has become exceedingly
dangerous for the shipi)ers to send ille-
gally shipped birds by that method ; the
chances of having them confiscated are
too many. Some of the hunters for a
time resorted to the mails, sending birds
by parcel post, knowing that the deputies
of the Commission did not have the same
opportunity to inspect postal shipments as
they did express.
Investigation showed that according to
the California law, all game offered for
shipment must be at all times in ■ open
view. The postal regulations provide that
game must be carefully wrapped in order
to prevent damage to other mail matter.
But the United States regulations also
provide that all game offered for shipment
must be strictly in accord with all of the
provisions of the state laws.
How these conflicting provisions have
been brought into accord is explained by
the following letter received from the
post office department at Washington :
Washington, D. C, January 28, 1916.
Fish and Game Commission,
Mills Building,
San Francisco, California.
Gentlemen : Receipt is acknowledged of
your communication of the 17th instant
advising this office that
"Section 6276 of the Penal Code of the
State of California provides that game
offered for shipment or transportation
must be at all times in open view."
In reply I have to say that the Act of
Congress of March 4. 1909, 35 Stat. 1137,
embodied in section 477J, Postal Laws and
Regulations, a copy of which is enclosed,
prohibits the shipment of dead bodies, or
parts thereof, of any game animals or
birds killed or offered for shipment in vio-
lation of the laws of the state, territory or
district in which killed or offered for ship-
ment, and since the laws of the State of
California do not permit the shipment of
the dead bodies of animals or birds when
wrapped, postmasters in that State must,
of course, govern themselves accordingly.
The dead bodies of wild animals or birds
may be accepted for transmission in the
mails only when wrapped so as to prevent
injury to other mail, and it is not prac-
ticable to handle shipments of such matter
by parcel post in the manner required by
the California laws.
Respectfully,
[Signed] A. M. Dockert,
Third Assistant Postmaster General.
OREGON PROTECTS FUR-BEARING
MAMMALS.
Oregon in 1913 established a trapper's
license law which requires every trapper
who traps anywhere except on his own
property, to procure a license costing one
dollar. The fur-bearing mammals pro-
tected are the otter, mink, fisher, marten,
and musk-rat. The open season is from
November 1 to February 28. The flesh
of game birds or mammals is prohibited
as bait for traps. As a return to the
trapper for his license fee the Fish and
Game Commission is carrying on investi-
gations which are of help to the trapper
and is also accumulating data as to the
number of fur-bearing mammals taken
each year. The latter information is
obtained by requiring each trapper to
make a full report as to the fur-bearing
mammals caught and killed during the
open season. Despite the fact that cer-
tain raiders of the poultry yard are given
protection as fur-bearers, the proviso that
nothing shall prevent any person from
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
85
protecting his own premises from the dep-
redations of fur-bearing animals appears
to have secured popularity for this law.
The State Biologist of Oregon recently
stated that there is no opposition to this
law by trappers, because they themselves
advocated its adoption.
Each trapper now feels he has an equal
chance at the fur-bearers, for summer
trapping by the amateur has been abol-
ished.
A law such as this should be considered
for this State. California is wasting a
valuable resource by a faulty administra-
tion of her fur-bearing mammals. The
black bear, mink, river otter, fisher, and
red fox are among the fur-bearers which
should be protected during the summer
months when the fur is of no value ; and
a policy which will allow of a checking
up of this resource will help' save it as a
source of recreation and profit for the
State.
ADMINISTRATIVE CHANGES.
At a meeting of the Board of Fish and
Game Commissioners held January 15,
1916, the Fi'esno Division of the Com-
mission was abolished. Mr. A. D. Fergu-
son, who has for many years been in
charge of this division, was appointed
Field Agent of the Commission, his duty
now being the supervision of the field
work of the deputies.
The State Board of Control has sanc-
tioned the abolishment of the State Game
Farm at Ilayward. It has not been
determined how soon the farm can be
abandoned, owing to difficulties over th€
lease now held by the Commission.
NOTES FROM THE LOS ANGELES
DISTRICT.
Southern California had the longest
quail season in 1915 that has been en-
joyed in years — two and one-half months.
Shooting was good at the end and the
best stock of breeding material left over
that has been spared in many seasons,
notwithstanding the twcnand-a-half times
as much hammering given to the quail
here.
If any proof was needed that the past
was au exceptionally good shooting sea-
son in southern California, it could be
obtained from the sporting goods stores,
which report a remarkable increase in the
demand for small-gauge shotguns. There
has been a steadily growing movement
toward the use of less shot for game shoot-
ing as the limits went down, harmonious
with the desire to do the limit thing in a
little more difiicult manner, so as to gel
in. a larger satisfaction in bagging the
few birds allowed. Hence, dealers in
southern California are ordering hardl.y
any 12-bore guns at all, except for trap
shooting. All are going to the "sixteens"
a^nd "twenties." Some even take up
"twenty-eights." This is all as it should
be. The small-bore double gun is the
modern sportsman's arm, and goes hand in
hand with the reduced bag limit.
Southern division field patrolmen under
Commissioner Connell's direction have
paid particular attention to the along-
shore sea fisheries since the game season
closed, and have made several good cases.
Deputy Becker has made it a rule to
carry license books with him in the field,
so as to supply any applicants in good
faith with licenses. The State gets KKJ
per cent of such license collections, no
commission being paid to salaried depu-
ties. E. Hedderly.
COLD WEATHER AND GAME.
The heavy snows of the past winter
have, without doubt, made it difficult for
many of the game species to obtain suf-
ficient food. However, the newspaper re-
ports to the effect that hundreds of deer
and thousands of quail were dying of
starvation in the mountain districts were
in many cases greatly exaggerated. When
some of the instances cited by newspapers
were investigated, it was found that some-
one, either as a joke, or with malicious
intent, started the rumor. In one par-
ticular instance investigation showed that
the man who was quoted as saying that
miners near Barden had been feeding over
seven hundred quail and giving their last
stock of oatmeal for this purpose, had not
been anywhere near the place described
and had simply invented the story. The
report appearing in the Chico Record
that over a hundred dear were dying from
starvation in the Butte Creek country was
also found to be without foundation.
A report of the killing by predatory
animals of large numbers of deer, weak-
ened by starvation, was recently fur-
nished a forest ranger by an inhalsitant
of the northern part of the Eldorado
forest and later appeared in a Placerville
newspaper. Investigation of the ground
86
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
Fig. 27. Valley quail being fed during January snow storm by Superintendent of Streets
Edgar Thomas at Yreka, Siskiyou County, California.
for the roport, l)rouglit a letter from tlie
forest supervisor, of which the following
is an extract :
The information contained in the news-
paper clipping was furnished one of the
Eldorado forest rangers by Mr. Zoover,
who resides the greater portion of the year
in the northern part of the Eldorado For-
est. I am not in position to vouch for the
truth of his information. We have not re-
ceived reports from other portions of the
forest of deer having been killed by preda-
tory animals. Mr. Zoover lives in an iso-
lated portion of the forest in which there
are no roads. Snow has fallen this winter
to an unusual depth, .tnd in all probability
Mr. Zoover has greatly exaggerated facts,
since he is well aware that forest officers
have no work to perform in his locality
during the winter months.
Additional information has strengthened
this viewpoint. Hence, we are led to be-
lieve that in this case, also, exaggerated
statements were made.
That the cold weather of the past win-
ter was to some extent destructive to
both deer and quail is, however, not to be
denied. A few instances to this efifect are
here cited.
According to Deputy E. II. Ober, Inyo
County has experienced an unusually se-
vere winter. During January eleven feet
of snow fell. He reports : "I covered over
lL!."i miles on my skis and web snowshocs,
scattering feed and digging trenches for
quail. I found the quail dead everywhere
along the foothills. With deep snow cov-
ering the ground they seemed to have no
way of getting food. A few birds got to
the valley, but many were caught high up
on the mountains. One small covey about
three miles west of Big Pine, which I fed
regularly, had in it, when I started feed-
ing, thirt.v-five birds, but when I last saw
them only twenty-five were left. We will
probably lose about So per cent of our
wonderful supply of mountain quail. We
had more than 800 deer in our valley in
herds ranging from 6 to 190. I saw a
herd of 206 one day. We lost a few deer,
but none to speak of."
Deputy L. J. Warren, of Taylorsville,
Plumas County, reports that the severe
weather in his district resulted in the de-
struction of many quail. He estimates
the loss at about 20 per cent for the entire
winter. The statement is also made that
hawks and predatory mammals seem to
take an especially large toll when the
birds are snow-bound. During a storm
]Mr. Warren had 126 deer under dailj'
observation. The loss was four.
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
87
Fig. 28. Severe weather in the Sierras. Note how completely the natural food supply of
game has been cut off by the deep snow.
VALUABLE INFORMATION ON FISH
AND GAME.
Through the co-operation of the United
States Forest Service, valuable data as to
the status of fish and game within the
State are made available. Forest rangers
are in a particularly favorable position to
obtain information as to the game species
found in the national forests and as to
their condition at the present time. A
circular letter asking for information on
beavers, grouse, sage hens, and introduced
game birds has brought information which
could not othenvise have been obtained.
The reports regarding beavers show that
this valuable fur-bearing mammal is still
to be found in many parts of the State,
and that the protection now afforded it
will, perhaps, be instrumental in allowing
an increase in numbers. A map is being
prepared to show the location of the vari-
ous colonies within the State, and a full
report as to the status of the beaver in
California will soon be issued. The data
obtained through the Forest Service is re-
liable and comprehensive and is invaluable
in showing the adequacy of the present
policy in relation to the administration of
game resources and in pointing the way
for the future.
JOHN X. DE WITT.
With sincere regret we record the death
in San Francisco on January 7, 1916, of
John X. DeWitt, sportsman and writer
on fish and game. For several years prior
to his death, Mr. DeWitt was editor of
the sporting department of Breeder and
Sportsman and contributor to various
San Francisco newspapers. His intense
love of hunting and of the out-of-doors
lured him to the open fields and to the
swift flowing streams. Here his keen
observation disclosed to him the secrets of
the wild things of the open. This knowl-
edge and his power of building words into
beautiful pictures made what he had to
contribute vital and worth while. To his
love for the out-of-doors was added a love
for his fellow man, which made all who
knew him his friends. — J. S. H.
A HEARING AT SANTA ROSA.
Following the arrest of a Santa Rosa
sportsman for capturing a steelhead trout
by means of a grab-hook, considerable
interest was developed in that city as to
how trout may be distinguished from
salmon. Many of the residents of Sonoma
88
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
County call the steelhead trout which runs
in the Russian River, a salmon. In order
that there might be a better understanding
of the state fish laws, Mr. Walter Nagle,
secretary of the banta Rosa Chamber of
Commerce, arranged a hearing at the
courthouse. Dr. H. C. Bryant and
Mr. N. B. Scofield represented the Fish
and Game Commission. Over fifty men
were present at the meeting and all
showed interest in the proceedings (see
Dr. Bryant, who acted as chairman of
the meeting, called attention to the edu-
cational work of the California Fish and
Game Commission and made a plea for
better co-operation in the enforcement of
fish and game laws. Mr. Scofield then
pointed out the differences between trout
and salmon and suggested methods
whereby these fish could be better con-
served. When the meeting was thrown open
a lively discussion took place as to whether
Fig. 29. Sixty men interested in the salmon and trout laws attended a hearing at Santa
Rosa on February 9, 1916.
Figs. 29 and 30). Specimens of a steel-
head trout and a quinnat salmon were on
exhibition, and the distinguishing features
of each were pointed out. The main
points of difference given were as follows :
Trout.
1. Habits. Remains
in fresh water
until 2 or 3 years
old ; then goes to
sea ; returns to
spawn year after
year, developing
more than one
batch of milt and
roe.
2. Skeleton hard.
3. Anal fin square,
with tip reaching
beyond base ;
contains 12 or
less rays.
4. Teeth present In
middle of roof of
mouth.
5. More slender In
shape.
Salmon.
1. Habits. Goes to
sea first year,
where it remains
from 3 to 4
years ; then goes
into fresh water
to spawn, dying
i m m e d i ately
thereafter. Only
one batch of milt
and roe.
2. Skeleton soft and
porous.
3. Tip of anal fin
not reaching to
base ; 14 or more
rays.
4. No teeth in mid-
dle of roof of
mouth.
5. Less slender In
shape.
salmon and trout should be taken with
other than a spear or hook and line in the
manner commonly known as angling. A
vote taken showed those present in favor
of the use of a gaff-hook as well as a
spear. It was also voted that it be the
sense of the meeting that "one" be made
the limit for salmon and steelhead trout
during the winter open season in dis-
trict 2.
Such hearings as this not only stimulate
interest in fish and game resources but
have the added value of bringing to the
Fish and Game Commission valuable sug-
gestions as to needed laws. In the future,
hearings of the same sort will be held in
other parts of the State in order that
mooted questions regarding fish and game
and the laws protecting them may be
settled.
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
89
30. Interested individuals at the liearing at Santa Rosa, examining specimens of salmon
and trout
GAME LAWS VS. KNOWLEDGE.
While the penalties of the law, no
doubt, are effective in restraining a great
many in the killing of game out of sea-
son, or in exceeding the limit of kill dur-
ing a given period, the one thing which
will offer sure protection is the growth of
knowledge and the development of a sense
of honor and justice in relation to the
protection of game.
The man who goes out and wantonly
slaughters game for the love of killing
needs a good strong penalty and is richly
deserving of it, if such penalty overtakes
him. That man needs understanding and
a sense of honor which education of
some sort can alone bring to him. —
Bakersfield Californian, September
14, 1914.
SONG-BIRDS ARE KILLED.
A number of flagrant violations of the
law protecting the song-birds of the State
have taken place this past winter. Con-
victions have been obtained in practically
every case. Between December 1 and
March 1, sixty-five arrests w^ere made
and $793.50 in fines imposed. A large
proportion of the hunters arrested were
Italians who had been shooting robins.
The accompanying photographs (Figs. 32
and 33) show birds confiscated. Forty-
eight robins, a red-shafted flicker, and a
California towhee were taken from two
men who had been hunting in Contra
Costa County, and twenty-eight robins,
ready to be roasted, were confiscated from
two men in Sacramento.
ATTEMPT TO ABOLISH KLAMATH
LAKE BIRD RESERVATION.
The following letter from T. S. Palmer,
in charge of game preservation. United
States Biological Survey, explains the
present status of the Klamath Lake Bird
Reservation :
In reply to your letter of December 30th
regarding the Klamath Lake Bird Reser-
vation, I beg to say that last year the
boundaries of the reserve were modified so
as to eliminate certain lands in the south-
eastern part of the reserve which were
desired for settlement and which were not
especially needed for purposes of the
reservation. This change in the boundary
eliminated all private holdings and all
lands on which any claims had been filed,
with one or two exceptions. Recently a
movement has been set on foot to secure
the elimination of certain other lands and
if possible to abolish the reservation. A
bill for this purpose (H. R. 3578) "Re-
storing to the public domain certain lands
lieretofore reserved for a bird reservation
in Siskiyou County, California, and Klam-
ath County, Oregon," was introduced on
December 10, 1915, and Is now in the
House Committee on Public Lands. So
far as I am aware, the bill has not yet
been acted on by the committee.
90
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
BREEDING DUCKS FOR SPORT.
One of the first attempts in California
to breed ducks for sport has been carried
on during the past season. Mr. Charles
Shaw established last year on the Briggs
Ranch near Newark a miniature game
farm. In May, 19in, he received a ship-
ment of 100 black ducks' eggs from Con-
necticut. These were hatched in incu-
bators and about 8") birds reared to ma-
turity. A number of mallard eggs were
GOLDEN BEAVERS TO BE DRIVEN
FROM HOMES.
Mandeville Island, situated between
Middle and Old rivers, on the lower San
Joaquin, will be reclaimed this spring.
Mr. Geo. Shima, the "potato king," has
secured the property and will put it into
potatoes. Since this island has long been
the home of several colonies of gold<'n
l)eavers {Castor suhauratus) this bit of
news is of particular interest. The first
Fig. 31. Sixty ducKS (.more than a limit) seized from a market hunter at
San Diego, California, by Deputy Webb Toms, direct evi-
dence that there are still violators of the limit law.
also secured from the East and these were
also hatched and reared. The experiment
apparently proved very successful. Many
native bii'ds were attracted to the pre-
serve by those reared, and the facilities
for hunting were greatly increased. In
addition the grounds were made attractive
to ducks by the planting of certain well-
known duck foods, imported from the
East.
This experiment is of particular interest
for two reasons : the introduction of food
plants attractive to wild ducks will demon-
strate what can be done toward furnishing
a better food supply to wild fowl, and the
successful rearing of wild ducks for sport
will demonstrate whether or not this will
prove profitable under our conditions.
For many years past the preserves of
Great Britain have reared thousands of
wild fowl and used them to augment
shooting, but little has been done in this
direction in the United States.
step in this reclamation project will be
the draining of the land and burning of
the tules and undergrowth. Those beav-
ers which escape the flames will be driven
elsewhere. It is natural to expect, there-
fore, that there will be additional damage
to levees due to the building of new bur-
rows and that there will follow a reduc-
tion in numbers of this valuable fur-
bearer.
This instance emphasizes the often
cited fact that in the reclamation of land
we have one of the strongest factors tend-
ing toward the extermination of wild life.
To find a solution for a problem such as
this is extremely difficult. A tract of
land set aside as a refuge where beaver
might breed unmolested appears to offer
a practical solution until methods of
capture and transportation are considered
when such a project immediately appears
less feasible. In fact, a study of the
problem tends to emphasize the hopeless-
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
91
oess of the situation. Tlic dollar looms
large alongside of sentiment in favor of
protecting wild life. So long as this view-
point is paramount in the minds of the
public the cause of wild life conservation
will suffer. When sentiment comes more
to the front as it did when the effort was
made to save Yosemite Valley and Ni-
agara Falls, even such obstacles as the
one outlined above will be overcome.
CHILDREN TAUGHT TO RECOGNIZE
BIRDS.
Mr. William Tyeon Dawson, the well-
known bird man of Santa Rar))ara. has
stimulated interest in the bird life of that
city by holding a contest open to children
ing about proper conservation. It is dif-
ficult to convince the game law violator
of the error of his ways, but if children
are properly trained our wild life in the
future will be conserved without the neces-
sity of numerous and drastic game laws.
WHO IS RESPONSIBLE?
A correspondent suggests that, al-
though the decrease in quail and grovise
is usually attributed to sheep, that the
tourist's gun is the most deadly enemy
of these birds. We wonder whether he
is not perhaps on the right track. Is it
not quite possible that the gunner is at-
tempting to shift a responsibility which
really rests upon himself?
Fig. 32. Forty-eight robins, one red-shafted flicker and one California towhee confiscated from
two Italian hunters.
in the public schools from the ages of
twelve to eighteen. Prizes were offered
to the pupil who could identify the largest
number of birds in the field. The actual
test was made on a field trip upon which
certain winners were taken and asked to
identify the birds seen. The first' prize
of $15.00 was awarded Mr. Robert Hyde,
who successfully identified 18 birds. The
second and third prizes of $7.50 and $2.50
were won by Robert Canterbury and
Arthur Wyman.
Similar contests should be held in every
city in the State. The interest of chil-
dren in wild life is fundamental in bring-
CEMETERIES AS BIRD SANCTUARIES.
The National Association of Audubon
Societies is actively pushing the project
of making bird sanctuaries of all the ceme-
teries in the United States. Should this
campaign be completely successful, more
than a million acres would be added to
the total area on which bird life is pro-
tected.
It is interesting to note that one of
the first laws protecting song-birds in
California set aside public cemeteries or
burying grounds as game refuges, pro-
hibiting the destruction of both birds and
nests and eggs. This law was enacted in
1872.
92
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
GAME WARDENS AND AUTOMOBILES.
Under a new ruling by the State Board
of Control deputies of the Fish and Game
Commission who own automobiles are to
receive a flat rate of 4^ cents per mile
while the automobiles are being used in
the service of the State. Heretofore
deputies have been reimbursed for gaso-
line and minor repairs. The State recog-
nizes the increased efficiency of the deputy
who uses an automobile and this new
ruling, although perhaps not as liberal as
it should be, is a step in the right direc-
tion.
feet in area, and dens, which afford sleep-
ing quarters and shelter. The runways
are variously constructed, and may be of
1-inch mesh, no. 14 wire, of galvanized
poultry netting, of galvanized sheet iron,
or of smooth boards set on end. When
netting is used, it covers top, bottom, and
sides. Board or sheet-iron walls extend
2 feet into the ground and turn inward a
foot at the bottom. Covered runways
need not be more than a foot high. Those
open at the top are built 4 feet higher
than the maximum fall of snow.
Dens are usually built of boards and
Fig. 33. Twenty-eight western robins "spitted" ready for roasting, confiscated from two
Italians in Sacramento.
DOMESTICATING MINKS.
One of the first American fur-bearers
to be tested as to its fitness for domesti-
cation was the mink, an animal which
has long been renowned for the beauty
and durability of its fur. It is found
wild throughout Canada, Alaska, and all
but the arid southwestern portion of the
United States. The mink has been bred
in confinement, sporadically, for upward
of fifty years ; but only recently, since it
has become quite scarce in the wild state
and the value of its pelt correspondingly
increased, has a general and systematic
attempt been made to add it to our stock
of domestic animals.
Inclosures for minks include runways,
which need not exceed 16 or 20 square
set a little above the ground to keep
them free from moisture. They are about
3 feet long, 1 foot wide, and 1 foot high
at the eaves, the roof being sloping and
covered with water-proof material. Each
box has a cross partition a foot from one
end, making a small compartment for the
nest, and a large one for an entry,
shelter, and feeding place. The entrance,
at the end opposite the nest, is 4 inches
in diameter and has a slide door by which
the tenant may be shut in or out. The
roof or lid is hinged at the higher edge,
and there is a removable screen just be-
low it to prevent escape when the lid is
raised. Leaves, dry grass, or straw are
used for bedding. — TJ. S. Dept. of Agric.
Weel'ly News Letter, February 16, 1916.
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
93
1915-16 DUCK SEASON POOREST IN
YEARS.
Deputy W. H. Armstrong, of Vallejo,
reports as follows : "I have hunted and
shot ducks on the marshes and sloughs of
this district since I was twelve years old,
but am convinced that the duck season
which closes in a few days, has been the
poorest season I have ever seen." Every-
one in northern California seems to be
unanimous in the belief that the last duck
season was far below normal. The ex-
planation generally given is that the un-
usual weather caused the birds to go
farther south ana hence fewer remained
in northern and central California. We
have no exact evidence in this regard,
except that southern California had good
shooting. Thus it would appear that this
may have been simply an "off season"
and that birds are not in reality as few
in numbers as indicated by the birds
present during the open season.
Although this year's shooting has been
poor, the abundant rainfall during this
past winter is sure to cause many ducks,
which as a rule leave the State during the
spring migration, to remain here and
breed.
THE EFFECT OF THE WAR ON BIRDS.
Such reports as have been received
thus far indicate that the war will have
comparatively little effect on birds. A
few storks, owls, swallows, and other
birds that nest about buildings, having
found the accustomed home destroyed,
have sought other quarters ; and game
birds in France have displayed an un-
wonted tameness, owing to omission of
the usual hunting ; but a vast majority
of wild birds have followed their ordinary
habits, regardless of changed conditions.
Woods daily riddled with bullets resound
with the songs of nightingales, thrushes,
and blackbirds ; after fierce night engage-
ments, in which artillery and infantry
have taken heavy toll of human life, at
dawn the usual peaceful chorus has been
heard floating over the corpse-strewn bat-
tlefield ; pheasants and partridges have
been seen strutting unconcernedly about
an orchard situated directly between the
opposing lines and often swept by rifle
and artillery fire ; and the song of a soar-
ing skylark has been heard in a moment's
cessation of the thunder of cannonading.
As fearful as the war seems to us, to the
birds it brings no greater cause for
anxiety and terror than the constant war
they endure at the hands of man in our
times of peace. Rather have they shown
less fear than ordinarily, nesting in
trenches among the soldiers and even
feeding from the hands of their late
enemies.
Many instances have been reported of
birds giving warning of the approach of
Zeppelins or aeroplanes ; soldiers have
been awakened and informed of a coming
attack of poisonous gas by the noise of
birds which have detected the fumes ; and
once, in the North Sea, the presence of
a submarine was disclosed by the cluster-
ing of gulls around the periscope. Par-
rots have displayed special susceptibility,
showing great excitement and screaming
loudly before the attacking aeroplanes
were discernible by human vision, and a
number of these birds are said to have
been placed on the Eiffel Tower, in Paris,
to ascertain how useful they may be in
announcing the approach of hostile air-
craft.— Current Items of Interest, Novem-
ber 15, 1915.
HUNTING ACCIDENTS.
A partial list of the accidents incident
to the last open season is appended here-
with. In almost every instance where
death followed, a man was mistaken for
a deer. Evidently the "look before you
shoot" motto is still disregarded by many
hunters, for since our law allows only
the killing of deer with well-developed
horns, there is no excuse for the man who
makes a mistake as to his mark.
A perusal of this list does not bring out
as it should the tragedy and heartache
which followed the carelessness of the
hunter. Nevertheless, it is hoped that it
will suffice to bring to the mind of every
reader the conviction that unless greater
care is exercised in the use of firearms,
there will be a need for the institution of
shooting laws more largely as a protec-
tion for man than as a protection for
game itself.
94
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
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CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
95
REAPPEARANCE OF QUAIL DISEASE.
Owing to the prevalence of quail dis-
ease among quail imported from Mexico
at the ports of New York and Eagle I'ass,
Texas, during the past month, the Depart-
ment of Agriculture has suspended issue
of further permits for entry of these hirds
this season. Quail in shipments actually
en route to the United States on Janu-
ary 20, wiH be admitted to quarantine,
but no further entries will be authorized.
Most of the states now have such strin-
gent game laws that it is practically
impossible to purchase quail even for
propagating purposes in the United States
and dealers have sought quail elsewhere,
especially in northeastern Mexico, where
quail occur in abundance, but Mexican
quail on arrival at destination are fre-
quently found infected with quail disease.
So fatal is this disease that when it once
appears most of the birds which are ex-
posed to it die within a few days. In one
shipment of 196 quail which recently
reached New- York only three birds sur-
vived the voyage, and in another of about
160 birds, more than two-thirds of the
number died shortly after arrival. More
than one-third of all the Mexican quail
imported last year died within a few
months. To guard against spread of
quail disease live quail purchased for
propagation should be kept under observa-
tion for two or three weeks and should
not be liberated if infected with disease.
The Department desires to ascertain the
result of experiments which have been
made in importing quail this year and will
be glad to receive information as to the
condition of the birds and as to how many
have died in any locality where the quail
have been introduced.
Before next season the Department will
hold a public hearing in Washington,
D. C, for the purpose of determining
whether or not further permits for im-
portation of quail from Mexico will be
issued, at which various questions con-
nected with the importation of quail will
be carefully considered. Ample notice of
this hearing will be given later in order
that those who are interested may arrange
to be present or to submit written state-
ments.
A MIXED RATION FOR PHEASANTS.
Two ring-necked pheasants (a cock and
a hen) confined in a pen 8'xl6'x6' and
rat-proof, sides and top of 1" mesh gal-
vanized wire, were recently tested as to
their food preference. Food was accessi-
ble to them at all times but in separate
hoppers, which were covered with wire
to prevent waste. All food materials
were carefully weighed on a kitchen scale.
My purpose in making the test was to
establish the food preference of the birds.
For convenience of comparison I have
tabulated the results as follows :
Ounces Per cent
Cracked wheat 36 20
Cracked corn 41.4 23
Rolled oats 12.6 7
Rape seed 21.6 12
Millet seed 14.4 8
Canary seed 12.6 7
Ground dried meat 34.2 19
Granulated charcoal 1.8 1
Grit 1.8 1
Ground bone 1.8 1
Calcined shell 1.8 1
180.0 100
In addition, the birds were supplied
with a head of fresh lettuce per day, of
which they consumed from one-half to
three-quarters. It will be seen that the
food taken averaged 2i ounces each per
day.
At the commencement of the test the
cock weighed 1 pound 14 ounces and the
lieu 1 pound 8 ounces ; at the end of thirty
days, when the t«St was completed, the
cock weighed 2 pounds 4 ounces, a gain
of 8 ounces, whereas the hen weighed
1 pound 12 ounces, or a gain of 4 ounces.
This gain in weight indicated that these
pheasants had thrived upon the mixed
food afforded them. — Joseph Ketchum.
1917 NATIONAL SPORTSMEN'S SHOW.
The National Sportsmen's Show Corpo-
ration of No. 1 Madison Ave., New York
City, will hold the next annual Sports-
men's Show under the auspices of the
National Sportsmen's Association, Inc., in
February, 1917, in New York City. A
strong array of exhibitors is already lined
up and includes a number of new comers
in the field, besides some of the old stagers
who exhibited in the earlier shows but fell
out of line and now have volunteered to
enlist again in the ranks. As it is obvious
that there are probably now at least one
hundred sportsmen and outers in North
America where there was one in 1895,
when Captain J. A. H. Dressel put on and
managed the first Sportsmen's Show in
the Madison Square Garden, the belief
is warranted that the shows of the future
96
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
can be greater and meet with a fuller
response than those successfullj' managed
by Captain Dressel from 3895 to 1910,
inclusive.
The next and future Sportsmen's Shows
will be managed by Captain Dressel and
Mr. Allen S. Williams. While there is
to be novelty in the treatment of the
great theme of outdoor life, the purpose
will be maintained to revive the old
Sportsmen's Show as it was in its palm-
iest days and make it as much better as
experience and advanced ideas can make
it. The central feature will be a lake,
picturesque with Indians in canoes, and
affording an ideal means for exhibiting on
and around it stock motor boats, which
find their logical users among the hunters
and anglers. While many game regions
will be represented, Canada, especially
New Brunswick, and secondly Maine, will
be so extensively featured in the next
Sportsmen's Show that if the desire for
space of railways, camp owners and
guides could be satisfied the show could
rest upon these territories alone.
An effort was made by the association
and corporation to hold a show in March
of this year at Madison Square Garden,
but owing to interferences which pre-
cluded a suiBciently early beginning and
the fact that about every exhibition held
this season, with the sole exception of the
Automobile Show, proved total or partial
failures, it was decided that to wait until
1917 would be a policy of wisdom for all
interests.
FEEDING HOUSES FOR DEER AND
QUAIL.
J. W. Jameson, of Dutch Flat, Cali-
fornia, offers the following suggestion for
properly caring for deer during the win-
ter season :
"Throughout the Sierras there are very
low places along rivers which deer make
every effort to reach. It is at such points
that feeding stations should be erected.
They should consist of two-story sheds
with racks in lower part filled with
alfalfa. Hay and wheat should be dropped
from the upper story through an hour-
glass perhaps once a day on to a fan-
shaped table which would scatter the
wheat for the quail. I think these feed-
ing houses could be built for about $400
each. It would be necessary to make a
mile each side of these stations a reserve
so that no one could shoot around the
place. The reserve should be wired off
so that cattle could not get to the hay.
"It is safe to say that during our heavy
winter of 1889-90, 2,000 or 3,000 deer
perished in the Sierras. If we could have
had these feeding stations I feel that at
least one-half the number could have been
saved."
HATCHERY AND FISHERY NOTES.
THE PEOPLE TO BLAME FOR THE
HIGH COST OF FISH.
In this issue of California Fish and
Game, the Commission begins a series of
articles on the commercial fisheries of the
State. The object of the series is to
arouse the public to a greater interest in
our fisheries and induce them to make
better use of some of the excellent fish
which are now little used. With these
articles we will print recipes for cooking
the diffex'ent fish under discussion, along
with notes of interest on their habits, sea-
sons, etc. These recipes will later be
gathered together in one book. This is in
line with work that has been done by the
United States Bureau of Fisheries which
resulted in the publication of economic
circulars on oysters, salmon and tile fish.
The shad has been first selected, for the
reason that it will be running in great
numbers when this magazine is issued and
those who may become interested enough
to ti'y a shad for the first time may be
able to procure them at any market and
at a comparatively low cost. During the
months of April, May, and June, they can
be secured in the retail markets for six
cents or less per pound, while with them
will be salmon, striped bass, and halibut
selling for fifteen to twenty cents per
pound. Besides these reasons, the shad is
as good a fish as these higher-priced varie-
ties and, more than any other fish in the
State, deserves a higher place in our
esteem.
Our fisheries, particularly those of the
ocean, are little developed and will stand
a much greater strain than has yet been
placed upon them. There are some very
good fish in myriads which we have not
even begun to use. Comparatively few
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
97
fish are eaten in the State, for we have
never acquired the fish-eating habit. We
have much to learn from the Norwegians,
Swedes, Germans, French, Italians and
Japanese in this respect. Most of us do
not know how to prepare and cook fish
and know even less about the names and
seasons and the comparative food values of
the different species displayed in the mar-
kets. Eighty-five per cent of the fish eaten
are marketed on Friday. If we would
only learn to eat fish any day of the week,
or at least have two fish days a week, we
could buy fish cheaper. Fishermen fish
every day in the week except Saturday,
and fish in the market are as fresh on one
day as another. Confining the eating of
fish to one day a week prevents any gi-eat
increase in consumption. This, coupled
with the great expense of running a mar-
ket that for six days of the week does
little business, keeps the price of fish up.
The fault lies mostly with the people and
not so much with those who market the
fish. It has been the custom to lay the
blame for the high cost of fish on the
wholesale fish dealer, but this is unjust,
for there is at the present time an active
competition between these dealers and
they are wholesaling their fish at a rea-
sonable figure. Our laws permit fish to
be brought in from other states and from
Mexico, which in itself would keep down
the wholesale price.
We believe that the blame for the light
consumption of fish lies mostly with the
people and that an awakened interest in
fish, coupled with an added consumption,
will reduce the cost and that many excel-
lent varieties now wasted will find their
way to the people at a reasonable price.
NEW QUARTERS FOR DEPARTMENT
OF FISH CULTURE.
On March 1 the office of the Depart-
ment of Fish Culture of the California
Fish and Game Commission, was trans-
ferred from Sisson to San Francisco.
W. H. Shebley, who for the past twenty-
one years has been superintendent of the
Sisson Fish Hatchery, and has for the
past five years been in charge of all the
hatcheries in the State, has been placed
in charge of the new department. Mr.
Shebley will have offices in the new Call
Building. The fish cultural operations of
the California Fish and Game Commis-
sion have greatly increased within the
past two years. With the opening of new
stations in the central and southern parts
of the State, it has been found advisable
to transfer the head office of the depart-
ment to a more centrally located section.
E. W. Hunt, who was recently appointed
special field agent of the Department of
Fish Culture, and J. H. Hoerl, chief clerk
of the Department of Fish Culture, have
also been transferred to San Francisco.
Mr. Shebley is succeeded as superin-
tendent of the Sisson hatchery by Captain
G. H. Lambson, who for the past seven-
teen years has been superintendent of the
United States Bureau of Fisheries sta-
tions in California.
HATCHERIES IN FULL OPERATION.
There are approximately 18,000,000
quinnat salmon fry at Sisson hatchery at
the present time. The Commission is
planning to hold and feed from 12.000.000
to 15.000.000 of these salmon fry at Sis-
son hatchery and at the proper time
distribute them in the Sacramento and
Klamath rivers. Approximately 4,000.000
Loch Leven and Eastern brook trout eggs
are being hatched out at this hatchery for
distribution in the streams of the State
during the comins: summer. The rainbow
trout egg collection stations on the Klam-
ath River have been opened up, and every-
thing is now in readiness for the egg
collecting operations. On account of the
A'ery severe storms, the water in the Klam-
ath River and tributaries is very high.
The streams are flowing bank full and
the water is very roily. Under these con-
ditions the spawning fish will not enter
the tributary streams where our racks and
traps are located. Every effort is being
made to collect a large number of rainbow
trout eggs this season, and if weather con-
ditions are favorable from now on there
is still a chance that a fair take of eggs
may be secured. In addition to the
spawning stations on the Klamath River,
the board is contemplating opening up the
egg collecting station at Burney Creek
during the coming month.
The steelhead egs collecting stations at
Snow Mountain dam, Mendocino County,
and Scott Creek, Santa Cruz County,
were opened up during January and Feb-
ruary. To date about 500.000 steelhead
trout eggs have been taken at Snow Moun-
tain and there are 570,000 eggs on hand
98
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
at the Brookdale hatchery from Scott
Creek Station.
The Ukiah hatchery was opened up
last December and there are 750,000 quin-
nat salmon fry now ready for distribution.
The fry will be distributed in Eel River
and tributaries and in Mad River, Hum-
boldt County.
The old Price Creek hatchery, located
near Grizzly Bluff, Humboldt County, is
being removed to a site on Fort Seward
Creek, a tributary of the Eel River, on
the line of the Northwestern Pacific Itail-
road. A modern hatchery will be erected
on the new site. With the improved
water supply system and better trans-
portation facilities, the Commission will
lie enabled to do far better work in keep-
March 10 (see Fig. 34). Work on the
structure will be commenced at once. The
liuilding will be constructed of granite
boulders and when completed will have
all the latest and most improved apparatus
used in modern fishculture. This fine
hatchery, designed for the purpose of sup-
plying the streams of southern California
and the district as far north as Fresno,
as well as the streams and lakes of Inyo,
Mono, and Alpine counties, is the result
of the untiring efforts of Commissioner
.M. J. Connoll to establish a hatchery that
will supply the wants of the people of the
district mentioned above for a quarter of
a century. The people of the State of
California should be proud of what will
be the finest hatchery in the world.
Fig. 34. Site of new Inyo Fish Hatchery, Independence, California.
location. Photograph by R. D. Duke.
Cross marks exact
ing the streams of the northwest coast
stocked with fish. Both quinnat salmon
and trout will be propagated at the new
Itatchery. It is expected that the hatchery
will be ready for operation by April 15.
About 50,000 Eastern brook trout fry
are being held at the Verdi hatchery for
distribution in the streams and lakes of
the Tahoe region during the coming sea-
son. An additional 50,000 fish of the
same species are being held at this hatch-
cry for planting in Marlett Lake, to keep
up the supply of breeders.
The plans for the large hatchery to be
located on Oak Creek in Inyo County,
were approved by the Board of Fish and
Game Commissioners at a meeting held
FISHWAYS TO BE INSTALLED.
During the past month fishway plans
have been made for changes in the Ilihn
Company dam on Zyante Creek, the
Well's dam on San Grogorio Creek, and
the California Western Railway and
Navigation Company's dam on Putting
Creek, Mendocino County. On account
of the high water in the streams it has
been impossible to do much in the way of
constructing fish ladders, but plans arc
under way to rush the work as soon as the
rpring freshets have subsided.
SCREENS IN IRRIGATION DITCHES.
Some idea of the importance of screens
in irrigation ditches is to be had from the
following, reported by an assistant of the
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
99
Fish and Game Commission : One liaul of
a seine through 150 feet of an unscreened
canal in Fresno County j'ielded 1,362
black bass. Black bass are an introduced
fish in California and they have become
numerous in many parts of the State.
In the eastern states large sums are ex-
pended in the artificial propagation of
black bass, but they have never needed
that kind of assistance here, and they are
not likely to if they can be kept out of
irrigation ditches.
NEW FISH PRODUCTS.
Mr. O. A. Nelson, who for a few months
has been manufacturing an excellent fish-
food product in San Francisco under the
in time to make caviar of shad and salmon
roe. One of their best products will be
smoked sliced salmon in oil, for which a
good market is developing in this coun-
try. Hitherto smoked salmon in cans has
been put up only in one place on the
Pacific Coast — Astoria, Oregon.
COMMERCIAL FISHERMEN OF
CALIFORNIA.
During the fiscal year ending March 31.
1916, there were 3,7.58 commercial fishing
licenses sold in the State. The different
fishermen who procured licenses have
given on their applications their places of
birth as follows: Italy, 1,310; United
States, 1.094; Japan, 491; Greece, 184;
y.URwm'.HB«v.tf<B
■P.^ r>.sv.tRHti>(
Fig. 35. Klamath River bar fishermen, Requa, Del Norte County, California.
name of C-King Fiskboller, has consoli-
dated with the Western California Fish
Company of San Francisco. With an
enlai'ged plant he will continue to put up
the Fiskboller under the C-King brand
and will still do business under the name
of Nelson Sea Products Company. He
will put up in convenient sized cans, cut,
spiced, marinated, bismarked and roll
mop heri'ings. These products have never
been put up in cans in this State before.
Local fish will be mostly used for the pur-
pose. The company will also put up
Christiania anchovies. Another product
will be sturgeon caviar, and they expect
Portugal, 152 ; Russia, 82 ; Austria, 67 ;
Germany, 58 ; Sweden, 54 ; China, 46 ;
Norway, 44 ; Denmark, 41 ; Spain, 19 ;
England, 17 ; Canada, 13 ; Turkey, 12 ; Ire-
land, 10 ; Scotland, 1 ; miscellaneous, 63.
COMMERCIAL FISHERY STATISTICS.
The accompanying table (pages 102-3),
will show the amount of fish, crustaceans,
and mollusks taken in the waters of Cali-
fornia by commercial fishermen for the
three months ending December 31, 1915,
and utilized both in the fresh markets and
by packers. This information is made
available through the reports submitted
100
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
by the fish dealers of the State to the
Fish and Game Commission. The figures
show under the names of counties the
amounts in pounds, unless otherwise
stated, of the various species of fish
received. This is the first report of the
kind ever published on the fisheries of
California, and the Commission believes
that it will be of considerable value both
to the general public and to those com-
mercially interested in fisheries.
A table showing the fishery statistics
by counties will be published quarterly in
fish received is small have been grouped
together.
It should be noted also that the report
does not always indicate the county in
which the fish were caught, but rather
the county in which they were received
for consumption. These coincide in but
few instances. Of the fish received at
San Francisco, for instance, there is a
very small percentage taken in San Fran-
cisco County, most of it coming from San
Mateo, Alameda, Contra Costa, Solano.
Sonoma, Marin, and Mendocino counties.
Fig. 36. A catch of trout in Manzanita Lake, near Red Bluff, Tehama County.
for trout opens May 1, 1916.
The season
Califokma Fish and Game, along with
other information concerning the com-
mercial fisheries. The Commission is now
making a complete canvass of the com-
mercial fisheries of the State, and a report
of these operations will be published by
the end of the year.
While we believe the following table to
be fairly accurate and to show practically
all the fish received by the various dealers,
certain items are not accounted for ; as,
for instance, fish handled by peddlers and
by some fishermen who have sold direct
to consumers. Likewise, fish taken by
individuals for their own consumption or
by anglers are of course not included.
Those counties in which the amount of
On the other hand, the figures shown for
Del Norte and Humboldt counties indicate
fish taken almost wholly within the bound-
aries of these counties. In the San
Francisco Bay region the greatest area
of fishing ground lies within the bound-
aries of Solano County. While large
quantities of fish caught in Solano County
are taken directly to San Francisco and
credited to San Francisco County, the
greater part is shipped from various
points in Contra Costa County and is
credited to that county. Then farther up
the river in the delta country of Sacra-
mento, San Joaquin, Solano, and Yolo
counties, the fish are collected from the
fishermen by the fish buyers' boats and
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
101
shipped from the place which happens to
be their headquarters. The fish at Santa
Cruz practically all come from Santa Cruz
and San Mateo County waters, whereas
the fish received at Monterey practically
all come from waters lying within the
boundaries of Monterey County. San
Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura
counties do not show very large receipts,
for most of the fish taken along the coast
of these counties and around the Santa
Barbara Islands is taken to San Pedro
and other points in Los Angeles County
and is consequently credited to that
county. Practically all the fish shown in
the column under Orange County are
taken in that county. Fish received at
San Diego are taken largely in San Diego
waters and off the coast of Mexico. The
fish taken in Mexican waters are caught
principally by fishermen from San Diego.
CRUSTACEANS.
Crabs are taken in Monterey Bay, along
the coast from Half Moon Bay to Bodega
Bay, and along the coast of Humboldt
County. The spiny lobster fisheries are
located along the coast of southern Cali-
fornia from the northern boundary line
of Santa Barbara County south to Mexico,
including the adjacent islands. Prac-
tically all the shrimps are taken in San
Francisco. Ecrevisse are taken in the
rivers of Sonoma County.
MOLLUSKS.
San Luis Obispo County furnishes most
of the Pismo clams, although considerable
quantities are taken on the beaches of
Monterey Bay.
The soft shell clams are taken princi-
pally in San Francisco Bay and in To-
males Bay, Marin County.
The small quantity of cuttle fish used
are taken by Monterey, Santa Cruz, and
San Francisco fishermen.
The shell oysters are from San Fran-
cisco Bay and Tomales Bay. The squid,
which are consumed mostly by the Chinese
and Japanese, are taken in the vicinity of
Monterey Bay. The abalones, while found
generally along the rocky sections of the
coast, are taken for marketing and can-
ning purposes principally in San Luis
Obispo, Monterey, and Santa Cruz coun-
ties. Abalones are fairly abundant in
several other places along the coast, as for
instance Sonoma and Mendocino counties,
and there are quit^ a few shipped from
these counties to the San Francisco and
Oakland markets.
The large California mussels are taken
at various places along the rocky portions
of the coast, but are not handled to any
great extent by the markets. A smaller
variety found in San Francisco Bay is
sold in the San Francisco and Oakland
markets to some extent.
SHAD SPAWN TO BE FURNISHED
EASTERN STATES.
It is interesting now, after forty-five
years have elapsed since shad were intro-
duced into California waters, to draw a
comparison between our own and the At-
lantic shad. The fish in California have
increased enormously, while in many of
the streams of the Atlantic Coast they
have become nearly extinct and the use
of nets has in many cases been prohibited.
Artificial propagation has never been re-
sorted to here, while on the east coast the
hatching of shad is the principal activity
of the hatcheries. The wholesale price of
shad in the New York market at the pres-
ent time is $1.65 per fish, which is more
than five times the retail price here. This
is not because the shad is a better fish on
the Atlantic Coast, for our shad is in
every respect as good. In fact, the whole-
sale price of all varieties of fish on the
Atlantic Coast is much higher than of
dressed fish sold in the retail markets
here. It is proposed during the present
run of shad to ship shad spawn to the
Atlantic Coast for hatching purposes in
the hope of again building up the run in
the depleted rivers. The fish and game
commissions of Massachusetts and • Con-
necticut are making preparations to
restock in this manner the Connecticut
River. The eggs will be taken on the San
Joaquin River in the neighborhood of
Stockton, and after fertilization the devel-
opment of the eggs will be retarded by
refrigeration while they are en route to
the Connecticut River. The eggs ordi-
narily hatch in about four days, but it is
believed the hatching period can be pro-
longed by this method so that they may
be successfully transported and the hatch-
ing completed after arrival on the east
coast. Turn about is fair play. The
East furnished us with shad ; now we
have a chance to reciprocate.
102
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
TABLE SHOWING AMOUNT OF FISH, CRUSTACEANS, AND MOLLUSKS
TAKEN IN CALIFORNIA WATERS FOR THREE MONTHS ENDING
DECEMBER 31, 1915.
Species of flsh
Del
Norte,
Hum-
boldt
Jlendo-
cino,
Sonoma,
Lake
Marin
Solano,
Yolo
Sacra-
mento,
San
Joaquin
Contra
Costa.
Alameda
San
Fran-
cisco
San
Mateo
Albaeore _ ' _- --
1
1
Ancbovy '
Barracuda
1
Bonita
__ 1 __ ' _
Bluefish -_ -
ChiliDPDDGr
Carp
365
24,479
12,743
23,494
12,217
3,659
Catfish -. —
5,265
Coalfish
Cultus cod
40
129,850
Dogfish
Ti'lniindpr , ,
325
1,482
50
221 j 295
97,260
1,120
33,835
5,426
14,195
Halibut (California)
Hake
;
Herring
2,650
95,226
j
Kinerfish
_ _
Mullet
Pikp COaliforniat
185 j 4.623
PomDano
Perch
1,250
15,653
1,108
Sole
5,587
500
713,222
5,612
53
1,202
301,999
1,218,232
467
6,382
5,139
Salmon
5,637
1,618
20,718
4,609
27,303
13,280
11,014
Smelt
Sea bass fwhite^
Sea bass f^blaok^
Sand dab
497,483
93,000
595
Strined bass
733
2,463
431
59,165 3.656 i 101.151
6,353
31,349
1,293
SturffGon
Skate
1
33,750
Seulnin
i
200 1 6.609
I'rout (lake')
Trout (steclhead)
Turbot
33,233
809
Whitebait (frv)
1,657
2,985
TpHow tail
Misppllaneoim
3,757
2,247
14,496
"1
Total fish
761,294
537
14,285
156J
144,476
117,886
.'57,115
168,(M8
2,380,231
19,861
Crustaceans—
Sninv lob^tpr
1
64,609
TrprpvisJ^A
169
MoUusks—
Cuttlefish
718
{^Inm^ popTtIp
1
3.907
50,000
95
5,415
Olnnm ^^)ftsho^l
5,374
108,072
Clams. Tnixpd
595
Oysters (shell), number
Abfllonps
2,943,650
j 96
1 40
12,560
i' I
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
103
TABLE SHOWING AMOUNT OF FISH, CRUSTACEANS, AND MOLLUSKS
TAKEN IN CALIFORNIA WATERS FOR THREE MONTHS ENDING
DECEMBER 31, 1915.
Santa
Cruz
Monterey
San Luis
Obispo,
Santa
Baibata.
Ventura
Los
Angeles
Orange
San
Diego
Other
counties
Mexico
Total
1,414,322
14,534
1,428,836
10,944
11,623
10,944
5,423
51 .4nfi
197,225 202
73,526
16,635
270,840
610,245
43,738 ' n.snn
293,363
364,236
1,180
710
37,447
1,180
1,338
2,048
539
37,986
810
26,135
.... . .......
56,897
740
44,100
.1. ..
740
22,035
196,025
140
140
75,540
1
3,017
61,319
3,885
1,000
83,237
176,708
1,317
6.717
499
500
3,000
128
998,927
848,106
1,913,398
47,437
104,302
26,222
27,959
37,009
89
7,343
16
290
19,646
151,992
113
9,650
142,019
6
-. .. ..
215,780
568
590
4,808
1,491
1,491
279
410
32,565
SOI
51,566
75,552 5,311
201 .fiflS i 16.m7
15,776
511,564
2,599
96,639
77,322
263,141
5,710
762
20,218
23,822
8,12-3
1,387,525
285,934
. ! 3,544
-.
1,516,519
IDS
773,406
12,588 fiO-S.'i'l 129.959.
27,380
638
35,546
281,440
86,860
2,923
47,455
2,133
5,461
20
32,500
203,999
37,679
46,775
1,718
347
551,784
176,488
38,728
1,293
3,058,664
34,076
2,119
1,390
3,047,389
9,210
22
2,099
7
675
250
54
20
559
- -^
566
6,809
192
192
33,233
809
152
85
735
141,752
155
5,529
352,939
17,170
619
495,395
138,751
176,576
777,714
592
3,579,225
2,527J
100,102
3,013,151
160,858
1,860,378
760
1,151,446
14,109,572
23,674
46,545
199,844
65,787
110,244
23,218
445,638
64,609
169
369,786
485
163
369,949
1,203
2,800
21,218
24,018
3,907
163,446
2,483
757
3,930
139
207,794
2,949,204
17,050
S^.TFiO
3,761
13,665
142
162,991
424,484
26,390
125
104
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
TRY SHAD AS A FOOD FISH.
Much of the blame for the little use
made of fish is laid to the housewife. She
usually knows little about preparing or
cooking fish, and admits it. It is charged,
and it appears to be true, that she will
choose halibut, salmon or striped bass at
20 cents per pound, and will pass by the
shad, rock cod, and other fish at 6 and
8 cents per pound, because the latter are
not so easy to prepare and cook. But the
man of the house should do his part and
learn to be an expert carver so that he
may serve fish without its looking like
hash. Incidentally, he will probably find
from the right side of the fish by starting
at the tail with the back of the fish to the
right and cutting close to the backbone,
leaving the fin and bones along the middle
line of back with the under half. Con-
tinue the cut on through the head.
Next sever the backbone near the tail ;
insert the knife underneath the severed
end and split the backbone away from the
fish, taking with it the back fin and bones
near it ; then split away the remaining
portion of the backbone, taking the tail
fin with it (see Fig 38o).*
With the cut surface of one side upper-
most, start at the head and shave away
37. The preparation of fillet of shad. Splitting the shad.
his wife does not have the proper tools
to work with, that he never sharpens her
knives, and that she does not even have
proper sharpening apparatus and has to
resort to the stove pipe. For this he
should take the blame.
Let him pick out a nice shad and then
try the different stunts suggested in this
issue. If you have not tried shad and do
not know much about fish, start out by
getting the shad already split at the fish
market. If, as it may happen, the fish
market man does not know how, show him
the directions and figures below, and he
will find he can increase his sales by dis-
playing the nicely split halves of the shad
and incidentally increase the use of this
very excellent, though little used fish.
PREPARATION OF FILLET OF SHAD.
To prepare fiUct of shad : Scale the fish,
then dress as usual by slitting along the
belly. Then, as in figure 37, split the flesh
the rib bones along the inside of the
belly (Fig. 386). Repeat this operation
with the other half and the two halves are
ready for cooking as in Fig. 38c. The free
bones left in the flesh are in a row and
easily removed while eating, or, if desired,
can be removed before serving. It is
considered good taste to pull these bones
out with the fingers and to eat the meat
attached. To facilitate this method a
thin or butter sauce is served on the fish.
It will be seen that it is a little more
trouble to prepare a shad in this way than
it is to prepare a striped bass or a salmon,
but the fine flavor and delicate meat of
the fiih repays one for the entire trouble
and, what is more to the point, the shad
can be purchased for one-third the cost
*The illustrations for preparing fillet of
shad were kindly posed by Mr. Jack Mene- ■
sini, manager of the California Fish Com-
pany.
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
105
. . «Amii m
j=:JU
Fig. 38. Successive stages in preparing fillet of shad.
106
CALIFORNIA FTSII AND GAME.
THE REMOVAL OF BONES FROM
COOKED SHAD.
To remove the bones after shad is baked
or boiled as a whole fish : The secret of
success with this method is a very sharp
knife. With the back of the fish to you
and the head to the right, sever the flesh
of the left side from the backbone and
back fin much as was done in preparing
fillet of shad, except that the meat is cut
away from the head. Insert the knife
lengthwi-so into the slit thus made and
carefully lift the .severed side up and then
turn it over and oft' of the rest of the fish
without breaking, care being taken that
the bones are left with the lower side.
Turn the remaining side of the fish with
the bone side down, and with the sharp
knife cut between the flesh and the back-
bone so as to leave the fin of the back
with the bones. Then lift this side over
as was done with the other, being careful
that the bones hold together and are left
on the platter. The large rib bones can
be removed from the inside of the belly
with the point of the knife or the prong
of a fork. Slide the two halves, thus freed
of the bones, on to a clean platter. If
desired, the remaining flesh bones can be
taken out by opening the muscle layers
along the line of these bones and removing.
We are told by those who have used this
method that with care and a little experi-
ence a person can serve a shad without a
single bone. Half the pleasure in eating
fish is to have it nicely served, so care
should be taken to get the fillets on the
platter with the flesh unbroken. Pour
the fish sauce (butter sauce) over the fil-
lets and garnish with sprays of parsley
and quartered lemon. The ordinary way
of cutting the baked or boiled fish into
chunks, if employed with the shad, leaves
the meat in a chewed-up condition and
hopelessly mixed with fine and large bones.
To boil a fish, esi>ccial]y a shad which
you wish to keep unbroken so as to re-
move the bones, it is best to wrap it
first in cheese, or butter cloth and tie at
each end. It can then be lifted out easily
by the two ends after cooking without
breaking.
SHAD RECIPES.
The following word of appreciation for
the shad with recommended ways of cook-
ing is from Victor Hirtzler, chef of Hotel
St. Francis, San Francisco :
The shad is one of the best fishes we
have in California and I can not recom-
mend it highly enough. To get the l)ones
out of tlie shad, sitlit the fish and you
will find that the small bones will hang
to the larger and come away with the
backbone if it is carefully removed. Take
a thin knife and shave off tlie rib bones
from the inside of the belly and you will
then have all the large bones out of the
fish. The other small bones will melt
away while cooking. This fish is not ap-
])rociated enough on this coast and I can
only say that the meat is delicious and
easy to prepare in many ways.
Broiled Shad Maitre D'Hotel.
SpUt sliad and take out bones as given
above and season with salt and pepper;
roll in a little olive oil and broil. When
done, place on a platter and put some
maitre d'hotel butter over it. Garnish with
parsley in branches and quartered lemons.
Maitre d'hotel butter, as follows : Four
ounces of butter ; season with salt, pep-
per, little nutmeg, chopped parsley, the
.iuicp of a lemon, and mix well.
Shad Meuniere.
Split, season with salt and pepper; roll
in a little cream, then Hour. Put in frying
r)an with piece of butter and when done
place on a platter. Add to the pan an-
other pieco of butter and when brown pour
over fish, then sprinkle with chopped pars-
ley and thin piece of a lemon. Garnish
with parsley and quartered lemon.
Sweet and Sour Shad.
(for one shad, split.)
Soak one-half pound of spiced cake
(called fish cake) unsweetened, which can
be obtained in any fancy grocery store, in
one glass of vinegar ; then add one-half
pound of brown sugar; mix well like a
mush.
Boil the head and bones in a quart of
water, one-half onion, one-half carrot, one
bay leaf and two cloves, little parsley, for
one-half hour.
Place your fish in pan, season with salt
and pepper, pour the above broths over
and let cook slowly for twenty minutes;
then place the fish on a platter.
Take broth from fish and cook with the
cake mush for ten minutes, strain and put
back on fire; add one-half pound seedless
raisins, bring to a boil and pour over the
fish on platter, let stand for one hour
and serve cold or hot — never in icebox ;
just temperature of room.
Planked Shad.
Butter plank and lay one shad on it and
put in oven ; season with salt and pepper
and lay few pieces of butter on top of the
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
107
fish. After forty minutes in medium oven
flsli is cooked ; serve potato mashed or in
cream with it ; garnish the plank with
parsley and lemons.
The Hof-Brllu of San Francisco recom-
mends the following methods of cooking :
Broiled Shad.
Clean same as other fish. Take roe out
and split from the back. Take bones out,
then dip your fillet of shad in olive oil,
.season witli pepper and saJt. Put on the
broiler and cook for about fifteen minutes.
Serve a la maitre d' hotel (butter, lemon
juice and chopped parsley), garnish with
shoe-string or Parisian potatoes.
Planked Shad.
Cook same as above and serve broiled
shad on a plank with duchess potatoes
and maitre d'hotel with a few strips of
bacon.
Duchess potatoes — Mashed potatoes
with yolks of eggs, nutmeg, salt and
pepper, but no milk.
Fried Shad Meuniere.
Dip the fillet of shad in milk, season
with salt and pepper. Then dip in flour
and fry in a pan with equal parts of olive
oil and butter. When cooked pour some
meuniere butter over it.
Meuniere butter — Brown butter, not
too brown, with lemon juice and chopped
parsley. Serve duchess potatoes.
Chef Sorensen of the Portola Louvre,
San Francisco, considers the shad as good
as any fish we have and gives the follow-
ing varied methods of cooking :
Planked Shad a la Portola- Louvre.
Cut shad in two ; put the side with the
skin on a hot plank ; put in oven from
fifteen to twenty minutes; baste same with
a mi.xture of one tablespoon melted butter,
two tablespoons cream ; one tablespoon
anchovy sauce ; one tablespoon sherry
wine. When nearly finished put border of
mashed potatoes and garnish with two
strips of fried salt pork and bouquet of
Julienne potatoes, parsley and lemon.
Medallion of Shad a la Black.
Cut shad in two, tlien in iiieces about
two inches square ; put in buttered sauce-
pan ; sprinkle with chopped onions, mush-
rooms and a very little garlic ; moisten
with wine-glass full of white wine. Put in
hot oven for fifteen minutes ; take flour
and butter and make sauce of juice. Serve
with chopped parsley on hot dish.
Shad a la Palestine (for 5 persons).
After the shad is cleaned well, cut in
portions the size you intend to serve. Put
same in a pot so that it is barely covered
with water. Use the head also, as it gives
more strength to the gravy. Boil slowly.
When about half done add following sea-
soning: Eight whole peppers, small piece
of cinnamon, four cloves, bay leaf and salt.
Add onions, carrots and turnips, cut in
thin slices ; also one-half pint white wine ;
handful of large raisins, chopped almonds,
grated pfefferkuchen ; also pumpernickel
or rye bread can be used. Let it boil until
the fish is done and the gravy thickens.
Stir well but do not break the fish up.
Can be served cold also, and is very
refreshing and nourishing.
Stuffed Baked Shad, Bohemian Style.
When a fish is to be baked it should be
emptied through the gills and the head
left on. When this is done, wash the fish
pcrfectl.y clean and prepare a filling of
finely giated bread crumbs sufficient to
fill it. Season this with pepper and salt ;
small onion chopped fine, a tablespoonful
of chopped parsley and one-half teaspoon-
ful of sweet marjoram ; melt a piece of
butter the size of an egg and pour over
the crumbs after they have been well
mixed with the seasoning. Stir together
with a knife and mix with it a beaten
egg. Fill the fish ; lay it on a grate in a
dripping pan ; season it witli salt and pep-
per and dust it lightly with flour ; put in
a rather quick oven. When it begins to
brown baste it with butter and hot water.
A large shad will require an hour to bake.
Make a sauce of half a small teacup of
tomato or mushroom catsup, a glass of
wine, the juice of a lemon and half a tea-
cup of boiling water. Thicken this with
a teasponful of flour mixed in a very little
cold water and let boil up. When you
have dished the fish up if there are any
drippings from it in the pan add it to the
sauce and pour over the fish ; garnish with
parsley.
Stewed Shad, Old German Style.
Chop a bunch of parsley and an onion
very fine. Put this in a bowl full of
tomato juice with four cloves, four all-
spices, a blade of mace and two chopped
crackers. Have the fish cleaned and well
washed and lay it in a stewpan. Pour
over it prepared tomato juice. Season
with pepper and salt and stew very slowly
one hour. Thicken with a little brown
flour. Add a glass of red or white wine
and serve.
Shad Chowder a la Hugo.
Cut three-fourths pound of fat of pickled
pork in thin slices ; cut the slices into
strips and cover the bottom of the pot
with some of them. Have ready cleaned,
boned and cut in small pieces about six
pounds of shad. Lay on the pork a layer
of fish seasoned with pepper and salt, put
over a few slices of onions and cover this
layer with buttered crackers. Then pro-
ceed as before with pork, fish and season-
ing until you have used up the fish. Cover
the top with buttered crackers and put on
sufficient cold water to cover. Add a few
potatoes cut in dice and four tomatoes cut
in pieces. Keep the pot covered closely
and stew slowly. If you find it getting
dry add a little water occasionally. This
may be improved by adding a few raw
oysters to each layer of fish. Remove
from the pot with a flat skimmer. It may
be set in a hot oven covered closely to
cook.
Potted Shad, Vienna Style.
After the shad has been cleaned, washed
and wiped dry, cut into six pieces across
the back, thus cutting each half of the fish
into three pieces. Cover the bottom of an
earthen crock with fish. Season with pep-
per, salt, whole allspice, whole cloves and
two blades of mace to each layer of fish.
Proceed in this manner until you have
used all the fish. Cover with vinegar and
tie some brown or sugar loaf paper tightly
over the top or it may be covered with a
large plate. Bake very slowly for four
hours. This is a nice relish served cold,
and is very popular in Vienna and other
German cities, especially on hot summer
days.
108
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
Planked Shad en Bordure.
Split a shad in half and bone it. Melt a
piece of butter mixed with lemon juice and
fine chopped parsley. When hot put in
shad and season with salt and pepper.
Cover lightly with flour and bake in oven.
When done put on plank garnished with
mashed potatoes. This dish is very easy
to make and very popular.
The following two recipes are by the
chef of San Francisco's oldest and best
hotels. He considers the shad an excel-
lent fish but asks that his name or that
of the hotel be not mentioned.
Stuffed Shad.
Take one pint of California oysters,
one-half cup melted butter, three-fourth
cup fresh bread crumbs, chopped parsley,
little chopped onions to taste, two hard-
boiled eggs chopped, salt and pepper.
Stuff the fish, place in baking dish, sprin-
kle witii melted butter and roast in oven
for fifteen minutes; then add pint of sour
cream mixed with paprika and let simmer
together for twenty minutes and serve in
the same dish. Serve roe fried in butter
as a garnishing.
Baked Shad.
Split the fish, salt and pepper well, dip
in milk and flour and fry in butter for five
minutes on both sides ; place the fish in a
baking dish, put a layer of sliced peeled
tomato, and alternate with sliced green
pepper on top of the fillet ; sprinkle with
bread crumbs and melted butter and bake
in oven for twenty minutes ; pour over
the fish brown butter, adding lemon juice
and chopped parsley and a few drops of
Worcestershire sauce. Serve in baking
dish. Have the roe meuniere (fried in
butter) as garnishing.
BROILED SHAD.
Pop Ernest, the chef who introduced the
abalone to the people of San Francisco,
says he considers that the meat of the
shad has a sweeter and more delicate
Havor than any other fish we have. TTc
prefers the shad broiled to all other meth-
ods.
Split the fish to remove most of the
bones, dip in olive oil and broil over the
coals. Serve with meuniere dressing.
Mr. Chas. Schmitt, formerly chef of
Bcrgcz-Franks, says that he thinks shad
is one of the best fish on the coast and
that it is equal in flavor to the striped
bass, but that the reason it is not so
popular is the diSiculty that most people
have in eliminating the bones. With ex-
pert handling, he says, the bones can be
removed before the fish is cooked. The
following he considers two of the best
recipes for cooking the shad :
Shad au Four.
Prepare the shad in fillets; season with
salt and pepper. Place in a pan some
chopped onions, garlic and chopped pars-
ley ; lay the fish on these and pour over
it white wine and lemon juice. Bake fif-
teen minutes in moderate oven; remove
the fish, then blend fresh butter with gar-
lic and pour over fish and sei-ve. This is
a light sauce and is preferred for use with
this fish because the shad is often eaten
with the fingers on account of the bones.
Shad Duglere.
Prepare as for shad au four, but add a
small amount of tomato and fresh sliced
mushrooms.
Mr. Oscar Schori, chef of Tait's, con-
siders the shad one of our best fish and
regrets that it is not more popular. He
considers Ihe following recipe one of the
best :
Fillet the shad and season. Fry to a
light brown in olive oil and serve with
drawn or brown butter and lemon juice.
(See shad meuniere above.)
He prefers the shad fried, but for those
who prefer it broiled he thinks it is best
to serve with Italian sauce or au gratin.
Fish Sauce (Italian).
Mash together three anchovies, two hard
boiled eggs ; add teaspoonful of parsley
chopped fine and an equal quantity of
onion juice. Add yolks of two eggs and
teaspoonful of mustard with salt, paprika
and juice of a lemon and beat until
smooth.
CONSERVATION IN OTHER STATES.
PENNSYLVANIA GAME SANCTUARIES.
Pennsylvania has now six game sanctu-
aries established on state lands. Pro-
vision has also been made for the estab-
lishment of similar sanctuaries on leased
lands. These game sanctuaries are sur-
rounded by a fire trail and a single wire
upon which are hung notices requesting
co-operation in providing safety to the
wild life within the refuge.
UNIQUE GAME LAW.
Nevada has a unique game law on her
statute books which provides that every
public school teacher shall read to the
pupils (he game laws of the state at least
once a month. The educational value of
such a statute is evident.
WILD LIFE PROTECTION FUND
INCREASED.
Mrs. Russell Sage has recently signi-
fied her approval of the work accom-
plished by the trustees of the permanent
Wild Life Protection Fund by making an
additional gift of $15,000, bringing up
her total subscription to .$2.1.000. This
donation followed the issuance of the trus-
tees' biennial report, which appeared in
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
109
the form of a handsome book of 100 pages
and was sent to subscribers and the lead-
ing libraries of the country as a contribu-
tion to the current history of wild life
protection. The report announces a fund
which has been created for medals to be
awarded to Boy Scouts of America for
achievements along the line of wild life
protection. A campaign is now being
pushed to establish game sanctuaries in
national forests. The definite plan is as
follows :
(1) A federal law empowering the Sec-
retary of Agriculture to select and delimit
areas in national forests suitable for game
sanctuaries. (2) These sanctuaries shall
be established by presidential proclama-
tion. (3) These sanctuaries shall be
so located tliat they will not occupy
lands chiefly suitable for agriculture.
(4) These sanctuaries shall be located
where they will interfere to the least ex-
tent practicable with the grazing of do-
mestic stock, especially the stock of actual
settlers. (5) These sanctuaries shall be
established with the approval of the gov-
ernor of each state concerned. (6) It is
expedient to establish a large number of
sanctuaries of medium size rather than a
few large preserves. (7) The ideal condi-
tion would be a chain of sanctuaries which
in time would restore game to all the in-
tervening territory. (8) Administration
will be vested in the Secretary of Agricul-
ture. (9) Boundaries are to be settled
after full consideration of all conditions.
(10) Predatory animals are to be killed.
(11) The object of these sanctuaries is to
provide breeding places for game which
will spread over adjacent territory, where
it will be subject to the regular open sea-
son provided by law. This will prevent
danger of overstocking the ranges. It will
therefore not be the general policy to ex-
tend these sanctuaries.
ITALY STOPS BIRD SLAUGHTER.
Under date of December 8, from Rome,
the trustees of the Permanent Wild Life
Protection Fund are informed by Frederic
C. Walcott that "the Italian Government
has at last passed a law, which goes into
effect January 1, prohibiting the shooting
of all song and insectivorous birds
throughout Italy." If this prohibition
also includes, as it is only fair to assume
that it does, the netting of all such birds,
then Italy had indeed carried into effect
a great reform. The importance of this
action to the birds and the crops of
Europe is beyond computation. Hith-
erto the netting of song birds while on
their migrations has been a widespread
industry, and the deadly roccollo has each
year slaughtered hundreds of thousands
of the choicest song birds of Europe for
food. Both in America and in England
this abuse has been severely denounced,
and an American bird protector has de-
clared that it was "a reproach to the
thi-oue of Italy."
The causes which brought about this
reform in Italy, in spite of the excitement
of war, are as yet unknown. — Zoological
Society Bulletin, January, 1916.
THE TRESPASS LAW IN ALABAMA.
Alabama successfully reduces the
amount of hunting by requiring each
gunner to obtain a written permit from
a landowner before shooting on privately-
owned land.
MINNESOTA ADVOCATES FEEDING
QUAIL.
Carlos Avery, Game and Fish Commis-
sioner of Minnesota, has issued a card
giving directions for the feeding of quail.
Loose straw, dead grass, and corn fodder
are recommended as material for shelters.
Screens, wheat, barley, rye, buckwheat,
weed seeds, or corn are suggested as
feed, together with a small pile of sand
for grit. A pint of food is recommended
as a sufficient daily ration for an average
covey of 15 to 20 birds. Attention is also
called to the fact that the bob-white is
beneficial to agriculture and is highly
prized as a game bird, and that mink,
weazels, and house cats are dangerous
enemies of these birds.
EDIBLE BIRDS' NESTS.
Current Items of Interest (No. 27,
January 13, 1916), is authority for the
statement that, in 1909, 17,781 pounds of
the edible nests of swifts, or swiftlets, as
they are better called, valued at $109,849,
were exported from Slam. In Hongkong,
where the demand for these nests often
exceeds the supply, the prices range from
$15 to $25 per pound, according to
quality.
"The first nests constructed in the sea-
son, which are composed of pure saliva,
are the best for eating purposes. They
are gathered on completion before the
eggs are laid. The birds then build again,
and the second nests, in which the saliva
is mixed with rootlets, grass, etc., and
often shows traces of blood, from the
efforts made to produce the saliva, are
also taken on completion. A third nest
is then constructed of extraneous sub-
stances cemented together and the whole
fastened to the wall by a little saliva,
the flow of which seems to be practically
exhausted. The birds are allowed to
rear their young in these nests, which are
no
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
ers, so as to compel the construction of
afterwards destroyed by the nost-gather-
fi-esh nests the following year.
Edible nests of swiftlets are found in
the Malay Archii>elago, Australia, and
many of the Pacific islands. In northern
Borneo certain caves inhabited, by these
swiftlets produce $25,000 worth of nests
every year and show no diminution in
the quantity, despite systematic robbery
for seven generations."
It is interesting to note that the natives
of Slam and other countries where these
swifts are to be found, have been wise
enough to protect the birds from which
they derived profit in such a way that
the last statement is made possible.
LIFE HISTORY NOTES.
DUCKS FROM THE GREAT SALT LAKE
TAKEN IN CALIFORNIA.
Last year there was recorded in- our
columns (California Fisn and Game.
Volume 1, July, 1915, p. 191) an instance
of the taking at Herndon, Fresno County,
of a; pintail duck bearing a band which
led to the information that the bird had
been banded on Great Salt Lake in Sep-
tember, 1914. A second instance of the
same sort has come to light in the taking
of a banded green- winged teal (Nettio7i
carolincnse) on the Heidzig ranch, twelve
miles west of Delano, Kern County.
Mr. Edward Richardson, of Porterville,
secured this duck December 12, 1915.
Word was received from Washington that
this bird was labelled on September 16,
1914, at the mouth of Bear River, Great
Salt Lake, Utah, after having recovered
from the peculiar malady which attacks
the ducks of this lake. Mr. F. W. Velie.
of Porterville, also killed a green-winged
teal at the same place this past winter
which had been banded near the northern
end of Groat Salt Lake, September 26,
1915. These instances throw further
light on routes of migration. It seems
quite possible that many of our ducks,
and probably also many geese, arrive in
California via the Great Basin. — H. C.
Bryant.
THE OPOSSUM IN ALAMEDA COUNTY.
Four opossums wore killed and several
others seen about one mile northwest of
Pleasanton along the canals of the Spring
Valley Water Company by men who wore
burning off tules and w'oeds during Decem-
ber, 1915. A rancher living a short dis-
tance from this spot has compbiiued of
strange animals w'hich come into his corn
and in his chicken yard and has supposed
them to be opossums. This is apparently
the first instance of the appearance of
the opossum in this section of the coun-
try.
Opossums are numerous at Arden Sta-
tion, between Newark and Alvarado, ac-
cording to the report of Mr. B. Brown,
who claims to have seen several, some of
them quite large, on his property. — Earle
Downing.
FAWNS BORN IN WINTER.
Mr. P. H. Oyer, of Pacific Grove, re-
ports that on December 28, 1915, he saw
a doe black-tailed deer {Odocoileus
columhianns scaphiotns) , with two spot-
ted fawns about two weeks old in the
sandhills on the Jack ranch, near Ma-
rina, Monterey County. This record is
particularly interesting, since fawns are
usually born only late in the spring.
NESTING OF THE SOOTY GROUSE.
There are a few grouse (probably sooty
grouse, Dendragopus ohscitrus fuUgino-
sus) on all of the timbered part of the
California National Forest, but in spite of
the fact that very few are killed by man
they do not seem to increase. This is
due principally to their habit of nesting
on the ground in exposed places. Ranger
M. W. Durham found three nests last
spring in the open timl>er on the north
side of Thomas Creek. These nests,
which were in pine needles without pro-
tection, were watched. The eggs in two
nests simply disappeared and the third
nest -was trampled on by stock. — B. H.
Mace.
WILSON SNIPE UNUSUALLY ABUND-
ANT IN ALAMEDA COUNTY.
Wilson snipe {GaUinago dclicata) were
very abundant in the lowlands near
Pleasanton, Alameda County, California,
during the latter part of January, 1916.
A few snipe are seen in this vicinity each
year, but to see thousands of them is
surprising. Flocks of twenty-five or
more could be flushed at the same time.
They would circle about for a few minutes
and then alight at no great distance,
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
Ill
dropping almost straight down from high
in the air. Two boys whom I saw leav-
ini;- the hunting grounds each carried a
limit of these birds all killed by shouting
into flocks. A specimen secured Febru-
ary 11, 1916, gave additional evidence
that these birds were snipe and not
dowitchers. — Earle Dotvning.
THE OPOSSUM IN AMADOR COUNTY.
On February 1, 1916, I trapped an
opossum about six miles from lone, Ama-
dor County, in the vicinity of the Old
Boston Store. This animal weighed fif-
teen pounds, and judging from the front
teeth, one of which was decayed, the
animal must have been very old. This
is the first opossum ever seen in this
county and mystery surrounds the rea-
son of its occurrence. It is more prob-
able that this animal escaped from cap-
tivity than that it traveled into this sec-
tion from some locality where it is
abundant. The nearest place from which
opossums are recorded is Pleasanton,
Alameda County. — C. E. Tuhhs.
UNITED STATES FOREST SERVICE CO-OPERATION.
FISH KILLED BY MUD FLOW.
Fish in Lost and Hat creeks, Lassen
National Forest, were killed during May,
1915, by the mud floods supposedly caused
by the eruptions of Mt. Lassen. After
the flood, while the water was still muddy,
it became unnecessary, and even impos-
sible, to use screens at the intake of irri-
gating ditches diverting water from Hat
Creek and permission was secured to dis-
pense with these screens. If Hat Creek
does not become naturally restocked with
fish, it should be artificially restocked. —
H. Q. Merrill.
ELK IN SHASTA COUNTY.
Favorable reports are continually re-
ceived in regard to the band of elk which
were liberated near Winthrop, Shasta
County, in the early part of 1913. They
seem to have spread over a considerable
scope of country and are multiplying with
a fair degree of rapidity. Elk calves
have been seen on several different oc-
casions.— M, R. Tillotson.
TRAPPING FOR FUR IN THE SHASTA
NATIONAL FOREST.
There is no one in the Shasta National
Forest, so far as I know, who makes
trapi)ing his sole business, although there
are several who do more or less trapping
in season. No large catches have been
made, and in fact, the business has been
so poor that the trappers out each winter
usually consist of those whO' have never
tried the game before. The proposed fur
farm at Medicine Lake has been aban-
doned. The greatest success seems to
have been in trapping bear, of which
more have been seen this year than for
several seasons past. — M. R. Tillotson.
SIERRA MOUNTAJN SHEEP IN THE
MONO NATIONAL FOREST.
The Sierra mountain sheep, at one
time so abundant within the Mono Na-
tional Forest, has probably totally dis-
appeared from this region. A reliable
resident tells me that he saw sheep in
large numbers on the Sweetwater range
in 1882, and Mr. L. Glass, formerly fore-
man of a large ranch, told me that he
saw one in Alpine County about twelve
years ago. On many of the high ridges
in Alpine and Mono counties one finds
heads with horns which do not show very
great weathering. A prospector told me
that he saw two sheep near Wellington on
the edge of the Pinenut range last spring.
While I have no grounds to doubt this,
I am rather skeptical of its being a fact.
However, it has not been many years
since these animals existed in this terri-
tory and it is possible that a few still
exist unobserved. — W. M. Manly.
TWO CINNAMON BEARS KILLED IN
MODOC COUNTY.
I have knowledge of two cinnamon
bears being killed in the western part of
the county during the past summer. — -
Win. »S'. Brown.
RABID COYOTES IN MODOC COUNTY.
The disease of rabies among coyotes
made its appearance in Modoc County
recently and on account of the danger to
human life and to livestock, the State
Board of Health, Biological Survey, and
the Forest Service have organized a cam-
paign for the destruction of coyotes.
Seventeen hunters are employed, and the
entire county is divided into an equal
112
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
number of districts, all under the super-
vision of a chief hunter. These hunters
are -armed with traps and rifles and use
traps and poison in the extermination of
coyotes. The situation is serious. Mad
coyotes have been killed on the streets of
the towns of Alturas and Cedarville. A
county ordinance recently became effective
raising the bounty on coyote scalps to
$2..50 each. In addition to the govern-
ment and state hunters many private
trappers are at work and the state
authorities are giving out poison to all
responsible ranchers for use in extermina-
tion work.
The enthusiasm with which this cam-
paign is being waged by federal, state and
county authorities, aa well as by the resi-
dents themselves, means, probably, the
almost complete eradication of the coyote.
This riddance of coyotes can hardly be
overestimated as a factor in the conserva-
tion of our game. I believe it can be
stated without fear of contradiction that
the number of sagehens alone will be
many times greater next season on ac-
count of this campaign.
So much poison is being used in the
work that it will probably never be known
just how many coyotes have been killed off.
The best federal hunter on the job aver-
aged better than a coyote a day during
August, September and October. The
Modoc County records show that boun-
ties were paid on 1,337 coyote scalps dur-
ing the period from February 15 to No-
vember 1, 1915. As the bounty during
this period was only $1.00, a great many
coyotes were undoubtedly killed on which
no bounty was claimed. — Wm. S. Broivn.
TROUT IN GOOSE LAKE.
Lake trout are plentiful in Goose Lake,
and the recent lengthening of the closed
season will insure an increase in their
numbers. The number of these fishes
caught the past season was much less
than in former years, since fishing for
them is mostly over when they are run-
ning the streams tributary to the lake
and they were practically through run-
ning when the season opened. Fishing
for them was "too easy" before the season
was changed. — Wm. 8. Brown.
GREY SQUIRRELS IN THE PLUMAS
NATIONAL FOREST.
Grey squirrels are so thick in this dis-
trict of the Plumas National Forest that
very few pine or fir cones have been al-
lowed to ripen and disseminate seed for
the past three years, since the squirrels
destroy or eat up the crop while in a
green condition. During the season of
1913, many became diseased and died.
This frightened many people out of using
them for food and as a result very few
are now killed. It is not uncommon to
see 30 or 40 in a single day. — A. J. Stan-
ley.
GOOD CASE MADE BY LASSEN
RANGER.
There have been a number of violations
of the fish and game laws which have
come to the attention of forest oSicers.
The only case, however, handled by the
forest service was that of John C. Rob-
bins, himself a deputy fish and game com-
missioner at the time, who was caught by
Ranger Harvey Abbey with a freshly
killed deer in his possession out of sea-
son. Robbins was arrested, tried in the
justice of the peace court, convicted, and
ordered to pay a fine of $150 or serve
150 days in jail. This decision was up-
held and the fine was paid after some
lapse of time, although the case went to
the Superior Court and later to the Ap-
pellate Court, not on appeal, but on writ
of habeas corpus, before it was finally
settled. Since this case has already been
fully reported on, it is unnecessary to go
into the details about it again. It at-
tracted much attention and became widely
known, being mentioned at one time to
my knowledge even in the Chicago Tri-
bune. It was important since there is
every reason to believe that Robbins had
been a frequent and flagrant violator of
the law and had used his badge and
oflice as a means of violating the law
without danger of detection. The effect
of this case on the public was decidedly
beneficial.— fl". G. Merrill
DEER SCARCE IN DESCANSO DISTRICT
OF THE CLEVELAND NATIONAL
FOREST.
It has been observed that there is an
unusual scarcity of deer in the Descanso
district of the Cleveland National Forest.
Two causes are advanced for the scarcity.
(1) All of this district is accessible to
the automobile. This fact makes it pos-
sible for a larger percentage of people of
the class who shoot everything in sight
(doe, fawn or buck, in season and out
of season) to get into this district. (2)
The fencing of the boundary line between
the United States and Mexico has no
doubt stopped a lot of deer from coming
into this district. — C. O. Brenner.
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME. 113
REPORTS.
SEIZURES— FISH, GAME AND ILLEGALLY USED FISHING APPARATUS.
December 1, 1915, to February 29, 1916.
Oame.
Ducks 385
Geese 69
Shore birds 12
Doves 5
Quail 48
Quail traps 3
Non-game birds 285
Tree squirrels and skins 6
Cottontail rabbits 17
Deer meat 79 pounds
Deer hides 1
Fish.
Striped bass 580 pounds
Steelhead 923 pounds
Salmon 18 pounds
Trout . 14 pounds
Black bass 117 pounds
Crabs 805
Clams 416
Abalones 28
Crawfish 106
Miscellaneous fish 53 pounds
Illegal nets and fishing apparatus 41
Searches.
Illegal fish and game 62
114
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
VIOLATIONS OF THE FISH AND GAME LAWS.
December 1, 1915, to February 29, 1916.
Oflense
Number of
arrests
Fines
imposed
Game.
Hunting ■without license
Deer, close season, killing or possession, or sale
Female deer and skins, killing or possession
Night shooting
Ducks, excess bag limit
losing live blinds to approach ducks
Quail, close season, killing or possession
Shore birds, close season, killing or possession
Doves, close season, killing or possession
Non-game birds, killing or possession
Cottontail rabbits, close season, killing or possession
Tree squirrels, close season, killing or possession
Total game violations
Fish.
Angling without license
Fishing for profit without a license
Dealing in fish wholesale without license
Illegal nets
Young of fish in possession
Trout, close season, taking or possession
Trout, taking other than with hook and line or spear
Steelhead, close season, taking or possession; excess bag
limit
Shipping and olTering for sale undersized catfish
Striped bass, underweight, taking or possession
Black bass, close season, taking or possession
Allowing crude oil to pass into State waters
Crabs, undersized, taking or possession, shipping into
closed district
Abalones, undersized, taking or possession
Crawfish, imder and oversize, taking or possession
Clams, undersize, taking or possession; excess bag limit
Total fish violations
Grand total fish and game violations
76
$1,100 00
19
420 00
4
5
50 00
1
25 00
7
90 00
6
155 00
6
125 00
2
25 00
65
793 50
7
85 00
3
50 00
201
4
6
1
42
2
2
7
4
2
3
2
1
15
8
4
2
105
306
$2,918 50
$70 00
55 GO
25 00
2,005 00
'"2o'o6
300 00
50 00
100 00
70 OO
100 00
95 00
150 00
85 00
10 00
$3,135 00
$6,053 50
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
115
LION BOUNTIES.
Statement of Lion Bounties Paid by Fish and Game Commission From
January 1 to December 31, 1915.
County
1915
Total number
on which
bounty has
been paid
Alameda -.
Alpine
Amador ...
Butte
Calaveras
Colusa
Del Norte .
El Dorado
Presno
Glenn
Humboldt
Imperial .
Inyo
Kern
Lake .,
Lassen
Los Angeles
Madera
Mariposa ...
Mendocino .
Merced
Modoc
26
1
3
15
8
5
10
2
7
1
1
8
30
11
14
78
36
12
36
485
1
7
75
84
6
25
30
34
163
1
3
Monterey ... . . .....
8
61
Mono .. ........ _- . . . .-
2
Napa ..... .-_ ._ -.
3
Nevada _ ._ ... ._ . . . .
3
Orange .__._ ... . ..
4
Placer ... __. .. ... ... .. ___._
1
27
Plumas . ... _. _.-.__ . .
8
RiversTde __. ..... .. ._ .. ......
13
San Benito .._..._..... . . _.
2
1
1
2
10
25
San Bernardino .. . ... . . .... . . ._
14
San Diego ... _....._ ... . ... . . .
28
San Joaquin ._ __.__..-.........
2
San Luis Obispo . _ . .. ........ . ...
57
San Mateo .... ... . ...___. ...
1
Santa Barbara . . ... ... ....... ._
4
1
66
Santa Clara .... . _. ... ..
8
Santa Cruz ... . . . . ... . . .
1
Shasta ...__. .
7
189
Sierra .... ...... . . ..... .
6
Siskiyou . ... .,___......... . _.
9
233
Sonoma .. _ . . . ._
14
Stanislaus _. . ..... . _ . _.
1
4
Sutter ......... . . _. ._
1
Tehama ... ... . ...
4
4
8
7
7
149
Trinity .... .
233
Tulare ... ...
57
Tuolumne . .
40
Ventura .. .. .. . . .
30
Tuba
3
Totals .....
162
2,423
116
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
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CONTENTS.
PAGE.
MALFORMED ANTLERS OF DEER J FranK- V. Clarke 119
EARLY GAME CONDITIONS IN SISKIYOU COUNTY 123
THE TIMBER WOLF IN CALIFORNIA Joseph Dixon 12n
WILL CUTTING THE KELP INJURE THE FISHERIES ?__IVf. B. Scofield 129
FISH AND GAME CONDITIONS IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
_ _ Edwin Hcdderhj 131
EDITORIALS 136
HATCHERY AND FISHERY NOTES 150
CONSERVATION IN OTHER STATES 157
LIFE HISTORY NOTES 161
UNITED STATES FOREST SERVICE CO-OPERATION . 163
REPORTS—
California fishery products for three mouths ending March 31, 1916 . 166
Number of deer killed in various counties during open seasons 1914-15__ 168
Seizures 169
Violations of Fish and Game Laws '. 170
Financial report 171
24287
California Fish and Game
" CONSERVATION OF WILD LIFE THROUGH EDUCATION "
Volume 2 SAN FRANCISCO, JULY 24, 1916 Number 3
MALFORMED ANTLERS OF DEER.
By Frank C. Clarke.
Malformed antlers are not uncommonly found on the deer of the
Pacific Slope. Much interest has naturally been attached to this
phenomenon and numerous theories have been advanced by the hunters
of deer and the students of zoology to account for "odd-shaped,"
"freak" antlers. Certain facts are known, but just why abnormal
forms develop is largely a matter of speculation.
All normal male deer annually produce a pair of antlers. These
antlers are developed during the spring and early summer and while
maturing they are very tender, sensitive organs, easily influenced by
internal as well as by external stimuli.
Each species of the deer family has its general type of antler, this
type varying considerably according to the age of the animal. A
perfect pair of antlers is exceptional rather than common. Though
seemingly normal and well balanced, certain differences exist between
the two members. These small differences, so far as one may judge,
appear to be normal individual variations. But within each of the
species, pairs of antlers will often be found which depart widely from
type.
Abnormal antlers are of two classes: (1) Those which are the result
of direct external stimuli; and (2) those which are the result of
internal or indirect stimuli.
External stimuli are those which directly affect the growing antlers.
An antler may be injured by contact with the brush or other solid
obstacles. One may occasionally find antlers Avhich have been injured
or broken and which have healed much like broken bones, an enlarge-
ment or bump being left at the point of breakage. This healing may
occur without changing the general shape of the antlers. However,
when the injury is severe, the growing antlers may change their shape
considerably.
Internal or indirect stimuli are those which influence the growing
antler through the general condition of the deer. The health of the
animal may be greatly influenced by food conditions. Injuries to the
bones, or severe flesh wounds, or injury to the sexual organs may also
affect the growth of the antlers. The normal healthy buck produces
the most uniformly shaped organs of defense. The fatter the buck
during the growing period, the more robust will be the antlers. In a
very fat buck the basal portions of each antler possess many small
protuberances on the main beam. Such protuberances are as
thoroughly normal as are the "eye guards," or basal prongs. The
antlers of a thin buck are usually quite smooth.
120
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
]\ralforniations are l)rou,tiht aliout in greatest iininbei's as well as in
most striking' forms by the indirect and internal intlueuces. The
following groups of cases tend to support this contention.
1. Effects of Malnutrition. As noted above, thin deer usually
possess slender antlers because these organs have l)een insufficiently
nourished. Antlers of this type are shown in Figure 40. The buck
here pictured was kept at the State Game Farm and was very poor
in flesh during the spring and summer of 1913. At that time he was
probably three years old. Ordinarily, a thrifty deer of that age has
several large prongs to each antler. IMany other cases, similar in
nature, could be cited. It is a well-known fact that deer from the
redwood belts, where food is scarce, are seldom fat or large. The
antlers are likewise small and slender. Bucks from the oak and
chemisal districts, on the other hand, are more apt to be large and fat
and to possess strong, heavy antlers.
Fig. 40. Malformed antlers of a black-tailed deer kept at State Game Farm,
graph by Frank C. Clarke, July, 1913.
Photo-
2. Besult of Injury. Severe bodily injuries, or the breaking of a
bone, may cause tlie antlers to become malformed. This is not always
granted, and many peoi)le contend tliat the malformations are due to
injuries to the antlers themselves at the time this other injury was
sustained. However, since nearly all injured bucks develop deformed
antlers, and nearly all bucks with deformed antlers reveal the i)resence
of a wound sustained at some previous time, and also the malformation
in the antlers appears to develop almost always on the same side as the
injury, this contention does not seem reasonable. Furthermore, where
both sides of the animal have sustained an injury, both antlers will
usually become deformed. Injury to the sex organs (testes), is fol-
lowed by a peculiar kind of malformation which no direct injury to
the antler itself seems to produce.
Hence, it is evident that intei'iial, indirect stimuli, as well as external
stimuli, mav aflPeet antler growtli. In manv cases both kinds of stimuli
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
121
influence the growing antler at the same time. The following authentic
cases are given as illustrations of this point :
(a) Large, fat buck, killed August 24, 1905. The antlers were
practically mature, but still in the velvet. They were forked and
about evenly balanced as to size, but one antler grew at right angles
to the other instead of being parallel to it. Upon examination it was
found that this deer had had three ribs broken several months before
capture.
(&) Large buck with normal antler of three points on one side; on
the other side a loug, uubranched antler in the shape of a letter S.
This buck had previously been wounded in one of its hind legs.
(c) Large buck with normal "four point" antler on one side and a
long "spike" on the other. This kind of deformity is frequently
reported by hunters. This buck had previously been severely injured.
(d) Very large old buck. Both antlers were extreme freaks. There
were several prongs to each member. The antlers were very short ;
for after growing almost as long as the ears they grew inward and
then downward toward the head. They were very irregular in every
respect. This deer had previously been wounded in the back of the
neck, in one fore leg, and in one hind leg.
(e) Large buck killed in autumn. A normal "three point" antler
was found on one side, and on the other side a forked antler which
turned inward and downward toward the head. There was an otf-set
in the bone of one hind leg of this deer, and the fracture was on the
same side as the crooked antler.
(/■) Similar to (e). A normal antler of three prongs existed on one
side, whereas the other turned inward and downward. This deer had
been shot through the front leg on the side of the deformity.
Fig. 41. Malformed antlers of coast mule deer stag. Aniiers such as these are
retained permanently and continue in the velvet. Photograph by F. C. Clarke
taken at San Diego in 1912.
2 — 242S7
122
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
3. Result of Castration. If castrated when youn«?, a buck -will not
produce antlers of much size, if any at all ; and if antlers are produced,
they will be greatly deformed. If castrated when in the velvet the
deer will retain his antlers permanently. They will continue to grow
slowly but in a very irregular sliape and will always retain the velvet
(see figure 41). Several hunters have brought in deer in the late
winter as well as at other times of the year with antlers in this
condition.
It is claimed by experienced hunters that, if a buck is castrated
when his antlers are mature and the velvet shed, he will not drop them.
This claim is based on the fact that castrated deer have been found
with normal "hard" antlers at the time of year when they should have
been shed. Evidently these bucks had been castrated after the maturity
of the antlers for that year. The causae of the castration of deer in
nature is almost as puzzling as that of malformed antlers. Few facts
are known concerning this phenomenon.
The commonest form of antler found on deer stags is that shown in
figure 42. Each is proportionately large at the base, often from six to
ten inches in circumference. The antlere, furthermore, are short and
stubbj"" with many knobs or bumps upon them.
Fig. 42. Malformed antlers of unusual type, causes unknown. Photographs by F. C. Clarke.
A "spike" buck (yearling) under observation was castrated when
the "spikes" were immature. They remained in practically this same
condition for a year, when the deer was killed. A stag that was killed
late in the winter when antlers were normally shed, still possessed a
pair of "forked" antlers. They were soft and in the velvet.
A very unusual pair of antlers from a medium-sized buck killed
near Laytonville, Mendocino County, was brought to my attention in
August, 1911. On the left side was a well-formed forked antler about
eleven inches long. The velvet had been completely shed. On the
right side was a deformed antler not over four inches long. It was
about three-fourths of an inch in diameter and maintained its size
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME. 123
nearly to the tip. Over the right eye it curved outward and downward.
The surface was roughened by many small protuberances. The velvet
still persisted. This deer had previously sustained a severe injury
in the pelvic region which tore one of the testes from its position and
caused it to shrivel up.
In conclusion :
(1) Malformed antlers are due to a number of causes.
(2) Internal as well as external stimuli affect the growth of antlers.
(3) Castration, or removal of the testes, prevents the growth, develop-
ment and maturity of the antlers. Hence, the testes apparently produce
an influence which is necessary for the development of secondary
sexual organs, such as antlers.
EARLY GAME CONDITIONS IN SISKIYOU COUNTY.
I The following statements contributed by A. E. Doney, Peter Klink, and William Russell
give a vivid picture of game conditions and hunting in the early days in Siskiyou
County — Editor. ]
In the summer of 1873 my father took a party of six young men,
our present sheriff, C. B. Howard, R. Walker, my three brothers and
myself, on a hunting trip from Scott Valley to the meadows on Scott
Mountain, 10 miles south of Callahan's Ranch. We were in camp six
days, and during that time I saw from twenty to sixty deer each day,
largely does and fawns; on going up to the higher levels we found
bucks. This was the report from all of the party.
My father, W. K. Doney, was a pioneer of California of the '50
period. He did not believe in killing does and fawns ; his instructions
were to kill only the bucks, and of these no more than needed for meat
for camp and a few pounds to take home dried, and this rule was strictly
adhered to at all times.
In the summer of 1881, I went over the same ground alone on a
hunt of three days and saw no deer, but during those three days the
stench of the carcasses of deer that had been killed by hide hunters
was in evidence, and I was never out of it until I left the range. I saw
the rotting remains of so many deer and became so incensed against
the men who were doing the killing that I felt like a man might who
would look upon the act as murder. Even to this day, this region has
not recovered from the wanton slaughter.
I remember a trip from the valley with my father in 1878. The day
we went up North Coffee Creek in Trinity County, I counted 158 deer.
The deer paths to the numerous licks below, near the stream, were cut
by the deer from one to three feet deep along the hillsides. I killed a
fine buck that evening near camp. This was the only deer killed on
the trip, as we were prospecting and not hunting. The region to the
west of Scott Valley, known as the Marble Mountain country, was, up
to 1880, teeming with game, especially elk. One evening in 1876, a
party of us were camped at Elk Lake, when a drove of elk, numbering
over 75 (that many were counted), came down the opposite hillside to
the lake. Two were killed. The last elk disappeared from that region
about 1881.
F. M. Blooms, my partner in mining operations at Callahan's in 1881,
who had been driving teams for Denny Brothers for five years prior to
124 CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
that date, hauling freight between Redding and CaUalian's. was told by
Mr. Johu.son, of the forwardmg firm of Bush & Johnson, Redding, that
in 1880 the}^ liad handled 35,000 deer hides from Siskiyou, Trinity, and
Shasta counties. I hitcr learned, from men m-Iio had bouglit them, that
the average price paid for deer hides was fifty cents each. William
Asher, w^hom I met in southern Oregon, told me that in 1888 he and a
man named Bowen had killed deer and shipped 3,000 hides to San
Francisco. — A. E. Doney.
I hunted for Mr. J. H. Sisson ten seasons prior to 1883, at which time
I located the farm now owned by Robert Rull. During that period I
hunted about the headwaters of tlie Sacramento River to the west of
Sisson Tavern and Strawberry A^alley (in which the Tavern is located).
Often in a day 's hunt I have seen the carcasses of as many as six dee>'
lying about with the hides removed. This was the result of the hide
hunters' work. I did not meet the hunters themselves, because tliey
Mould hunt during the early summer, then move, so that when 1 went
out for the deer to take to Mrs. Sisson 's hotel, I found the deer had
been killed off in many localities. The does and fawns were killed
as well as the bucks. At no time did I ever kill a deer for its hide,
but as there Avas no law to regulate the bag limit I have killed as many
as four and five deer in one day, going out one day, hunting the second
day, and returning the third day. This I would do about once a week
during the tourist season, July, August, and Septeml)er, after w^hich
the deer would leave the range for the lower hills of Shasta County
for winter.
I know that many hundreds of deer were killed for their hides. The
hunters came through the mountains and were not seen along the
traveled highways. I would alwaj^s get one or more deer up to the
middle of September, when they left the range. The deer were still
plentiful when I stopped hunting, but three years later there were very
few deer to be found, and from reports I got from others the hunting
was poor, and has so continued. I have been told that the deer are
more plentiful since protection has been given them. I heard that
many deer were killed in the lower country during the winter by squaw
men along the Sacramento and Pit rivers who mined a little and killed
deer for hides and meat. — Peter Klink.
In the year 1877, Walter Scott, afterward killed by an Indian on the
mountain between Sisson and McCloud Avhile going to Huckleberry
Valley where he had his homestead, told me that he killed about sixty
deer in less than six weeks. Scott was an old-time hunter and trapper.
No use was made by him of the meat, the hides only being taken and the
carcasses left in the woods. To my knowledge he had great bundles of
hides. The hides probaltly numbered three or four hundred, and an
equal ciuantity were perhaps obtained three or four times a year. This
sort of hide hunting continued for five or six years.
I saw the last two elk that were killed in this district ; one, a female,
killed by John Burchard in 1872, the other killed by I3ob jNIelson, in
1873. The horns of the latter Avere placed in the Sisson Tavern office.
These were, I believe, the last two elk seen in this country.
CALIFORNIA P^ISH AND GAME. . 125
The last mountain sheep was killed in Shasta Valley by George
Conner on a Sunday morning in 1873.
There are very few antelope left in this country. In the year 1880,
I saw forty or fifty on Butte Creek. I was in the Butte Creek country
last summer and Mr. Whitney told me there were not more than a
half dozen left.
When Bob Melson and I M^ere herding cattle we killed on one occasion
thirty-six deer. We took the hides and the best part of the meat and
left the remainder. Another time I killed five deer in one day.
In the days of which I speak there were not one-tenth as many people
in the country as there are now, and as the game laws were not in
existence then, the people killed wantonly all kinds of game. Conditions
are quite the reverse at the present time since there is not one-tenth of
the game and the country is thickly settled. Therefore, if the laws pro-
tecting what is left of tlie immense herds of deer and other game were
removed, all game would be conipletel}^ demolished. — William Russell.
THE TIMBER WOLF IN CALIFORNIA.
By Joseph Dixon.
[Coutributiou from the Museum of Vertebrate Zoology of the University of California.]
Is the wolf in California to be classed as extinct along with the
grizzly bear ?
Timber or gray wolves of some species undoubtedly existed at one
time in a wild state in California, probably within the last fifty years.
The observations of early settlers, as well as other comparatively recent
reports (Price, Zoe, IV, 1894, p. 331), seem to establish this fact with
certainty. At the present time, however, there is, other than these
reports, no tangible evidence of the former occurrence of wolves within
the state, no specimen of a California-killed wolf — skin, skull or bones —
being in existence in any collection, to the author's best knowledge.
It is quite possible, nevertheless, that wolves still exist in certain remote
parts of the state. Frequent reports, based on tracks, howls, or occa-
sional glimpses of the wolves themselves, emanate from various parts
of the state, notably from the region known as ''Trinity Buttes, " at
the western boundary of Trinity County; and there are other wild,
sparsely-settled sections of the state, which, on account of their natural
ruggedness, may still afi:'ord sufficient food and protection for wolves.
For several years past the Museum of Vertebrate Zoology, as oppor-
tunity offered, has endeavored to corroborate reported occurrences of
timber wolves in California, but without obtaining a single specimen.
Several quite convincing reports of such captures have reached the
Museum from time to time, but whenever the skin or skull was secured,
the animal always proved to be a large Mountain Coyote {Canis la trans
Icstes). Under the circumstances it seems desirable that there be
placed on record a clear statement of what knowledge we have relative
to the present status of the timber wolf in California, with the hope of
arousing interest in anyone who may find himself in a position to con-
tribute information. The appended summary of the more conspicuous
distinctions between wolf and coyote, it is believed, will enable anyone
126 CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
-who may secure specimens to identify with certainty the animal at
hand. In ease of the capture of a bona fide timber wolf witliin the
state of California, it is strongly urged that the captor afford the
author of this article an opportunity of verifying the occurrence.
There are three recognized races of tlie coyote in California, accord-
ing to the latest authority: Grinnell's Distributional List of the Mam-
mals of California (Proceedings California Academy of Sciences, 1913,
[4th Series] III, pp. 265-390).
The Mountain Coyote {Canis latrans lestes) is found in the moun-
tains of northern California, and south in the higher parts of the Sierra
Nevada for almost their entire length. The Valley Coyote {Canis
ochropiis ochropus) ranges throughout California west of the Sierra
Nevada and the southern Sierras, south to the Mexican line. The
Desert Coyote {Canis ochropus estor), as its name implies, occurs on
the Colorado and Mojave deserts, west to Antelope Valley and north
to the Inyo region. The Valley and Desert coyotes are usually dis-
tinct in their small size and short hair. It is the Mountain Coyote,
relatively large and shaggy, that is generally mistaken for a timber
wolf, often through comparison with one of the other coyotes.
Sight identifications of wolves are not always to be trusted, for
coyotes seen at a distance, under certain conditions of light, may some-
times appear to the human eye as veritable wolves. This may be due
to the person merely misjudging the distance and therefore the size
of the coyote, or the refraction of the light waves may possibly cause
distortion, and seemingly increase the size of the animal. Neither are
footprints to be trusted, for large dog tracks may be mistaken for those
of wolves. The voice of wolf or coyote, however, should be distinctive,
for one who knows either could scarcely confuse the deep-chested howl
of the timber wolf with the shrill yelping of the coyote. With the animal
in hand there need be no confusion. Between the largest coyote and the
* ■' ^
Fig. 43. Outlines of carnassial or "chopping" teeth of wolf, coyote, and dog; natural
size. Wolf: a, upper; b, lower. Coyote: c, upper; d, lower. Dog: e, upper; f, lower.
smallest timber wolf there is great size difference. The weight of the wolf
averages twice that of the coyote. Seton {Life Histories of Northern
Animals) gives the weight of three male wolves {Canis occidentalis)
which he trapped in Colfax County, New Mexico, as 102, 90, and 78
pounds, respectively. Two females from the same place weighed 75 and
80 pounds, while a very poor female weighed only 55 pounds. In
speaking of the weight of large male coyotes {Canis latrans) Seton gives
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME. 127
42 and 46 pounds as the extremes, with 24 pounds as the average weight
of females.
Besides the general size difference there are distinctions of skull,
teeth and claws. In making the following comparisons in these regards,
the skulls used are of a wolf from Vancouver Island, British Columbia,
which is one of the smallest in the Museum series, and a coyote skull
from Fort Tejon, Kern County, California, one of the largest of a hun-
dred and fifty or more in the Museum collection. The wolf skull, cleaned,
weighs fourteen ounces, the coyote skull, nine ounces. The wolf skull is
nine and three-quarters inches long, and five inches broad; the coyote
skull, eight inches long, four and one-eighth inches broad. Then, as to the
teeth : Those of the wolf are about 50 per cent larger than those of the
coyote. This is particularly noticeable in the canines and in those teeth
lying third from the back, called "carnassials" or "chopping teeth"
(see fig. 43, a, h, c, d). In the wolf the upper canine, where it enters
the socket, has a diameter of 15 mm. ; in the corresponding tooth of the
coyote this measurement is 10 mm. In the wolf the upper carnassial
(fig 43, a) measures 26.4 mm. in length, 14.6 mm. in breadth ; lower
carnassial (fig. 43, h), 30.4 mm. by 11.6 mm. Corresponding measure-
ments in the coyote are: Upper carnassial (fig. 43, c), 20 mm. by 9.3
mm.; lower carnassial (fig. 43, d), 22.5 mm. by 8 mm.
/
Fig. 44. Outlines of claws of coyote and wolf; natural size. Coyote claws from
Sierra Nevada ; worn and shortened from contact with stony ground ; a, front
foot; c, hind foot. Coyote claws from Colorado Desert; long and unworn;
b, front; d, hind. Wolf claws; e, front; f, hind.
Another marked difference between the wolf and coyote is in the
relative size of the claws (fig. 44, a, 5, c, d, e, f). The diameter of the
claw at the base should be taken in measuring, as length of claw evi-
dently varies with the character of the soil that the animal ranges over.
Coyotes inhabiting rocky regions have/ the claws much worn down and
shortened, from contact with stones, while those living in sandy or
loamy places have long claws, showing little wear. Fig. 44, a and c,
represent typical worn coyote claws from the Sierras, while 1) and d
represent longer, narrower claws from the sandy Colorado desert. One
of the heaviest coyote claws noted measured 7.5 by 4 mm. at its base;
an average wolf claw measured 11.5 by 7 mm.
In cases where scalps, only, are available, the size of the black nose
pad (the naked skin about the nostrils) will be found to be the best
character in distinguishing wolves from coyotes. The dried nose pad
128 CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
of a coyote averages about seven-eiglitlis of an iiieli in width; tliat of a
wolf, one and one-quarter inches (fig. 45, a and h). An unusually
hirge coyote skin at hand has a dried nose pad almost fifteen-sixteenths
of an inch wide. An Oregon Avolf has a di'ied nose pad one and three-
sixteentlis inches wide, while in a large Alaska wolf skin this pad
measures almost one and one-half inches in width.
No very young wolves have been available for examination. Bailey
(U. S. Dept. of Agriculture, Biological Survey. Circular No. 69. 1909),
gives the following color differences ])etween
young wolves and coyotes. In the wolf the
muzzle is blackish at birth, fading in six weeks
to grayish. The head of a young wolf is grayish
ill decided contrast to black of back, ears and
nose. The ears are black at the tips, fading to
grayish in about a month or six weeks. Tn the
coyote the muzzle is tawny or yellowish brown,
l)ecomiug more yellowish with age. The young
coyote head is yellowish gray not contrasted
with rest of body. The ears are dark brown at the
tips and back, soon fading to yellowish browii.
There is great difficulty in distinguishing
certain types of dog skulls from wolf skulls.
This is often much harder than to discriminate
^'^' ^^- °a'tTar'sife"°r ^"^^^^'e""" coyotc and wolf. As a general rule the
coyote ; T wolf. ^'^^ ^' iHUzzlc of tlic dog is shortcr and broader than
that of the wolf, the latter being most nearly
approached among domestic dogs by the collie. In all cases, however,
there are certain differences to be depended upon, as follows: In skulls
of e((ual size the wolf has much larger and heavier teeth than the dog.
While the average dog skull is not as large as that of a small wolf, still,
among the larger breeds of dogs there may be individual skulls ecjual
in size to those of timber wolves. In such cases the dog's teeth will be
found to be relatively smaller and probably actually shorter and nar-
rower than the corresponding teeth of the wolf skull of equal size, or
even of one considerably smaller.
Coyote skulls can usually be told from dog skulls by their more
slender form. The long, tapering muzzle of the coyote is in strong
contrast to the broad muzzle of the average dog. Like the wolf, the
coyote has relativelij larger teeth than the dog.
On the under side of the cleaned skull, just behind the articulation
of the jaw, and below the ear cavity, are to be seen two hollow, thin-
walled, bony prominences, roughly circular in shape, and raised con-
spicuously above the general surface. These are known as the auditory
bulhe, and tlieir size and shape form excellent characters for distinguish-
ing dogs and wolves. In the dogs these projections are relatively
small and flattened; in wolves and coyotes they are large and more
prominently raised.
As it is highly desiral)le that specimens of the California tiiiil)cr wolf
he saved be fore" the species disappears entirely from the state, if indeed
it is not already too late, the author urges on anyone who has secured,
or who may in the future secure, what he believes to be a timber wolf,
that he apply the tests outlined above. Any fragment, an old skin in
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME. 129
part or whole, or any leg or foot bones that may remain attached to such
a skin, etc., might serve for identification, and is consequently worthy
of preservation. It must be urged, also, that exact information with
any specimen is of the highest importance, the principal points to be
ascertained being exact date and locality of capture, and name and
address of captor.
The author of this paper is highly desirous of getting into communi-
cation with anyone who knows of the whereabouts of any parts of
wolves killed in California, or who is conversant with facts relating to
the past or present occurrence of the species within the state.
California Museum of Vertebrate Zoology, Berkeley.
April 14, 1916.
WILL CUTTING THE KELP INJURE THE FISHERIES?
By N. B. ScoFiKLD,
In Charge Commercial Fisheries, California Fish and Game Commission.
It has long been known that the kelp along the Pacific coast contains
a large per cent of potash, and considerable experimenting has been
carried on to find methods of gathering it and of extracting the potash
and other commercially valuable by-products.
Germany has hitherto furnished the bulk of our potash supply from
the deposits in ancient lakes and seas. The United States Department
of Agriculture, realizing the importance of having a source of supply
within the United States and hoping to encourage the greater use of
potash as a fertilizer, started an investigation of our kelp beds and
conducted experiments in extracting potash from kelp. The results
of these investigations are to be found in Report No. 100 of the United
States Department of Agriculture.
It is believed by the government officials who have investigated the
kelp beds along the California coast that there is enough kelp from Point
Conception to the Mexican line to supply annually, without injury to
the beds, all the potash used in the United States. The amount of
potash consumed annually, before the great war cut off the German
supply and raised prices, was 300,000 tons and its value was approxi-
mately $15,000,000.
Kelp is composed very largely of water (80 to 90%) ; to extract
the potash profitably large quantities must be handled and a great
outlay of capital is required. The rise in the price of potash occasioned
by the war has induced several large companies to build plants at Long
Beach and San Diego where kelp is now being harvested. The com-
panies operating are Swift & Company, the Hercules Powder Company
at San Diego, and the American Products Company at Long Beach.
Almost $3,000,000 has already been invested in southern California in
this industry.
There has been considerable uncertainty as to the effect the cutting
of kelp will have on the fisheries of the state. Many fear that the
kelp beds will be destroyed and the protection which they now afford
the beaches will be removed. This they think will greatly injure
the clams which inhabit the beaches and the spiny lobsters which live
3 — 24287
130 CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
more or less within the protection of the kelp. The}' also fear that
the young fish, especially the young barracuda, which are in the habit
of seeking a refuge in the kelp, Avill be deprived of this refuge and
will leave that part of the coast. It is also believed by many that the
kelp beds are extensively used as spawning places by many other com-
mercial fish. It is thought that the removal of the kelp will, therefore,
destroy these spawning beds.
Captain Crandell, of the Scripps Institution for Biological Research,
at La Jolla, was employed by the government in kelp investigations and
is still engaged in watching the efi'ect of the cutting by the several
large companies. He and others engaged in the work expre&s the
opinion that these companies are not likely, at least within the next few
years, to devise kelp cutters or reapers which will cut the kelp more
than six feet below the surface of the water, and that such small
cuttings can have but little effect. It has been observed that, after
one of these reapers has passed over a bed and cut the kelp to a depth
of six feet, the uncut kelp branches rise to the surface and it is diflirult
to see where the cutter has been. Much of the kelp, especially along
the edges of the beds, can not be touched and this eontinue.s to afford
protection to the beaches. It has been pointed out that great masses of
kelp are more easily detached from their "hold-fasts" by violent
storms than are smaller beds, and it is believed that where beds have
been subjected to cutting they will not be so easily washed out by
storms. Furthermore, the kelp, though cut six feet below the surface,
will continue to serve as a refuge for fish.
The species of kelp which is being harvested in California is the
Macrocystis pyrifera. This grows in long strands from one to three
hundred feet in length which are held to the rocky bottom by means
of a "hold-fast." The leaves float out on the surface of the water and
are held suspended by floats containing air spaces. The plants repro-
duce bj' spores which lodge on the bottom and start new plants; and
by stooling or sending off branches from near the hold-fast. If the
top end of a plant is cut oft', the rest of that particular i)lant ceases
to grow, but the shorter branches, which are continually arising from
the base, soon grow up and take its place. Experiments are now being
conducted at La Jolla for the purpose of determining the rate of
growth of these plants, and it is believed that the cutting of the kelp
near the surface will tend to make them stool, so that the growth will
be increased by the cutting.
It is to the advantage of the companies engaged in cutting the kelp
to avoid destroying the beds, and to cut them only as fast as they will
reproduce themselves.
It is believed by government experts that, even if the entire potash
supply of tlie United States were to be derived from kelp, none of the
beds would be injured, unless possibly some bed that is favorably located
close to the harbor where several companies are at work.
The regulation of the kelp industry in California will come entirely
under the jurisdiction of the state, for the beds are all within the
three mile limit. It is the desire of the federal government that the
state devise and pass such laws as will protect this potash supply and
at the same time assure the companies operating of a continuous supply
of kelp and protect them from the interference of "pirates." It will
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME. 131
/
therefore be necessary to enact laws under which kelp beds may be
leased or apportioned to operating companies under regulations which
will assure continuous crops.
The administration of the kelp resources falls to the Fish and Game
Commission. No state laws have as yet been passed in this regard, but
several counties have passed ordinances intended to protect the kelp
beds. These ordinances have been passed through fear that the kelp
beds will be destroyed and bathing beaches and the fishing industry
ruined. It is probable that these county ordinances are unconstitu-
tional.
Experts from the Scripps Institution in the employ of the govern-
ment are continuing their investigation of the kelp-cutting industry
and are watching results carefully. The Fish and Game Commission
is also keeping in close touch with the progress of the industry with a
view toward proposing laws which will conserve this resource upon
which one of the greatest industries of the state will probably be based
— an industry which may yield more profit than all of the fisheries
combined.
FISH AND GAME CONDITIONS IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA.
By Edwin L. Hedderly,
Assistant, Los Angeles Branch Office of Fish and Game Commission.
Fish and game conditions in southern California were seemingly
better during 1915 than at any time since the need of short seasons and
low bag limits was adequately recognized. If the "Protection and
Propagation" policy pursued by the Fish and Game Commission needs
vindication, it is surely found in the splendid sport which has been
built up in the south by the scientific adjustment of the "taking priv-
ilege" to the annual increase and the vigorous and uncompromising
enforcement of the closed seasons. Conceding the importance of the
part played in bringing about this happy result by the culmination of
a succession of favorable breeding years, the fact remains that, without
the support of fish-cultural work, the trout in our streams would long
since have been so reduced as no longer to attract anglers ; without wise
laws well enforced, our brushy hillsides would have been cleaned of
their quail, our canyon-washes of their doves, and our deer would have
been destroyed for the men not devoid of energy to go and get them.
Instead of this paradise of sportsmen which is so rapidly establishing
national records for angling and hunting interest, as evidenced by
phenomenal license sales, the south with its wonderful population
increase, in which these attractions have played no small part, would
long since have forgotten the clarion call of the cock quail and would
have come to consider the mournful cooing of the dove as a curiosity.
No longer would the southland lure the upland shooter ; forgotten would
be the lure of the gamest little bird that ever outran dog or tricked the
superior intelligence of man. No less of an economic than of a senti-
mental calamity has been avoided by the long course of carefully-
considered, earnestly-executed work undertaken to maintain these sport-
ing assets of the state at the height of their possible attractiveness. All
California has learned what these attractions mean in dollars and cents,
132 CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
waiving for the moment the less tangible aspects. The idea is now
growing, however, that the poAver of fish and game to make the "open
places" inviting is a much more significant fact that the dollars-and-
eents item.
What the year 1916 has in store for the southern California sports-
man is yet to be written as concerns game, although the fishing features
have already placed themselves on record. Great as was 1915 in the
annals of southern trout fishing, both in average sport and numbers
taking part, the current season is certain to be greater. Washed, and
literally scoured by the storms of January, which tore down the moun-
tain gorges of the steep San Bernardino and San Jacinto watersheds,
ripped out rocks larger than city blocks in places, and generally played
havoc with streams east of Los Angeles, the plantings made last October
by the Fish and Game Commission appear to have saved the day, and
these fry remain in the headwaters in sufficient force to guarantee good
late fishing when the waters go down and the fish have grown larger.
So remarkable has been the attention paid to the streams thus far
that the noncompetitive nature of trout fishing has asserted itself and
caused many of the unthinking to doubt the abundance of fish that the
experts readily recognize. With rods twenty to the mile, and more,
even the ablest of anglers realizes the impossibility of creeling limits ;
and no end of heavy stocking can correct the natural shyness of the
trout to such a point that all difficulty of taking the fish is eliminated —
nor does any true sportsman desire to see the game rendered so easy
were it even possible. In one sense the very abundance of anglers has
had some little value as a protective feature, for it has rendered large
catches difficult and hence placed every possible premium upon the
refinement of skill. Hand in hand with the inculcation of respect for
short seasons and low limits goes the perfection of refined methods
giving equal satisfaction from lessened exercise of the "taking priv-
ilege"; and in this we find the four-ounce rod, the gossamer leader,
and the fine-artist of the fly coming to the fore in southern Cali-
fornia angling, even as the narrowed gauge and lightened weight of
the "small-bore" have given the gunner greater pleasure in taking
present-day limits than the unpardonable butchery of the ten-gauge
days that left every man of fine sensibilities so satiated at the end of a
"big day." Difficult as it is to explain the psychology of the sports-
man to those born without the Jovian fire, the fact remains that to
men who shoot and fish, the carnal elements play no part whatever.
The supposed thirst for gore exists only in the imagination of those
without capacity to understand what it is that makes mature men run
over hills and scramble up boulder-bestrewn streams to the uttermost
lengths of physical endurance merely to gather a few hard-earned
birds or fish. It is the idealism that makes possible the one that goes
hand in hand wdth the esthetic feature of refining method. There is
some of the artist in every sportsman; and the more proficient, the
higher proportion of pleasure taken in method rather than in mere
aggregate.
Some bass fishing has been built up in the southern reservoirs from
the plantings made in years past, although the conditions are not ideal
for these fish in most places where they are found. The storms of
January destroyed several artificial lakes in which bass have become
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME. 133
well established, but the possibilities of thus propagating them have
been satisfactorily demonstrated, and now only time is needed to restore
them.
Great interest has developed among surf-anglers in the striped-bass
plantings to be made by the Commission in the lagoons and bays
wherein fresh water mingles with salt, thus affording the conditions
essential to the anadromous nature of these fish.
With the tendency to carry sport to the highest plane of refined
method already exhibited in fresh water and upon the game fields, the
southern surf-casters for corbina, yellowfins, and croakers, fishes
peculiar to these shores, have developed a light-tackle, single-handed,
two and one-half ounce sinker-casting technique peculiarly their own.
This is far ahead of the advanced type of gear used on the Atlantic,
notwithstanding the longer experience of eastern anglers. "With the
experience gained upon the smaller fish of the surf, and the knowledge
of handling the hard-fighting yellowtail of the channel upon lines
breaking at less than the weight of the fish, these men will be ready to
accord the striped bass a right sporting welcome if he succeeds in add-
ing himself to the list of our surf and bay game fishes. All the rod and
reel clubs have pledged themselves to aid in watching these bass and
aiding in their welfare.
Fishing off the southern coast has been better this spring than in
several seasons. For six weeks an immense influx of barracuda has
been literally glutting the markets. The boatmen of Catalina took two
tons on hook and line in a single day recently. Although the barracuda
is ranked as a food fish and plays a leading part in the fresh-fish supply
of the southern markets, it is not devoid of game possibilities, and when
taken upon light tackle usually employed by experts in sea trolling, it
puts up a tussle that is highly diverting. It has the particularly inter-
esting trick of dodging suddenly if "given its head" which proves
profitable to vendors of rods and other tackle. Barracuda, owing to
their great speed, break up as much gear as heavier fish.
Yellowtail fishing is the best sport that southern waters affords the
sea-angler. The white sea-bass is too uncertain to consider very seri-
ously, but that is its only drawback. It is a surface fighter rather than
the dogged, deep-sounding, kelp-hunting "slugger" the yellowtail is.
Both species take rank far ahead of the tuna in popularity because
much more plentiful. Tuna fishing is a millionaire's game, but the
yellowtail is for all, and is so plentiful that sport is reasonabl}^ certain.
It is doubtful whether any fish of equal weight can put up a more
determined resistance, or display more tricks.
For a time opposition was manifested by some of the southern Cali-
fornia sea-anglers at the inclusion of these species in the list of game
fish for which license is required ; but as the idea spread that protecting
these species adds materially to the cost of protective work, the sports-
manlike spirit of bearing one's fair proportion of costs has asserted
itself so generally that now the license is collected from rod and reel
clubmen and big-fishermen generally just as freely as at first it was
from the seekers after artificially propagated fish. Eventually the
southern California patrol boat will be in use and closer attention will
be paid to these marine features than has been possible thus far with
the relatively slow and inefiicient boats which the Commission has been
134 CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
able to rent. Fish and Game Commissioner Connell, in charge of
southern operations, has taken the position that, so far as possible, the
various branches of the work should produce income, each sufficient to
meet its needs; and that to divert monej^s contributed by luinters
to better sea-angling conditions is neither wise nor equitable. This
view has been so generally approved by all sportsmen that it may be
considered the law, for the principles of equity are deeply rooted in the
minds of men who love to hunt and fish.
Among other things that 1916 has proved beyond question is the
wisdom of the Commission's plans for a big southern California hatch-
ery in the Owens Valley. Commissioner Connell has devoted more time
to the future interests of the state in this matter alone than to the entire
detail of his private business for six months past. He has felt that the
time is here for something of a permanent nature calculated to put the
enterprise of raising fish against future sporting demands upon a sound
and enduring business basis. In its inception, the plan was looking
fi^ty years ahead; but so far beyond even the most sanguine expecta-
tions has the interest in angling gone already this year that the farthest-
sighted program possible today bids fair to prove short of the needs of
even five years hence. The Oak Creek plan calls for a capacity of
6,000,000 fish annually, and there is a possibility of so utilizing the
forty acres of the site that it may be increased beyond that capacity.
Eventually it is certain this must be done. The Commissioners
mutuall}^ exerted themselves in behalf of a speedy completion of the
Oak Creek plant, but it is doubtful whether any fish can be handled
there until next year. The plans call for a hatchery building of par-
ticularly pleasing aspect, harmonizing with the surrounding because
built of stone taken from the site. Against the bold buttresses of the
Sierras, its massive and fitting style of architecture wdll make it one of
the state's show-places, particularly because the Eastern Sierra High-
way passes within a few minutes' drive from it and the building,
perched upon a commanding eminence overlooking the entire Owens
Valley, is in plain view for forty miles.
The southern patrol force has been efficiently handled by Commis-
sioner Connell and an effective plan of expansion based on temporary
appointments of extra deputies has been worked out to meet the emer-
gency demands of seasonal openings. Already a list of expert men,
some of previous experience as peace officers, others as sportsmen, has
been recorded. Because it is impossible even with the present increas-
ing income of the Fish and Game Commission to cover the country con-
stantly with a fully adequate force of men, the plan of meeting the
emergencies coming at the opening of the trout season on IMay 1, the
dove and deer season on September ], and the general bird season on
October 15, has been adopted. And should it seem justified, the extra
men may be kept on duty a longer time, and they will thus stand an
excellent chance of permanent appointment whenever the funds permit
such increase. As the number of sportsmen increases, the liability of
increased patrol duty is automatically forced upon the Commission and
also the AvhereMdthal to finance it in form of license-revenue. Thus the
scheme is developing, by actual field training and education, a supply
of future deputies fit to keep California far in advance of all states in
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME. 135
the Union in the businesslike conservation of her fish and game
resources.
Already the policy of strict enforcement and of publicity and educa-
tion has reflected itself in a notable growth of the law-abiding spirit.
With over thirty men afield watching trout violations, very few license
cases were brought, and few failed to carry their licenses with them,
although the deputies turned in thousands of names of licensees exam-
ined and compelled — willingly enough in the main — to exhibit catches.
The growth of favorable opinion was well summed up in the words of
one licensee accosted on Bear Lake who produced his license with the
words — "Sure thing; that's the cheapest thing I buy." They are
realizing that the Fish and Game Commission is merely borrowing their
dollars to return on demand at a most usurious rate of interest in
bettering hunting and fishing conditions. In view of the great general
good accomplished, very much less criticism of relatively unimportant
or immaterial details is heard than even a year ago. Men are learning
that the business of fish and game is a "big business," to be judged
bv general results, not immaterial trifles.
136
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME
A publication devoted to the conserva-
tion of wild life and published quarterly
by the California State Fish and Game
Commission.
Sent free to citizens of the State of Cali-
fornia. Offered in exchange for ornitho-
logical, mammalogical and similar period-
icals.
The articles published in California Fish
AND Game are not copyrighted and may be
reproduced in other periodicals, provided
due credit is given the California Fish and
Game Commission. Editors of newspapers
and periodicals are invited to make use of
pertinent material.
All material for publication should be
sent to H. C. Bryant, Museum of Verte-
brate Zoology, Berkeley, Cal.
July 24, 1916.
God has lent us the earth for our
life. It is a great entail. It belongs
as much to those who are to come
after us, and whose names are already
written in the book of creation, as to
us, and we have no right, by anything
we do or neglect, to involve them in
any unnecessary penalties, or to de-
prive them of the bsnefit which was
in our power to bequeath. — Ruskin.
LOOK BEFORE YOU SHOOT.
We noed but call the attention of our
readers to the list of hunting accidents
which appeared in the last number of
California Fjsu and Game (Vohime 2,
pp. 93-04) to bring home the need for
following the motto, "Look before you
shoot." With a little care the usual list
of hunting accidents can be cut down to
a minimum. The law definitely states
that the only deer which may be killed
during the open season are those having
antlers. Not even spiked bucks are
allowed to be taken. There is, therefore,
little excuse for the man who mistakes
:i man for a deer. Be sure you see the
'intlcrs hefore you shoot.
DEER HUNTERS ATTENTION!
SAFETY FIRST!
HUNTERS' RULES.
1.
Never crawl or creep.
2.
Wear a conspicuous coat, hat,
or hatband.
3.
Be sure you see and know
what you aim at.
Fig. 46. Columbian black-tailed deer.
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
137
THE EDUCATIONAL FUNCTION OF
THE DEPUTY.
Although the detection of the violator
forms an important aspect of the work of
the deputy, his more positive and inclusive
function is the guarding of the wild life
resources of the state. To fulfil this func-
tion knowledge is all important. The
deputy should therefore know all the
various forms of wild life in his state and
should be familiar with their life history
and habits. The district in which he lives
will depend upon him for information of
this kind and the scientist will look to him
for adding to the store of useful informa-
tion on the occurrence of unusual species
or extraordinary habits.
All information on the status and life
history of the various species of wild life
and on the work of the Fish and Game
Commission should be sent by the deputy
to the Bureau of Education, Publicity and
Research, California Fish and Game Com-
mission, Berkeley, Cal., where it will be
properly utilized. Whenever possible,
photographs and illustrative specimens
should be collected as evidence. The pub-
lications of the Commission, which aim
to record and disseminate the knowledge
thus collected, should be kept constantly
in mind and pertinent material should be
sent for them. These publications are
California Fish and Game (quarterly),
Teachers' and Farmers' Bulletins
(published at irregular intervals) and
the Biennial Report.
Accurate scientific ^ata must always be
the ground work for adequate legislation,
and the contribution of such data by the
deputy is an important phase of his work.
Another aspect of the educational func-
tion of the deputy is the spreading of the
doctrine of wild life conservation. Em-
phasis should ever be laid upon methods
of conservation rather than upon methods
of destruction. The people in the dis-
trict in which a deputy is at work should
lie kept informed as to the alms of the
Fish and Game Commission and of the
deputy's individival work. Every effort
should be made to gain co-operation, not
only to the end that game laws are
enforced, but that wild life is properly
conserved.
A person educated to the value of and
the need for game conservation is a
greater force in wild life protection than
a violator brought to justice. The local
newspapers are valuable mediums in de-
veloping proper sentiment as regai'ds wild
life and should be utilized continually.
Organizations such as game protective
associations, women's clubs and schools
can be made valuable allies in construc-
tive work along the lines of wild life
conservation.
Nothing can be of more permanent
value to the cause of wild life protection
than a campaign of education conducted
officially by the state department whose
function it is to conserve the wild life
resources.
VENISON CAN BE DISTINGUISHED
FROM OTHER MEATS.
In past years the California Fish and
Game Commission has often failed to
convict violators of the deer laws when
the evidence was in the form of dried or
smoked meat and the identity of meat
remained obscure or unknown. Provided
the meat contained small bones or skin it
could usually be identified, but otherwise
no means was at hand for distinguishing
whether or not it was venison. Through
the co-operation of Professor F. P. Gay
of the Department of Pathology of the
University of California and Mr. Frank
C. Clarke, formerly a member of the
scientific staff of this Commission, a
method has been worked out whereby,
through the use of a precipitin test, ven-
ison can be distuiguished from bear meat,
mutton, beef, goat, or any other meats,
no matter in what form it has been pre-
pared. This method is the same as that
employed in European countries in the
diagnosis of meat and meat preparations
where fraud is suspected.
The precipitin test is prepared in the
following manner :
Antisera for venison is first prepared
by injecting fresh serum from deer blood
into rabbits by intravenus and by sub-
cutaneous injections. These injections
by each method, respectively, are given
on three successive days with a three-
day interval. The blood is then with-
drawn antiseptically from the rabbits and
a serum extracted. This precipitin, when
placed with a weak extract made from
deer flesh with sterile physiological
normal salt solution, forms a cloudy pre-
cipitate, but when placed with an extract
from the flesh of any other sort of animal,
does not form a precipitate. This test
4—24287
138
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
has beeil used in important cases in Cali-
fornia and lias been iustnimontal in con-
vincing the jury that the meat in question
was venison.
ADVANTAGES OF A BUCK LAW.
The following quotations from an
article published in 1915 by Mr. John B.
Rurnham, president of the New York
State r^eague for the Protection of Fish
and Game, appeared in a leaflet issued
by the National Educators Conservation
Society. They clearly point out the ad-
vantages to be derived from such a doer
law as that possessed by the state of Cali-
furnia :
"Insures 'perpetuation of a species
which not only furnishes sport * * *
hut also provides a valuable food supply.
The farmer sells his bull calves and
wether lambs and saves the heifer calves
and ewes, and similarly under a buck law
the buck deer are killed and the docs
saved so that the future supply will be
assured.'
"I'rohibiting sales of game, reducing
bag limits, and shortening open seasons
are none of them as good as the present
buck law. Short seasons mean over-
crowding with hunters and grave danger
to human life. 'With deer, the law pro-
tecting all animals excejit those bearing
horns exactly meets the situation. Wlien-
such a law is in force a longer open
season can be given with the resultant
advantage of less crowding in the woods
at any one time and a fair bag limit
can be permitted without endangering the
supply.'
"Protection of the does protects the
fawns also. 'For two years, while the
law ))ermitting the killing by still-hunting
of both bucks and does was in force, only
one deer out of four shipped over (he
Adirondack division of the New York
Central Railroad had horns ; the others
were does and fawns.'
"The buck law saves human life. In
1909-10 in five states without the buck
law 40 lives were lost and over 10(1
wounded. In 1910-12 in nine states
having the buck law NO lives were lost.
'ITnder the present buck law in New
York state * * * there was no case
during the last hunting season where
anyone was killed by being mistaken for
a deer. On the other hand, there were 21
deaths from hunting accidents in Wiscon-
sin, a state having no buck law.'
"The law stands the test. Vermont
has given the law the longest test. It is
the only state in the Union today which
complains with reason of too m;iny deer.
"Puck-shooting requires true sports-
manlike skill. 1 hinting does is like shoot-
ing cows in a barnyard.
''Even the oi)|ionents of the buck law
in Now Y'ork admit the tremendous in-
crease of deer which has occurred during
the three years it has been in operation.
\'ermont would have no more deer today
than it had in 1S75 were it not for the
I)rotection of does. George Shiras. 3d, the
famous big game hunter, photographer
and naturalist, with the assistance of Dr.
Fisher and Professor Beal of the Biolog-
ical Survey at Washington, recently pre-
I)ared a table which shows that with a
buck law good shooting is afforded and
the supply of doer increased under exactly
similar conditions which spell extermi-
nation with the other law.
"For the purposes of the comparison
it was assumed that a breeding stock of
24 bucks and 24 does, age two years,
wore available and that the increase an-
nually thereafter was one and a half
fawns per pair. The ratio would not of
course be affected if a lesser or greater
number were taken as the original stock
or increase.
"Under the old law, assuming that 50
per cent of the deer wei'e shot annually,
extermination would result at the end of
ten years, during which period 155 deer
would have been killed.
"Under the same conditions, assuming
that 50 per cent of bucks only were
killed, at the end of the ten-year period
7<S1 bucks would have been bagged and
there would remain a breeding herd of
7S1 bucks and 1,502 does, or a total of
2.343 live deer in the woods. If 72 per
cent of the bucks were killed the hunters
would have secured 1,170 bucks and there
would be left a breeding stock of 1,952
deer.
" 'That there are more bucks in the
forest for hunters to shoot shortly after
the adoption of the new law,' says Mr.
Shiras, 'than does and bucks combined
under the other law, ought to satisfy even
the selfish class who have no regard for
the rights of future generations, or the
efforts now being made to prevent the ex-
termination of wild- game.' "
THE ADVANTAGES OF A BUCK LAW,
THEREFORE, ARE:
1. In successful operation today in a
majority of the important deer-
producing states.
2. Protects human lives.
3. Is based on common-sense breeding
principles.
4. Increases the stock of deer wherever
given a fair trial, as in the state of
Vermont.
DEER DIE FROIVl PECULIAR DISEASE.
During July, 1911, deer began to die
in southern Trinity County and the epi-
demic spread over the southern half of
this county and passed into Humboldt and
luirthern Mendocino counties. From
descriptions and from evidence obtained
(his disease, at least as found in Trinity
CAIJPORNIA FISH AND GAME.
139
County, was due to an infestation of
bladder worms, which parasites developed
on the intestines, liver, lungs, and other
vitals of the deer.
Reports this last spring (191G) from
two sections of the state indicate that hun-
dreds of deer have again died from some
peculiar disease. Deputy Perkins, of
Fort Bragg, reported that a number of
deer were found dead, presumably from
disease, in the Point Arena section.
Deputy G. O. Daws, of Weaverville,
Trinity County, reported that conditions
on and near a part of the Trinity For-
est game refuge (district 2G) were seri-
ous. Large numbers of deer were found
dead. They were in fine condition and
could not have died from starvation.
of the Fish and Game Commission also
make note of the deer killed in their
respective districts. Where no actual
records have been kept, a reliable esti-
mate has been obtained from residents
conversant with local conditions. These
reports, although incomplete, afford a
basis for an estimate as to the kill of
deer each year. Records of this kind
have been kept since 1911, during which
year 6,489 were reported as killed. The
total number reported in 1914 was 8,G99,
as compared with 8,343 for 1915. It
seems possible that fewer hunters may
have been in the field in 1915, thus
causing a reduction in the number of
deer reported as killed. The discrepancy
may be due also to a greater degree of
Fig. 47. Anticipation and Realization. Black-tailed deer fawn being
Game Farm, Hayward, California.
reared at the State
Examination seemed to show that they
had died of the same disease which at-
tacked deer in Trinity and surrounding
counties in 1911. A later report from Mr.
Laws states that the disease spread over a
large part of northern Trinity County,
and was fatal to many deer. Mr. Jesse
Smith, of Hawkin's Bar, states that he
thinks fully one-half of the deer died in
his section.
AT LEAST
12,000 DEER
1915.
KILLED IN
On page 168 of this issue will be found
a computation of the number of deer killed
during the hunting se;ison of 1915. Data
on deer killed in the National Forests are
obtained by forest rangers, and deputies
incompleteness in returns. The total kill
for 1914 was estimated to be at least
12,000, and the figures of this year lead
to a like estimate.
When segregated for each county the
figures furnish interesting evidence as to
the distribution of deer in this state,
although in some eases large kills are
indicative of concentrated hunting rather
than of large deer population. If the
actual figures are depended upon, Siskiyou
County leads in the kill for 1915, with
Monterey a close second. Trinity County,
which headed the list for 1914, drops into
third place. In southern California,
Santa Barbara County alone shows a kill
which compares favorably with northern
counties.
140
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
The main object of this computation is
the assembling of data which will lead
to better administration of our deer
supply. The factor most necessary in
conserving the supply of wild life is the
provision of a sufficient breeding stock.
The computation of the toll taken each
year leads to a knowledge of the needs
of the species as regards breeding stock
and thus allows a basis for proper legis-
lative measures to meet the changing con-
ditions from year to year. Up to this
year the records have shown a steady
increase in the number killed. Should
a steady decrease now be shown from year
to year, evidence will be at hand that the
bleeding stock is being impaired and
steps will have to be taken to give deer
bett^'r protection.
SALT LICKS FOR DEER.
Several seasons past it was reported by
a forest ranger that in a certain district
in the Trinity National Forest the cattle
had monopolized the natural licks to a
large extent and that the deer were hunt-
ing salt licks in the mud along the Trinity
IMver. He recommended that salt be
furnished for the deer in such localities.
In order to try out this scheme experi-
mentally, the Fish and Game Commis-
sion last spring furnished the forest
service with twenty five-pound Leslie salt
bricks, half of them equipped with hang-
ers and the others without hangers.
These were distributed to the district
rangers to be used in suitable locations
where frequent observations could be
made by a forest officer. Eight bricks
were furnished the Big Bar District and
two were sent to each of the other dis-
tricts. The results for the various
districts as reported by Supervisor Coff-
inau are as follows :
Bhj Bar District. District Ranger
Brannan reports :
"On August 1, 1915, I shipped two salt
bricks to Bert Hisgins at the Keystone
Ranger Station. They were placed on a
deer crossing at the mouth of White's
Creek. The deer seemed afraid of it.
Guard Iliggins made a solution of salt
and sugar and rubbed it on the tree around
the bricks. The doer licked the bark of
the tree all smooth liefore the bricks wei'e
touched. From the first night on, two
deer came until the sugar was gone.
.\fter the fifth night there were from two
t(i ten until the salt was gone.
The salt places at Helena and Diirger
Flat established about August 1st. were
used very little up to November liOth.
On August 8d, I placed two bricks near
the Waldorff Ranch. The first night only
one track was noticed ; second night there
were more tracks, and from the third
night on, until the salt was gone, the
ground was all torn up. The salt lasted
only four weeks.
On August Sth, I placed two salt
bricks on Don Juan Creek. There seemed
to be only a few deer in that section. On
the first night four deer found the salt
and continued to use it or were siill
using it the last time I was th^re on
October 20th."
Hayford District. District Ranger
Everest writes :
"Guard Duncan placed one of thes? salt
blocks in approximate Sec. 33, T. 30 N.,
R. n W. The other was placed by Guard
Randolph in Sec. 19, T. 1 S., R. 8 E.
The blocks were in each case placed
where deer were plentiful. They were
examined several times during the season
and both guards report that the deer have
made absolutely no attempt to use them."
Mad River District. District Ranger
Gray reports :
"Only one of the salt blocks forwarded
to this district to be placed on the range
for deer was placed this season. This
block was placed near C. H. Matthews'
cabin on the South Fork River, where a
considerable number of deer are found,
and which very few range stock frequent.
Mr. Matthews advised me that he was
interested in the matter, and if I would
nlaee the block in the vicinity of
his home he would keep a careful record
as desired by the Commission ; this he
has done. On or about August 1st, the
block was placed at a point about 400
yards distant from Mr. Matthews' cabin
liear a large thicket of brush which
nany deer frequent. The block was
attached to a large fir tree about three
feet from the ground. All leaves and
trash were removed from around the base
of the tree so that tracks could be readily
seen. Mr. Matthews visited the lick twice
a week during the fall, or until he left
the South Fork, which was about Octo-
ber 20th. He reports that deer ap-
proached within a few yards of the
lick but none were known to have used
it. Mr. Matthews will resume his obser-
vations al'out April 1, 191(»."
Lower Triniti/ District. District Ran-
ger Graham reports :
"I put the two cakes of salt out ; ore
I put near the river below the Douglas
Ranch and the other I put near the trail
to the Four Mile Ranger Station. The
deer immediately found them and they
were eaten in less than a month from the
time I put them out.
Deer in this locality are usually "salt
hungry" during the summer and will
travel a long distance to a salt lick, and
no doubt a reasonable amount of salt
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
141
distributed on the ranges would be of
benefit to them." .
Stuarts Fork Districi. District Ranger
Chamberlain writes : . ^ ^, ,.
"I received two bricks of the saJt
referred to, one to hang on a tree, the
other to be laid on the ground. I gave
the one to be hung on a tree to Guard
Mahonpy and reqnostpd him to place it
on Montgomery Ridge east of the Buckeye
Ranger Station, and to visit it occasionally
to see how much of it was used. Just be-
fore Mr. JNIahonev left the station, which
was on September 30th, he stated that
deer had not made use of the salt brick.
The brick to be laid on the ground I
put on the top of Browns Mountain, just
north of the wagon road between the
Costa place and Eli Cambon's. I visited
it quite often and as long as it stayed there
it was not used. After about three and &
half months it was missing. Someone evi-
dentlv carried or threw it away.
I saw numerous fresh deer tracks and
cattle tracks also, which showed that botli
deer and cattle had walked over the salt
brick, and passed close by it; but as I
stated before it was not used. I thmk the
reason is this : Costa salts his cattle with
■ ordinary cattle salt in his corral and in a
"ulch about one half mile north of the silt
brick, and I think that both cattle and
deer prefer the cattle salt. I have seen
deer using the salt put out by Mr. Costa.
On Buckeve Mountain the sheep men
put out .'<alt for their sheep which the
deer use in preference to the brick. And
it may be that they are afraid of the
brick salt, although I hardlv think so. '
No reports are at hand from the Hyam-
pom and Yola Bola Districts.
While the reports from three of the
districts appear to indicate failure there,
the results in the Big Bar and Lower
Trinity districts are distinctly favorable,
and if" the Commission wishes to continue
the use of salt for deer in those districts
we will be very glad to distribute it and
make further observations.
sparrows, and all of the deputies of the
Fish and Game Commission will be set
to work killing sparrows and directing
others in the work. As elsewhere, the
European house sparrow is filthy in its
habits, is destructive to crops, and in
addition drives out native insectivorous
birds which are beneficial to man's inter-
ests. There are few who will mourn if
the "English" sparrow is lessened in
numbers, and there are many who will
greatly appreciate any effort to destroy
these objectionable birds.
San Diego has already engaged in an
active campaign against these birds. An
ordinance appropriating $125 for spar-
row destruction was passed on April 5,
1916. The task of destroying sparrows
was given to one man who is to receive
five cents apiece for all "English" spar-
rows killed. The campaign seems to have
met with considerable success. Similar
measures should be instituted in other
cities of our state.
JUDGES GIVE SEVERE SENTENCES.
The judges of the state are taking more
and more interest in enforcing the fish
and game laws. During the past few
months several heavy penalties have
been exacted from violators. Since Jan-
uary 1st, eleven jail sentences have been
imposed for various violations of the fish
and game laws. Three of these sen-
tences were for a period of 150 days,
in two cases for killing does, and in the
third case for fishing with illegal nets.
Tn two instances offenders were given no
alternative to the jail sentences.
WAR TO BE WAGED ON ENGLISH
SPARROW.
Sentiment against the European house
sparrow, commonly called the English
sparrow, has become so strong that the
Fish and Game Commission has decided
to carry on a publicity campaign, which
it is hoped will lead to a better control
of the pest in California. A leaflet giving
methods of identifying "English" spar-
rows and means of destroying them will
soon be issued. In addition, a campaign
of publicity will be undertaken to en-
courage a united effort to rid California
of this bird pest. A week will be set
aside during which everyone will be
asked to co-operate in the destruction of
SNOW MOUNTAIN DAM HEARING.
A hearing was held by the Fish and
Game Commission on April 1. 1916, at
Upper Lake, Lake County, regarding con-
ditions relating to trout and salmon at
the Snow Mountain dam on the south
fork of the Eel River.
The meeting planned by Mr. M. E.
Benedict, supervisor of the California
National Forest, was well attended;
about sixty men were present, some of
whom had come from Lakeport, eleven
miles distant. Mr. Benedict acted as
chairman and brought out the following
points ns the main objects of complaint:
1. That, whereas fish were formerly
very abundant in the upper part of the
142
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
South Fork of the Eel River, they are now
few in number and little or no re-
stocking of the streams has taken place
since the Snow Mountain Dam was con-
structed and spawning operations begun.
2. That no large fish are to be found
above the dam.
3. That in the spawning operations
carried on at the Snow Mountain Hatch-
ery many fish not used for spawning are
prevented from reaching the upper part
of the stream.
4. That the fish ladder does not appear
to be adequate and that most of the fish
are unable to reach the stream above
(see Fig. 49).
After talks by the representatives of
the Fish and Game Commission (N. B.
Scofield, F. H. Shebley, and II. C. Bry-
ant) the meeting was thrown open for a
discussion of the points.
The meeting lasted for over two hours,
at the end of which time the following
resolutions were unanimously passed :
1. That the fish not used by the (\>ra-
mission for spawning purposes be allowed
to pass into the stream above the dam
instead of below, as has been done in
the past.
2. That the Fish and Game Commis-
sion plant a large number of trout fry
above the dam this coming season.
.3. That it be the sentiment of the
meeting that the fish and game laws of
the state be observed and enforced.
4. That an investigation of the fi.sli
ladder be made to find out whether or
not the fish are deterred by the ladder
from passing up stream.
5. That special provision be made to
see that the first run of steelhead ti'out
be allowed to ascend the stream un-
molested until spawning operations are
begun.
It was clearly brought out in the dis-
cussion that the hatchery as at present
operated is a detriment to the restocking
of the stream above the dam, in that the
fish not used for spawning purposes are
liberated below the fi.sh ladder and are
unable to reach the upper stretches of the
stream. An investigation of conditions at
the dam, on April 2d, showed that with
small expense the fish for spawning pur-
poses could be taken from the fish lad-
der near the spawning house and, by
means of a flume run to the fish ladder
just above, those not used for spawning
could be returned to such a point on the
ladder that they could easily reach the
stream above. The three representatives
of the Commission unanimously recom-
mended that such a change be immedi-
ately instituted.
Fig. 48. Snow Mountain Power Company's dam in Mendocino County.
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
143
Fig. 49. Fish ladder at Snow Mountain dam, Mendocino County. Investigation has shown
that fish readily ascend this ladder.
WILD GAME AND ITS PRESER-
VATION.
Under the title "Wild Game and Its
Preservation — A Correction of Some
Popular Fallacies" the San Francisco
Examiner has been running a series of
articles attacking the State Fish and
Game Commission and defending the
market hunter. The author of the series
is Mr. Fred S. Walker, of Los Banos,
a former newspaperman. Mr. Walker
contends, in the first place, that all of
the waterfowl of the interior valleys are
on the road to extinction, owing to recla-
mation projects. So long as they will
soon be entirely exterminated, he says,
let us make the best use of them possible
at the present time. This use is, he
points out, to place them on the market
and to allow the market hunter free
range even to the extent of dispensing
with the limit law. Many of Mr. Walk-
ers' arguments are false and his state-
ments inconsistent. As an example of
his inconsistency the following conflict-
ing statements may be noted. He writes :
"The game of the valleys — irrespective of
'preservative' laws — is fated to become
extinct. Its destiny is beyond the control
of any Commission." In another para-
graph we find : "As practically all our
ducks and geese are bred in the isolated
provinces of Canada, and their foraging
is detrimental to the garden industry of
this state, and as the shooting of a mil-
lion birds here every year would not
materially affect the supply, it would seem
the par*: of wisdom to wipe out the fifty-
a-week limit on these birds and to open
up the markets of the state for their sale
so that all might enjoy on their tables
the flesh of wild life." If waterfowl are
doomed to extinction in the interior val-
leys how can such an inexhaustible sup-
ply still be forthcoming as is suggested in
the second sentence?
We need not give further comment to
this series of articles. We are sure that
no one will be hoodwinked into believing
that out game should be slaughtered with
no restriction simply because reclamation
is fast reducing numbers. Nor do we
believe that people will accept the deroga-
tory statements against the Fish and
Game Commission. The Commission is
searching for methods of conserving
wild life, not for methods of destroying
it.
144
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
Fig. 50. Valley quail chicks at State Game
Farm. Photograph by H. C. Bryant,
May 29, 1916.
IS IT ANY WONDER?
The number of huutors is increasing
from 5 to 10 per cent each year ; facilities
for getting to what were formerly inacces-
sible places have increased, it now being
possible for a man with an automobile to
go one hundred miles or more away from
the railroad in a few hours' time ; game
country in which a gun was never heard
a few years ago is now overrun with
hunters ; ranchers are crowding into all
parts of the state and thus restricting the
breeding ground of game ; guns have been
perfected so that now five shots can be
fired into a flock of birds almost before
they are aware of the presence of the
hunter. Is it any wonder that game is
diminishing in numbers? The wonder is
that there is any left.
BOY SCOUT CO-OPERATION.
Arrangements have been completed
whereby boy scouts in this state will take
an active part in wild life conservation
and act as aids to the Fish and Game
Commission. The following statement
was recently sent every scout master in
California :
The boy scout is in a position to aid
materially in the enforcement of fish
and game laws and in the care and
con.servation of wild life. On the other
hand, work of this kind not only makes
a scout a better citizen but it prepares
him for the test for the merit badge in
conservation, requirements Nos. 2, 4,
and 6 specifying particularly this kind
of work. Co-operation by boy scouts
in the conservation of wild life in this
state is therefore sought by the Cali-
fornia Fish and Game Commission.
Credit will be given boy scouts for the
following types of work :
1. The dissemination of knowledge on
the fish and game laws, the work of the
California Fish and (lame Commission,
and on wild life conservation. (It would
be of great aid to the Commission if boy
scouts would always take the opportuuit.v
to inform cainijcrs, hiniti>rs, and others
with whom they come in contact, of the
fish and game laws, warn them of their
liability for violation of these laws, and
report all violations to the nearest game
warden.)
2. The finding and reporting of wild
game which has been injured or destroyed
in numbers, either through natural or
artificial means.
3. The systematic feeding of game dur-
ing severe winters, or the encouragement
of wild birds through feeding, the planting
of cover, or the building of nest boxes.
4. The taking of a census of any one
game species in a restricted area.
5. The destruction of predacious ani-
mals injurious to wild life or the destruc-
tion of that worst of bird pests, the
European house sparrow, usuall.v called
English sparrow.
In return for co-operation, the Com-
mission will award a prize (or prizes
if necessary) of a pair of golden pheas-
ants to the boy scout who does the most
co-operative work. Scouts wishing to
cpialify for this prize should report regu-
larly on the work accomplished through
their Scout Master to Dr. II. C. Bryant,
Museum of Vertebrate Zoology, Berkeley,
California. A copy of the state fish and
game laws is being sent you and other
literature is available on request. If
sufficient interest is shown in fish and
game co-operative work, a merit badge
will be offered by the Commission.
FISH AND GAME LECTURES GIVEN
TO FORESTRY STUDENTS.
For the second time the Bureau of
Education, Publicity, and Research of the
California Fish and Game Commission
has co-operated with the Forestry Depart-
ment of the University of California by
giving a series of lectures on fjsh and
game. This year these lectures were
given before a class in general forestry
in which there were about 350 enrolled
students. The following were the sub-
jects and the speakers :
The geographical distribution of
plants and animals in California
Dr. J. (rrinncU.
Game and nongame birds of Cali-
fornia Dr. IF. C. Bryant
The economic value of birds
Dr. H. C. Bryant.
Game and fur-bearinsr mammals of
California Dr. H. C. Bryant.
Mammals in their economic relations
Mr. T. I. mover.
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
145
The food and game fishes of Cali-
foruia Mr. N. B. Scofield.
The past, present and future of game
in California Dr. II. C. Brt/ant.
The national forests and wild life
Dr. II. a. Bryant.
Methods of game conservation
Dr. H. C. Bryant.
WHY ANTELOPE DO NOT INCREASE.
The antelope is probably one of the
game mammals which is so nearly extir-
pated that it will never again take a place
among those animals hunted for food or
sport. One of the fundamental reasons
Fig. 51. Deputies and assistants of San Francisco office attend lecture on conservation at
University of California.
These lectures were designed to furnish
a working knowledge of the common birds
and mammals of the state with particular
reference to important game species and
to the problem of their conservation. The
lectures were open to the general public
and attracted many outsiders, and the last
of the series was attended by ten deputies
of the Fish and Game Commission (see
Fig. 53).
FISH AND GAME EXHIBIT AT CHICO
FAIR,
The Fish and Game Comrnission in-
stalled an exhibit at the fair held at
Chico the last week in May. Ducks,
pheasants and quail from the State Game
Farm at Hayward were on display and
aquaria contained black bass, blue-gill
perch and catfish from the Sacramento
River, many salmon fry, and rainbow,
eastern brook, and Loch Leven trout.
Methods used in hatching and rearing
rainbow trout were demonstrated in a
small hatchery. The publications of the
commission were also prominently dis-
played. The exhibit proved to be one of
the most attractive at the fair.
why antelope are decreasing rapidly in
this state at the present time is that
certain persons, either with malicious
intent or because of lack of knowledge,
take a toll from the small herds still
existing. As evidence we call attention
to the fact that Deputy G. W. Court-
right recently reported that a dead male
antelope had been found near Alturas,
Modoc County, which had been shot by
an unknown person. The animal was
discovered by D. B. Henks, a govern-
ment hunter. Evidence that it had been
shot but a short time is shown by the
fact that it was donated to a county
hospital for food. Until people more
carefully obey the state game laws there
is little likelihood that antelope will
increase in our state.
SEA LIONS TRIED AS CARP- Kl LLERS.
Under permit from Commissioner Con-
nell, Mr. Ira Eaton, of Santa Barbara,
procured four adult and two baby sea
lions in the Santa Barbara Channel.
These were released in Guadalupe Lake
on January 27, 1916. It was hoped that
the sea lions would cause the destruction
146
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
of carp and thus better fishing conditions.
On February 7, 191G, the two baby sea
lions were killed by Italians living in
the near vicinity, and about the same
time the other four sea lions disappeared.
It is supposed that they went to the
ocean. Whether or not the sea lions
destroyed large numbers of carp, as was
expected, has not been ascertained.
THE SCIENTIFIC COLLECTOR.
The work being ac( oinplished by the
holder of a scientific collpctiug pei'mit is
not appreciated by many people of this
state. Instead of encouraging the very
work which brings the best returns so far
as knowledge of bird life is concerned,
tliere is a constant tendency to criti<-ise
and curtail this sort of work. No endur-
ing facts regarding the status and habits
of wild life can be obtained without
the collection of specimens. The most
dependable and recognized record of oc-
currence is always based on a bird in
the hand, or, in other words, the scien-
tific specimen.
The following defense of the scientific
collector by Mr. Frank M. Chapman,
curator of birds in the American Museum
of Natural History, appeared in a recent
review :
"The editor, Mr. .John Dryden
Kuser, writes at length on the ethics of
bird protection. He admits the right
of the sportsman to kill birds for
pleasure under 'a reasonable regula-
tion of killing, so that it may be kej)!
down to a basis where the game con-
tinues to be preserved and is not de-
creased,' but deplores the collecting of
birds by amateurs for preservation and
study. But has not the student e(|ual
rights with the sportsman and. plea-
sure aside, is it not more defensible to
shoot a bird for the cabinet than for
the table? Furthermore, since the
student takes his toll from the entire
avifauna rather than a very limited
part of it. and his wants, once filled.
are not recurrent with the opening of
every shooting season, why is he not
less destructive than the sportsman?
We know of no instance in this
coiintry where the numbers of a spe-
cies have been appreciably affected by
purelj' amateur collecting; and where
such collecting is done with a definite
end in view, and not merely for the
purpose of acquisition, it shduld be per-
mitted by law. Indiscriminate collect-
ins: should be discouraged, not so much
because of the birds taken — they will
be preserved, not destroyed — but
because, in the greater part of our
country, it is a waste of time on the
part of the collector. He can emplo.v
his opportunities for field work to much
better advantage in studying birds
rather than in shooting them."
Mr. P. A. Tavemer of the Canadian
Geological Survey takes a similar view
of the scientific collector in the following :
"The fear that the legitimate collec-
tor will deplete our bird life is ground-
less. Even were the number of our
collectors increased many times and
stimulated to greatly increased energy
they would have a negligible elTect.
Large collections are sometimes pointed
to as causes of a supposed reduction in
bird life, but all the collections in
North America, the results of fifty
years' industrious work, would not
nearly equal the destruction caused in
one year by millinery plumage hunters.
When we consider the constant, wide-
spread persecution and the numl)er of
widel.y distributed sportsmen it has
taken to reduce our game birds, it is
obvious that a few scattered collectors
can have little, if any, influence upon
the bird population."
Of course, the collector must be reli-
able, for he is granted a privilege with
the understanding that he is to benefit
society by increasing scientific knowl-
edge. He is, therefore, expected to prc-
seiTe properly and care for each speci-
men and in the end see that his
collection is so disposed that it will be
of most service to the state.
SUGGESTIONS FOR ORNITHOLOGICAL
WORK.
Many people interested in bird life are
anxious to make a study that will be
worth while. An outline which can be
followed by both the amateur and the
trained ornithologist, and one which will
lead to a comprehensive knowledge of
the life history of a bird, is given here-
with. This valuable outline appeared in
an article by P. A. Taverner. of the
Canadian Geological Survey, entitled
"Suggestions for ornithological work in
Canada" (Offaim ^,^atura1isf. vol. 20,
April. May. 1915, pp. 14-18, 21-28).
"Ornithology can be approached and
studied from various sides and by indi-
viduals of many different tastes and
inclinations. For the general nature
lover, interested in birds from a iioetic
or esthetic standpoint, the study of life-
histories offers a most attractive field.
Careful watching and ohservins of
feathered friends in their secluded
haunts, bloodlessly stalking them with
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
147
camera and note or sketch-book and
divining the hidden secrets of their
lives is a pleasure that can be indulged
in by all and enjoyed by many. The
most common bird of our vicinity is
an object worthy of the most careful
and painstaking attention. The wren
building in the improvised nesting box
in the garden, the song sparrow of the
near-by thicket are both awaiting a
careful record of the story of their
daily lives. The amount of original,
valuable and interesting information
that can be gathered from such home-
like sources is almost infinite and un-
expected surprises will almost daily
ment produce a periodical desire to
migrate
"Which individuals come or leave
first, male or female, young or old?
"Are they mated when they arrive or
do they select mates after arrival?
"Are there any courtship ceremonies?
"What characters seem to determine
sexual selection? Vigor? Beauty?
Song?
"Do the same individuals return
year after year to the same localities,
and do they mate together annually?
"How wide is the local range of the
individual? Do they keep close to this
home area or wander widely?
Fig. 52. Mallard duck on nest at Stpte Game Farm, May, 1916. More than 20 mallards
have nested at the farm during the past spring.
repay the close observer. To those
whose time and opportunities are lim-
ited such birds about home are fruitful.
By those with more leisure, greater
ambition or ampler opportunities, work
farther afield may be pursued and spe-
cies less commonplace can be studied.
In fact there is work in this line for
everybody of widely divergent taste
and situation and even city parks and
backyard gardens will amply repay
attention.
"As a suggestion for investigation,
the following outline of problems to be
solved may be followed. It is mei-ely
suggestive and can be enlarged indefi-
nitely.
"Is the species a resident or a
migrant?
"When does it arrive and leave?
"What are the determining influ-
ences upon its migrations — food supply,
weather, or does physiological develop-
"When, where, and how do they nest?
"Which sex chooses the site?
"Which sex builds the nest and how
much and in what way do they aid
each other?
"What seem to be the qualities that
they look for in selecting a nesting
site?
"Do they work on the construction
throughout the day or only at regular
intervals?
"What is the technic of nest build-
ing?
"Is the technic the result of instinct,
experience or memory, and does it im-
prove with experience?
"Are all individuals of the species
equally expert in nest building?
"How far can they adjust nest to
new materials, situations or conditions?
"Is there any change in the routine
habits before, during or after nest
building?
148
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
"Are the eggs deposited immediatelj'
after the nest is finished?
"What is the incubation period?
"Mow many cgfjs are hiid and when,
how often, what is a normal set?
"Does the egg laying seem under the
consfious control of the individual?
"What determines the number of
eggs — the size of the nest, the judg-
ment, age or vigor of individual?
"How are the eggs brooded, by which
sex? Do they divide the labor? Are
the feathers removed from the abdo-
men of the brooding bird consciously
or do they wear off by friction with the
eggs? What is the incubation temper-
ature? How often are the eggs turned
by the parent?
"How are the eggs protected during
exceptionally inclement weather?
ATTRACTING BIRDS.
Bird lovers throughout the land are
.•seeking ways and means of increasing the
number of birds and of attracting them
to the vicinity of homes. While the basis
for this movement is in part esthetic, to
no small degree such efforts are based on
a growing appreciation of the usefulness
of birds as insect destroyei-s. The in-
crea.se of interest in wild birds through-
out the United States during the past
decade has been phenomenal, and organ-
izations having for their chief object the
care and protection of birds are numbered
by hundreds, if not thousands. Civic
leagues and women's clubs have been
especially active in attempts to attract
birds to city parks and suburbs, with a
view to bringing wild life to the doors of
those denied the privilege of knowing it
in wilder districts. Two publications
issued during the year designed to aid and
advance this movement — "Bird Houses
and How to Build Them" and "How to
Attract Birds in Northeastern United
States" — constitute manuals on the means
of attracting birds and fill a widespread
and continually growing demand. The
bulletin discussing methods of attracting
iiirds is the first of a series planned to
cover all sections of the United States.
Special attention is given to the kinds of
fruit-hearing shrubs and trees important
as furnishing food for birds. — Report of
Chief of Bureau of Biological Survey,
J 915, p. 6.
THE DOMESTIC CAT.
Mr. Edward Howe Forbush, State
Ornithologist of Massachusetts, has just
pul)lished a bulletin of 112 pages (State
Bd. of Agric, Economic Biology Bull.
No. 2) dealing with the cat as a bird
killer, mouser, and destroyer of wild life,
and with the means at hand of utilizing
and controlling it. After a discussion of
the history and habits of the cat much
evidence is adduced to prove that it is an
active and intelligent bird catcher. Not
only does the cat destroy song birds, but
also many game birds, such as ruffed
grouse, pheasants, partridges, snipe and
woodcock. Evidence as to the value of
the cat as a destroyer of rats and mice
and other vermin shows that its utility
in this respect is overrated. The
bulletin ends with a discussion of the cat
as a disseminator of disease, in which the
statement is made that reports from cor-
respondents apparently show that seven-
teen diseases are disseminated by cat.s.
chief of which are smallpox, scarlet fever,
ringworm, and serious infections result-
ing from the bites and scratches of a cat.
A.S a means of controlling the cat it is
suggested that ownerless cats should be
eliminated and owned cats confined like
other domestic animals or limited in their
movements to buildings or enclosures of
their owners, and also that cats be
licensed.
"The claims of the cat to a place in our
domestic life rest primarily on the fact
that it is supposed to do for us. with
little conscious effort on our part, the
onerous, petty and disagreeable task of
destroying small rodents which for cen-
turies have elected to fasten themselves
as parasites on civilization. Inasmuch as
the creature fails in this, in so far as it
destroys other more useful or nobler forms
of life, in such measure it becomes an evil
and a pest. It will become an influence
for good or ill according as we mould it.
restrain it and limit its activities. It is
our duty to check, w'ith a firm hand, its
undue increase in domestication, and to
eliminate the vagrant or feral cat as we
would a wolf."
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
149
THE BREEDING AND SHOOTING OF
THE AMERICAN PHEASANT.
A comprehensive book on the breeding
and shooting of tlio American pheasant
has been published under the authorship
of Mr. E. A. Quarles, Director of the
Department of Game Breeding and Pre-
serving of the American Game Protective
Association. This work, which was orig-
inally intended as a pamphlet on the
breeding of the ring-necked pheasant, was
finally enlarged to a book of 136 pages,
illustrated with 50 half-tones. In the
preface emphasis is placed upon the fact
that overflow from club and private pre-
serves invariably results in the stocking
of public covers in the neighborhood, so
that the organization of clubs for pheas-
ant shooting is of considerable value.
Mr. Quarles also advocates, as does the
Commission on Fisheries and Game of
Massachusetts, encouraging the small
breeder rather than wholesale production,
since the number of persons who can rear
pheasants by the thousands is limited com-
pared with those who are able to rear a
small number.
Full directions are given as to how ring-
necked pheasants may be bred in captivity
and how the young may be successfully
reared. A chapter then follows on disease
and its prevention and one on combating
vermin. Other chapters deal with the
rearing of fancy breeds of pheasants, the
marketing of the pheasant, the use of
pheasants for sport, and how a pheasant
is prepared for the table.
To pheasant breeders throughout the
United States this work will form an im-
portant handbook, for it is without doubt
the most comprehensive book yet issued
on the subject. It can be obtained, bound
in cloth, for thirty-five cents by address-
ing the American Game Protective Asso-
ciation, 233 Broadway, New York City.
This book, in connection with the pam-
phlets cited previously in these pages
(Volume 1, pages 225-22G) will furnish
all the information necessary to the per-
son who contemplates breeding game in
captivity.
A GREAT WORK ON PHEASANTS.
The pheasants of all the world are to
be glorified in what is considered the finest
and costliest publication on a group of
birds ever prepared. The first volume is
to appear this year, according to the an-
nouncement made at the annual meeting
of the board of managers of the New
York Zoological Society, which has the
work in charge. The price will be $250
for a set of four volumes, and the edition
will be limited to 500 sets. The returns
from sales will cover only a fraction of
publication cost. Colonel Anthony R.
Kuser, of New Jersey, a member of the
executive committee, contributed $100,000
to defray the expense of gathering the
material and preparing the elaborate
color plates and publishing the work. He
stands ready to make good any deficit.
Colonel Kuser is an enthusiastic pheas-
ant breeder, and on his estate near
Bernardsville, N. J., has many rare fowls,
gathered from all quarters of the globe.
The material for this remarkable work
has been assembled in the last four years
by C. William Beebe, the Zoological
Society's curator of birds. Specimens
were obtained by expeditions into the
Orient — 'India, Ceylon, the Malay Penin-
sula, Borneo, Siam, and China, and many
other places far from the beaten tracks.
The illustrations in color were made by
English artists, who excel in that field.
The plates, made in London, have been
praised for their artistic beauty as well
as their scientific accuracy. — American
Game Protective Association Bulletin,
February 15, 1916.
TO THE SPORTSMEN OF CALIFORNIA.
Do you know that there is more typhoid
fever contracted from outings in the great
out-of-doors than in every-day living?
Do you know that at least 4 per cent
of those who recover from typhoid fever
retain the germs within their bodies for
long periods, sometimes through life,
though apparently in good health, and
thus are "carriers" of the disease?
Do you know that the body wastes
from such a person, if deposited in the
stream from which you drink, even many
miles upstream, may contain enough
virile typhoid germs to pollute a stream
as large as the Truckee River to such an
extent that every glassful will contain at
least one typhoid bacillus?
Will you, therefore, make it your par-
ticular business to help prevent pollution
150
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
of California's streams by repairing for
the purpose of waste ejection to a spot so
removed from the stream that by no
chance can the refuse flow or be flushed
into the stream? You can render a great
service to the people of the state if you
observe this simple rule.
For your own health it is better to
carry good drinking water than to drink
from any stream whose watershed is in-
habited. If it is necessary to drink
such water, first boil it.
And for the sake of preserving the
beauty of the mountains will you :
LEAVE YOUR CAMP AS YOU
WOULD LIKE TO FIND IT. BURN
OR BURY ALL REFUSE. KEEP THE
PLEASURE GROUNDS OF AMERICA
CLEAN.
California State Board of Health.
HATCHERY AND FISHERY NOTES.
OPERATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT
OF FISH CULTURE.
The egg collecting season for trout is
practically over for this season. The
take of eggs of the different varieties is
as follows :
Steelhead trout 6,100,000
Rainbow trout 2,500,000
Loch Leven trout 1.725,000
Eastern brook trout 2,275.000
German brown trout 90,000
Black spotted trout 3,.325,U00
Total 16,015,000
Owing to severe weather conditions on
the Klamath River, the take of rainbow
eggs will be considerably less than last
season. The extremely high water during
the early part of the spawning season
interfered with the run of fish into the
streams where the egg collecting stations
are located, and later in the season the
long continued cold, clear weather caused
the trout to remain in the river and not
ascend the spawning streams tributary
to the main river as they usually do in
normal seasons when the warm rains
cause the trout to seek their spawning
beds far up the streams.
Owing to the long continued drought
on the coast streams the take of steelhead
eggs will fall a little short of last sea-
son, but as the streams of California were
so heavily stocked last season, we have
ample fry on hand to give the streams a
liberal supply. The applicants in Cali-
fornia receive more fish in proportion to
the size of the streams than in any other
state in the Union.
Next season the Kearsage Hatchery
and the Rae Lake egg collecting stations
will be in full operation, and we expect
to add several million more eggs to the
already large annual supply. Several
new stations are being planned by the
Department of Fish Culture, to be ready
for next year's work. Particular atten-
tion will be given to the propagation of
the rainbow trout for the Sierra streams
and an increase of steelhead for the coast
waters.
The Fort Seward Hatchery was com-
pleted during the fore part of April, and
on April liJth the first shipment of steel-
head trout eggs was put in the building.
At the present time there are one million
steelhead eggs at this station and we are
contemplating shipping a few more in
the near future.
The distribution of salmon fry was fin-
ished on May 1st. The total number
distributed was as follows :
Klamath River and tributa-
ries G.Sr>3.000
Sacramento River triDutaries
near Sisson Hatchery 8.078.000
Thi-ee million salmon fry will be held
in the ponds at Sisson to be reared and
distributed in the Klamath and Sacra-
mento rivers during the fall, before the
flood season in the rivers. One hundred
thousand salmon fry will be planted dur-
ing the season in the A''entura River. —
W. II. SlIEBLEY.
GOOSE-NECK BARNACLES.
One of the crustaceans which has here-
tofore been given very little, if any,
credit for its excellent food value, is the
goose-neck barnacle. There are probably
a great many people who know these
little animals only as peculiar ob.iects
commonly seen sticking on the rocks
along the rocky portions of the coast, and
never once realize that they are very fine
to eat. This species of barnacle, when
properly prepared, is found to taste very
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
151
much like lobster and is equally as good
to eat. It has recently become commer-
cially valuable, and many are being
shipped from Monterey each month to
San Francisco markets.
They are prepared as follows : Take
barnacle in shell and wash thoroughly
clean with small brush, then put in
colander to dry. Boil in strong salt
water until the barnacles shrink free
from the shell, and then remove the heavy
Sciences, and of fresh and salt water fish
for Stanford University. He will de-
vote especial attention to the little
explored coast between Monterey and San
Luis Obispo and to a study of the
transition forms of marine fishes in the
neighborhood of Point Conception.
Mr. Hubbs will also do some special
work for the California Fish and Game
Commission, in relation to the distribu-
tion of food fishes and edible mollusks.
Fig. 53. Trout spawning. The female can be seen at the left digging up the sand preparatory
to depositing eggs. The male is shown at the right. Photograph by J. H. Gyger, taken
on Orchard Creek, San Bernardino Mountains, April 25, 1916.
skin from the necks. The barnacles may
then be prepared as salad or in various
other w^ays.
To make "barnacle bras4e," season with
butter, a little parsley and a pinch of
garlic ; cover and steam for a few min-
utes, then add lime or lemon juice and
serve on hot plate.
DISTRIBUTION OF FOOD FISHES AND
MOLLUSKS TO BE STUDIED.
Carl L. Hubbs, of Stanford University,
is devoting the summer to a biological sur-
vey of the California coast from Monterey
to the Mexican line. He will make col-
lections of the lower forms of marine
animals for the California Academy of
FLOUNDERS EAT CLAM NECKS.
Mr. M. L. Clark, on being informed by
the Chinese clam diggers on Tomales Bay
that the California flounder puts in its
time eating the necks off the soft-shell
mud clams, decided to investigate for
himself. He captured several in a beach
seine and found them gorged with clam
necks. The Chinamen explained that if
only the tip of the neck is bitten off the
clam does not die, but if it happens to
be bitten a second time it can not
recover. Thus is added another to the
list of the clam's enemies on which the
sting-ray and the wild duck have respec-
tively held first and second place.
152
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
SHAD TO BE PROPAGATED IN
CALIFORNIA.
Owing to increased interest in the shad
as a food fish attempts will this year be
made to propagate this fish artificially.
The movements of the spawning fish are
being carefully studied, and an experi-
mental station has been established on
the Feather River near Yuba City. Here
an attempt will be made to collect shad
eggs for shipment to Massachusetts and
Connecticut, and a number of eggs will
be hatched and the fish reared for plant-
ing in California streams. If the experi-
c'onst than on the other and that we are
sending the eggs back.
On page 109 (California Fish and
(Jame, Vol. 2), I was "The American
bird protector" in question. An old
pirate died in England leaving the boast
that he had in his lifetime trapped 400,-
000 skylarks and sold them mostly in the
London market for a penny apiece. I
noticed that the markets in Vienna,
Genoa, and the South of .France had
great numbers of thrushes, bullfinches and
other singing birds. I made a protest to
Pi-ofessor Paul Sarrazin at Basel, the
Fig. 54. Fishermen's wharf at San Pedro, Los Angeles County, California.
ment is a success, it is planned to propa-
gate shad on an extensive scale. It i^
hoped that by this moans the shad rui
will be increased and a depletion, such as
has taken place in eastern states, will Ix'
avoided. — W. H. Shebley.
THE FIRST SHAD TAKEN IN THE
COLUMBIA.
I had the honor in 1880 to secure the
first shad taken in the Columbia River,
at Astoria. I sent it to the Smithsonian
Institution. It is interesting to know
that there are now more shad on this
chairman of our International Wild Life
Protection Committee. He said that
strenuous laws had been passed in
Switzerland, but in the Italian canton
Ticino they had never been able to get
them enforced. It is very diflicult to
bring the Mediterranean people to con-
ceive that the song birds in the winter
are their guests and that they have a
value to the world far greater than that
of the little lump of food which each one
can produce. I suppose that nearly all of
the people arrested for killing song birds
are those who have inherited this evil
hnbit. — -David Starr .Jordan.
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
153
SALMON TO BE TAGGED IN MON-
TEREY BAY.
Salmon appear in large numbers in
Monterey Bay one or two months before
the summer or fall run appears in the
Sacramento and San Joaquin rivers, and
it has always been believed that these
salmon in Monterey Bay are Sacramento
and San Joaquin River salmon on their
way to these rivers to spawn. Each year
the fishermen who have had experience
on the northern rivers claim that they can
Each tag is stamped with a serial num-
ber. The tags are made of silver because
this metal best withstands the action of
the sea water. We look forward with a
great deal of interest to the results of
this experiment.
Salmon are taken in large numbers in
the sea near Fort Bragg, Mendocino
County, and the Commission expects to
conduct similar tagging experiments at
that place.
Fig. 55. Rock cod fishermen, at San Francisco, baiting and coiling their lines in
baskets.
distinguish Eel River salmon, Klamath
River salmon, and even Columbia River
salmon among those caught in Monterey
Bay. For the purpose of determining
whether there are salmon other than
Sacramento and San Joaquin salmon in
the bay, the Fish and Game Commission
has undertaken to tag a number of these
fish and see if they are recaptured in
other rivers than the Sacramento and
San Joaquin. The quinnat salmon does
not enter any of the streams to the
south of Monterey Bay, but we know that
they move down the coast often as far
as Santa Barbara. Since the salmon
travels this distance from the pai'ent
stream, it would not be very remarkable
to find Columbia River salmon in Mon-
terey Bay. The tags, which are very
light, will be wired to the dorsal fin.
FISH CANNERY STATISTICS.
The following table gives the number
of cases of fish canned in California in
1915 :
Kind
l-lb. cans
l-lb. cans
J-lb. cans
Tuna
136,046
172,263
51,977
Sardines
45,578
609
Salmon
17,143
8,230
Abalone ^
4,780
4,284
Bonito
117
5,477
Yellowtail--
465
1,969
36
Shad
5,000
Shad roe
4,800
Rock-cod —
12
817
The value of cannery buildings and
equipment, exclusive of boats and nets,
was $855,0'0O; the number of people em-
ployed in canneries during the season was
1,950.
154
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
MONTEREY FISHERY NOTES.
During the spring the various packers
and fresh fish dealers have shown great
activity in the building and installing of
new equipment at Monterey and New
Monterey. Between 25,000 and 30,000
dollars have been expended by the packers
and wholesale dealers in this district.
The F. E. Booth Company has expended
$9,000 for the addition to their plant
of a new dock, salmon splitting house,
and for machinery and equipment. Mr.
K. Hovden is just finishing his new plant
at New >ronterey, which will cost, when
completed, nearly $8,000. Mr. Ben Send-
erman, of the Pacific Fish Company's
l)lant at New Monterey, has in.stalled now
machinery and made changes to the extent
of $4,000. The San Francisco Interna-
tional Fish Company of San Francisco
have put up a $3,000 building on the
Monterey city wharf. A. Napoli, a
wholesale dealer, has put up a new col-
lecting and shipping house on the city
dock at a cost of $1,000. Vito Bruno,
who has been operating in the Western
Fish Company's plant, has plans for a
$1,500 fish house on the city wharf. Mr.
Joseph Rodriquez, recently from Spain,
is building a small plant at New Mon-
terey, where he intends to put out a new
product consisting of pickled, pressed
sardines in small barrels weighing about
3.5 pounds each. Mr. Rodriquez is plan-
ning to make his own barrels. The plant,
when finished, will cost in the neighbor-
hood of $1,000.
The salmon catch at Monterey is in-
creasing each j^ear and promises this year
to be greater than ever before. Up to
May 25th, the catch far exceeded the
total to the end of June of last year.
The catch at the end of May exceeded
the entire catch of many former years ;
and June. July and August have been
considered the best months. The largest
day's catch was on May 14th. when 85
tons were taken. This, we think, is the
record catch for a single day at Monterey.
The run is earlier this year than usual,
and the fish are therefore smaller. The
average size is a little over 12 pounds,
but in June and July the fisli will run
larger, for they will be older and will
hive had more time to grow. Some very
fine, large fish have, however, been taken,
and very few fish have weighed less than
five ))ounds.
About 400 fishermen are engaged in
fishing for tne cannery and fresh markets
at Monterey. It is expected that this
number will be increased later in the
season. The price of the round fish
delivered at the dock is four cents per
pound. The larger fish are being mild
cured : the smaller are canned or sent to
the fresh market. The wholesale price of
the fish, cleaned, iced and boxed, f. o. b.
--onterey, is six and one-half cents per
pound.
NEW FISHERY PLANT AT
MONTEREY.
Mr. K. Hovden is just finishing his
new plant at New Monterey and expects
to be ready to operate on sardines and
anchovies just as soon as they start to
run into the bay in sufficient numbers.
This may be at any time about the first
of June. Mr. Hovden proposes to utilize
anchovies and smaller sardines, which at
present are not utilized here to any extent.
He says that these small sardines, when
intelligently packed, will compete favor-
ably with most European sardines in
flavor, quality and price. This company
will pack the sardines in the regulation
sardine cans, and have the fish look and
taste like the European variety. They
will make no use of spices and other con-
diments.
The K. Hovden Company will also put
up anchovies in two different styles : as a
spiced fish and in a style similar to the
Holland sardellen. They claim that their
product will equal or excel the anchovies
imported from Norway. Mr. Hovden,
who has owned and operated plants in
Norway, and is an expert in the prepara-
tion of fishery products, has done con-
siderable experimenting in preparing sar-
dines and anchovies, as well as several
other species of fish, and when he gets his
new plant into operation we will expect
to see some new and delicious California
fishery products.
MENDOCINO FISHERIES^
The salmon run along the .Mendocino
coast, which has been exploited by local
and Sausalito fishermen during the last
two or three years, promises to develop
to such an extent that, within a few
.years, it may outrank other industries in
Mendocino County. It is possible that
the salmon run along the Mendocino coast
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
155
(luring the months of June, July and
August will equal the run at Monterey,
where there are between 40O and 500
fishermen employed each year to catch
salmon for the various packers there
established. .There should be better har-
bor equipment at the mouth of the Noyo
River. A fisherman's wharf, similar to
the piers at Santa Cruz and Capitola,
where boats could be hauled up for re-
pairs and during bad weather, should be
built. There should also be better facili-
ties for transporting fish from the fishing
FLOODS DESTROY FISH.
The floods of the past rainy season
were in some places so severe as to cause
great injury to fish in the streams and
even to the shellfish in the sea. In
Southern California young trout were
washed from the streams by the unusually
heavy run-off. According to experts from
the Scripps Institution for Biological Re-
search, the water in the sea became
exceedingly fresh from San Diego to Point
Conception. This fresh water could be
detected twenty miles from shore and to
Fig. 56. Roof of Quan Chong Lung Company, San Francisco, showing sole and king-
fish. Among these fish were 180 pounds of striped bass, which were confiscated.
Photograph by J. W. GaUaway, September 30, 1915.
boats to the train at Fort Bragg. If
these accommodations for fishermen were
available at the Noyo, there would be
more fishermen and better boats. Aside
from the advantage derived from the com-
mercial fisheries in Mendocino County,
better boats and harbor facilities would
add to the attractiveness of this vicinity
as a boating and pleasure fishing resort.
The rockfish and halibut fisheries along
this section of the coast have hardly been
touched. This sort of fishing would em-
ploy a great many fishermen the year
round, with the exception of a few months
during the winter.
Abaloues and mussels are also abundant
along the Mendocino coast and should be
utilized. Some of the largest and best
food mussels are taken in Mendocino
County.
a depth of twenty fathoms near shore.
This excess of fresh water killed great
numbers of spiny lobsters, destroyed
abaloues and mussels, and injured the
clam beds. Most of the mollusks in Mis-
sion Bay were killed and washed to near
the entrance, where they have formed a
great bar of shells. The effect of the ex-
cess of fresh water on the spiny lobster
(crawfish) fishery promises to be great,
although it appears that most of the older
lobsters were able to escape or were better
able to stand the fresh water, and only a
few were killed.
Heavy rains of the past winter, falling
on hills which lack a proper cover, be-
cause of heavy cutting, fires, cultivation
or over-pasturing, caused rapid surface
run-off and erosion. The water carries
with it sediment, organic litter, and leaf
156
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
mold which is deposited in lakes or in the
deeper portions of the streams. Here
it decomposes later in (ho summer, when
the streams become low and the tempera-
ture of the w'ater becomes higher. This
decomposition exhausts the free oxygen of
the water, upon which the fish depend,
and releases sulphur dioxide gas, which,
when excessive, is deadly to fish.
Many of the streams are unusually low
for this time of the year, and we can
expect the loss of fish in the lakes and
ponds and in the lower courses of the
streams to be unusually heavy this
summer.
BLACK BASS AT SAN DIEGO.
When the Sweetwater dim near J^an
Diego broke during the month of Feb-
ruary, the black ba.ss which inhabited the
reservoir were carried into the lower end
of San Diego Bay by the rushing water.
Allhough the l)ass are fresh water fish
they made themselves at home in the bay,
for the water at the time was perfectly
fresh. As the stream gradually ceases to
flow during this summer, the water in the
bay will become more and more salt and
those interested in the ways of black bass
are speculating on Avhether these bass will,
during this gradual change from fresh to
salt watei", become accustomed to the sea
and continue to live in the bay.
COMMERCIAL FISHERY STATISTICS.
On page 1(JG will be found a table show-
ing the amounts of fish handled in the
state during the first quarter of 191G.
These figures vividly point out the value
of the fishery products of California.
Even though the totals are large, we are
only utilizing but a portion of our fishery
resources.
SELECTION OF SHELLFISH.
Care should be used in preparing shell-
fish to discard all those with broken
shells and also those which have become
too weak to close their shells. Dead or
nearly dead shellfish may, through putri-
fication, develop ptomaines that are
poisonous. In no case use a crab leg
which has a crushed segment or a lob-
ster with a broken shell. If care is used
in selecting only the live and strong
shellfish there need be no fear of pto-
maine poisoning.
A GOOD SALMON CONSERVATION
MEASURE.
Netting of salmon was formerly allowed
at any place on the Sacramento River,
but the last legislature passed laws
which prohibit all netting above Vina ;
and in the river betw'een Vina and Colusa,
which is district i2a, it is not permis-
sible to take salmon with nets between
May 15 and December 31. It is believed
that tliis is one of the best salmon con-
servation measures which has been passed
in years. The salmon of the spring run
ascend the river much farther than the
fish of the fall run and they deposit their
eggs in the headwaters where the streams
are small and where the eggs or the
resulting young are in much less danger
of being destroyed by floods. The young
which hatch from (he eggs of the spring
run are nearly all large enough to take
good care of themselves before the winter
floods arrive. The small streams in
which they spend their early life are less
subject to flood and the fry are there-
fore able to remain until they have
reached a good size. Theoretically, (hey
should have a better chance to reach the
sea and attain maturity than the fry
from eggs deposited by the salmon of the
fall run. The fall run has been protected
for many years by a closed season begin-
ning in September, but not until now has
the spring run received any such pro-
tection. In no salmon river are nets
allowed so far up stream as in the Sac-
ramento. Haul seines are laid out in the
deep water in the bends of the upper river
and hauled on the bar on the inside of
the curve, sweeping the holes clean of
salmon. With these nets on every avail-
able seining bar from Colusa to Redding,
practically taking the fish off the spawn-
ing beds, it is a wonder we have an.v
salmon left. These haul seines operate
lirinciiially on the spring run salmon and
are more successful than the nets on the
lower river. The spring run has been
poor for the last eight years, and this
year it has been the poorest yet. With
(he upper river closed to salmon nets on
May 1.1th (aKhorgh that date is not
early enough), more salmon should now
reach the spawning grounds and the
spawn-takinu: station at Baird. We look
forwnrd to an increased yield of salmon
as a result of this protective measure.
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
157
STING-RAYS DESTROYED.
Stins-rays during March and April
move into the shallow water of the bays
where they remain during the summer.
They are especially abundant in Tomale?
Bay and here cause great damage to the
clam and oyster beds. The clam and
oyster companies at Bivalve have been
seining the sting-ray in an effort to get
rid, of them. So far no use is being
made of these fish for fertilizer or chicken
feed, for they can not be profitably
transported to a reduction plant, since
the nearest plant is on San Francisco
Bay, and $3.00 a ton is the price usually
paid for sting-rays.
CONSERVATION IN OTHER STATES.
A NEW CONSERVATION SOCIETY.
The National Educators Conservation
Society has been organized to promote
the active protection and increase of wild
life and forests through the professional
educators of America. Such noted educa-
tors as Elmer B. Brown, President of
New York University, John Grier Hib-
ben, President of Princeton University,
and George E. Vincent, President of the
University of Minnesota, are honorary
vice presidents and the active officers and
directors are all professional educators.
A leaflet just issued gives the purpose
of the society as follows :
"The National Educators Conservation
Society was founded to train the children
of this great country to a realizition of
the necessity for efficient protection of the
wild life and forests of the United States.
Through its teachings it aims to develop
in the youth of the country such an
understanding of the x-easons underlying
sound conservation laws as will make of
these youths when grown to manhood a
vital force in the enactment and defense
of country-wide laws for the preservation
of true sportsmanship and efficient game
control.
"In the propagation of its teachings the
Association depends upon the citation of
laws that have been enacted by wise
legislators to the desired end and per
contra upon the disastrous effects of laws
or lack of laws which through legislative
ignorance or indifference permit the de-
struction and extinction of desirable forms
of game.
"The following are the lines of activity
in which the society is engaging :
(a) Secure perpetual close seasons for
all species of wild life that are threatened
with extinction.
(&) Stop all killing of insectivorous
birds for food, and all birds for millinery
purposes.
(c) Stop the sale of wild game.
(d) Increase the number of game pre-
serves.
(e) Promote laws to prevent unnatur-
alized aliens from owning or using rifles
and shotguns.
(/) Stop all spring and late winter
shooting.
((/) Oppose the use of all extra deadly
automatic, autoloading and "pump" guns
in hunting, and secure the passage of laws
against them.
(h) Preserve all forests from wasteful
and destructive lumbering and forest
fires ; and reforest all denuded areas in
state and national forests.
(i) Protect all harmless flowering
plants threatened with extermination."
SPORTSMEN'S ORGANIZATIONS IN
MASSACHUSETTS.
At the present time there are about 140
sportsmen's associations in the state of
Massachusetts, running in membership
from 20 to 1,800. These associations are
not only factors in assisting in the proper
distribution of the stock which the Fish
and Game Commission is able to supply,
but they serve as clearing houses for ideas
and for crystalizing local sentiment on
fish and game matters. They have great
educational value and are more and more
assisting in the solution of the problems
which confront the landowner on the one
hand and the sportsman ou the other.
Through these associations the rights of
the landowner are becoming more and
more recognized, and a spirit of co-opera-
tion is developing which will eventually
result in the elimination, or, in any event,
in the control of the hunter or fisherman
who ignores the property rights of the
man who owns the land.
THE RING-NECKED PHEASANT IN
UTAH.
The ring-necked pheasant is increasing
in Utah. From an original plant of fifty
the birds have increased to such an extent
that about five thousand are now to be
found in Utah County alone. Careful
protection has been given the birds, the
fines ranging from seventy-five to one
hundred twenty-five dollars for the kill-
ing of a single bird. — E. C. Boucher.
158
CALIFORNIA FISIT AND GAME.
BIRD SANCTUARIES IN ILLINOIS.
Accordiiig- to the Game aud l''ish Com-
mission of Illinois, the system of game
reservations and non-game bird sanctu-
aries adopted by the state of Illinois
differs in many essential features from
the plans for game conservation and
propagation of other states. The Illinois
plan keeps close to nature and avoids as
far as possible expensive artificiality. In-
stead of a few large tracts of land main-
tained at great cost, Illinois will have
many small tracts of leased land that
may be successfully maintained at a mere
nominal cost. According to plans already
made it is expected that Illinois will
have about one hundred game resers'a-
tions and non-game bird sanctuaries that
may be maintained for about five thou-
sand dollars a year — less than one-half
of the cost of maintaining a single game
farm of any considerable size.
The Illinois plan is to lease a tract of
land of from one thousand to five thou-
sand acres, paying for each parcel that
goes to make up the tract, one dollar per
year. On each reservation something like
five acres of land is planted in wheat,
barley, buckwheat, or other grain which
grows to a similar height. In these
patches there is planted some sorghum or
other grain producing vegetation that
grows above the snow level. This grain,
always planted close to cover, is left stand-
ing so that the birds may feed in cover.
When the short-growing grain is covered
with snow the tall-standing vegetation
will furnish food. The price paid for
planting the grain patches is about five
dollars per acre.
Game birds suffer and die during short
periods of severe winter weather, when
the ground and natural food is covered
with snow. By providing food that may
be had from the tall-growing grain during
these severe winter periods, the birds are
saved.
The plan further contemplates the con-
struction of shelters made from brush.
Into these brush heaps the birds can go
in severe weather and find protection.
Some gravel and sand is placed within the
brush heaps for use when the ground is
covered with snow.
Suitable signs are put around the reser-
vation warning all persons against tres-
passing with dog or gun.
PENNSYLVANIA PAYS BOUNTIES ON
PREDATORY ANIMALS.
A new bounty law went into effect in
Pennsylvania April 15, 1915. Under
this new act, which supplants an older
one of July 25, 1913, claims are much
smaller. The fund from which bounties
are paid is created through the opera-
tion of the resident hunters' license act.
Statistics showing the claims allowed are
of interest. Since the law was put into
effect a larger and larger number of
bounties have been paid. During Janu-
ary bounties were paid on 221 wildcats,
1,030 gray foxes, 1,299 red foxes, 841
minks, 5,58G weasels, representing an out-
lay of $12,411. We wonder whether the
game saved has been proportionate to
this expenditure.
THE TURKEY A GAME BIRD IN
PENNSYLVANIA.
In The Open (January, 191G) is
authority for the statement that 3,000
wild turkeys were killed in Pennsylvania
during the last open season. Up to three
years ago turkeys had become so scarce
that a close season was declared, and this
last year was the first time the season
had been opened since 1912. The birds
are still vei'y scarce in many of the coun-
ties and without doubt turkey shooting
will be limited to but a few counties dur-
ing the coming season, since many of the
counties will take advantage of the law
which permits the closing of the season
by petition.
THE EUROPEAN BISON.
The protected area which shelters it
[the European bison] is the Bjelowicz
forest, government of Grodno, being thus
included in the Russian war zone ; the
animals have suffered in consequence
much deprivation and loss. It contains
150 square miles, with only a few set-
tlements ; the animals were fed in win-
ter. Prof. Dr. Conwetz, director of the
Prussian State Bureau for conservation
of natural monuments, who took a trip
to investigate the rumored destruction of
forest and endangered condition of the
herd, has returned after a stay of several
days at Helowiez. He reports that the
former number of 600 has been reduced
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
159
to about 200, largely through the poach-
ing by Russians. Now a strict interdict
against killing of the animals has
been issued from headquarters of the
German Army, and at the same time a
forester of rank has been appointed in
charge of forest and herd. The herd had
been protected by Russia since 1892, a
fine of 50O rubels being provided against
killing. Elsewhere in Russia the bison
is only found in the Caucasus. In Ger-
many a few exist, a small herd of 30
in the fenced game preserve of 46 square
miles belonging to the Prince of Pless.—
Staats-Zeitung, of N. Y., Feb. 20, 1916
(translated by F. M., March 20, 1916.)
PROTECTION FOR THE BEAR IN
PENNSYLVANIA.
The state of Pennsylvania has recently
enacted a law giving protection to the
bear. The bag limit is one bear per
year, and the open season is from Octo-
ber 15th to December 15th, thus being
properly set at the time when the fur
is prime. The law definitely states that
a bear can be killed only by using a gun
"held in the hands of a hunter," except
when "it is attempting injury on a person
or personal property." In the latter
case, however, an affidavit telling of the
exact injury must be filed.
It is interesting to note that bear are
still abundant enough in Pennsylvania
so that a party of six in 1914 killed
fourteen bear on one hunting trip
(Pennsylvania Sportsman. Jan., 1916).
NEW YORK PREVENTS KILLING OF
DOES.
The state of New York has narrowly
escaped the disgrace of a return to the
slaughter of female deer through the pas-
sage of the Kasson bill by the last legis-
lature. Fortunately, Governor Whitman
had the courage to veto the bill. The doe
killers of the Adirondacks are conse-
quently denouncing the governor. If the
bill had been brought up in a fair way
it would probably not have passed either
house of the legislature, but by certain
tactics the sponsors for the bill succeeded
in having it railroaded through the senate
when it was least expected.
INTERSTATE COMMERCE IN GAME.
During the year (1915) there were
reported to the solicitor's office 27 cases
of violations of sections 242, 243, and
244 of the criminal code, known as the
"Lacey Act," relating to interstate traffic
in game. These involved violations of
law in the states of Arkansas, Delaware,
Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Michigan,
Mississippi, Missouri, Tennessee, Vir-
ginia, West Virginia and Wisconsin.
The cases now pending in court num-
ber 37 and those under investigation, 3S.
In one case pending in Missouri evidence
was obtained disclosing a systematic plan
to violate the law in shipping ducks to
market in the adjoining state of Illinois.
The evidence showed not merely a viola-
tion of the Lacey Act, but a conspiracy
to accomplish the shipment of ducks out
of the state, and the shippers were so
charged. This is one of the most impor-
tant cases which has developed under this
act, and the first in which evidence of
a conspiracy has been obtained. In the
event ot a conviction the deterrent effects
are likely to be far-reaching.
Recent occurrences in Arkansas, one
of the most important centers for the
shipment of waterfowl in the Mississippi
Valley, are likely to curtail very decid-
edly futuie shipments of game from the
.sunken lands in the northeastern corner
of the state. The state supreme court has
decided that a local law applicable to
Mississippi County, under which ship-
ments of waterfowl have hitherto been
made, was unconstitutional, and that the
state law prohibiting export of game was
applicable to the counties generally. At
the recent session of the legislature pro-
vision was made for the first time for
the appointment of a state game commis-
sion to enforce state laws.
The state of Illinois has also amended
its game law prohibiting sale of game,
whether taken in or out of the state,
thus closing the important market of
Chicago. These changes will greatly
facilitate the work of the department in
the Mississippi Valley and make much
more difficult the evasion of state and
federal laws regulating shipment of
waterfowl— Report of Chief of Bureau
of Biological Survey, 1915, pp. 12-13.
160
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
MASSACHUSETTS WILL ISSUE
QUARTERLY.
The Massachusetts Comiuissiouers on
Fisheries and Game plan to publish,
(juarterly at least, a bulletin setting forth
the work of the Commission, tlius keep-
ing the public more closely informed of
its activities. The bulletin will give the
\ iolations of the tish and game laws, with
the name of the violator and the disposi-
tion of the case ; and in each issue some
live topic will be discussed. Every Fish
and Game Commission will find it dis-
tinctly to its advantage to follow the lead
taken by Oregon, California and Minne-
sota in this respect. The Commission in
each of these states publishes a quarterly
bulletin with the object outlined above.
UTAH PLANS GAME SANCTUARIES
FOR EACH COUNTY.
'I'lic l'"ish and Game Commission of
Utah is i)lanning to have a game sanc-
tuary established in every county in the
state. The plan which is being put into
effect as rapidly as possible will set a.side
250,000 to 850,000 acres as permanent
retreats for game and nongame birds and
mammals. Present state sanctuaries com-
prise 22,000 acres for birds and animals
near Salina and 15,000 acres at the
Strawberry project. Ultimately it is
hoped to have also sanctuaries in every
county, one for birds exclusively, and
one for upland birds, game birds and
animals.
GAME CONSERVATION IN NEW MEXICO.
The following clever contrast between the real protectionist and the game hog
appeared in a recent number of TItc Pine Cone, tlie official bulletin of the New
Mexico Game Protective A.ssociatiou :
"ONCE TO EVERY MAN AND NATION COMES THE MOMENT TO DECIDE."
GAME PROTECTIVE ASSOCIATION OF
NEW MEXICO.
1. We stand for vigorous and impartial
enforcement of the game and tish
laws.
2. We stand for federal control of
migratory birds and the prohibi-
tion of spring shooting.
3. We stand for a vigorous campaign
against predatory animals as a
menace to game and livestock.
4. We stand for an adequate system of
game refuges.
5. We stand for such an increase in
game and fish as will furnish legi-
timate sport for every citizen.
G. We are opposed in general to the
public propagation in New Mexico
of foreign species as a substitute
for native American game.
7. We are pledged to observe the letter
of the law and the spirit of good
sportmanship.
8. We are not in politics.
9. We stand behind every warden who
does his duty.
10. We offer $50 reward for information
leading to the arrest and convic-
tion of any person killing antelope,
mountain sheep, or ptarmigan.
Application fob Membership.
, N. M.
, 1916.
President Neio Mexico Oavie Protective
Association, Silver City, N. M.
Dear Sib : I subscribe to the above
platform and enclose herewith $1.00 dues
for 1!)U>. Please forwai'd my application
t) the proper local association and have
me enrolled as a member,
(Signature)
ancient obder of game nous.
1. We stand for vigorous and impartial
enforcement of the game laws —
against the other fellow.
2. We want the lid off on spring shoot-
ing, and devil take the liindmost.
3. We stand for a vigorous campaign
against Game Protective Associa-
tions as a menace to our Ancient
Order.
4. We stand for an adequate system of
game refuges — in Aiizonu.
5. We wouldn't mind seeing an increase
in game and fish. Take us to it!
G. We should worry about native
American game as long as there is
something to shoot.
7. To observe the letter of the law
when you're liable to get caught is
the part of good judgment.
S. We are not in politics — while asleep.
9. We stand behind every warden who
does not bother us.
10. We offer $50 reward for information
as to the whereabouts of any ante-
lope, mountain sheep, or ptarmigan.
We thought ice had them all.
Application for Membership.
, N. M.
, 1916.
President of the Ancient Order of Game
Hogs :
Deab Sir: The above is my senti-
ments. I hereby renew my membership
for 1916, provided it's free and confiden-
tial. These are dangerous times for our
Ancient Order!
(Signature)
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
161
LIFE HISTORY NOTES.
COYOTE EATS DUCK'S EGGS.
On April 9, 1916, ia a pasture one
mile from Butte Creek, Sutter County,
I was shown a mallard's nest containing
ten broken eggs. A herder observed a
coyote eating something and on investi-
gating found the ten eggshells. From
the photograph (Fig. 57) it can be
seen that most of the eggs were broken
open longitudinallj'. Animals nearly
always eat eggs in such a way as to
Fig. 57. Nest of mallard duck destroyed by
coyote. Photograph by George Neale, taken
at Butte Creek, Sutter County, April 2, 1916.
break them lengthwise. The herder
located the coyote's den in some large
holes in the ground in the near vicinit^
and then destroyed all the coyotes within
by blowing it up with dynamite. — George
Neale.
THE COLUMBIAN SHARP-TAILED
GROUSE IN NORTHEASTERN
CALIFORNIA.
The Columbian sharp-tailed grouse
iPcdUrcctcs phasianellus coliimiianus) or
"prairie chicken," once extremely com-
mon in northeastern California, is now
extinct, or practically so. Several let-
ters were recently written by the Fish
and Game Commission to residents con-
versant with game conditions in Modoc
County in order to find out where and
when prairie chickens were last seen.
Among the replies are the following :
Mr. W. S. Criss, of Lookout, Modoc
County, states that about fifteen years
ago, before there were any game laws in
California sharp-tailed grouse were very
common in his locality. A short time
later but one pair of birds were left on
his ranch. This pair raised six young.
An attempt was made to protect them but
by the following year every one had dis-
appeared. Mr. Claude B. Brown, of the
same place, states that, although these
birds were once so common that flocks of
fifty or more could be seen, they have
gradually decreased until they are prac-
tically extinct. An unconfirmed rumor
is reported by Mr. Brown to the effect
that Nora C. Nichols saw two "praii'ie
chickens'' on the ranch of William
Kramer, about one mile northeast of
Lookout, during the fall of 1915. Mr.
Charles D. Mei.ssner, Assistant Forest
Ranger in the Modoc National Forest,
reports that a pair of Columbian sharp-
tailed grouse were seen on Timbered
Mountain in April or May of last year.
Early in April Mr. Meissner saw the
cock and hen together and the booming
noise made by the cock was heard upon
several occasions. Later in the season
the hen was seen on two different occa-
sions to tumble off as if wounded and
then take flight, which led to the theory
that chicks were hidden in the grass.
An investigation will be made this spring
to determine whether or not sharp-tailed
grouse are still present in this section.
Deputy Frank P. Cady, of Susanville,
reports that about fifteen years ago there
were forty or fifty sharp-tailed grouse at
the mouth of Juniper Creek on a ranch
owned by Mr. Mackensie, who allowed no
shooting on his property. After Mr.
Mackensie's death the ranch was rented
and shooting was allowed with the result
that about ten years ago the prairie
chickens disappeared entirely. None has
been heard of in the northern part
of the state during the last ten years,
according to Mr. Cady. — 'H. C. Bryant.
WHITE PELICANS FORMERLY
NESTED NEAR SACRA-
MENTO.
Lone Tree Island, about three miles
northwest of the city of Sacramento, was
formerly the site of a white pelican
rookery. The accompanying photogi'aphs
showing some of the liirds and some of
the nests were taken June 28, 1910. —
George Neale.
162
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
Fig. 58. Nesting colony of white pelicans on Lone Tree Island, three miles northeast of
Sacramento. Photograph by George Neale.
ANTELOPE INCREASE IN SISKIYOU
COUNTY.
During the winter of 1894 a band of
twenty antelope {Antilocapra americana
amcricana) were known to exist in eastern
Siskiyou County. Since then the herd
seems to have increased, due to the pro-
tection afforded it. Mr. Davis, former
owner of the Mitchell Ranch, near Mount
Dome, took great interest in the animals
and tried to protect them. He instructed
his men to report all violations, and people
genei-ally came to regard Mr. Davis as the
antelope protector. In spite of this rigid
protoction there were some who persisted
in hunting the animals, for several heads
of antelope which had evidently been killed
by hunters have been found south of the
Davis ranch.
On March 27, 1915, I counted 72 ante-
lope in one band at the south end of
Mount Dome. Mr. Edward Daggett, fore-
man of the Churchill cattle ranch, counted
42 antelope near the Mitchell Ranch on
Willow Creek, Siskiyou County, on
March 1, 1916. The animals seem to
range in small bands of from 8 to 35.
It is my belief that these animals now
number at least 150 in this vicinity. —
G. W. COURTRIGHT.
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
163
PHEASANTS INCREASE ON VERBA
BUENA ISLAND IN SAN FRAN-
CISCO BAY.
The pheasants placed on Yerba Buena
Island in San Francisco Bay are appar-
ently increasing' rapidly. In addition to
the ringnecks placed on the island several
years ago, a number of silver pheasants
were liberated there last year. Captain
Phillip Andrews. Commandant of the
United States Naval Training Station
situated on the island, reports under date
of May 16, 191G, that nine or ten broods
of pheasant chicks have been seen within
the past few weeks. The ])roods num-
bered from ten to sixteen and most of
them averaged more than ten. The suc-
cess being attained here is partly due to
the excellent protection and care given
the birds. — H. C. Bryant.
MOURNING DOVES BRED IN CAP-
TIVITY.
A number of years ago while pruning
a lemon orchard, I discovered that, in
cutting a large limb, I had molested two
young, well-feathered mourning doves
(Zenaidura macroitra morginella) . I
brought the birds home and asked Mrs.
Hammond to try to raise them. A soft
meal of ground seeds (chicken scratch
food), was made, and Mrs. Hammond fed
the doves by taking the food between her
fingers, and placing it in their bills. This
feeding operation lasted about 5 or 6
days, after which the birds began to eat
alone. In this manner the birds were
successfully reared.
The following season the female bird
laid twice and hatched four young. I
placed the birds in a cage 10 by 10 by 8
feet high. After two years I had about
40 or 50 doves.
On Hallowe'en two years ago some
heartless brute managed to put a dog in
the cage and it killed all but three birds.
These few, however, have been multiply-
ing ever since, and there are now about
twenty birds, including two nests each
with two young. I placed a dead lemon
tree in the cage for the doves to roost
upon and have hung cans filled with
straw for nest building, from the top of
the cage by wires eighteen inches long.
The birds rebuild their nests each time
they lay. The nesting season begins in
March and continues to the latter part
of November, and two broods are reared
each season.
Doves become very tame and make
interesting pets. On several occasions I
have liberated some of the birds. Some
would stay near by and others would fly
away, but none ever failed to return at
sundown. — L. W. Hammond.
COURTING OF THE SAGE HEN.
During JNIarch, I noted the courting
antics of the sage hens {Centroccrcus
urophasianus) in the vicinity of Straw,
Modoc County. The male birds gathered
on knolls or ridges, and the females kept
watch a short distance away. The
strutting of the sage hen is much like
that of the tame turkey. The tail is
spread wide and held vertically, the
breast is tilted back and held as high
off the ground as possible ; the head is
held high ; then with a bow of the head
and an upward motion of the breast the
bird makes the "gumpe gumpe" sound. — -
G. W. COUKTWBIGHT.
UNITED STATES FOREST SERVICE CO-OPERATION.
SAGE HENS IN THE MONO NATIONAL
FOREST.
Sage hens are becoming abundant in
many places, especially along the southern
end of the Mono National Forest, from
Bridgeport south on the open country. In
the past their nesting places were badly
disturbed by numerous sheep tramping
through the counti-y. At present they
find quite good protection by restricted
grazing and are consequently increasing.
— W. M. Manlt.
BEAVER ON THE INCREASE IN
MODOC COUNTY.
There are several colonies of beaver
in the northern part of Modoc County. I
am informed by parties well acquainted
with that section of the country that this
valuable animal is on the increase, un-
doubtedly due to the protective laws in
force. In spite of their highly prized
fur, there is no game lav/ more respected
than that applying to these interesting
animals. — Wm. S. Brown.
164
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
ALL VENISON SHOULD BE UTILIZED.
The state of Wyoming has a law pro-
liibiting the leaving in the woods of the
meat of elk and deer killed. There should
be a similar law in California relating to
deer meat. All too often a traveler or
camper will lull a buck when he knows
he can not use or dispose of tlie meat,
simply for the sake of telling that he got
a deer, or perhaps in order to secure the
horns as a trophy. In some cases a ham
or two may be cut out and the balance of
the meat allowed to go to waste. This is
a shameful waste and should be prohibited
by law. It is one of the reasons why
local residents feel antagonistic toward
the "city sports," for to the local resident
the meat represents a money value in his
food supply and he makes full utilization
i)f it. — J. D. COFFMAN.
DEER NEED CLOSED SEASON.
District Ranger E. W. Searcy of the
Pvlsinore District makes the following
recommendations concerning deer : "That
deer be protected absolutely for 5 years.
In case the 5-year close season can not be
put into effect I earnestly recommend
tliat the boundaries of the Cleveland
(Jame Refuge, District 24, and the Tra-
buco division of the Cleveland National
Forest be made co-extensive. The Forest
boundary markers are well known and it
would be an easy matter to post a game
refuge marker alongside. — S. W. AVynne.
DEER AND THE DEER LAW IN
TRINITY COUNTY.
District Ranger Chamberlain reports
that his observations wliile on field trips
this past season would indicate that deer
were scarcer in the Stuarts Fork District
rhan ever before : small deer in particular
were very scarce. For the lower Trinity
District, on the other hand, District
Ranger Graham reports small deer more
numerous than usual, and that they de-
stroyed the last crop of alfalfa on most of
the ranches in the Lower Trinity and
New River sections.
For this region the change in the deer
season by cutting out the last half of
October, has eliminated the best of the
season for local residents. It would have
been much more preferable to have had
the season shortened by postponing its
opening until September 1st, and have
allowed it to remain open until Octo-
ber 3d. During August the deer are not
in especially good condition, and the meat
will not keep well during the hot weather
of that month. During October the deer
are at their best and the cool weather
permits longer use of the meat. — J. D.
COFFMAN.
GROUSE IN THE ELDORADO
NATIONAL FOREST.
Grouse arc disappearing at a rapid rate.
Forest officers state the number of grouse
seen in the mountains this season is at
least 30 per cent lowi>r than the preceding
year.
Grouse should be protected by a closed
season of not less than five years, and
closer supervision by game wardens. —
E. L. Scott.
THE ANGELES FOREST GAME
REFUGE.
The Angeles Forest Game Refuge has
worked out admirably, and we have had
but one violation where a man living just
inside the Refuge shot some quail on his
own land; this case is now pending a
decision. I find that the Game Refuge
is very popular in this section, even
among the resort owners, who are the
only ones financially affected. I have
interviewed practically every resort owner
— and there are some 25 within the
Refuge — ^and not one of them has objected
to it. The only objection I hear is in not
being permitted to bring into the Refuge
game shot on the outside. I hope another
year the Commission can see its way
clear to employ the two men suggested by
Mr. DuBois whose duty it will be to check
any deer killed on the outside, but which
it is necessary to bring through the
Refuge in order to get them out. — R. H.
Charlton.
peculiar deer killed in santa
barbara national forest.
Antlers of a deer killed several years
ago near Cuyama Valley, Santa Barbara
County, by Forest Guard Eugene John-
ston, of the Santu Barbara National
Forest, have been identified as belong-
ing to a species of deer found in the
eastern states, by a member of the Cali-
fornia Academy of Sciences, San Fran-
cisco. No explanation is vouchsafed as
to how the deer travelled so far west.
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
165
FISHING IN THE ELDORADO NA-
TIONAL FOREST.
Exceptionally fine weather, good roads,
and the opening of the fishing season on
May 1st lured local and Sacramento
anglers to the streams in and adjacent to
.the Eldorado National Forest, particu-
larly the south fork of the American River
and smaller tributary streams. But because
of high water, due to melting of the
unusually heavy snowfall of last winter,
the trout could not be induced to take
the fly. By the use of angleworms, how-
ever, a few fair catches were made dur-
ing the first half of the month. Cooler
weather, accompanied by light rain, and
on May 24th a light fall of snow over
the Forest, has precluded activity by
anglers.
Many anglers have voiced the senti-
ment that May 1st is too early to open
the trout fishing season in this locality,
since spawning is not completed at this
date. They suggest May 15th, or even
June 1st.
Re.'idents of the L-ake Tahoe basin
and visiting anglers have expressed the
opinion that the high rate of mortality
of fish that spawn in the streams tribu-
tary to Lake Tahoe is due to the debris
— decayed timber and vegetation — found
in these streams. This debris is said
to harbor the leech, a parasite which
attacks the gills of fish. The removal
of the debris is suggested as an aid to
trout propagation, rather than the pres-
ent method of frequent restocking with
fish frj'.
During the winter months, sportsmen
predicted an extreme mortality among
wild animals because of the unusually
heavy snowfall, but reports to date from
areas frequented by deer indicate that
unusual, mortality did not occur among
these animals.
LARGE TROUT TAKEN AT STONY
CREEK DAM.
Large catches of trout have been
made I'eceutly above the Stony Creek
liversion dam in the California National
Forest. The average size of the fish
caught above the dam is very much
larger than those taken in other parts
of the stream, due probably to the greater
protection from natural enemies afforded
by the deep water above the dam.
This dam was constructed in 1914 by
the United States Reclamation Service
for the purpose of diverting the flood
waters of Stony Creek to the East Park
Reservoir and it makes in itself a reser-
voir half a mile long by thirty feet deep
at the dam.
TRINITY DEER REFUGE.
The establishment of Game District
No. 2 was a very desirable step in the
conservation of the deer in this region.
The forest officers of the Trinity are
assisting Deputy Laws as much as pos-
sible in the administration of this refuge.
It is quite important, however, that the
boundaries of this refuge should be com-
pleted before the opening of the next
hunting season, and for this work Mr.
Laws will need money for the emplr
ment of temporary labor. The Commis-
sion should provide Mr. Laws with funds
for this purpose. — J. D. Coffman.
166
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
REPORTS.
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CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
167
1,101
23,518
1,570
6,209
237,538
107,099
-f^ tKI 1 00 rH 00 IM 0 I-- to -** 0
C5 CO CO CO 1 (MCOtOOrHO'^COCO
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t-^ ^ ^ '1 1 oT r^ CO r^ oc lO CO CO 00
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600,283
23,000
76,558
6,226
344
50
100
4,333
432,242
44,864
! ! 1 i 1 i " 1
13,953
1,735
164
36
r-l 'i •« ' 1 1 1 CO (N
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2,376,353
35,752
25,607
1,200
2,522
16,675
25,575
"8,302"
43,909
1,404
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 o
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 rH
1 1 CO
1,004,994
3,148
24,021
1,694
810
15,654
150
48,458
589,208
2,469J
4,299
2,605
2,240
1,170
23,114
745'
16,582
2,879,143
9,559i
71,736
41,368
46
9,926
400
3,602,840
310
20
5,484
-318,783
36,859
15,278
CO 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
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6,488
179,664
! I 1 1 1 0 •* 1 1
1 1 1 1 1 (M ■* 1 1
1 1 1 1 1 -TfS -^ 1 1
1 I 1 1 1 rH lO 1 1
88,217
93J
25,892
43,640
1,015
2,852
345
23,982
94
8,485
353
972
1 1 1 i 1 1 1 1 t-
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 10
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 rH
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 s^
39,225
1,969
20,310
640
Sculpin
Tom cod
Trout (lake)
Trout (steelhead)
Turbot
Whitebait
TeUowtail
Miscellaneous
Total fish —
Crustaceans-
Crab (dozen)
Spiny lobster
Shrimp
Eerevisse
Mollusks—
Squid
Cuttlefish
Clams (Pismo)
Clams (cockle)
Clams (softshell)
Clams (mixed)
Oysters (shell), number
Abalones
Mussels
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168
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
NUMBER OF DEER KILLED IN VARIOUS COUNTIES
OPEN SEASONS 1914-15.
Diiitrivt Ao. 7.
DURING THE
County
1914
1915
Alpine . - j . . . .
39
36
39
202
*
300
151
200
40
235
14
89
57
53
t
160
152
143
77
200
30
8
357
37
575
t
*
198
735
128
203
6
66
Amador . .. .. . .. ..
43
Butte ..- ... .......
26
Calaveras .. . .
111
Del Norte .. .. .. .. .. .. .....
§225
El Dorado -. . .. ..
109
Fresno .. ..
156
Humboldt .. .. . .....
167
Inyo . . . ..
§131
Kern ..... ... . .. _. _
121
Kings ........... ...
1
Lasson ..... ... ....
126
Madera . .. . ... ._ ._ ..
34
Mariposa . .
10
Merced . .. . . .. .. . ..
*
Modoc ... . ...
106
Mono .- .... . ... .
4
Nevada . . . . ........
65
Placer .. ... ....... . . ... ... . .
87
Plumas ... - .... .. ...
93
Sacramento . .. . . .. . ._
*
San Joaquin ...... . ..
*
Shasta _„ .. . _--.-. . .
492
Sierra _. ._ .. . . _ . _ ._
11
Siskivou ... ...... . .-
665
Stanislaus . . . _ . _ ..
51
Sutter -. .- ._ .... ...
*
Tehama ..... . . . .
164
Trinity .... ...... ... . . ..
543
Tulare _. .
223
Tuolumne ... . _ . . . .
174
Tuba ... ._
14
Totals ...
4.464
4,028
District No. 2.
Colusa ..... . ....
250
90
161
320
268
14
436
38
373
262
Glenn . . . . . _ . . .. ..
215
Lake .._.._ . .... ... _ .. .
84
Marin ..... ... .... . ....
§325
Mendocino .. . .. .. .. .
§500
Solano .- . - -_ . .
5
Sonoma .. . .. .. .. ...... i -
360
Yolo
127
Napa . ... . ......... -
119
Totals
1,950
1,997
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
District No. 3.
169
County
1914
1915
Alameda _ _ _ ._ ._ _ _-___.
8
*
632
11
No
60
5
5
155
§125
Contra Oosta --
t
Monterey _ . . _ .- _
595
San Benito
55
San Francisco _ _ -_ _
hunting
San Luis Obispo. . __ -_ . -
155
San Mateo _ _ __ -_. .-.
55
Santa Clara ._ .. ._ ._ - - _ ..
362
Santa Cruz
§132
Totals
876
1,479
District Wo. J/.
Imperial _-____._ . -..
*
143
24
102
45
97
475
*
*
Los Angeles - _ -. .._...--
95
Orange _
*
Riverside ._ - -_-_._ _ . .- .
55
San Diego . . _ _ . _ .. ._
44
San Bernardino . . . ,_ . _- _ _.-_-.
29
Santa Barbara . _ _ _ ._ _
338
Ventura ..- ,-- . . .
172
Totals -
886
733
Reports Unspecified as to Counties.
Shasta National Forest .. . _ . .
87
13
238
96
89
Lassen National Forest
California National Forest
Stanislaus National Forest _-._-..
Santa Barbara National Forest . .__ _.-_._
Sierra National Forest _-. .. .-_ _- . _
103
Totals -- -- --
523
8,699
106
Total for year 1914 ..
Total for year 1915
8,343
*No record. tCIose season. §Estimated.
SEIZURES— FISH, GAME AND ILLEGALLY USED FISHING APPARATUS.
March 1, 1916, to May 31, 1916.
Game.
Deer meat 184 pounds
Deer hides 27
Quail 4
Non-game birds 12
Rabbits 2
Fish.
Striped bass 463 pounds
Trout 189 pounds
Salmon 140 pounds
Miscellaneous flsh 342 pounds
Crabs 51
Abalones 973
Pismo clams 208
Nets and lines 61
Searches.
Illegal fish and game 28
170
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
VIOLATIONS OF THE FISH AND GAME LAWS.
March 1, 1916, to May 31, 1916.
Offense
Number of
arrests
70
23
11
1
25
10
1
15
6
4
1
2
5
2
2
1
15
124
Fines
imposed
$415 00
225 00
200 00
200 00
25 00
30 00
75 00
200 00
25 00
Oame.
Hunting without license
Deer, close season, killing or possession
Female deer, spike bucks, killing or possession
Illegal deer hides -
Nongame birds, killing or possession
Cottontail rabbits, close season, killing or possession
Ducks, close season, killing or possession
Quail, close season, killing or possession
Shore birds, close season, killing or possession
Total game violations
Fish.
Angling without license
Fishing for profit without license
Dealing in fish wholesale without license
Trout, close season, taking or possession
Trout, excess bag limit, taking or possession
Failure to maintain screen in irrigating ditches
Pismo clams, underweight, excess bag limit
Abalones, undersized, taking or possession
Crabs, undersized, taking or possession
Black bass, close season, taking or possession
Striped bass, underweight, taking or possession
Striped bass, shipping from state
Salmon, underweight, sale
Toung of fish, taking or possession
Chicken halibut, underweight, sale
Illegal nets
Total fish violations
Grand total fish and game violations
$1,395 00
$.520 00
210 00
20 00
585 00
161 00
35 00
180 OO
100 00
30 00
20 OO
20 00
300 00
50 00
25 00
400 00
$2,656 00
194
$4,051 00
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
171
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CONTENTS.
Page
CALIFORNIA CLAMS Harold Heath 175
A POSSIBLE ENEMY OF THE MOSQUITO Vlarence H. Kennedy 179
ABALONE PEARL FORMATION John H. Oliver 182
FISH AND GAME IN SAN MATEO COUNTY J. 8. Hunter 185
SHOOTING QUAIL FOR MARKET IN SAN MATEO COUNTY
E. B. Raltston 183
EDITORIALS 189
HATCHERY NOTES 199
COMMERCIAL FISHERY NOTES 203
CONSERVATION IN OTHER STATES 211
LIFE HISTORY NOTES 212
UNITED STATES FOREST SERVICE CO-OPERATION 213
WILD LIFE IN RELATION TO AGRICULTURE 215
REPORTS—
Violations of Fish and Game Laws 219
Seizures 219
Financial report 220
25554
California Fish and Game
" CONSERVATION OF WILD LIFE THROUGH EDUCATION "
Volume 2 SAN FRANCISCO, OCTOBER 18, 1916 Number 4
CALIFORNIA CLAMS.
By Harold Heath, Department of Zoology, Stanford University.
Of the various species of clams, mussels and snails inhabiting the
rocky headlands, muddy inlets, and sandy beaches of the California
coast, no less than fifteen are of prime economic importance and are
steadily growing in favor among the people of the state. Unfortu-
nately the demand for such articles of food has outstripped the supply,
and several localities once thickly populated with these animals have
passed the limit of profitable digging. Even in the most favorable
districts the catch is steadily diminishing or is harvested with increas-
ing difficulty.
This condition of affairs has been brought about by several agencies.
Intensive digging, occasionally with the aid of plows and harrows,
wrought havoc in the past; the indiscriminate taking of clams of any
and every size was likewise an important factor; and tremendous
storms, such as the one which swept the coasts of the southern third of
the state two years ago, were equally destructive. However, those who
foresee the total extermination of this class of animals probably claim
too much. A scanty population still exists on the abandoned beds,
small, scattered groups inhabit isolated beaches, and the shore imme-
diately beyond the low tide mark doubtless supports a goodly number.
It is reasonable to believe that, when undisturbed, the young from such
sources will gradually migrate and restock the now unproductive dis-
tricts. Following the custom of the past these replenished areas will
then be dug intensively with a resulting period of lean years. Needless
to say such a method of procedure does not constitute conservation of
a high grade.
Clam protection looking toward a uniform annual crop is confessedly
in the experimental stage on the west coast of the United States.
Theoretically a limit placed on the daily catch should bring about the
desired result. In practice it may be necessary to close entirely certain
districts for a period of years until a point is reached where the daily
limit will not reduce the beds to the level of relatively unprofitable
digging. It is frequently claimed that the species of clams living along
shore extend beyond the low tide limit for long distances out to sea ; but
as a matter of fact conclusive evidence is largely lacking on this point.
Japanese abalone divers have seen the so-called Pismo clam {Tiyela
stultorum) in fairly deep water about Morro in San Luis Obispo
County, and dead shells of other species have been brought up on
sounding leads at several points along the coast. The red abalone
extends to a depth of at least two hundred and fifty feet but proof that
176
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
it extends beyond this point is lacking. Certain it is that after a bed
has been cleaned up there is little to indicate that these deeper situated
individuals migrate beachward. On tlie other hand, restocking appears
to be largely due to young individuals.
Clams annually produce astonishingly large numbers of eggs. For
example, a Pismo clam (Sec figure 59), somewhat over five inches in
length, lays not less than 300,000; the ordinary black mussel {Mytilus
calif ornica) deposits fully 100,000; the red abalone {Ealioth rufescens),
with a circumference of from eighteen to twenty inches, annually pro-
Kig. 59. Pismo clams in San Luis Obispo County. Photograph by C. S. Bauder.
duces between 1,000,000 and 2,000,000; and other species lay propor-
tionately great quantities. On the basis of these facts, extravagant
claims are made, one pair of clams being deemed sufficient to stock a
beach fully a mile in length. It is stated on good authority that, were
the offspring of all of the codfish to come to maturity, we could travel
across the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, in a very few years, on the
backs of codfish. Needless to say such a trip will never be made. Just
as in the case of the codfish, the j^oung clams from the beginning of
their development are subject to the attacks of enemies, oceanic cur-
rents drive them into unfavorable situations, and a shortage of the
food supply destroys myriads. This last named factor is perhaps the
most important. The food of all clams and mussels consists entirely
of minute animals and plants or fragments of larger organisms floating
within reach of multitudes of tiny, vibrating, hairlike processes covering
the body, which sweep these nutritive substances into the mouth. In
the presence of an abundant food supply, it appears that beds aban-
doned by the clam digger have become restocked after a period of
from seven to ten years. Other beds seemingly as well situated have
remained untenanted after an interval of at least fifteen years.
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME, 177
This brings up the matter of artificial transplanting of clams. Gen-
erally speaking, the eggs of these animals are poured from openings
of the body into the sea where they are fertilized by the male element.
After a few days the resulting young become free-swimming, and by
their own efforts and the agency of tidal currents, become widely
scattered. Where a bed lies in the direct path of such currents it
bids fair to become planted with young individuals; otherwise, equally
favorable situations may remain unstocked. In several instances beds
belonging to this last named class have been planted by hand and
today are flourishing. In San Francisco Bay, for example, the soft
shell, or mud, clam {My a arenaria) was planted upwards of fifty
years ago from stock taken along the Atlantic Coast. At the present
time it is widely distributed and forms a valuable food product in
Fig. 60. Digging Pismo clams at Watsonville Beach, Santa Cruz County.
several of the western markets. Morro Bay, the Goleta estuary north
of Santa Barbara, the estuary of Playa del Rey at Los Angeles, False
Bay at San Diego, and the upper end of San Diego Bay appear to
be good grounds for this species. The experiment could be made with
comparatively little expense, and with an already established market,
it is certainly worth the effort.
The Pizmo clam, or quahog, has likewise been transplanted in
several localities with gratifying results. In this connection it is
important to note that large individuals of practically every species
of clam are relatively helpless when removed from their burrows.
Those species, like the mud clam with a "neck," which remain
throughout life in a fixed situation, should be planted neck upward in
holes (about three times the length of the shell) made by pushing a
stake into the mud or sand. Roving types like the rock or sand clam,
cockles, and Pizmo clam, merely require to be buried a few inches.
The claim is often made that young clams are more tender and
of better flavor than the mature animals; that i^rotection therefore
should be given the breeders ; and the immature individuals only should
be gathered. The first contention is undeniably correct, but were we
to collect the young, it is to be doubted whether there would be any
breeders to protect. It is safe to say the average clam digger, profes-
sional or otherwise, would rarely take the time to carefully bury the
178 CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
larger individuals turned out in the course of a day's work; and, as
indicated in the foregoing paragraph, unless these breeders are buried
there is a small chance indeed that they will re-enter the sand or mud.
Furthermore, it is entirely possible to make commercial use of clams
seldom, if ever, found in the markets at present. The ordinary black
mussel {Mytilus calif ot^nica), adhering by thousands to the rocks along
several sections of our coast, is delicately flavored, grows rapidly, and
deserve a wider market than it now has. A closely related species in
France is nearly as highly esteemed as the oyster. On the west coast
of North America there is a tradition that these animals are poisonous
during certain months of the year. As a matter of fact they are no
more harmful than other clams or oysters. When shellfish of any
species are exposed for comparatively long periods of time on the rocks
or in restaurant windows, where ice or cold water are lacking, the
mucous coating of the body may become infected with bacteria and
develop poisonous products in consequence. Obviously such a state
of affairs is more readily brought about in the summer, and the old
saying that oysters should be eaten only in months containing the letter
"r" probably rests upon this fact. The breeding season of most of
our edible mollusks also occurs in the summer, and after the sex
products are shed the flesh is often rather watery and insipid. Never-
theless, if one is so inclined, there is no reason why he should not
indulge his taste for this class of food during every month of the j^ear.
The macomas, or white {Macoma secta), and bent-nosed {M. nasuta)
sand clams are likewise highly palatable. Unfortunately, the digestive
tract usually contains varying quantities of sand, though it is possible
that this would pass from the body if the individuals were placed in
submerged, anchored boxes. The experiment is well worth trying.
The saxidome, big clam or butter clam {Saxidomus gigantcus) is also
abundant on various beaches throughout the state but is only sparingly
dug. In adult individuals the shell, white or gray in color, measures
from two to three inches in length and is marked by distinct concentric
ridges parallel to the edge of the shell. Along the coast of British
Columbia this species is extensively used and in California deserves
to be marketed in greater quantities than at present.
In conclusion it may be said that the growth of a clam, mussel,
oyster, abalone, etc., depends in large measure upon the amount of
food available. One individual may reach the market size in two or
three years or even less, while another from the same parent may
remain of small size. Just now we are greatly in need of data relating
to the rate of growth, to the breeding season, to the size when the
various species commence to spawn, to the time of spawning and to
the various species inhabiting beds of a given district. Conditions
differ along the hundreds of miles of California coast, and in order to
gain an adequate notion of the subject as a whole, it is highly desirable
that careful observations be made in several distinct localities. Evi-
dence of this character, accompanied by specimens when practicable,
if sent to the State Fish and Game Commission, will go far toward
clearing up many obscure features relating to shellfish and their
culture.
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
179
A POSSIBLE ENEMY OF THE MOSQUITO.
By Clarence Hamilton KennedTj Cornell University.
During July and August, 1915, the writer, through the assistance of
the California Fish and Game Commission, had the opportunity of
studying the aquatic insects in the streams of southern and eastern
California, and of collecting the native fishes in the Mojave and Owens
River watersheds. The work concerned itself principally with the
problem of fish foods.
Among the things of interest discovered was a top-minnow in the
Owens River, which can probably be used to advantage in combating
the mosquito in those parts of the state where these insects are a pest
about permanent fresh-water marshes. The only name that this inter-
esting little fish bears besides the name "top-minnow," which the other
members of this insectivorous family also carry, is its rather formidable
Yf^nne</y.
Fig. 61. The western top-minnow, Cyprinodon macularius. X3.
scientific name, Cyprinodon macularius. This name is unfortunately
almost twice as long as its owner, as this fish is usually less than one
and a half inches in length.
The top-minnows are a family of small fishes, the greater number of
which feed on the various minute insects that breed in shallow water.
It is in such a family of small insectivorous fishes that one would
naturally look for an enemy of the mosquito. Cyprinodon macularius
is the second top-minnow so far discovered in the fresh waters of
California. Probably it has entered from the Colorado River drainage,
where it i.s widely scattered. It is fortunate that a member of this
useful family of fishes occurs as a native of the state, for such can be
more readily utilized for mosquito control than any of those top-
minnows native to the Central States.
A lengthy description of Cyprinodon macularius is superfluous as
the drawing (fig. 61) shows the peculiar, barred pattern in shades of
gray and white, which characterizes Cyprinodon. It seldom reaches
over an inch and three-quarters in length and has a deep, bass-like
shape. In the Owens Valley it is thought by many local people to be
180 CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
the yoimg of the large-mouth black bass, which was introduced into
the valley by the State Fish and Game Commission a few years ago.
This fish was found in abundance in all the shallower parts of the
sloughs and tule swamps at both Lone Pine and Laws. It was most
abundant in the edges of the large tule swamp that lies in the big bend
of Owens River between Laws and Bishop. At Laws the writer
observed schools of these top-minnows nipping at specks floating in the
little ditch that irrigated the hotel yard. This ditch was not over
eighteen inches wide and six inches deep, and was over half a mile
from the river. Every pool cut off by a gravel bar along the river
contained a few of these little fish. They were apparently entirely
comfortable in water not over four inches deep. The writer collected
quantities of these fish by placing a butterfly net in the water and
frightening the little fellows into it. By careful maneuvering some-
times a half a pint could be caught in one "haul of the net." A half
Fig. 62. Outline drawing showing the ailmentary canal of the western top-minnow.
pint is a large number of these fish midgets, as they will average over
two hundred and fifty individuals to a full pint. This small size is this
fish's advantage, for as a consequence there is available to it as food the
quantities of minute aquatic insects too small for the food of larger
fish. Its small size also permits it to explore with ease and safety the
shallow side pools swarming with insect life, that are too shallow for
larger kinds of fish. In the fish "navy" these small fellows can be
considered from two points of view as the "mosquito fleet."
The most interesting, though perhaps the most tedious part of this
study, was the dissection of the fish and study of the stomach contents
of these top-minnows. The illustration shows the arrangement of the
alimentary canal (fig. 62). The stomach is quite long, contains a loop
and shades insensibly into the intestine. The stomach had to be dis-
sected out, opened, and its contents placed in a watch glass for a bowl,
where the partially digested food could be examined under a micro-
scope. The stomachs of all the fish examined were crammed with
insect remains. Apparently Cyprinodon's appetite was larger than his
stomach. In nearly all cases nine-tenths of the contents were Chirono-
mid fly larvae (fig. 63). The Chironomid flies are a family of insects
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
181
so closely related to mosquitoes that only a trained entomologist can
tell the insects of these families apart. Figure 64 shows the mosquito-
like form of a Chironomid. The larvas, usually bright red in color and
Fig. 63. Chironomid larvae, the entire contents of the stomach of fish no. 14.
spoken of as blood worms, live in water much as do mosquito larvffi,
while the adults are harmless, except a few species that suck blood, as
do mosquitoes.
The following table shows the stomach contents of fourteen fish.
Length
Chirono-
No.
offish
mids
Other food
in inches
found
1
H
6 larvffi
2
IS
16 larvae
1 Estheria (crustacean).
3
li
24 larvae
6 pupae
1 beetle.
4
li
4 larvae
5
li
20 larvae
'
6
n
2 larvae
1 pupa
1 beetle, 1 mayfly larva, 1 adult mayfly.
7
U
23 larvse
3 pupae
1 beetle larva.
8
n
28 larvse
9
li
12 larvse
9 pupae
1 mayfly, 2 mayfly nymphs.
10
li
20 larvae
2 pupae
1 mayfly larva.
11
u
4 larvse
2 pupae
1 mayfly nymph.
12
13
14 larvae
(This was a female with 50 mature eggs.)
13
n
16 larvae
(This was a female with 46 mature eggs.)
14
11
17 larvse
The great predominence of Chironomid larvae and the large number
in each stomach show at once what efficient destroyers of water insects
these little fellows are. The absence of mosquito larvse can be readily
25554
182
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
accounted for by the lateness of the study, as mosquitoes have largely
disappeared by August, through other causes. Chirouomid larvJE are
always abundant, for they have gills and not being compelled to come
to the surface to breathe, as are mosquitoes,
they live on the bottom and in trash where
they have more protection from their ene-
miles. The mosquito larvae being compelled
to live at the surface, where they are easily
seen, are probably cleaned up l)y the fish
early in the season.
At the time (August) of the writer's visit,
mosquitoes were not troublesome at Laws,
for the evenings were usually spent under the
trees in the hotel yard, where entertainment
was furnished by the hotel phonograph.
Furthermore, the various individuals inter-
viewed were positive that mosquitoes were
never bad in the Owens Valley. If so, the
condition is very different from that which
exists in other irrigated sections of the West,
for mosquitoes are usually one of the unpleas-
ant features of irrigated pasture land.
The stickle-back, another small fish, has been tried as a mosquito
exterminator, in parts of the state, with some success, but only a
thorough trial can show whether this top-minnow can be used in
territory outside of Owens Valley. Probably it can be of use in any
permanent fresh-water marshland in the state, up to 3,000 or 4,000 feet
elevation. Top-minnows of other species have been introduced with
considerable success into Hawaii to combat mosquitoes.
Fig. 64. A chironomid fly.
These flies are close rela-
tives of the mosquitoes and
breed in all running and
stagnant water.
ABALONE PEARL FORMATION.
By J. H. Oliver.
Every one along the Pacific Coast is familiar with the abalone blister
pearl (pholas caused) commonly seen in jewelry store windows. These
are natural pearls taken from abalones {Ilaliotis sp.). The supply of
these pearls, as well as the beautiful shells of the abalone, so widely
used commercially, is fast becoming exhausted, due to the disappear-
ance of this shellfish. Following along the rocky shore one observes
this sign: "Abalone Trail," but as a rule, look as you will, you will
find no abalones, so complete has been the destruction.
By the united effort of a number interested in the preservation of
this beautiful species of the sea snail, laws were passed to check its
obliteration, and a series of investigations were instituted. In each
succeeding year gradual obliteration has been noted. Places where
experimental work was carried on four years ago, and where abalones
Avere then very plentiful, showed in March, 1916, an almost entire
extirpation of the species. Better laws are now in force, but they
need to be more widely observed.
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
183
In order to make a strong plea for the preservation of the abalone, a
series of experiments to discover whether pearl nacre deposits could be
induced within the abalone, have been carried on under a permit from
the California Fish and Game Commission. Figure 65 shows the
result of five months' deposit of nacre, after inserting a form against
the mantle. This period of time appears to be too long for best results.
Specimens of less nacre deposition have been secured in 57 days.
These have been sent for record, observation, and study, to the zoology
department of the University of California. Experiment has shown
Fig. 65. An artificial pearl produced by an abalone. This pearl is the
result of five months' deposit of nacre.
the time for best results to be between 75 and 100 days. It requires
from 1,400 to 1,500 days to secure similar results with Japanese
culture pearls. Thus, our abalone deposits the desired nacre in one-
fifteenth or one-twentieth of the time required for the formation of
Japanese pearls, and it is evident that 15 or 20 pearls will be formed
in the abalone while one is being deposited in the Japanese shells.
Variously colored pearls may be produced. In one instance a white
pearly shell produced a most beautiful blue pearl. By noting the
change of colors in the same pearl in different stages of formation,
much is being learned of the causes underlying the production of color.
After dissecting some of these pearls I am convinced that the various
colors are produced by a dark skin, deposited between the layers of
nacre, which acts as a reflecting surface. If this dark skin is removed
from a thin pearl and replaced by a new color, such as magenta or
blue, the color of the pearl is immediately affected by the new colors.
When a sufficient amount of the dark skin is deposited with the nacre
the valuable black pearl such as is found at Magdalena Bay, Mexico,
is produced.
184
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
Figure 66 shows how numerous pearl deposits may be within the
abalone and the abalone be unharmed. The specimen shown came
from the vicinity of Morro Bay and displays nine perfect pearl forms
and nine imperfect ones. The Point Lobos section pi'oducos larger,
but less pearly colored forms; the Fort Bragg section numerous very
large, irregular, and often seriously diseased forms, whereas the coasts
of Mexico and southern California produce jet-black pearls in small
quantity. The most favorable section for pearls of quality is Morro Bay
(Cayucos, San Simeon, Port Hartford), while for those of size is
Monterey (Point Lobos).
The results obtained in these experiments are not exceptional nor
local, for similar and equally valuable results were secured along the
Fig. 66. Pearls artificially produced in an abalone by inserting forms
against the mantle. Many pearls may be produced without injury
to the shellfish. It took five months to produce these pearls.
English Channel at the Roscotf Laboratory by the late Dr. Boutan
of Paris. Dr. Boutan 's results as summarized in La Nature were pub-
lished in the Scientific American Supplement, No. 1214, April 8, 1899.
The report says: "All the abalones have secreted nacre on a level with
foreign bodies introduced, and, in many shells, have formed, at the
surface of the nacre, pearls, genuine, tine pearls, of which I submitted
some samples at the Academy." (See fig. 67.)
"The first pearls obtained were not sufficiently detached from the
shell and exhibited too wide a base of junction with the latter. In the
subsequent experiments this defect was partially corrected ; and, in
recent specimens, it may be seen that the part of the pearl nearest the
shell is covered with a layer of nacre.
"It must be remarked, however, that although the pearls thus
obtained artificially have the same chemical composition as natural
ones, and have circular layers only at the periphery, which gives them
the aspect sought, they contain in the interior a large nucleus of nacre,
of which the placing of the layers is necessarily different from that of
the periphery."
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
185
Not only is the life of the shellfish conserved when pearls are pro-
duced artificially, but the animal can be forced to produce better pearls
just as a cow can be forced to produce better milk and a chicken
better eggs. In each instance the pearl is quietly removed and another
form inserted in exactly the same place, and the abalone under more
normal conditions produces pearl after pearl, as long as that portion
of the mantle produces pure nacre. One mantle location produces
Fig. 67. Shell containing a pearl (From M. Boutan in Scientific American
Supplement, April 8, 1899).
pearls in one shape and color, while another part produces an entirely
different shape and color. How long an abalone will continue to pro-
duce pearls has not been determined.
It has been demonstrated that pearls of exquisite color and of great
variation can be obtained by artificial means in the abalone. Pearl
culture in California is therefore more than a possibility. All that is
needed in order to develop a new and profitable industry is the con-
servation of the shellfish concerned, and the working out of the details
of artificial pearl culture in some scientific laboratory.
FISH AND GAME IN SAN MATEO COUNTY.
By J. S. Hunter^ Assistant Executive Officer, California Fish and Game Commission.
Although all parts of San Mateo County are within thirty-five miles
of San Francisco and but a few hours' ride by auto, there are few
sections of the state better supplied with game and fish. A few years
ago much better hunting was here available, but the coast region of
San Mateo County still has much to offer.
Deer are plentiful in San Mateo County, owing largely to the great
tracts of land upon which hunting is limited or entirely prohibited.
On the Spring Valley land, comprising 30,000 acres, upon which hunt-
ing is exceedingly limited, and in the California Redwood Park, just
across the south line of the county, where no hunting is allowed, deer
breed undisturbed and increase rapidly. It is not unusual to see as
many as a dozen deer in driving through the Spring Valley lands.
When this protected area becomes crowded with deer, the overflow
spreads into the adjoining parts of the county where hunting is allowed.
186 CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
The protection thus afforded has made it possible to kill an average of
150 deer each year during several seasons past. Deer find the San
Mateo hills particularly attractive and the cover is so thick that hunters
are at considerable odds unless assisted by packs of well trained dogs.
The grizzly bear was once a common resident of the San Mateo penin-
sula. It is said that these bears were larger than the famous Kadiak
Island grizzlies, supposedly the largest in the world. Many interesting
tales are told of the raids of the grizzly on the San Mateo ranches in
the early days. It is probable that the last grizzly was killed in the
early seventies. Black bears were also resident, and the last one is
reported to have been killed in the central part of the county in the
early nineties. Enos Kalston, of San Gregorio, whose family settled
on Corte Madera Creek in the late fifties, tells of a grizzly which he
and his small brothers and sisters surprised while they were gathering
berries. The bear M^as on one side of a great redwood log and the
children on the other. When the children climbed the log they saw
the bear directly below. It is doubtful whether the children or the
bear was the more frightened.
The valley quail is the prize game bird of San Mateo County. Excel-
lent quail shooting may be had in many parts of the county, and there
is promise of improvement because of the recent shortening of the
season and reduction of bag limit. Quail have, however, become par-
ticularly wary in this district, and it is now difficult to secure a limit,
in spite of the abundance of birds. When a few shots are fired the
gun-wise birds take to the high brush, and here it is impossible to find
them. Mountain quail were found in fair numbers in the higher eleva-
tions some years ago, but it is doubtful whether one could be found in
the county today.
San Mateo has long been famous for its splendid rabbit shooting.
Both cottontail and brush rabbits are found, but brush rabbits are by
far the more numerous. Excellent cover is afforded these animals by
the brush-covered hills on the coast-side of the county, and with reason-
able protection, the rabbit will long afford a source of enjoyment to the
man who enjoys getting out with gun and dog. Hundreds of rabbit
hunters are in the field continually during the rabbit season. San
Mateo was perhaps the first county to give the rabbit the protection of
a close season. The law was found so beneficial that a similar one was
later passed by the state.
The gray tree squirrel is no longer considered game in San Mateo
County, although it is found more or less commonly throughout the
wooded parts, and even within tlie incorporated limits of the cities
along the bay shore.
Marsh shooting has not improved during recent years. The salt
ponds on the bay shore formerly afforded excellent duck shooting, but
in recent years ducks have become noticeably scarce. In the morning
and evening during the fall there is still an excellent flight of ducks
between the Spring Valley lakes and the bay, but shooting is limited to
a few moments at these times of the day, and it is difficult to get more
than a few birds. Better bags of ducks are secured by hunters skilled
in the use of the skulling oar, but this sort of hunting is rather hard
Avork for the average person and is not commonly resorted to.
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME. 187
Rail shooting was formerly one of the sports of the county, but so
much land has been reclaimed during the past few years that rail have
been greatly reduced and it has become necessary to close the season on
them. It is probable that in a few years these birds will have increased
to such an extent that a short open season can be declared. The clapper
rail is one of the best of table birds and is preferred by many to any
other variety of game.
Of all the attractions of San Mateo County perhaps the foremost is
its trout fishing. Miles and miles of excellent trout streams are easily
accessible. Many of these streams are classics with the angling frater-
nity : it is only necessary to mention the Purissima, San Gregorio,
Pescadero, Butano, or any of the other well-known streams to the clan
to start the ball a-rolling, or more particularly, the reel a-spinning;
and stories are told of the wonderful creels of fish that have been
taken.
The streams of San Mateo County have been stocked by the Fish and
Game Commission with thousands of lively fingerlings. The following
is a record of the plantings since 1912 :
1912— 150,000 steelhead trout.
6,000 eastern brook trout.
114,000 rainbow trout.
1913— 117,000 steelhead trout. 1 * • '
48,000 rainbow trout. ' '' '
1914— 274,000 steelhead trout. iT •-
20,000 rainbow trout. .' '
4,000 eastern brook trout.
1915— 400,000 steelhead trout.
80,000 rainbow trout.
1
Total 1,213,000
nf
In normal years the streams are stocked also by trout from the ocean
that spawn naturally, so that, though the streams are heavily fished,
there should be an abundance for everyone.
The ocean shore of San Mateo County is to many the point of greatest
attraction. At low tide scores of residents and visitors from San Fran-
cisco find their way to the rocky reefs where the clam, mussel, and
abalone grow. During the seasons when the smelt are spawning they
run close to shore and are then taken by the sackful. Fresh smelt are
deemed by many superior to trout. Salt water eel are also abundant
along the rocky shore. The crabs of the San Mateo beaches are unsur-
passed in flavor and are found in enormous quantities.
In addition to the planting of thousands of fish in the county, the
Fish and Game Commission has maintained a constant patrol to guard
against game and fish law violations. During the past four years
$10,596 was expended for patrol service, 231 arrests were made, and a
total of $4,120 collected in fines. The amount realized from hunting
and angling licenses approximates $5,955. The expenditures of the
Commission on fish planting and patrol service is, therefore, greatly in
excess of the money derived from the county, but the fact must of
course be taken into consideration that money collected for licenses in
San Francisco and other large cities is used in the fields and streams
where the hunters from these points find their sport.
188 CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
SHOOTING QUAIL FOR MARKET IN SAN MATEO COUNTY.
By E. B. Ralston.
In 1861 ray father, John Ralston, trapped quail on and around the
old home ranch on the Corte Madera Creek, where he had located three
years before. He captured sixty dozen birds in liis traps, and con-
fined them in cages built of split redwood, ])nt l)ein<r offered only
25 cents a dozen in San Francisco, the one available market, he tore
open the cages and set the birds free.
I began shooting for market in 1868, using a muzzle-loader, but it
was not until ten years later that I did any wing shooting. At that
time I met a Mr. Johnson, who was a wing-shot as well as a "ground
sluicer" and who was out shooting birds for market. He asked me to
take one side of a ravine and shoot it out, while he took the other
with a breechloader. Though I was no shot on the wing, I took my
side, and to my own surprise dropped the first three birds that rose.
This gave me courage, but I soon found that to stop and load my
muzzle-loader was too slow. The advantage of a breech-loader was
apparent by my friend's success, and I immediately purchased a
breech-loader and began wing shooting.
In those j^ears we hunted six months open season. I used a fourteen-
gauge Parker shotgun, and with a single load in this gun I have killed
26, and by using both barrels, 29 quail. J\Iy highest record on ground
shooting was 192 quail killed in seven shots; on wing and ground
shooting in any one day 121 birds, and on straight wing shooting
106 birds out of 129 shots. This last record was made in an ideal place
in grass left by the reaper alongside of a narrow willow run three-
fourths of a mile in length.
Mr. Johnson, as evidence of the abundance of quail in this part of
San Mateo County in the early days, states that he bagged five dozen
birds while walking from his home to the stage station at San Gregorio,
a distance of a few miles.
It was not until about 1869, when the Chinese flocked into this great
quail section and began grubbing and clearing the hills and flats, that
quail began to lessen in number. They were thus driven out of their
feeding and watering places, away from cover and protection, and
cattle and horses, in feeding on the wild grass, exposed and destroyed
their nesting places, contributing largely to the decrease of the next
few years.
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
189
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME
A publication devoted to the conserva-
tion of wild life and published quarterly
by the California State Fish and Game
Commission.
Sent free to citizens of the State of Cali-
fornia. Offered in exchange for ornitho-
logical, mammalogical and similar period-
icals.
The articles published in California Fish
AND Game are not copyrighted and may be
reproduced in other periodicals, provided
due credit is given the California Fish and
Game Commission. Editors of newspapers
and periodicals are invited to make use of
pertinent material.
All material for publication should be
sent to H. C. Bryant, Museum of Verte-
brate Zoology, Berkeley, Cal.
October 18, 1916.
"Conservation is the order of the
day; it is in the air; it stands for the
prevention of waste, for efficiency and
progress."
OUR SECOND BIRTHDAY.
With this issue the second volume of
California Fish and Game is com-
pleted. Though the publication of this
quarterly has necessitated an annual ex-
penditure of several hundred dollars, the
results obtained more than justify this
outlay. If knowledge of the need and
value of wild life conservation is a pre-
requisite to the preservation of our fish
and game resources, then the most eco-
uomical and effective method of bringing
this about is being used. A man em-
ployed to make personal calls at five dol-
lars per day could not interview more
than eight people daily. A lecturer would
find it difficult to reach regularly more
than one hundred people during each
working day. Only a portion of the
people so reached would be convinced of
the needs of wild life, for the spoken word
is discounted more than the written word.
California Fish and Game has been
received by close to five thousand people
every three months. The large number
of complimentary letters received, and the
growing mailing list, indicate that the
magazine does not find its way to the
waste basket, but is read with interest
and profit.
The Shad Number and the Deer Num-
ber were so well received that several
special numbers such as these will be
issued this coming year. We are also glad
3—25554
to announce that a series of colored plates
of game birds and game fishes will appear
in forthcoming numbers. These plates
are four-color reproductions of paint-
ings by Louis Agassiz Fuertes and
Charles Bradford Hudson and will be
suitable for framing.
N.B. — In order to bring the mailing
list up to date we are enclosing in each
copy of the October number a card
which everyone interested in receiving
the quarterly should fill out and return
promptly. Unless this card is received
before the next number is ready for
mailing, the name of the recipient will
be removed from the mailing list.
A NEW DEPARTMENT.
All notes relating to hatcheries and
fish culture will hereafter appear in a
separate department under the heading
"Hatchery Notes." The department will
be edited by Mr. W. H. Shebley, In
Charge Fish Culture. Mr. N. B. Scofield
will continue to edit the department :
"Commercial Fishery Notes." Mr. L. H.
Whiteman, In Charge Information,
United States Forest Service, is editing
the department : "United States Forest
Service Co-operation."
A CHAIN OF GAME REFUGES FOR
CALIFORNIA.
Believing that a chain of game sanctu-
aries can best insure our game supply, the
Fish and Game Commission is co-operating
with the United States Forest Service in
gathering data relative to suitable situa-
tions for game refuges within the national
forests. The supervisors of the various
national forests have recommended
twenty-two new refuges comprising a
total area of 925,125 acres. Five super-
visors are opposed to the creation of
refuges in their respective forests, but
all of the rest recommended one or more
areas.
Some of the areas recommended are too
large and others will not be available
for other reasons. Nevertheless, when
the present plans are worked out, a
chain of sanctuaries extending from San
Diego County to Siskiyou County will
be established, either by federal enact-
ment, if the Chamberlain-Hayden bill
is passed by Congress, or by state enact-
ment at the next session of the legis-
lature.
190
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
Fig. 68. A high mountain lake. Trout haye been planted in practically every lake of this
size in the high Sierras.
FISHING POPULAR.
The oponinj? of the fishing season last
spring showed that angling is becoming
more and more popular. As evidence of
the large number of fishermen in the field
on the opening day, the following is of
interest. Deputy Hoen counted 109 fish-
ermen on Paper Mill Creek, in Marin
County. At least 4S5 special permits
were given to fishermen desiring to try
their luck in Wild Horse Lake by the
Water Company of Vallejo. Deputy
Armstrong reported 220 men at the lake
on the opening day, and a catch of about
1,800 pounds of trout.
GAME RESOURCES OF CALIFORNIA
ADVERTISED BY FOREST SERVICE.
The United States Forest Service has
issued recreation maps of the different
national forests of California for the use
of campers and travelers. The maps
show the principal mountains, streams,
settlements, etc., of each forest, and also
the best camp grounds and localities
where deer, bear and other game are
abundant. On the back of each map is
information regarding the location of the
forest, history and purposes, administra-
tion, physiography and resources, cli-
matic conditions, fishing and hunting,
aid to campers, horse feed and supplies,
hotels and suggested trips. On the back
of the Trinity National Forest map, for
instance, the fishing and hunting con-
ditions arc thus described :
"The Trinity National Forest is con-
sidered a paradise for sportsmen. Streams
and lakes are well stocked with trout.
In the south fork of the Trinity River
the salmon fishing is excellent. Small
game, quail, grouse, squirrel, and rabbits
are plentiful almost everywhere. Doer,
bears, and ])anthers are found in the
more isolated regions. In the southern
])art of (he Forest, the best game region,
is located the Trinity Game Refuge. In
this refuge, established by (he Sta(e of
California, hunting is forbidden, and pre-
datory animals can be killed only by per-
mission of the State Fish and Game Com-
mission. Deer are so plentiful here that
they may be seen at any time, and even
photographed about the salt licks."
Information as to the distribution of
trout in 1012, 1013, and 1015, as to the
securing of fishing licenses, and excerjjts
from the fish and game laws follow.
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
191
RANCHERS PROTECT GAME.
A imrabor of ranch owners in this
state are improving game conditions by
making game refuges of their property.
A recent instance is afforded by the
Marshall ranch, owned by A. H. Marshall,
comprising 460 acres in Trinity County.
No one is allowed to kill any bird or
animal, except predatory animals, at any
time, either in or out of season ; nor does
stroyers. Sacramento will probably be
the first cily in northern California to
inaugurate control measures.
REGULATIONS FOR THE PROTECTION
OF MIGRATORY BIRDS.
New federal regulations for the pro-
tection of migratory and insectivorous
birds were issued August 21, 1916. One
change in the law is unfortunate and
Fig. 69. A catch of rainbow trout on the north fork of the Feather River.
Photograph by F. A. Farnum.
the excuse that wild birds or animals are
damaging crops allow this rule to be
infringed upon.
THE CAMPAIGN AGAINST THE
ENGLISH SPARROW.
As a result of the publicity campaign
begun by the commission, a number
of cities have instituted control measures.
The latest report from the officially
appointed sparrow destroyer of San
Diego is to the effect that 415 European
house sparrows, more commonly known
as "English sparrow^s," have been killed,
and it is estimated that not more than
20 sparrows still remain in the city.
That the greater portion of these bird
pests have been destroyed in San Diego
is evidenced by additional reports from
interested parties. According to news-
paper reports the cities of Riverside and
Redlands have also instituted campaigns
and have appointed official sparrow de-
will have the effect of losing for the law
some of the support which it would other-
wise have obtained. The opening of the
season on waterfowl is extended to Octo-
ber 16th. Since California laws were
made to conform to the former regula-
tions the open season on waterfowl begins
on October 1.5th, according to state
law. A protest against this change has
been sent to the proper authorities, but
there is little hope that resultant con-
fusion will be avoided on the opening day.
The other change is to be commended.
All shore birds with the exception of the
Wilson snipe, are to be protected until
September 1, 1918. This eliminates the
shooting of golden and black-breasted
plover and greater and lesser yellowlegs.
Since but few shoot these birds, and since
the need of additional protection for them
is evident, there will doubtless be a will-
ing observance of this provision in this
state.
192
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
The Senate's approval the last of
August of the treaty with Canada, which
provides for like protection of migratory
birds in both countries, will have a direct
bearing on the constitutionality of the
federal law.
STATEMENT OF THE FEDERAL
ADVISORY COMMITTEE OF THE
MIGRATORY BIRD LAW.
The members of the Advisory Commit-
tee to the Department of Agriculture on
the Migratory Bird Law, in view of the
fact that new regulations setting forth
closed seasons on migratory waterfowl
and birds were made public August 21.
lidG, have given out the following state-
ment :
To The People of the United States:
The Advisory Committee appointed by
the Secretary of Agriculture, Hon. D. F.
Houston, to co-operate with the Bureau
of Biological Survey in fixing the regu-
lations for closed seasons on migratory
birds, as authorized by the Federal
Migratory Bird Law, desires to state to
the people of the country that after the
most exhaustive investigation and the
most careful consideration of every point
raised, the regulations as promulgated
were unanimously recommended by the
members of this committee. We realize
the utter impossibility of even attempting
to satisfy all that desire to shoot migra-
tory birds.
In recommending the i-egulations we
were controlled by the following consid-
erations :
First — A most earnest desire to save
from certain depletion and threatened
annihilation the valuable waterfowl,
game and insectivorous birds which mi-
grate across the United States twice each
year.
Second — To accord the hunters in the
various states as nearly as possible an
equal opportunity of taking migratory
waterfowl and nomadic game birds.
Third — To open the seasons during
which these birds can bo legally killed iu
those months when under normal weather
and' food conditions the largest number
of migratory waterfowl and birds sojourn
in any particular state.
Fourth — To absolutely eliminate spring
shooting, when migratory waterfowl and
birds on the northward migration arc
journeying towards their breeding
grounds, thus imi^elled by the resistless
force of nature, to mate, nest and repro-
duce their species.
Fifth — To recognize unusual and extra-
ordinary conditions existing in a few of
the states, without affecting the equity
or vested rights of the people of the
whole country in the migratory wild life.
Sij;th — To submit reasonable, practi-
cal, fair and just regulations that should
invite the support of all true conserva-
tionists.
Seventh — To guarantee not only to the
present generation a reasonable supply of
migratory wild life, but to so protect it
that it will multiply and be handed to
future generations as their proper and
rightful heritage.
The imperative necessity for the enact-
ment of the federal migratory bird law is
palii.ible to every thoughtful and discern-
ing mind.
Migi'atory wild life docs not even rec-
ognize national, to say nothing of state.
lines. The variability of the statutes of
the states protecting these migrants, the
lack of uniformity in these laws, the ra-
l>acity with which the nomadic birds are
slaughtered by voracious annihilators of
wild life in many of the states to the
ilctriment of the people at large, com-
IM'lled the conclusion of Congress that
the exigencies of the situation demandeil
federal regulations that would, in reality,
save the migratory waterfowl and birds
from extermination.
The people of no country have been so
abundantly blessed with valuable natural
resources as ours.
The American people are notoriously a
nation of wasters. Only by reason of the
fact that their natural resources are fast
disappearing have they been induced to
extend even a modicum of conservation to
these fast-vanishing assets.
Conservation does not mean preventing
the use of our natural resources as a
miser would hoard his gold, but means
the wise and careful use of our national
heritage, taking therefrom only a suf-
ficient quantity to supply our needs, with
the full realization that we are trustees
for future generations.
We are convinced that under the opera-
tion of this law shooting will improve
each year.
The need of the hour has heretofore
appeared to be uppermost in the minds
of the people. They have drawn reck-
lessly on their natural inheritance with
scarcely a thought of the future. It is a
notable fact that in our rapacity for
slaughter many of the most valuable
species of game and birds that formerly
abounded in this country have been an-
nihilated.
The wild or passenger pigeon that
formerly swarmed over eastern North
America in countless millions has become
extinct. The American bison, found on
the great plains of the West, was slaugh-
tered by hide hunters to the point of ex-
termination. The great auk, the Eskimo
curlew, the I^abrador duck, the Carolina
parrakeet, have been exterminated.
There are many other valuable North
American birds that are candidates for
extinction, including the whooping crane,
trumpeter swan, American flamingo, rose-
ate spoonbill, scarlet ibis, long-billed cur-
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
193
lew. upland plover, Hudsonian godwit,
red-breasted sandpiper, golden plover, dow-
iteher, willet, pectoral sandpiper, black-
capped petrel, American egret, snowy
egret, wood duck, band-tailed pigepn,
heath hen, sage grouse, white-tailed kite,
prairie sharptail, pinnated grouse and
woodcock.
Future eventuations can only be judged
by those that have gone before, hence the
enactment and the enforcement of a com-
prehensive system of federal conservation
of migratory wild life was made necessary
if this valuable asset was to be retained
among the resources of the United States.
Aside from aesthetic consideration, birds
and game constitute a valuable article of
food. From a recreational standpoint,
this resource is of the greatest value to
our people.
We feel that the failure of any Ameri-
can citizen to accord the federal migra-
tory bird law his most active support is
due either to lack of information or self-
ishness.
We therefore urge and request all
patriotic citizens to exert their influence
to the utmost to the end that the incal-
culable benefits contemplated by this law,
and most specifically accruing to the
people under the regulations just pro-
mulgated, be given their moral support,
that the enlightened conscience of the
people may be quickened to a full
observance and vigilant enforcement of
this wise and progressive conservation
measure.
John B. Burnham, N. Y., Chairman.
Hon. Edw. G. Bradford, Jr., Dela.
Hon. F. W. Chambers, Utah.
W. Ij. Finley, Oregon.
Dr. E. H. FoRBUsn, Mass.
Dr. Geo. B. Grinnell, New York.
Dr. "Wm. T. Hornaday, New York.
Clark McAdams, Missouri.
Marshall McLean, New York.
Clinton M. Odell, Minn.
T. Gilbert Pearson, New York.
Hon. Ernest Schaeffle, Cal.
Hon. Geo. Shiras, 3d, Mich.
Hon. John H. Wallace, Jr., Ala.
THE CHAMBERLAIN-HAYDEN GAME
SANCTUARY BILL.
The Permanent Wild Life Protection
Fund has been making every effort to
force the passage of the Chamberlain-
Hayden Game Sanctuary Bill. The bill
has been acted upon favorably by both
the Senate and the House committees;
but the pressure of business during the
closing session has, up to September 1,
prevented the bill being brought to a vote.
It is reported that in the Senate the
situation is satisfactory, in spite of the
fact that four senators are opposed to
the bill. Conditions in the House of
Representatives, however, are not nearly
so good, and all those interested in the
bill are being asked to urge their con-
gressmen to bring the bill to a vote under
a suspension of the rules, as soon as
possible.
This Sanctuary Bill has been endorsed
by an ex-president of the United States,
by twelve state governors, by fifteen state
game commissioners and state game
wardens, by dozens of high state officers,
by the presidents and professors of seven
western state universities, by scores of
organizations of sportsmen, zoologists,
stockmen and businessmen, by clubs and
societies of many kinds, by practically all
of the national organizations for the pro-
tection of wild life, by dozens of influen-
tial newspapers and magazines, and by
thousands of unattached citizens of
prominence who have declared in writing
their endorsement and support. The
great Order of Elks, also, at its grand
annual conclave, gave this cause a ring-
ing endorsement and appointed a special
committee to press the matter before
Congress without delay.
In defense of the bill the following
statements are made : "This bill would
take nothing from the public domain !
It would not change the legal status of
one acre of public land, except by protect-
ing the game upon it from being killed.
"It would sequestrate no agricultural
lands and no grazing lands ! The areas
in view for these sanctuaries are the wild,
remote, rugged and now useless regions,
utterly useless for agriculture and for
o-raziug. Any settler who goes into such
a region to live is doomed to perpetual
poverty because he can not conquer steep
mountainsides and V-shaped valleys.
"This matter is proposed to Congress
on a basis of absolute good faith. It is
not intended as an 'entering wedge' for
big new appropriations and a lot of new
high-salaried positions; but eventually it
will cost about $20,000 per year of extra
money. If the plan is not worth .$20,000
per year, it is not worth considering. We
call it real, constructive conservation, on
a large scale, at practically no extra cost.
"If at any time the people of the
United States decide that the public
welfare demands the breaking up of the
national forests, and their opening to
settlement and land speculation, then Met
the tail go with the hide,' and deconse-
crate and break up the game sanctuaries
194
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
at the same time. The East can stand it
if the West can; and there is nothing
in the proposed law that can prevent its
repeal.
"In the states that will be affected by
the proposed game sanctuary plan, there
are probably 1.000,000 men and boys who
go hunting each year, and kill game — if
they can find any I To them this bill
means a continuation of legitimate sport ;
informal English two opposing views of a
mooted question — Editor.]
Requa, Cal.,
May 27, 191G.
Fish and Game Commission,
Siin Francisco, Cal.
Dkab Sib: Long time before White
Man come, Indians eat fish, acorns and
deer meat, that's all. He gets just what
he wants to cat. Eat 'um fresh in sum-
mer time smoke 'nm for after awhile
S«l
^^^BT^' ' ^B^^^^^^l
... -- ^^- »,.^*^*W.^i«
MrlBC^ . ^^B
»r
^9
..^^Pa-^BI
L^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
^^
4
Fig. 70. Child feeding pet deer. Photograph by Mrs. H. M. Sharp.
and state control alone moans the exter-
mination of big-game hunting in the near
future. The.se are hard facts, not
theories; and the American people can
take them or leave them."
AN INDIAN'S VIEW OF BURNING,
AND A REPLY.
[The Fish and Game Commission re-
cently received an interesting letter, pur-
porting to be written by an Indian of Del
Norte County, which contained a plea for
the burning of forest areas to destroy
pests and renew growth. The United
States Forest Service has furnished an
answer. Both letters are here published
because they entertainingly express in
when winter come. Deer,
him eat grass, young brush
wild berry. Every winter
so everything grow very
elk and bear
and acorn and
too much wet
fast ; you see
White Man he cut out all old wood on
berry bushes and on fruit trees, because
he know berry and fruit tree grow much
large on new wocxl, more than old wood,
he know bug eat leaf and worm set in
fruit and make 'um no good for eat; well
you see Indian know all this too because
long time before White Man come, In-
dian here. White Man he take care of
what he plant and what he use. White
Man he have time every year to cut out
old wood and make lots of big berry and
fruit grow, for what he wants to eat, but
lie forget to fix mountain land for elk,
hear and deer to eat. Why itk don't
KNOW SAMF, 'hout FOREST? White man
cut brush in pasture so grass grow for
stock to eat ; but Indian no have berry
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME,
195
bush and fruit tree to plant so he have
to fix all wild berry bush and fruit tree
and make brush stop so not choke grass.
Indian have no medicine to put on all
places where bug and worm are, so he
burn ; every year Indian burn. Fire
burn off old wood on berry bush make
new wood grow and lots big berry come.
Fire burn up old acorn that i:all on
ground. Old acorn on ground have lots
worm ; no burn old acorn, no burn old
bark, old leaves, bugs and worms come
more every year. Fire make new sprout
for deer and elk to eat and kill lots brush
so always have plenty open grass land
for grass. No fire brush grow quick and
after while choke out all grass and make
too much shade, then grass get sour, no
good for eat. No fire then too much leaf
stay on ground, no grass can grow up,
too much dead leaf, ground get sour.
Indian burn every year just same, so keep
all ground clean, no bark, no dead leaf,
no old wood on ground, no old wood on
brush, so no bug can stay to eat leaf and
no worm can stay to eat berry and acorn.
Not much on ground to make hot tire
so never hurt big trees, where fire burn.
Now White Man never burn ; he pass law
to stop all fire in forest and wild pasture
and all time he keep right on cutting out
old wood on berry bush and fruit tree
and cut brush off grass land and put
medicine to kill worms and bugs. Why
HE NO LfJT FIRE DO SAME IN FOREST AS HE
DO TO BERRY BUSH AND FRUIT TREE?
"White man say he don't understand why
wild berry get small and more few every
year and acorn all get wormy, and no
more grass land, and why deer die when
they eat sour grass, under brush and tree,
made sour by too much shade.
Indian know, and bye-un-bye White
Man say he know too, but Indian say,
^VITITE MAN YOU KNOW TOO LATE.
Yours truly,
(Signed) Klamath River Jack.
Dear Jack :
A while back you wrote a letter to the
man in San Francisco who is the Boss
of the Outfit that takes care of the deer
and the fish and the birds. You told
him how things were in the woods and
the mountains before the white man came
along. You asked lots of questions too.
Jack, and I want to tell you why the
white man does things like you say.
We won't get into any college debate
and use dictionary words : let's start with
the main thing, grub. You eat doer meat,
fish and acorns. You want lots of these
things, so to keep the supply going you
set fires in the woods. They burn over
a big country and then next spring you
see lots of new shoots on the brush ;
manzanita, scrub oak, snowbrush and all
the rest of them. But you don't see any
shoots on the little pines and firs, do you?
No ! They are dry and dead ; all of them
lip to about twenty feet high. Maybe
that don't mean anything to you because
the pine tree ain't good feed for deer. But
I want to tell why it does mean some-
thing to you and to the deer, too.
You say that the white man prunes his
bushes to make them grow better — that's
true. You say that the Indian prunes
his wild bushes with fire and he gets the
same results — that's true. But, jack, do
you want the brush to grow so thick?
Most Indiansi say no. They want to
ride through the woods without having
to fight their way through brush.
Now, the two best friends the thick, heavy
brush has got are sun and fire. When
the fire runs through, it burns the old
wood on the brush and in the spring
there are ten little stalks started where
there were only two before. But at the
same time all the young pine trees are
killed. Then there is not much left to
throw shade on the brush and after a few
years living in the open sun the brush
field is lots thicker than it ever was be-
fore and there is no grass and the deer
are forced to go back under the heavy
timber where the ground is open.
Of course that fire didn't burn the big
pine trees, but how long do you think
those big trees are going to live? — not a
great many years. And when they die
there are no trees to take their places
because you burnt all the little trees while
they were growing up. And then there
will be nothing but brush fields and no
shade for man and deer to travel in and
no grass because the brush is so thick.
Now, what would have happened if there
had been no fire? The little pine trees
would have pushed their heads up over
the brush and spread out their branches
and thrown shade over the brush. As
they got bigger and made lots of shade
the brush would have got sick and finally
died out just like a flower that you try
to make grow in a tin can in your dark
cabin. And why is this? Just because
brush can not stand shade.
Not long ago I went over to Frank
Long's to offer him a job on the White
Horse Road. Thought I'd make a cut-
off and save some time so I rode up the
ridge back of Adam's cabin and figured
to cut across Elk Creek Canyon. I was
in the open timber all the way until I
started down the side of the canyon and
ran plumb into that long brush field you
can see from the river. You know, the
one that runs from the Queen Mine flume
clear to the top of the mountain. I tried
to jam through it but couldn't make it,
so had to ride clear up and around the
brush.
Did you ever stop to think what made
that brush field? Do you know that all
through it there are old black stumps
burned clear into the ground? Fire did
it. When I asked Frank about it he
said that three big fires had ran over
that place in the last 20 years. Are there
any berries in that strip ; is there any
grass in there; can you hunt in there?
No, Jack, because your fire is bad medi-
cine. If that place had been left alone
196
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
there would he big timber all over it and
you could ride anywhere and there would
be lots of grass on the ground for deer
and cattle.
And, Jack, if your acorns are wormy,
don't blame it on the white man keeping
fire out of the country — there are a good
many other things that keep bugs alive.
And I have seen the best kind of acorn
crops in places that never felt a fire.
Anyway, there are other things that make
better flour than acorns ; why not plant
some grain and vegetables and fruit trees
on that flat back of your cabin? That's
white man's grub, but its pretty good.
Yours truly,
(Signed) Jim Casey,
Forest Ranger.
BRITISH COLUMBIA HAS ESTAB-
LISHED THE HUNGARIAN
PARTRIDGE.
In contrast with the general failure to
establish the Hungarian or European
partridge in the United States is the suc-
cess attained in British Columbia. A
recent report states that an open season
of two days was declared on these birds
last year. On November 13 and 14,
1915, shooting was allowed in the Delta
District. Many hunters were in the
field, but only small bags were obtained.
Probably between 400 and 500 birds were
killed. If conditions are satisfactory
another open season of two days will be
declared next year.
OBTAIN AN AUTHORITATIVE WORK
ON PHEASANT BREEDING FREE.
Through the courtesy of the American
(Jame I'roteclive Association we are
enabled to offer free of charge to game
breeders in this state a limited number
of copies of E. A. Quarles' authoritative
work "American Pheasant Breeding and
Shooting." The book, based on the ex-
perience of the most successful breeders
in the United States, gives detailed in-
formation on the hatching and rearing of
pheasanis and is illustrated with fifty
half tones. Everyone engaged in pheas-
ant breeding and everyone who con-
templates rearing these birds should
possess a copy of this book. Make appli-
cation to Bureau of Education, Publicity
and Research. Museum of A'ertebrate
Zoology, Berkeley, Cal., and include six
cents in stamps to cover postage.
FOUR CLASSES OF VIOLATORS.
In the American Game Protective As-
sociation's Bulletin of February 15, 191(5,
there appeared the following :
"Violators of game la^AS may be di-
vided into three general cla^SPs :
"The young.
"The ignorant.
"The thoughtless.
Fig. 71. Commissioner Westerfeld, Attorney Duke and Deputy Ober crossing pass on way
to Rae Lakes, August 16, 1916. Photograph by J. L. Von Blon.
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
197
"Education, and the creation of a sen-
timent whicli will make a man ashamed
of himself for taking what does not be-
long to him, are the two weapons with
which all of these classes must be opposed.
Organization is the medium through
which these weapons can be most success-
fully used."
To these three classes should be added
a fourth — the willful. We regret to say
that there are many belonging to this
class in our state. The men who persist
in exceeding the limit on ducks because
a game warden is not at hand and the
men who continue to hunt for deer, osten-
sibly "for the outdoor exercise," after
having procured two bucks, are willful
violators and can not even be classified
among the "thoughtless." Those of this
class, more than those of any other, need
the stern hand of the law as an educa-
tional force.
CLUB URGES PROTECTION OF
HARMLESS SNAKES.
The Lorquin Natural History Club of
the Southwest Museum, Los Angeles,
California, has been placing neat signs
of tin in many places in the mountains
urging the protection of harmless snakes.
A record of the altitude at which each
sign is placed draws the attention of
those who might not otherwise read the
inscription which is as follows :
DO NOT KILL HARMLESS
SNAKES.
THEY DESTROY DISEASE-BEARING
RODENT PESTS.
THE ONLY HARMFUL SNAKES IN
CALIFORNIA ARE RATTI,ESNAKES
Altitude
A WARDEN'S DUTIES IN
PENNSYLVANIA.
According to Dr. Joseph Kalbfus, execu-
tive officer of the Pennsylvania Fish and
Game Commission, the duties of the fifty
paid game protectors in Pennsylvania is
not only to arrest men who may violate
the law, but to keep in touch with the
people, that they may understand what
game protection means ; to locate game
4—25554
of various kinds ; to feed game and wild
birds when necessity requires ; to assist
in every way in the extermination of
vermin ; to destroy dogs that are out of
place and in turn have become vermin ; to
extinguish forest fires, and to do such
other things as may add to the protection
of, and the increase of game and useful
wild birds. Each game protector is paid
a salary of $75.00 a month, in addition to
traveling expenses.
A NEW DANGER TO BIRDS IN
ENGLAND.
In England old-fashioned agriculturists
are attempting to instigate a wholesale
killing of the birds, based on the plea that
in these times no share of the crops can
be spared to birds. — Current Items of In-
terest, April 11, 1916.
SOME SUGGESTED CHANGES IN
FISH AND GAME LAWS.
Some radical changes in our game laws
are suggested in the following letter by
one of our readers. Some of the points
are well taken although all may not agree
as to the desirability of many of the sug-
gested changes.
Although I believe that our fish and
game commissioners are doing what they
think best for all, I believe that our
laws should be made more strict and a
tighter line drawn. It is my opinion that
our daily bag limits on both waterfowl and
upland game are in many cases too large
and should be cut down. My reasons for
wishing to see this change are these :
The present bag limits permit a man to
kill more than he can use himself, and
allows him to distribute the surplus
among his friends. It encourages him to
slaughter, and encourages his friends to
depend upon him for their supply of wild
game.
Were the bag limit reduced to an
amount sufficient only for a man's own
needs, it would cause him to be apprecia-
tive of his privilege to hunt wild game,
would take him out more frequently into
the open, which would mean more to his
health, and would give him more practice
with a gun. On the other hand, the man
who has been depending upon his friend
for his game supply would be called upon
to hunt for his own, thereby bringing
others out into the open to get healthful
exercise. It would also encourage the
use of the gun, thereby making more and
better marksmen to defend the country in
time of trouble, and would help swell the
state's fund through additional licenses.
Our present "district system," I be-
lieve should be abolished, thereby allow-
ing a party killing game in one part of
198
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
the state to take it into another. Instead
of cli\i(linff the state into districts certain
sections and streams of eacli and every
county should be closed to hunting: and
tishing for certain periods, say from one
to three years at a time; then when these
sections are opened other sections of the
country should he closed, and so on. At
the same time the present open and close
seasons should prevail in the oi>en sec-
tions. This would allow lisli and s^nie
a splendid opportunity to breed and mul-
tiply unmolested in a district during the
close season. And as hunters would not
freiiuent the closed sections the game
therein would become man-shy and thus
att'ord plenty of sport to the hunter. This
would in a short time sive to this state a
greater reputation as a game state than
it has ever enjoyed and place good hunt-
ing within the easy reach of all. —
(.'i.LtnoN A. Wood.
FOR SELFISH REASONS.
The world is beautiful ; only man is vile.
Witness a shady bower in a beautiful
mountain canyon on a hot summer's day.
A clear, sparkling stream is trickling
musically down over the shining pebbles
or between moss-grown boulders ; flowers
are blooming ; the ground under the trees
is carpeted with ferns and tender grass;
birds are warbling cheerfully and all is
peace, repose and loveliness. Suddenly
a crowd of picnickers come surging
through the bushes and, spying our quiet
nook, decide it is the ideal place for a
picnic, so down go the lunch baskets, oil:
come the coats and hats and the picnic is
on, full blast.
The hot summer day passes, and when
the cool evening hours come the picnic
party gathers some of its belongings and
starts for home. Noiv peep through the
branches at our Eden. The vines are
torn and broken, branches pulled off of the
trees lie scattered hither and yon ; card-
board pie plates cling to the wild-rose
bushes or repose unblushing in beds of
moss ; a broken wicker basket is dangling
from a tree branch ; a gaudy catsup bottle
stands guard over an old shoe box and
some banana peelings, while an empty
bean can graces the edge of our crystal
stream. Gone now is the charm of our
woodland bower, disorder reigns where
beauty once held sway. Small wonder
then that the birds and squirrels voice
their remonstrance in complaining accents.
Nature will be long in repairing the
damage so carelessly done.
When it is our pleasure to visit one
of nature's Edens, let us remember that
some day, others may want to enjoy it
as we arc enjoying it now, or let us
renu-mher that we ourselves may some
time wish to return, so, for purely selfish
reasons, let's bury the cans, papers, and
peelings, then go our way knowing that
nature will turn these unsightly things
into flowers and grass and ferns to refresh
and gladden us on some other summer's
day. — .los. A. Beek.
DO CORMORANTS EAT FISH?
Cormorants, or shags, are continually
accused of destroying quantities of food
fish. The following quotations taken
from a paper by P. A. Taverner of the
Canadian Geological Survey are of par-
ticular interest in that they bring out
the results of an investigation into the
relation of the double-crested cormorant
{Phalacrocorax auritiis) to the salmon
industries on the Gulf of St. Lawrence
(Canada Department of Mines, Museum
Bull. No. 13, pp. 1-24). We can not
say whether our species of cormorants
prey upon salmon, but it seems probable
that many of the stories in circulation
arc as exaggerated as those which led to
the investigation carried on in eastern
Canada.
"Evidence apparently against the
cormorants is not wanting. Knowing
that all the salmon smolt must pass
through the estuarine mouths of the
rivers to the sea and again repass them
when ascending as grilse the presence
of numbers of fish-eating birds of itself
is disturbing enough, but when one
hears from reliable .sources that some
twenty-seven fingerling salmon (parr)
have been taken from the crop of one
cormorant, the evidence superficially
looks alarming. Investigation, however,
shows that these constantly reported
tales are variants of a few cases so
often rejioated as to greatly exaggerate
their importance and hide their exce])-
tional character. But all cormorants
found on the upper r(>aches of the rivers
must, until other evidence is forthcom-
ing, lie assum(>d to eat salmon, as they
and a few trout are practically the only
fish the waters contain.
"On the coast, about Perce, the cor-
morants certainly do the fishermen a
certain amount of injury. It is not
the salmon industries that are affected
here, but the cod-fishing. During a
large part of the season the codfishers
rely altogether upon herring for bait
and for this purpose the herring nets
are set nightly. When these fish are
abundant the toll taken by cormorants
is not noticeable, but when, as regu-
larly occurs, herring are scarce, the
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
199
birds go to the nets and help them-
selves to the contents. The few herring
they take are on the whole only a bng-
atelle ; hnt when half a dozen small fish
is all that can be expected from a net
to serve for a day's hshing, and half
or more are taken by cormorants, tlu'
fishermen can hardly be criticized for
givini;- vent to some evidences of dis-
content at the loss of a day's work and
|)rutit. However, though the fishermen
do look u])on the cormorants as one of
their natural enemies, they do not seem
to be bitter against them ; not nearly
as much so as the salmon anglers ; who
only have a sporting interest in their
fish and are not dependent upon them
for a livelihood.
"The population of fry produced by
the birth rate is greater than can be
raised and the surplus must necessarily
be reduced, if not by one agent, then
by another. There is a point to be
reached when even an immense increase
in the number of fry introduced into
the streams will be ineffective in in-
cre ising the output of smolt. As the
birth rate has been evolved under pres-
ent conditions of food suuidy and enemy
factors, the natural conclusion is, that
the kingfishers and the shelldrakos are
compensated for in it. The natural in-
crease was sufhcient to stock the river
in the past to abundance, in spite of
these enemies, and there is no reason
to .suspect that it is less effective now.
Hence, if man introduces sufficient fry
to compensate for the ova that should
be laid l)y the breeding fish he captures,
probably the highest possible efficiency
of the streams under the present food
conditions will be reached. If this is
done the shel Id rakes and kingfishers can
be neglected except to see that they do
not increase to an abnormal extent.
"In conclusion it may be said that
I. The total effect of bird enemies
upon salmon is small, if any.
II. Hatcheries and fry planting will
compensate for the toll of mature fish
taken by man.
III. The number of smolt that go
to sea is dependent upon the food sup-
ply in the streams.
IV. The number of returning salmon
is governed by the extent of their deep
sea habitat and the number of enemies
there.
V. While planting may return an
exhausted stream to its normal capac-
ity, the number of fish can not be
indefinitely increased, without a read-
justment of other critical conditions.
VI. Eliminating the question of
poaching, stream defilement, and other
abnormal conditions, the problem of
increasing the salmon run in the rivers,
above the natural capacity of the
streams, lies between increasing the
parr food in them or reducing the
enemies of the salmon in the deep sea
habitat."
GAME BIRDS FOR SALE.
The stock of game birds at
present held on the State Game
Farm at Hayward will be sold at
reasonable prices to game breed-
ers. The species represented are:
ring-necked, golden and silver
pheasants and valley quail.
Ducks of the following species are
also offered: mallard, pintail,
spoonbill, cinnamon teal, green-
winged teal and fulvous tree-
ducks. Apply to Superintendent,
State Game Farm, Hayward, Cal.,
for prices.
HATCHERY NOTES.
W. IT. Shebley, Editor.
THE SHAD HATCHERY AT
YUBA CITY.
The shad hatchery at Yuba City was
closed August 1st, after experimenting
and studying the movements of shad in
the Sacramento and Feather rivers for
three months. The work was under the
supervision of Superintendent G. H.
Lambson. Field Agent, E. W. Hunt and
Mr. George Neale of the Sacramento Dis-
trict Office, who assisted this department
with his knowledge of the movements of
the shad, in making arrangements with
the fishermen to catch the fish, and in
many other details. The run of shad was
scattered, owing to the heavy fishing on
the lower river which broke up the
schools, and the extremely cold and roily
water this spring and early summer
caused by the melting of the deep snow
that fell in the mountain regions last
winter. The operations carried on were
of considerable value in preparing for
future shad hatching. Shad fry to the
number of 872.000 were distributed in
the Feather River.
200
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
The experiments in fertilizing and
hatching a liigh percentage of the eggs
and ill keeping them free from fungus or
bacterial infection were successful. The
avoidance of bacterial infection is very
important in propagating eggs of shad
and striped bass. While no shipments
were made East, experiments made in
holding the eggs for shipment demon-
strated that they can be successfully
shipped to eastern hatcheries in shipping
cases. Next season it will be possible
to furnish Massachusetts and Connecticut
with shad eggs for their hatcheries, as
well as to hatch a liberal supply for our
rivers.
The excessive fishing on the lower
reaches of the Sacramento River, and in
the bays, has greatly depleted the number
ot shad, and it is now necessary to hatch
in streams of .Mendocino, Sonoma and
Lake counties.
The distribution of fry from the Fort
Seward Hatchery, Humboldt County, was
completed August 20th. This was the first
season's work at this station and the
results are very satisfactory. The water
proved to he all that was predicted for
it when the station was first built. There
was an ample supply of pure cold water
during the warmest days, and the fish
were unusually healthy and vigorous.
One million one hundred and fifty-three
thousand fry were distributed this season
along the lino of the Northwestern Pacific
Railroad from Fort Seward Hatchery.
Plans are being made to collect enough
salmon eggs from Eel River near Fort
Seward Hatchery to furnish that station
with salmon eggs this season.
Fig. 72. Eel River near Steelhead, where salmon egg collecting station will be established in
October. Photograph by S. Campbell.
and rear the shad if we desire to keep
up the supply. Next season a well-
equipped shad hatchery should be run on
the Sacramento River and the Depart-
ment of Fish Culture is ready to go ahead
with the work.
TROUT FRY DISTRIBUTION, 1916.
Distribution of trout fry has been in
progress at the different hatcheries since
May. At Ukiah hatchery tlie fish were
all planted by July 31st. Steelhead trout
to the number of 445,000 were distributed
During July, the hatchery department
made arrangements to establish a small
hatchery and an egg collecting station at
Lake Almanor Dam and one at Domingo
Springs to collect rainbow trout eggs
from Rice Creek, a tributary to the North
Fork of the Feather River. This work is
now under way and it is expected that
it will be completed by the last of Septem-
ber. All the trap material, tanks, live
cars, and egg collecting apparatus, will
be stored ready for use early next spring.
The distribution of fry at the Almanor
Hatchery was completed on July 31st.
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME,
201
Operations were very satisfactory. Over
200,000 rainbow tront fry were distributed
in waters tributary to the North Fork
of the Feather River in Lassen and
Plumas counties. In addition to the
fry reared and distributed from this
station, 1,285,000 rainbow eggs were
shipped to other stations, to be reared
and distributed in other sections of the
state.
Bear Valley Hatchery was closed on
August 20th, after a successful season,
considering the disadvantages that the
crew worked under when the station was
opened last March. Considerable dif-
Two distribution cars have been busy
distributing the fish from Sisson station,
which this season are being given a wider
distribution than ever. When the season's
work is over at Sisson station, nine mil-
lion five hundred thousand large, fine
trout fry will have been planted through-
out the state.
The fry from Brookdale Hatchery were
all distributed by August 1st, after a
very successful season. Eight hundred
seventy-five thousand fry were distributed
throughout Santa Clara, Santa Cruz and
Monterey counties.
I Tallac hatchery was closed on August
I 1st. Owing to the warm and bad con-
Fig. 73. Exploring party on way to Rae Lakes Aug. 16, 1916. Photo by J. L. Von Blon.
ficulty was had in fertilizing the eggs,
owing to the over retention of the eggs
by the female trout caused by the
debris-closed mouths of the creeks which
the fish enter to spawn. The crew had
to remove the drifts and sand bars at
the mouths of the creeks before the fish
could enter. The fish were late in enter-
ing the streams where the traps were
located and consequently the first fish to
be taken were in poor condition for
spawners. Seven hundred and fifty
thousand fry were hatched and distributed
in good condition in the waters of San
Bernardino County. Deputy Malone ably
assisted our men in the work of distribu-
tion. It is planned to operate this station
on a larger scale next season.
dition of the water at this station, it is
necessary to plant the fry early. The
fry were given a wide distribution and
will make a good showing in due time.
The Tallac Hatchery should be removed
to a site on Tallac Creek, as the present
site on Taylor Creek is not suitable for
holding fry to the desired age for plant-
ing. Plans are being considered to move
this hatchery to a new site, where the
fry can be held until late in the fall.
A system of rearing tanks is proposed in
addition to the hatchery, so that the fry
can be reared to a larger size before
planting than under the present system.
It is hoped that this work may be com-
pleted before next season's operations
begin.
202
CALIFOKMA FISil AND GAME.
Tlic Tiilioo Iliitcliory will run until
(X-tober IHtli. or la tor. to give the fry as
much growth in tlic hatchery as possible
before planting. The season at Tahoe
has been a very successful one. In ad-
dition to the black-s))otted trout fry usu-
ally hatched at this station, a quarter
of a million rainbow from the Almanor
ejjg collecting station were hatched.
These will bo distributed in places most
suitable for this variety in the Tahoe
region and Truckee River. This season
there will be 3.000.000 trout fry dis-
tributed in the lakes and streams of the
Tahoe. district from the Tahoe hatcheries.
In addition to this lot. 110.000 eggs were
shipped to the Verdi Hatchery where they
were hatched and reared. The fry re-
sulting from these eggs will be distributed
in the streams and lakes in the vicinity
of Lake Tahoe.
NEW SCREEN AND LADDER
SURVEYS.
Among imjiorlant investigations thai
have been made in the screen work during
the past three months, is the investigation
of canals in Monterey and Santa Cruz
counties, and in the Sutter Basin. Recla-
mation districts No. 1500, No. 108, and
Fig. 74. Rae Lakes with Fin Dome in the background. An egg collecting station for the
Inyo Hatchery will be established here. Photograph by R. D. Duke.
EASTERN BROOK TROUT FRY
OBTAINED IN NEVADA.
Our supply of eastern brook ti'out fry
was increased considerably this season,
as the Nevada State Fish Commission did
not operate their hatcheries and we were
able to secure the privilege of collecting
eggs from Marlett Lake, Nevada. Tlic
Carson City Hatchery was taken over
by the California Fish and Game Com-
mission and the lOastcrn brook trout eggs
collected from Marlett Lake were shipped
to the Carson hatchery, where they were
eyed and prepared for shipmcnl. At this
station 690,000 eggs were collected,
527,000 of which were shipped to Sisson
Hatchery to be hatched and reared for
distribution in the streams of California.
No. 787 have been properly screened to
prevent the passage of fish through the
large siphon pipes. Screen investigations
have also been carried on in Modoc,
Amador, Tuolumne, Alpine, Mono and
Inyo counties.
Surveys have been made for a new
ladder over the Floriston Dam in the
Truckee River, llie property of the Crown-
Willamette Paper Company; the Cibraltcr
Dam in San Ynez River, Santa Barbara
County ; the dam of the Santa Paula
Water Works in Santa Paula Creek,
Ventura County ; Ihe Meek Dam in San
Lorenzo Creek, Alameda County ; the
Sunol Dam, Alameda Creek, Alameda
County, and Ihc Arroyo Del Vallc Dam
in Alameda County.
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
203
THE INYO HATCHERY.
Work on the Inyo Hatchery is pro-
gressing. The installation of the troughs
and interior fixtures will be under way
in a short time. The department of
engineering expects to have the building
completed at least by the first of Novem-
ber, and probably sooner. When this
structure is completed it will be the finest
hatchery building in the world, and will
contain the most modern equipment. The
output of this hatchery will supply all
southern California, as well as the
country as far north as the Yosemite
Valley, with all the trout fry necessary
to meet the population of the state for
twenty-five years to come.
A survey of the Rae Lakes is now
being made for the purpose of collecting
rainbow trout eggs to supply the Inyo
Hatchery. The number of fish found on
the spawning beds this season assures
the needed supply. An egg collecting sta-
tion is being constructed and all the neces-
sary apparatus will be stored for early
operations next season. The altitude of
the Rae Lakes, 10,560 feet, makes it
necessary for the station to be fully
equipped this season, as it is impossible to
transport anything to the lakes in the
spring because of the deep snow, both
in the passes leading to the lakes and in
the lake basin. The preparations made
will allow the crew to start collecting the
eggs at the first breaking of the ice at
the lakes without any unnecessary delay.
Fig. 75. The new Inyo Hatchery, looking east. Photograph by J. L. Von Blon.
COMMERCIAL FISHERY NOTES.
N. B. ScoFiELD^ Editor.
THE FISHERIES CONFERENCE AT
SAN DIEGO.
At the San Diego meeting of the Pacific
Division of the American Association for
the Advancement of Science the afternoon
of August 10th was set aside for a
Fisheries Conference on the commercial
and scientific aspects of the tuna industry.
Mr. A. J. Steele, President of the
Premier Packing Company of San Diego,
opened the discussion by reviewing the
rise of the tuna canning industry in Cali-
fornia. From a modest beginning about
five years ago the industry has grown
until now there are about one and one-
half million dollars invested. About four
hundred fishing boats are employed and
the pack for 1915 exceeded 300,000 cases.
August is the principal fishing month, but
in 1915 the best fishing was in November.
The runs of albacore, or long-finned tuna,
are erratic and there is little knowledge
204
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
o£ their habits or life history. The
demand for canned tuna far surpasses
the supply. This year the canneries have
all prepared to put up a still larger pack,
luit the fish have been exceedingly slow
in arriviiiir. Those who have invested
iu the industry are very anxious to know
Fig. 76. Kelp cutter at work off Point Loma.
Photographed by H. B. Nidever, taken
July 14, 1916.
more about the fish upon which they are
dependent. They want to know where it
goes when it leaves the California coast,
and more about its movements when in
our waters. They want to know how they
can increase their catch and if the catch
needs to be limited if they are to expect
a steady annual yield. They also want
to know if it is possible by conservation
measures to increase the annual yield.
In conclusion Mr. Steele emphasized the
desirability of a thorough scientific in-
vestigation of the whole subject and ex-
pressed the hope that the meeting would
result in the inauguration of a fuller
investigation than has yet been attempted
by the state or United States govern-
ments.
Mr. Johnson and Mr. Rankin told of
the work of the United States Fisheries
steamer Albatross in investigating the
all)a(ore. In the endeavor to determine
the range of the albacore in Mexican
waters it was impossible to locate schools
of the fish early in the season. Data on
the food and movements of this fish in
California waters, however, has been ob-
tained. Albacore appear in California
with the coming of the small fish such as
anchovies, sardines, or squid, although
their food is not limited to these three
varieties. Altogether fifteen species of
fish have been found in their stomachs
and at times the minute animal organisms
known as plankton may form a large
part of their food. In southern waters
albacore were found feeding on several
s))ecies of mollusks. crabs, devil fish and
the larval forms of these. Albacore first
a]>pear between the Coronado Islands and
San Clemente Island, and later move fur-
ther north, but it was found impossible
to follow the schools wlien they began
to move. Some work has also been done
to determine whether the cutting of the
kelp by the kelp harvesters is likely to
injure the fisheries. No evidence of fish
eggs, fish or crawfish larvae has been
found in kelp being cut, although the
leaves of the kelp on the beds to a depth
of eight or ten feet were examined. Some
small fish were found in the kelp but
they were not the young of food fishes.
Pig. 77. Loading processed kelp at Swift Kelp Plant. Alter being proccbsed. kelp is loaded
in bulk into box cars and shipped to eastern plants. Photograph by H. B. Nidever,
taken June 14, 1916.
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
205
While no evidence was found that cut-
ting the kelp will injure the fish, the
Bureau of Fisheries plans to continue the
observations.
Dr. W. E. Ritter, director of the Scripps
Institution for Biological Research, spoke
at some length on the need of a scientific
investigation of the tuna and kelp prob-
lems. This is a chance, he said, for
scientific men to connect up their work
directly with the economic development of
these enterprises. With the heavy cut-
ting of the kelp and with a demand for
posed of Dr. W. E. Ritter, Dr. B. W.
Evermann, Dr. E. L. Michael, and Mr.
N. B. Scofield.
A HEARING AT EUREKA.
On July 11, 1916, a public hearing was
held in Eureka to give the people of
Humboldt County an opportunity to dis-
cuss fish and game matters with represen-
tatives of the State Fish and Game Com-
mission. The meeting was called by the
Eureka Rod and Gun Club and the rooms
of the Chamber of Commerce, where it
Fig. 78. A barge load of canned tuna in cases ready for shipment from San Pedro Tuna
Cannery. Photograph by H. B. Nidever, taken August 14, 1916.
tuna greater than the supply, it is neces-
sary to know whether these resources of
the sea can stand the strain. Dr. Ritter
was followed by C. L. Edwards, David
Starr .Jordan, B. W. Evermann, and G. H.
Parker, each of whom agreed that a
thorough scientific investigation should
be made of the conditions affecting the
kelp and fishing industries in order that
these industries may be intelligently con-
served. Dr. Ritter then proposed a reso-
lution asking both the state and United
States to institute such investigations and
to appropriate enough money to carry
them through. This resolution, the sub-
stance only of Avhich is here given, was
adopted by the society and a committee
was appointed to bring about the investi-
gations desired. This committee is corn-
was held, were crowded, giving ample evi-
dence of the interest taken in fish and
game by the people of Humboldt County.
Senator Kehoe presided and opened the
meeting by telling the people that this
was their opportunity to make their wants
known as to future fish and game legisla-
tion, for the recommendations of the Fish
and Game Commission carry large weight
with the legislature and the commission's
representatives are here for the purpose
of finding out what is wanted.
The Fish and Game Commission was
represented by Mr. .7. S. Hunter, Assist-
ant Executive Officer, A. D. Ferguson,
Field Agent, and N. B. Scofield, in charge
Commercial Fisheries.
The first and most important subject
taken up was that of crabs. The prin-
206
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
cipal speakers were Attorney L. F. Puter,
Judge Hunter and Dr. W. E. Cook, each
of whom stated that the people of Hum-
boldt County arc practically unanimous
in wanting a state law which will take
tlie place of their county ordinance, pro-
hibiting the shipment of crabs from Hum-
boldt County, or, in order that the law
may conform to the present fish and
game districts, to prohibit the shipment
of crabs taken in Districts 7, 8 and 9.
Mr. Puter stated that the reason this
law is desired is to prevent San Fran-
cisco crab fishermen from coming in and
exterminating the crabs which the people
of Humboldt County have tried so hard to
protect. A fleet of these boats came up
in the year 1908 and in four or five years
the crabs in the bay and outside ocean
waters had l)een nearly exterminated.
The fishermen caught small and large
ci'abs indiscriminately, and not only
caught all the crabs in the bay, but
ojiprated drag nets within the bay in
order to get fish for bait, with the result
that even the fish were nearly extermin-
ated. The county ordinance prohibiting
the shipment of crabs from Humboldt
County was passed in order to prevent
the extermination of crabs and fish and
has been in effective operation since
December 3, 1912.
Under the protection of this ordinance
crabs are again becoming fairly plentiful,
but the state law allows crabs taken out-
side the harbor to be shipped from the
county, and there is a question if the
county ordinance can be enforced since
it is in conflict with the state law as
far as crabs outside the harbor are con-
cerned. San Francisco crabs have be-
come so scarce on account of overfishing
that the fishermen are again trying to
ply their trade in Humboldt County ; if
the crabs can not be protected outside
the harbor these same fishermen will
come in and exterminate them as they
did a few years ago.
To show the rapid decline in the num-
ber of crabs caught, which it was stated
was an index of their growing scarcity
after the crab fishing boats began to
operate in 1908, the speakers submitted
the following record of the number of
crabs shipped from the Port of Eureka
from the year 1901 to 19112.
Crah Shipments from the Port of Eureka.
1901 3,597 dozens
1902 16,827 dozens
19(»;t 16,433 dozens
1904 15,147 dozens
1905 10,147 dozens
190(5 12,941 dozens
1907 8,814 dozens
1908 39,974 dozens
3909 33,662 dozens
1910 8,908 dozens
1911 8,456 dozens
1912 1,954 dozens
These figures seemed to prove the con-
tention very conclusively and the repre-
sentatives of the Fish and Game Commis-
sion who had believed that the crabs of
that district would stand much heavier
fishing than at present, were almost con-
vinced that the number of crabs had been
greatly reduced. They pointed out, how-
ever, that the fisheries, all of them,
should be developed as far as is consistent
with their conservation, and that, as
crabs are more numerous in the north,
they should, theoretically, be able to
stand heavier fishing in Humboldt County
than at San Francisco ; and that if the
records of the crabs shipped from Eureka
i.how their rapid decline in numbers, the
decrease must have been due partly to
the inadequate size limit, which was then
6 inches instead of 7 inches, and to the
fact that in those years crab laws were
not obeyed or enforced as they are now ;
also, that crabs are extremely abundant
at the present time, and the presence of
a large proportion of very large crabs
shows that they will stand much heavier
fishing than at present.
The vital reason for the decline in the
catch after 1908 — which was overlooked
by all at the meeting — was that in the
fall of 1909 a state law went into effect
which established a crab preserve of the
area within two miles of the inside shore
line of Humboldt and Trinidad bays, and
of the Pacific Ocean adjacent to these
bays. Crabs could be taken for com-
mercial purposes in the preserve only on
Thursday of each week. Reducing the
number of commercial fishing days to one
a week made it unprofitable for the San
Francisco crab boats to operate even on
the one open day. This amply explains
the reduced catch in the years 1910 and
1911. During those two years the mini-
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME,
207
mum size limit was 6 inches and the fish-
ing was done mostly inside the bay where
the larger sized crabs are usually scarce.
In the late summer of 1911 the size limit
was I'aiscd to 7 inches, which practically
put a stop to the bay fishing as the larger
crabs are found in the deeper water off
shore. This change in the size limit fully
accounts for the still farther reduction
in the number exported from Eureka in
1912.
It was pointed out by those represent-
ing the Commission that the present state
law amply protects crabs ; that with the
7 inches minimum size limit, even if
every crab over 7 inches is caught, the
females are all saved and a sufiicient
number of bi'eeding males, as males ma-
ture at a size less than G inches. It has
been found that with the continued catch-
ing of male crabs at San Francisco, that
the males still equal the females in num-
ber, so that with the present state laws,
none of the crab fisheries can be prose-
cuted beyond the natural yearly increase.
When all the males above 7 inches are
caught the fishermen will have to wait
until more grow to be 7 inches, and as the
males have all bred at least once, and
most of them twice by the time they are
7 inches in diameter, it is absurd to
talk of exterminating the crabs by fishing
with the present law in force. The yearly
production of legal-sized crabs for the
San Francisco crab fishery is about
50,000 dozen, which is considerably more
than were taken by some 60 boats in the
best year in Humboldt County when the
crabs were very plentiful.
Mr. W. H. H. Heckman and others spoke
on the subject of better protection for the
clams and the sea mussels of their dis-
trict. The commercial clam of the region
is the Washington clam which is canned
so extensively at different places north
of California. Humboldt Bay is at the
southern end of the range of this clam
and the general opinion was that it is
in need of some protection. A closed
season of four months each year was
asked for and also a family limit of fifty
clams per day. Mr. Scofield then pointed
out that, on this coast at least, there is
nothing in the idea that clams should
be eaten only during the months that con-
contain the letter "R" ; that clams are at
their best just before the spawning time
and the best time for the closed season.
if a closed season is necessary, would
be just after the spawning time when they
are thin and not so good to eat. It was
also pointed out that a minimum size
limit is one of the best ways to protect
clams. Fix a minimum size limit at
which they have spawned at least once
and then the beds can not be forced to
yield more than their natural annual
growth. The proper time for the closed
season and the proper size limit, should
be left to an expert to determine.
Mr. Heckman spoke in favor of pro-
hibiting the shipment or canning, pickling
or otherwise preserving mussels that
abound along the rocky shores of Hum-
boldt County. He said that while the
mussels are plentiful now, canneries are
likely to start at any time and exter-
minate them before protective legislation
can be obtained. This argument was
answered by the Fish and Game repre-
sentatives present, with the statement
that the sea mussels abound along almost
the entire California coast, that they are
about the most abundant and most valu-
able and at the same time the least used
of our sea foods. They have a food value
equal to oysters, they grow very rapidly
and can be "farmed" and the production
in this way vastly increased. They are
especially fine when pickled and when
canned do not have the tendency to be-
come tough like many of the shell fish.
The United States Bureau of Fisheries
has been conducting an educational cam-
paign to induce the people on the Atlantic
coast to use the mussels that are now
allowed to go to waste. The California
Fish and Game Commission have been
preparing to start a similar campaign
here in California, for our shores can
supply millions of pounds where now only
a few hundred pounds are used. Tbi^
few that have been canned on this coasi
as an experiment have not met with a
ready sale and it is not likely that our
mussel supply will be taxed for several
years to come, even if an energetic cam-
paign is conducted to induce people to
eat this highly desirable food.
The subject of salmon protection in
Mad River was touched upon. It was
stated that the people of Areata are in
favor of closing the river to nets for a
few years at least.
The trout season was discussed at some
length. The three large lagoons, Big
208
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
Lagoon, Stone Lagoon and Fresh Water
Lagoon, lying to the north of Humboldt
Bay, formerly furnished rare sport when
the season opened on April 1st, but now
by the time the season opens on May 1st.
the fish have begun to get soft and of
poor quality and the people do not care
for them. It was suggested that to change
the trout season for all of District No. 1,
might not be desirable but that a separate
district could be made for these lagoons
or for Humboldt and Del Norte counties.
It was explained by the commission's
representatives that the opening of the
trout season for District No. 1 was set
for May 1st because it was the belief
that many of the trout in that district
had not finished spawning by April 1st;
that this especially applied to the cut-
throat trout found in the coast streams
from Mad River north, which is the most
desirable of the fish caught in these same
lagoons. It was stated by Mr. Lee F.
Wiley and others who are well posted
on the ways of this particular trout that
they spawn before April and even before
the steelhead ; but that a few may spawn
almost any month in the year.
The advisability of stocking the large
'agoons of the district with new varieties
of fish such as bluegill sunfish, calico bass
or black bass, was then discussed. It was
stated by one or two present that they
would like more varieties of trout in their
streams and wanted to know if th? Dolly
Varden would not be a good trout to
introduce. They were answered that the
Dolly Varden is not a suitable fish on
account of its cannibalistic tendencies and
because it is inferior as a game fish to
the other species of trout ; that the com-
mission has never stocked streams with
this variety and would like to see it
exterminated in the one or two streams
in the state whpre it is native. The
German brown trout was suggested as
a good variety to introduce as it has
already shown itself to be adapted to
streams of that part of tho state. The
commission expects to experiment on the
propagation of this variety next year.
Altogether the meeting was a very
profitable one and those present learned
something from the discussions and had
their views broadened. Those represent-
ing the Fish and Game Commission cer-
tainly had an opportunity to learn what
the Humboldt people want. All of the
requests brought up were noted with the
arguments for and against so that all
of the points may receive just considera-
tion.
SAN FRANCISCO BAY OYSTERS.
Mr. McKuew of the Burliugame Oyster
Company rejiorts that oysters on the com-
pany's grounds are doing exceptionally
well this year. He states that seed oys-
ters have in the last year shown a won-
derful growth, and that they are fat and
in fine condition. The oysters which
are brought from the Atlantic coast
as seed oysters are shipped out in cold
storage, taking about fifteen days for
the trip. They are, at the time of plant-
ing, from i inch to 1 inch in length, and
on their arrival are planted in beds where
they are left for three to four years.
They are then tonged up, boxed and
shipped to the markets. Mr. McKnew
states that the oysters near Burlinsamc
Point have shown an exceptional growth:
Oysters |)lanted here in May, 1915. which
rail about S.OOO to 10,000 to the bushel,
in August, inn;, averaged from 1.100 to
l.l'dO to the busliel. The oyster planted
ill San Francisco bay has a great advan-
tage oviT the eastern oyster, and over
oysters farther north, for the milder tem-
perature during the winter months allows
more time for growth.
CHLORINATING OYSTERS.
In the July bulletin of the California
State Board of Health we are told that
many cities chlorinate their water supply ;
that 22 municipalities in California, rep-
resenting a population of a million people,
now disinfect their water supply by this
method. What is good for humans seems
also to be good for the oyster wherever
U is compelled to use polluted water.
Experiments conducted by the sanitary
chemist for the state of Maryland, have
demonstrated that a practical application
of this method can be made to oysters.
At feeding temperatures large volumes of
water, from 25 to 50 gallons, are passed
through the siphon of each oyster and
over its gills. The food captured by the
oyster from this stream of water passing
over the gills passes through its gastro-
intestinal system within five hours, so
that only a very short time is required for
its artificial purification by the chlorinat-
ing method. There appears to be no
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
209
reason why this method can not also be
applied to clams and other shellfish. This
appears to be an extremely important dis-
covery, for oysters and clams grow best
in bays and estuaries that receive the
fresh water of some stream or river.
These are the locations that are most fre-
quently subject to pollution. It has fre-
(luently happened that oyster and clam
beds have had to be abandoned temporar-
ily, and in some cases permanently, be-
cause of the very real danger of spread-
ing typhoid and other water-borne
diseases. If the chlorination method will
work, and we are assured it will, there
will be no need to condemn any oyster
or clam bed. It will only be necessary
to require that the oysters or clams be
chlorinated. In the process the oysters
are placed in water that has been treated
with a trace of calcium hypochlorite, in
the same proportion as is used in drink-
ing water. Treatment requires about six
hours and it is stated that the oysters
show no change in condition and it is im-
possible to distinguish any difference in
Havor between treated and untreated ones.
MARKED SALMON LIBERATED.
On February 15, 1916, 3,500 marked
yearling Quiunat salmon were liberated
in the Klamath River at Klamathon.
They were hatched at the Sisson Hatch-
ery from eggs taken on Butte Creek in
November, 1914. Each was marked by
removing the left ventral and the adipose
fin. It is expected that a few of these
will be recovered in the Klamath River in
1917 as male grilse, and that both males
and females will be taken in 1918, 1919
and 1920 as 4, 5 and 6-year-old fish.
AN AQUARIUM FOR SAN FRANCISCO.
The San Francisco Art Preservation
League, which has done such good work
in preserving some of the beauties of the
Panama-Pacific International Exposition,
has with the aid of the State Fish and
Game Commission, opened the Aquarium
in the Hawaiian Building. The Aquar-
ium has been converted from a salt water
to a fresh water system, and the fresh
water fishes of California are being shown.
A modest beginning has been made, which
it is hoped will awaken an interest that
will in time lead to San Francisco having
an aquarium equaling the celebrated New
York Aquarium. San Francisco is much
more favorably situated for an aquarium
than is New York, for here we have a
much richer and more beautiful sea fauna
from which to draw.
CLAMS IN SAN FRANCISCO BAY.
On the shore of Islais Bay, an area of
tidal flat on the western shore of San
Francisco Bay at the mouth of Islais
Creek, clams have been dug to supply
the San Francisco market since the early
seventies. This tidal flat was formerly
almost a mile in length from north to
south and at low tide about half a mile
in width. The bottom was black mud of
unknown depth, composed of alluvial
washings carried down by Islais Creek
from the old Spanish Potrero Nuevo.
The shore line of this tidal flat was
inhabited by a large number of Chinese
engaged in the occupation of shrimp fish-
ing and clam digging and it is with the
clams dug by these Chinese that the
writer would deal at this time.
Up to 1876 but one species of clam
was found in any quantity by these dig-
gers and that was a white-shelled variety
{Macoma nastita), about two and one
half inches in greatest length, with a
noticeable flattening of the curve of the
shell from the hinge toward the apertures
from which the siphons issue. The
siphons were very small, being less than
1/16 of an inch in diameter and very
delicate in structure.
The modus operandi of these clam dig-
gers was as follows : Provided with a
board 18 inches wide and four feet long
with a strip one inch thick nailed across
each end and with a Chinese basket set
thereon, the digger waded out on the
mud flat at low tide, pushing the basket
on its sled board ahead of him. On arriv-
ing at a suitable place the clam digger
pushed his hands and arms, held verti-
cally in front of him, elbow deep into the
soft mud, and then turned up the mud
toward himself; straining this mud
through his fingers he found the clams,
which were placed in the basket. This
was continued until the basket was full
or the flood tide prevented further dig-
ging.
Upon arriving at camp the diggers at
once placed the clams in shallow, water-
tight boxes about 18 inches wide, 10
inches deep, and 8 feet long; in one end
210
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
of the bottom of each box a hole was
bored for draiiiiug. A layer of clams
3 or 4 inches deep was placed in each
box. The box was then partiallj* filled
with clean water from the bay, the
water was changed at each hif;h tide, and
after 3G or 4S hours the clams were mar-
keted. This clean water bath was in-
tended to allow the clams to void all mud
and sand contained in the stomach and
render the clams edible.
In 187G the writer first noticed that a
few clams of another species (since
Identified as Mya arenaria) were being
found. This is the soft-shelled clam now
on sale in the city markets. These have
gradually increased in number until the
native clam Macoina has been entirely
displaced.
The soft-shelled clam was originally
introduced by the oyster growers with
their spat imported from the Atlantic
Coast during the decade ending with 1870.
It gradually spread over the tidal flats of
San Francisco Bay, and is now abundant
in this region. — John P. Fisher.
CALICO BASS, SHARP-EARED BASS,
AND BLUEGILL SUNFISH.
f'alico bass, sharp-eared bass and
blucgill suufish were introduced into
California waters several years ago and
have now become fairly plentiful in sev-
eral localities. Since these fish are of
the greatest food and game value, and
since they are but little known, the fol-
lowing informacion is issued so that these
excellent fi&h may occupy the place in the
public esteem which they deserve.
All of these fish belong to the family
CentrarchidiB, a family of North Ameri-
can fresh water fishes, to which belong
the sunfish, sharp-eared bass (crap-
pies), Sacramento perch and black bass.
The two species: Pomoxis annularis
(crappie or sharp-eared bass) and Po-
moxis sparoidcs (calico bass or strawberry
bass) are easily distinguished from the
other California members of the family by
the size of the dorsal fins which are
scarcely larger than the anal fin (by the
size of the fin is meant the length of the
base of the fin). In the other members of
the family the anal fin is much smaller
than the dorsal. The two may also be
distinguished bv the following characters .
Pumoxis annularis: Dorsal spines 6,
rarely 5 ; tips of the ventral fins not
reaching to the front of the anal fin.
Pomoxis sparoidcs: Dorsal spines 7,
rarely 8 ; tips of the ventral fins reaching
bej'ond the front of the anal fin.
These two fish are confounded by most
anglers, even in the Middle West where
they are best known.
Lcpomis palliihis (lilucgill svuitish)
may he idrntiticd liy the following char-
acters: characteristic sunfish shape; dor-
sal fin much larger than the anal ; small
mouth; ralhcr lung, velvet,\' black, oper-
cular flap or "ear"; bluish cheek and
gill cover; large, dark blotch on the last
rays of the dorsal fin and a similar, but
fainter one, on the anal fin.
The sharp-eared bass is better known
as "crappie," but as this name is apt to
prejudice many against the fish, it is
suggested that deputies call it the
"sharp .-ar" and induce the public to so
call it. The sharp-ear and calico bass
are both well adapted to the lower Sacra-
mento and San Joaquin county and are
likely to become quite numerous and of
great importance as game and food fish.
The three species have been introduced
into the waters of California as follows :
Locality.
Blucgill sunfish — Honey Lake, Lassen
County ; Lake Vera, Nevada County ;
Brushy Lake, Sacramento County ;
Plumas Lake, Yuba County ; San Joa-
quin River ; Feather River ; Clear Lake,
Lake County; Kings River; Kern River;
Sutterville Lake, Sacramento County ;
Washington Lake, Yolo County; Free-
uuui River ; Lake Cuyamaca ; Elsiuore
Lake ; Bolsa Chico River ; Watsonville
Lagoon.
SlMrp-eared Bass (crappie) — Honey
Lake, Lassen County ; Lake Vera, Nevada
County; Brushy Lake, Sacramento
County ; I'lumas Lake. Y'uba County ;
San Joaquin River; Feather River; Ch^ar
Lake, Lake County; Kings River; Kern
River ; Sutterville Lake, Sacramento
County ; Washington Lake. Yolo County ;
Freeman River ; Lake Cuyamaca ; Elsi-
nore Lake.
Calico Bass (strawberry bass) — Lake
Cuyamaca.
N. B. — It appears that calico bass were
mixed with the shipments of crappie, so
that wherever plants ot crappie were
made we can expect to find calico bass. —
N. B. SCOFIELD.
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
211
CONSERVATION IN OTHER STATES.
CONSERVATION COSTS LITTLE IN
NEW YORK.
Conservation has cost the people of
New York state this year only .$133,933.89.
Actual expenditures were $702,124.66, but
returns to the commission in cash or its
equivalent, including the value of the
output of the fisn hatcheries, was $568,-
290.77. With a return of more than 80
per cent of the amount expended, it is
evident that the practice of conservation
in this state is not a financial drain on
the people. Indeed, if account is taken
of the value of the forests saved, of the
food values of the fish and game that
finally reach the tables of the people, and
of the stream flow maintained through
preservation of the forests, it will be
found that conservation, like saving
among individuals, yields a profit out of
all proportion to the sacrifice involved.
In addition to the above returns must be
considered all of the aesthetic and recre-
ational values of forest and stream, of
huuting and fishing. — G. D. Pratt, in
American Game Protective Association
BuUetin, Vol. 5, No. 2, June 1, 1916.
LOUISIANA REMODELS CONSERVA-
TION COMMISSION.
The governor of Louisiana has ap-
pointed M. L. Alexander Commissioner
of Conservation of the new Department
of Conservation created by the legislature
of that state during its last session.
The Department of Conservation super-
sedes the former Conservation Commis-
sion of Louisiana which was composed
of three commissioners. The new
department of state has but one head, the
commissioner. Mr. Alexander was the
president of the former commission and
his appointment to the head of the new
conservation body is in the nature of a
recognition of his efiicient management
of tlie old board.
UNITED ANGLERS' LEAGUE.
The United Anglers' League is an in-
corporated body with headquarters in the
World Building Auditorium, New York,
which for twelve years has been working
in the interests of all fishermen. A
monthly bulletin is issued by the league
which contains many items of interest to
anglers, especially to those of New Y'ork
State. The May bulletin advocates
federal control of the fisheries. As a
makeshift New York state is attempting
to give control of the marine fisheries to
the state government until such time as
the national government shall take over
the question.
As an incentive to join the organization
some of the following statements are
made :
"You, no doubt, have been asking, and
your sport-loving brother anglers also are
wondering, why the fishing of late years
is becoming poorer and poorer, and then
why you have to go farther and farther
away from your favorite 'old spots' to get
any kind of satisfaction.
"You want to go fishing — and it is
your bounden duty to your health. You
must have good health, also you must be
reasonably sure you are to have a good
day's outing. Besides, you want to come
back reinforced for your business duties.
"The congested condition of city life
forces you to look to the water for recre-
ation. More and more the waters must
be used' — more and more sea-food must be
obtained. On the water alone you catch
your appetite and its fulfillment.
"Civilization both crowds us and
prompts us to get together and protect
our common interests. Your fi'iends. the
United Anglers' League, have been doing
this for you for the past twelve years.
"The fish trust is well organiz€d.
Organization is our only salvation.
Political friends will yield to a united
bodj'. Trees, buffalo, wild pigeons have
gone for lack of united action. Shall
we lose our fish?"
GAME WARDENS IN WISCONSIN
FURNISHED MOTORCYCLES.
The Wisconsin Conservation Commis-
sion has equipped 25 of its wardens with
motorcycles. Not only will the use of
these machines materially reduce trans-
portation expenses, but it will enable the
wardens to cover and patrol their dis-
tricts more thoroughly.
PENNSYLVANIA TRIES THE BOUNTY
SYSTEM.
Pennsylvania has been offering a
bounty on wildcats, foxes, mink, and
weasels. The amount expended per
month has increased from about $1,000
to $12,411 paid out in January, 1916.
Between April 1, 1915, and April 30,
212
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
191G, bounties were paid on 778 wild-
cats, 4,G63 gray foxes, 4,763 red foxes,
3,975 mink, and 27,114 weasels, which
represented an outlay of $54,G09.
MISSISSIPPI ESTABLISHES GAME
COMMISSION.
The State of Mississippi has at last
decided to conserve its fish and game re-
sources. A Department of Game and
Fish has been created and a State Fish
and Game Commissioner has been ap-
pointed temporarily by the Governor.
The new law provid<'s that in 1919 the
State Game and Fish Commissioner shall
be elected by the qualified electors of the
state at large. Provision is made for the
hunting license system, and closed seasons
and limits are set. The limit on deer is
an unusually large one. No one person
is allowed to kill more than one a day,
but five are allowed during a season.
LIFE HISTORY NOTES.
BAND-TAILED PIGEONS BRED IN
CAPTIVITY.
In September, 1915, through the
courtesy of Mr. Wm. L. Finley, State
Biologist of Oregon, formerly with the
Oregon Fish and Game Commission, and
Mr. Ernest Schaeffle, Secretary of the
California Fish and Game Commission,
I received six adult specimens of the
band-tailed pigeon (Voliiniba fasHata).
No results were obtained in breeding these
birds in 1915, but this year (191G), they
have nested upon three separate occasions.
On June 11th I discovered one egg
which had been laid in an abandoned
nest of the Nicobar pigeon, and imme-
diately removed the egg and placed it
under a pair of domestic pigeons. On
June 30th this egg was hatched and the
young squab throve under the care of
its foster parents until it was ten days
old, when, much to my regret, it jumped
out of its nest in the evening and was
killed.
Apparently the same pair of birds
which had produced the first egg began
to build a nest immediately after the egg
was taken, and on June 16th they de-
posited another egg which was duly
hatched and the young raised to ma-
turity. The young bird is now full
grown but lacks the white band on the
neck and the dark band on the tail. The
plumage in general seems to be somewhat
darker than that of the adult bird. Before
the last mentioned squab left its nest, the
old bird deposited another egg in the same
nest. This egg hatched on August 15th
and unless the bird meets with some
accident, it will soon be feathered and
ready to fly.
When the birds were first received
from Oregon they were exceedingly wild.
liut rapidly became gentle and are now
quite tame. I believe that it is possible
to attain considerable success in rearing
these birds, if suitalile quarters are pro-
vided and proper attention given to feed-
ing and to nesting facilities. — M. R.
NOACK.
BAND-TAILED PIGEONS ALLEGED
DESTROYERS OF GRAIN.
During the spring of 1910 there were
tliou.sands of band-tailed pigeons here; in
fact, I have not seen so mauy in the last
ten years. There was some complaint
tliat they fed upon newly sown gi-ain. I
made some investigation and am inclined
to think they only eat what grain is left
upon the ground. I do not think they
I)ull up or scratch what is covered.
On May Gth, in response to a complaint
from Mr. Lauronsen that pigeons were
eating up all of his grain as fast as he
sowed it, I made a trip to ]\Iad River. I
found thousands of pigeons but could not
see that they were doing any particular
damage, as they were only picking up the
grain that was not covered. — Eakl P.
Barnes.
THE SOOTY GROUSE IN TRINITY
COUNTY.
Sooty grouse {Dendragapus ohscurus
fulifjinosus) are found in the high tim-
bered regions throughout the Trinity
National Forest, but are comparatively
scarce through the eastern portion, being
more plentiful west of the south fork of
Trinity River, particularly on the west
slope of the South Fork Mountain, on
Grouse Mountain and Grizzly Mountain.
The dates of mating and nesting in
in the spring being influenced by the ad-
vent of warm days, appear to vary con-
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
213
siderably with the season. Mating
begins in the latter part of February or
first of March : at this season the male
struts not unlike a turkey sobbler, and
produces a sound with his throat called
hooting, which can be heard for long
distances. This hooting may be heard as
late as May or June. The time of nest-
ing is variously reported from different
districts of the forest : the earliest date
for the beginning of nesting being in
March, and the latest date in June, some
broods hatching as late as the middle of
July, due perhaps, to the fact that many
of the nests are destroyed, and a second
nesting takes place. The nests are made
on the ground, in tall grass or in clumps
of brush or young trees. The broods
vary in number from eight to eighteen.
During the winter months sooty grouse
are seldom seen on the ground. At this
season they live in the fir trees on the
high mountains, and feed on fir buds.
During February they begin to move
down to the more open areas at lower
elevations, where they find grass and
clover coming up, and where conditions
are suitable for nesting. During the
spring and early summer months their
food consists of tender grasses and grass
seeds, buds and insects, including grass-
hoppers ; they are also very fond of grain.
In the late summer and early fall grouse
are found largely around springs and
moist places. Their food at this season
consists of seeds, berries and insects.
With the return of cold weather they
return to the fir forests on the high moun-
tains and ridges. — J. D. Coffman.
COYOTE KILLED WHILE IN PURSUIT
OF A DEER.
While hunting deer near Landslide
Meadow on the morning of August 20th,
Messrs. Eugene Brigger and Frank Har-
rel heard the bleating of a young deer
which soon came into sight around some
brush, with a coyote in pursuit, almost
ready to seize it. Mr. Brigger made a
lucky shot with his rifle, brought down
the coyote, and without doubt saved the
deer's life. The coyote was an old female
which showed evidence of having a litter
of pups dependent upon her. — Wm. M.
Clingan.
MOUNTAIN SHEEP SEEN IN OAK
CREEK PASS.
On July 11, 1910, while on a trip to
Rae Lakes, when about five miles by
trail from the new Inyo Hatchery and
about one and a half miles from Oak
Creek Pass, Mr. Frank Shebley, Mr. Carl
Walters, and myself, saw 22 mountain
sheep (Ovis canadensis sierrce) . One
ewe, which had two kids about a month
old, was seen to jump out of low brush
not more than 25 yards from us. — E. H.
Ober.
UNITED STATES FOREST SERVICE CO OPERATION.
L. II. Whiteman, Editor.
PREDATORY ANIMALS BEING KILLED
ON CALIFORNIA NATIONAL FOREST.
The United States Biological Survey
has two men employed hunting and trap-
ping predatory animals on the California
National Forest. They have had fair
luck considering the time of year, having
killed ten coyotes, one mountain lion
and a number of smaller varmints.
SWAT THE COYOTE.
Much has been written about the depre-
dations of the mountain lion on deer, and
it is probable that each mature mountain
lion in California kills from one to three
deer weekly. The lion, however, does
not thrive in civilization, and is becom-
ing scarce except in remote places. A
much greater menace to deer as well as
to all other game is the furtive coyote.
The lion springs upon the biggest buck in
the woods ; carries him, kicking and
struggling, as far as his panthership sees
fit, and plays with him as a cat with a
mouse ; then kills him, often by holding
him flat on his side while eating into his
vitals. Finally it hides the remains
very carefully by scratching up all of
the litter in a radius of ten feet, and
making a neat mound which seldom fails
to attract the attention of the passerby.
Thus the story of the killing gets to the
papers and is scattered to the four winds.
On the other hand, there is nothing of
the spectacular about the coyote. His
work is done in an insidious manner,
214
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
without publicity or unnecessary grand-
stand plays. He readily adapts himself
to changed conditions and, where constant
warfare is not waged against him. will
live and increase in thickly settled
country. All mountainous parts of Cali-
fornia are more or less infested with this
pest, and while their most noticeable dep-
redations are against sheep, hogs, and
poultry, they take a constant and heavy
toll from every kind of wild life, from
cottontails and quail to deer. No bird's
nest within six feet of the ground is safe
if one of these prowlers is about, and
there are many instances of organized
bands of from two to six coyotes running
down and killing large, antlered bucks.
In winters of heavy snowfall like the
one just past, deer in large numbers be-
come easy victims of coyotes. The deer
are generally able to move about enough
to secure food, but are helpless if attacked
l)y coyotes, since they break through the
crust when they attempt to escape, and
soon become exhausted.
Giving venison a cash value of twenty
cents per pound, it is a conservative esti-
mate that $100,000 worth of venison is
destroyed annually by coyotes. This, if
coupled with the more tangible loss of
sheep, hogs, and poultry, would make an
alarming total.
This economic waste has been borne
more or less passively by the people of
the state in the past, but the recent out-
break of rabies among coyotes, which
constitutes a serious menace to all
branches of the stock industry as well as
to human life, puts a new face on the
matter. The coyote must be extermi-
nated, and an organized, statewide cam-
paign should be started at once which
should include the state and federal offi-
cers of public health, all branches of the
live stock industry, jjoultry raisers, and
the State Fish and (lamc Commission. —
I'.. IT. Mace.
QUAIL SEASON.
Attention has been called in iirevinus
reports to the desirability of having the
season on mountain and valley quail the
same. Observations made during a
recent trip on the Sierra Forest prove
that the same conditions exist in the
Sierras. Where the two species of quail
occupy the same region it is impossible to
prevent unintentional violations of the
law when the season on one is open and
on the other is closed. A season properly
applicable to both is much to be preferred
to a law conducive to unintentional viola-
tions.— J. D. COFFMAN.
WILD PIGEONS ACCUSED OF CARRY-
ING HOG CHOLERA.
It is believed by some of the stockmen
in the vicinity of Tule River, Sequoia
National Forest, that wild pigeons carried
hog cholera from the valley and infected
the region. The pigeons were known to
have been feeding on acorns in the valley
in cholera-infected areas, and when they
migrated to the Tule River country, where
there was a heavy acorn crop, cholera
immediately broke out there. — Frank P.
Cunningham.
improved conditions in cali-
fornia national forest.
In spile of the fact that there have
been from two to three times the number
of hunters in the California National
Forest during the present open season
than ever before, there has not been one
accident and no dead does have been
found in the forest. This is due largely
to the "no spike" law. In the good old
days when the inadequate game laws then
in existence were a dead letter in the
mountains, it was a common practice for
hunters to blaze away at every movement
or noise in the brush, and fatal accidents
were of frequent occurrence. Later, as
the game wardens became more numer-
ous and active, doe killing became so
unpopular that a hunter who brought one
to- camp was "kidded" unmercifully by
his companions, so that the majority of
hunters gave up the practice.
There were still many, however, who.
in their desire to get meat, would per-
suade themselves that they saw "spikes"
on anything that moved in the woods,
and, finding that they had killed a doe,
would leave it in the woods rather than
face the ridicule of the camp. Under the
present law, requiring that any deer
killed must be at least a forked-horn,
there is no excuse for the hunter who
kills a doe or human being.
Steelhead fishing has been unusually
good in the north fork of middle fork of
Eel River, in the California National
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
215
Forest. This is one of the few streams
of the state where steelhead trout up to
ten pounds in weight remain all summer.
TWO BIRDS WITH ONE STONE.
Not a ground squirrel or a rattlesnake
was found on the California Forest re-
cently while the rangers were running a
fire line through a region heretofore re-
plete with these animals. The absence of
squirrels was rightly attributed to the
work during recent years by the poison
squads of the United States Biological
Survey. The scarcity of rattlers is a
mystery, unless it be that the poisoned
squirrels are instrumental in poisoning
the snakes.
TROUT TO BE RESCUED
FROM STREAMS.
At the suggestion of Forest Ranger
Rert Stephenson of the Cleveland Na-
tional Forest, a fund is being raised in
order that trout imprisoned in the rap-
idly drying pools of some of the mountain
streams may be rescued. According to
Ranger Stephenson, between 4,000 and
5,000 trout can be saved if proper steps
are taken. Although there are many
places in Orange County trout streams
where trout have been caught in pools,
yet most of the fish in danger are located
in the San Juau Hot Springs and the
Trabuco Canyons.
WILD LIFE IN RELATION TO AGRICULTURE.
BLACKBIRDS DAMAGE CROPS IN
IMPERIAL VALLEY.
Mr. Paul Dougherty, the Farm Advisor
of Imperial County informs us that
blackbirds, including the bicolored, yellow-
headed and Brewer varieties, seriously
injure Egyptian corn in the Imperial
Valley. When the corn is ripening in
the fall large numbers of migrator.v
blackbirds arrive from the Great Basin
and, joining force with the few resident
birds, attack the cornfields. Owing to
the fact that little of the southeastern
desert affords proper food for these immi-
grants, there is a concentration of the
birds in areas where cultivated crops are
grown. Hence the problem is a serious
one. The I'esident bicolored blackbirds
are not abundant enough to seriously
endanger crops, but the host of migratory
birds which appear in the fall renders the
growing of Egyptian corn almost hope-
less. Means of controlling these birds
which actually do become a pest under
these circumstances ai'e difficult to find.
The only method which can be recom-
mended is that of shooting, a method
which is expensive and not always en-
tirely successful.
Fortunately the game laws of our state
provide that the owner or tenant of
premises may kill such non-game birds
as may be destroying crops, thus making
it possible to meet such a problem as
this, where a bird showing no strongly
positive value to agriculture becomes a
menace to growing crops.
RABBITS DAMAGE CROPS IN
SAN DIEGO COUNTY.
Constant complaint has been received
regarding the depredations of rabbits in
San Diego County. On the request of
Mr. Weinland, the farm advisor of that
county, I investigated conditions on
August 11 and 12, 1916.
At El Cajon, on the ranch of Mr. C. B.
Purnall, I was shown small orchard trees
such as peaches and almonds, which had
been severely damaged by rabbits, in
spite of the fact that a rabbit fence par-
tially enclosed the small orchard. In
many instances trees had been killed, and
many other trees were forced to sprout
out below the graft because rabbits had
continually cut off the growing shoots
and had barked the trees lower down. A
small camphor tree which had been
killed was taken as evidence. More small
fig trees were only saved from damage by
protecting them with tin cans. Tomatoes
planted last year were entirely destroyed
by rabbits ; hubbard squashes met the
same fate. Mr. Purnall reported that
both cottontail and jack rabbits were
responsible for the damage, but that cot-
tontails were most numerous. E^'idence
in the form of tracks proved Mr. Pur-
nall's contention to be correct.
Mr. F. McKenney reported the loss of
five acres of sudan grass. Mr. H. H.
Kessler showed me extensive damage to
beans, corn, and sudan grass. Beans
near the edge of the field had been eaten
to the ground, as had also the grain and
216
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
Sudan grass. Mr. F. Springstead of El
Cajon reported great damage to peppers,
stating that at least one-third of his
planting of last year had been destroyed
by rabbits.
At Ramona J. F. Ilowarth lost the
whole of his barley crop last j'ear, due to
the ravages of rabbits. He showed me
damage to melons, milo maize, and
large areas of uncultivated land adjacent
to ranches make ideal breeding grounds
for these animals. Rabbits from large
tracts of brush land concentrate on the
relatively narrow strips of cultivated
land and as a consequence the damage is
considerable. Damage appears to be at a
maximum in the early spring when the
first green shoots appear.
1^ r¥ "•v''
>>
Fig. 79. A corner of a field of milo maize on ihe ranch of J. Howarth, Ramona, San Diego
County, showing damage by rabbits. The hills in the background form an excellent
breeding place for rabbits, and these animals seriously damage growing crops.
Sudan grass (see figs. 79 and 80). Appar-
ently jack rabbits wen- ddiiij; most dam-
age in this locality. Mr. William Dukes.
a near neighbor, reported damage to
alfalfa. Like complaints were received
from many other ranchers.
Dr. J. Grinnell. who investigated con-
ditions in the vicinity of San Onofre,
reports that he found an area of about
fifteen to twenty-five yards along the
sides/ of lima bean fields near brush
entirely cleaned by rabbits. Rabbit and
wood rat tracks were to be found all over
the bean fields, and search disclosed many
bitten and empty bean pods and cut-ofi'
stems.
The investigation showed that condi-
tions in San Diego County are altogether
different from those in other parts of
the state. Both cottontail, brush and
jack rabbits are very abundant, and the
Although a few of the men interviewed
seem to desire the I'abbits be given no
protection, yet it would appear that the
present law is more effective than a law
taking protection from these animals.
The present law concentrates hunting on
the ranches where permission can be
obtained to hunt in case rabbits are dam-
aging crops. A law giving no protection
to rabbits would distribute hunting, and
most gunners would hunt away from
ranches rather than on them.
There is no doubt but that ranchers in
certain localities in San Diego County
need some means of protecting their crops.
In my mind the best solution of the
problem would be to allow ranchers who
are being troubled to use poison. The
poison used for rabbits is not dangerous
to other game mammals or to birds, nor
would the use of poison endanger the
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME.
217
breeding stock of rabbits in San Diego
County.
According to the United States Depart-
ment of Agriculture :
"In localities where ' cottontails are
sufficiently abundant to be a continual
menace, the safest and most nearly
permanent method of securing immunity
from their ravages is to fence against
them. It has been found that woven
wire netting of IJ-inch mesh and 30
inches high will exclude rabbits, provided
"The poisoned oats, prunings, or green
baits are dropped along rabbit trails or
in places frequented by the rabbits, care
being exercised in placing them to prevent
any possible injurj' to live stock.
"The following poisoned wash has
proved highly satisfactory in the West
and promises to be one of the most popu-
lar methods of protecting trees from
rabbits :
"Poisoned tree wash. Dissolve one
ounce of strychnine sulphate in three
Fig. 80. A close view of milo maize stalks gnawed by rabbits. Photograph taken on ranch
of J. Howarth, Ramona, San Diego County, Cal., August 12, 1916.
that the lower border of the fence is
buried 5 or 6 inches below the surface
of the ground. In cases where a small
number of trees are concerned, a cylinder
of similar wire netting around each tree,
if so fastened that it can not be pushed
up close against the tree, serves the pur-
pose more economically.
"Poisoned green baits. Cut up a sup-
ply of caiTOts, parsnips, apples, or other
similar baits into cubes one-half to one
inch in diameter. Insert in each a small
quantity of powdered strychnine or a
small strychnine crystal. When a larger
quantity is to. be prepared, the powdered
strychnine can be dusted over the bait by
means of a salt shaker, in the proportion
of one-eighth ounce of strychnine to two
quarts of the baits.
quarts of boiling water and add one-half
pint of laundry starch, previously dis-
solved in one pint of cold water. Boil,
this mixture until it becomes a clear
paste. Add one ounce of glycerin and
stir thoroughly. When sufficiently cool
apply to the trunks of trees with a paint
brush. Rabbits that gnaw the bark will
be killed before the tree is injured.
"Many other repellent ti'ee washes have
been used with varying success." The
application of blood from'a killed animal
or of a spray made of blood meal is a
well-known repellent.
The above means can all be recom-
mended to the rancher but the cost of
fencing is often prohibitive and the tree
wash is only temporarily effective. Hence
the more economical and permanently ef-
218
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
fective method, that of poison, would ap-
l>ear to best afford rolief to the ranchers
of San Diego County. — II. C. Bryant.
GULLS DESTROY MICE.
Gulls, when visiting the rivers and
marshes of the interior valleys of Cali-
fornia, do not appear to be wholly scav-
engers or piscivorous. A California gnll
(Larus rahfornicus) taken on March 12,
1912, along the San Joaquin River near
Mendota, Fresno County, was presented
to me. Upon dissection I was astonished
to find its stomach filled with common
black crickets and three whoh
—II. C. Our,.
field mice.
SPREAD OF THE STARLING IN
NEW ENGLAND.
According to information received by
Mr. E. H. Forbush, State Ornithologist
of Massachusetts, the starling has now
spread to every county in Massachusetts
and to every slate in New England. Al-
ready much complaint has been made of
its depredations in orchards. — Current
firms of Intcrvst, April 11, I'JKJ.
CALIFORNIA PISH AND GAME,
219
REPORTS.
VIOLATIONS OF THE FISH AND GAME LAWS.
June 1, 1916 to August 31, 1916.
Offense
Number
of arrests
(J (I inc.
Hunting without license
Deer, close season, killing or ])OSSCssion
Female doer, spiked bucks, killing or possession
Failure to retain deer horns
Nongame birds, killing or possession
Cottontail rabbits, close season, killing or possession
Ducks, close season, killing or possession
Quail, close season, killing or possession
Doves, close season, killing or possession
Wild pigeons, close season, killing or possession...^
Grouse, close season, killing or possession
Collecting bird eggs without proper permit
Antelope, possession
Issuing receipt instead of license
Total game violations
Fish.
Angling without license
Refusing to sliow angling license to deputy on demand
Fishing for profit without license
Failure to make report of fish received
Trout, close season, taking or possession
Trout, excess bag limit
Illegal fishing apparatus
Undersized crabs, taking or possession
Abalones, undersized, excess bag limit
Dynamiting fish
Pollution
Clams, undersized, excess bag limit
Dried California shrimp in possession
Black bass, undersized, possession
Lobsters, in possession, close season
Undersized catfish, sale 1
Striped bass, underweight
Total fish violations
Grand total fish and game violations
29
15
I
1
10
5
5
4
3
4
1
1
1
112
43
1
36
2
3
7
13
7
6
3
1
»
2
3
1
1
1
141
Fines
Imposed
$450 00
640 00
600 00
10 00
135 00
500 00
125 00
100 00
50 00
50 00
15 00
$2,675 00
$775 00
50 00
300 OO
10 00
75 00
75 00
830 00
85 00
120 OO
200 00
50 00
60 OO
20 00
20 00
$2,670 00
253 $5,345 00
SEIZURES— FISH, GAME AND ILLEGALLY USED FISHING APPARATUS.
June 1, 1916 to August 31, 1916.
Gome.
Deer meat 522 pounds
Deer hides 3
Rabbits 28
Ducks 22
Doves 5
Quail 3
Mi£2ollanGcua game 10
Fish.
Striped bass 1.080J pounds
Trout 682 pounds
Salmon 120 pounds
Dried shrimp 275 pounds
Crabs 669
Clams 549
Abalones 82
Lobsters 4
Miscellaneous fish 106 pounds
Illegal nets and lines 6
Searches.
Illegal fish and game 85
220
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME.
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INDEX TO VOLUME TWO
INDEX TO VOLUME 2.
Abalone, 101, 102-3, 153, 155, 167, 175,
178, 187 ; pearl formation, 182-185.
Red, 176.
Accidents, see iiunting accidents.
Adams, C. C, 28; science and progress in
the protection of forest, fisli and game
animals, 19-22.
Administrative changes, 85.
Albacore, 102-3, 166, 203, 204.
Alexander, M. L., 211.
American Association for the Advance-
ment of Science, 203.
AMERICAN GAME PROTECTIVE
ASSOCIATION BULLETIN, 149,
211.
American Game Protective and Propaga-
tion Society, 8, 149, 196.
American Museum of Natural History,
29, 146.
Anchovy, 99, 102-3, 154, 166, 204.
Angler, 15, 18, 20, 42, 44, 96, 131, 132,
133, 165.
Angling, 14.
Antelope, 30, 31, 125, 145, 160; increase
in Siskiyou County, 162.
Antilocapra americana americana, 162.
Antlers, 118, 120, 121, 122, 164; mal-
formed, 48 ; malformed of deer, 119-
123.
Aquarium,*33; for San Francisco, 209.
Armstrong, W. H., 93, 190.
Auk, Great, 192.
B
Badger, 35.
Bag limit, 30, 85, 124, 131, 159, 186, 197.
Bait, 26, 27, 206, 217.
BAKERSFIELD CALIFORNIAN, 89.
Barnacle, 151.
Goose-neck, 150.
Barnes, E. P., band-tailed pigeons alleged
destroyers of grain, 212.
Barracuda, 102, 130, 133, 166.
Bass, 62, 132, 133, 210 ; calico bass, sharp-
eared bass, and blue-gilled sunfish,
210.
Black, 21, 50, 99, 145, 180, 208; at
San Diego, 156.
Black Sea, 102-3, 166.
Calico, 208, 210.
Rock, 102-3, 166.
Sharp-eared, 210.
Strawberry, 210.
Striped, 63, 96, 102, 104, 133, 166, 200.
White Sea, 102-3, 166.
Bear, 66, 67, 111, 137, 190, 15H ; protec-
tion for, in Pennsylvania, 159.
Black, 32, 34, 35, 66, 68, 69, 186.
Brown, 66.
Cave, 82.
Cinnamon, 68 ; killed in Modoc County,
111.
Grizzly, 65, 66, 68, 69, 125, 186; does
it exist in California?, 65-69.
Beaver, 87, 90; on the increase in Modoc
County, 163.
Golden, to be driven from homes, 90-91.
Becker, H. D., 85.
Beek, J. A., for selfish reasons, 198.
Beetle, 49.
Big Game, 8, 9.
Bird 31, 86, 89, 95, 111, 141, 144, 145,
146, 147, 158, 190, 195, 199, 212;
attracting, 148; insectivorous, 109,
157, 192; migratory, 45, 191; chil-
dren taught to recognize, 91 ; effect of
war on, 93; Italy stops slaughter,
109; protection, 38; lovers, 148; a
new danger to in England, 197; two,
with one stone, 215.
Shore, 33, 45, 191.
Birds, a distributional list of California,
36-38.
Bison, American, 192 ; herd increases, 45.
European, 158-159.
Blackbird, 49, 93 ; damage crops in Imper-
ial Valley, 215.
Bicolored, 215.
Brewer, 215.
Yellow-headed, 215.
Blackcock, 6.
Black Duck, 90.
Bluefish, 102-103, 166.
Bluejay, Mountain, 33.
Boccaccio, 102-103, 166.
Bolton, A. L., 71.
Bonita, 102-103, 153, 166.
Bounty, 112, 158, 211 ; see lion bounties ;
Pennsylvania tries system, 211.
Boucher, E. C, 39 ; the ring-necked pheas-
ant in Utah, 157.
Boutan, Dr., 184, 185.
Boy Scouts, 109 ; co-operation, 144.
Branta canadensis canadensis, 47.
Bremner, C. O., deer scarce in Cleveland
I National Forest, 112.
224
INDEX.
Brown, W. S., two cinnamon bears killed
in Modoc County, 111 ; rabid coyotes
in Modoc County, 111-112; trout in
Goose Lake, 112 ; beaver on the in-
crease in Modoc County, 163.
Bryant, II. C, 83, SS, US, 130, ]^_, 144.
ISO ; Canada geese bred in capitivity,
47; California's prehistoric game, 82;
ducks from the Great Salt Lake
taken in California, 110; the Colum-
bian sharp-tailed grouse in north-
eastern California, 101 ; pheasants
increase on Yerba Buena Island in
San Francisco Bay, 163; rabbits
damage crops in San Diego County,
215-218.
Buck, 75, 112, 119, 120, 121, 122, 123.
124, 138, 104, 213, 214; Spiked, 130,
214.
Buffalo, 45, 21jl.
Bullfinch, 152.
Bull Frogs, introduced into Oregon, 44.
Bureau of Education, Publicity and Re-
search, 38, 137, 144, 190.
Burning, an Indian's view of, 194-190.
Bustard, 4.
Buzzard, Turkey, protection removed
from, 45.
C
California Academy of Sciences, 32, 71,
74, 75, 126, 151, 164.
CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME, 47,
50, 70, 75, 83, 100, 110, 136, 137,
152, 189.
Cancer magister, 22, 24, 25, 27.
gracilis, 24.
prodiicttts, 26.
Canis latrans lestes, 125, 126.
ochropus ochropus, 126.
ochropus cstor, 120.
Cannery, 153. 154, 207.
Carnivores, 82.
Carp, 102-103, 145, 100.
Casey, J., 190.
Castor subauratus, 90.
Castration, 123.
Cat, House, 21, 109.
Domestic, 148.
Catfish, 102-103, 145, 166.
Caviar, from salmon and shad eggs, 40-
41.
Centrarchidaj, 210.
Centroccrcus nrophasianus, 103.
Cervus nannodes, 70.
Chamberlain-IIayden Game Sanctuary
Bill, 189; the, 193-194.
Charlton, K. H., the Angelus Forest
(iame Refuge, 164.
(Miilipfpper, 102-103, 160.
Chirunoniid Fly, 180, 181, 182.
Citcllus hecchcyi, 11, 13.
Clam, 40, 102-103, 129. 1.^.1, 1.-.5, 157,
107, 207; California, 17.5-178; in
San Francisco Bay, 2<J9-210.
Bi'ut-nosed, 178.
Butler, 178.
Cockle, 102-103, 107.
:\[ud, 40, 1.51, 177.
ri.snio, 101, 102-103, 107, 175, 170,
177.
Sand, 178.
Soft shell, 40, lUl, 102-103, 151, 107,
177, 210.
White, 178.
White-shelled, 209.
Clarke, F. C, 120, 121. 122, 137; mal-
formed antlers of deer, 119-123.
Clarke, W. T., do hooked fish die after
being returned to the stream?, 42.
(^legg, M. T. [with C. C. Pierce], the
effect of strychnine sulphate on Cali-
foi-nia valley quail, 11-13.
Clingan, W. M., coyote killed while in
pursuit of deer, 213.
Close Season, 44, 131, 157, 104, 207.
Clupia sapidissima, 5S.
Coaliish, 102-103, 100.
Cod, Cultus, 102-108, 166.
Rock, 153.
Tom, 102-103, 167.
Codfish, 81, 176.
Coffman, J. D., all venison should he
utilized, 164 ; deer and the deer law
in Trinity County, 164; Trinity
Game Refuge, 105 ; the sooty grouse
in Trinity County, 212-213; quail
season, 214.
Columha fasciata, 212.
Commercial fisheries, depart ment of, 50.
CONDOR, THE, 38.
Council, M. J., 85, 98, 134.
Conservation, 91. 135, 137, 144. 145, 185,
189, 192, 193; a good salmon meas-
ure, 150; a new society, 157; of
game, 38, 82, 158; in New Mexico,
100; costs little in New York, 211.
Commission, Louisiana remodels, 211 ;
Wiscon.siu, 211.
Conservationists, 79.
Cooke, W. W., 35.
Cooper, J. G.. 37.
Cooper Ornithological Club, 38.
INDEX.
225
Coot, 45.
Corbiua, 133.
Cormorant, protection removed from, 45 ;
do cormorants cat fishV, 198.
Double-crested, 198.
Co-operation, need of, in tish and game
preservation, 77-79.
Cottontail, 18(3, 215.
Courtright, G. W., 145 ; antelope increase
in Siskiyou County, W2 ; courting of
sage hen, 1G3.
Coyote, 35, 6G, G7, 126, 127, 128, 161,
213; rabid in Modoc County, 111-
112; killed while in pursuit of deer,
213; swat the, 213-214.
Desert, 126.
Mountain, 125, 126.
Valley, lz6.
Crab, 38, 102-103, 167, 187, 204, 206,
207 ; fishery, 22, 24 ; trap, 27 ; sum-
mer migration of, 39.
Blue, 27.
Edible, 22, 27, 39.
Soft, 22.
Crane, Whooping, 192,
Crappie, 210.
Crawfi.sh, 1.55, 204.
( 'roaker, 133.
Crustacean, 27, 40, 63, 99, 101, 102-103,
150, 167.
(hinningham, F. P., wild pigeons accused
of carrying hog cholera, 214.
Curlew, Eskimo, 35, 192.
Long-billed, 192.
CURRENT ITEMS OF INTEREST,
197.
Cuttlefish, 101, 102-103, 167.
Cyprinodon, 180.
Cyininodon macularlus, 179.
Danziger, J. M., 71, 72.
Dawson, W. L., 91.
Deer, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 20, 28, 30, 31,
32, 36, 44, 45, 85, 86, 93, 119, 121,
122, 123, 125, 131, 159, 163, 165,
185, 186, 189, 190, 194, 195, 211,
213, 214 ; commission feeds, 83-84 ;
feeding houses for, 96 ; scarce in
Cleveland National Forest, 112 ;
hides, 124; salt licks for, 140-141;
die from peculiar disease, 138-139 ;
hunters attention, 136; at least
12,000 killed in 1915, 139; need
closed season, 164; and the deer law
in Trinity County, 164.
Black-tailed, 110, 118, 136.
Coast Mule, 121.
nviidragopiis obscurus fuliginosus, 212.
Deputy, 29 ; educational function of, 137.
Devil Fish, 204.
DeWitt, J. X., 87.
Didelphis virginiana, 46.
Dirks, W. N., 29; green-winged teal nest-
ing in Alameda County, 46.
Disease, 149 ; of quail, 95 ; of squirrels,
112; of deer, 138; of cats, 148.
Dixon, J., does the grizzly bear still exist
in California V, 65-69; the timber wolf
in California, 125-129.
Doe, 75, 112, 123, 124, 138, 141, 214;
New York prevents killing of, 159.
Dog, 66, 67, 126, 128, 131, 158, 163, 186,
197.
Dogfish, 102-103, 106.
Doney, A. E., early game conditions in
Siskiyou County, 123-124.
Dougherty, P., 215.
Dove, 33, 131.
Western Mourning, bred in captivity,
163.
Dowitcher, 111, 193.
i_>owuing, PI, the opossum in Alameda
County, 110 ; Wilson snipe unusually
abundant in Alameda County, 110-
111.
Duck, 5, 36, 92, 110, 143, 145, 147, 150,
159, 186, 199 ; vs. rice, 49-50 ; breed-
ing for sport, 90 ; 1915-1916 season
poorest in years, 9'5 ; from Great Salt
Lake taken in California, 110.
Black, 90.
Fulvous Tree-, 30, 199.
Labrador, 192.
Mallard, 49, 90, 147, 161, 199.
Mandarin, 30.
Pintail, 110, 199.
Spoonbill, 199.
Teal, Cinnamon, 46, 199.
Green-winged, 46, 110, 199.
W'ood, 30, 193.
Duckling, 40.
Duke, R. D., 196.
Ecrevisse, 101, 102-103, 167.
Edible Crab, contributions to the life his-
tory of, 22-27.
226
INDEX.
EDITORIALS.
Do we want Scotland's game laws?,
28-29; fish and game deputies given
instructions, 29 ; Dr. Charles Fred-
erick Holder, 29-30; are we coming
to this?, 30^ game farm exhibit at
exposition, 30 ; deer receive added
protection in Contra Costa County,
30-31 ; predaceous birds and mam-
mals, 31 ; leading fish and game com-
missions of the United States, 31-32 ;
ring-necked pheasants reared at game
farm planted in different parts of
state, 32 ; California Fish and Game
Commission exhibit in Panama-
Pacific International Exposition, 32-
33 ; squirrel poisoning and valley
quail, 33-34 ; wild duck foods, 34 ; our
annual catch of fur-bearing mammals,
34—35 ; shore birds and their future,
35; game refuges, 35-3G ; California
and spiked bucks, 36 ; violators of the
game laws, 3G ; a distributional list
of the birds of California, 3G-3S ;
lectures on wild life, 38 ; forest serv-
ice co-operation, 83 ; commission feeds
deer and quail, S3-84 ; parcel post
shipments of game, 84 ; Oregon pro-
tects fur-bearing mammals, 84-85 ;
administrative changes, 85 ; notes
from the Los Angeles district, 85 ;
cold weather and game, 85-86 ; valu-
able information on fish and game,
87 ; John X. De Witt, 87 ; a hearing
at Santa Rosa, 87-88 ; game laws vs.
knowledge, 89 ; song-birds are killed,
89 ; attempt to abolish Klamath Lake
bird reservation, 89 ; breeding ducks
for sport, 90; golden beavers to be
driven from homes, 90-91 ; children
taught to recognize birds, 91 ; who is
responsible?, 91 ; cemeteries as bird
sanctuaries, 91 ; game wardens and
automobiles, 92 ; domesticating minks,
92 ; 1915-1916 duck season poorest in
years, 93; the effect of the war on
birds, 93 ; hunting accidents, 93-94 ;
reappearance of quail disease, 95 ; a
mixed ration for pheasants, 95 ; 1917
national sportsmen's show, 95-96;
feeding houses for deer and quail, 96 ;
look before you shoot, 136 ; deer
hunters attention, 136; the educa-
tional function of the deputy, 137 ;
venison can be distinguished from
other meats, 137-138; advantages of
a buck law, 138 ; deer die from pecu-
liar disease, 138-139 ; at least 12,000
deer killed in 1915, 139-140; salt
licks for deer, 140-141 ; war to be
waged on English sparrow, 141 ;
judges give severe sentences, 141 ;
Snow Mountain dam hearing, 141-
142 ; wild game and its preservation,
143 ; is it any wonder?, 144 ; boy
scout co-operation, 144; fish and
game lectures given to forestry stu-
dents, 144-145 ; fish and game exhibit
at Chico fair, 145 ; why antelope do
not increase, 145 ; sea lions tried as
carp-killers, 145-146 ; the scientific
collector, 146 ; suggestions for ornith-
ological work, 146-148; attracting
birds, 148 ; the domestic cat, 148 ; the
breeding and shooting of the Amer-
ican pheasant, 149 ; a great work on
pheasants, 149; to the sportsmen of
California, 149-150; our second
birthday, 189 ; a new department,
189; a chain of game refuges for
California, 189 ; fishing popular, 190 ;
game resources of California adver-
tised by forest service, 190 ; ranchers
protect game, 191 ; the campaign
against the English sparrow, 191 ;
regulations for the protection of
migratory birds, 191-192; statement
of the federal advisory committee of
the migratory bird law, 192-193; the
Chamberlain-Hayden game sanctuary
bill, 193-194; an Indian's view of
burning and a reply, 194-196 ; British
Columbia has established the Hun-
garian partridge, 196; obtain an
authoritative work on pheasant
breeding free, 196; four classes of
violators, 196-197 ; club urges protec-
tion of harmless snakes, 197; a
warden's duties in Pennsylvania, 197;
a new danger to birds in England,
197 ; some suggested changes in fish
and game laws, 197-198; for selfish
reasons, 198 ; do cormorants eat fish?,
198-199 ; game birds for sale, 199.
Eel, 39.
Eggs, of green-winged teal, 46; of duck,
coyote eats, 161 ; of fish, 97, 101, 150,
1.52, 156, 204 ; of mallard, 161 ; of
rainbow trout, 201 ; of salmon, 41,
200; of shad, 200; of striped bass,
200; of valley quail, 47; of band-
tailed pigeon, 212.
INDEX.
227
Egret, American, 193.
Snowy, 193.
Elephant, 82.
Elk, 35, 44, 45, 123, 124, 164, 194 ; Cali-
fornia valley, 70-77 ; in Shasta
County, 111.
Valley, 70, 71, 77.
Elks, Order of, 193.
Ellis, S. L. N., 43.
Evans, S. C, 72.
Evormann, B. W., 205; the California
valley elk, 70-77.
Fauna, 209.
Fawn, 32, 77, 112, 123, 124, 138 ; born in
winter, 110.
Federal Migratory Bird Law, 45, 191-
192, 193 ; statement by committee of,
192-194.
Feeding of game, 144.
Ferguson, A. D., 85 ; fly-caught fish not
injured, 42-44.
Fillet of Shad, 104.
Fin, 209, 210.
Finley, W. L., 45, 49, 212.
Fish, 14, 15, 19, 20, 21, 23, 25, 27, 39,
41, 43, 62, 63, 64, 77, 78, 81, 87,
88, 96, 99, 101, 104, 106, 111, 130,
131, 132, 133, 134, 135, 141, 142,
150, 156, 162, 165, 179, 180, 182,
187, 195, 199, 201, 204, 206, 209,
210, 211; do hooked fish die?, 42;
fly-caught fish not injured, 42-44 ;
cost of, 96 ; killed by mud flow, 111 ;
floods destroy, 155 ; reports on the
sale of, 40.
Albacore, 14, 102-103, 166, 203, 204.
Anchovy, 99, 102-103, 166, 204.
Bass, 62.
Black, 21, 50, 132, 145, 156, ISO,
208, 210; at San Diego, 156.
Black Sea, 14, 102-103, 166.
Calico, 208, 210.
Rock, 14, 102-103, 166.
Sharp-eared, 210.
Strawberry, 210.
Striped, 41, 63, 96, 102-103, 104, 133,
166, 200.
White Sea, 14, 102-103, 166.
Barracuda, 102-103. 130, 133, 166.
Bonita, 102-103, 153, 166.
Boccaccio, 102-103, 166.
Carp, 102, 146, 166.
Catfish, 102-103, 145, 166.
Chilipepper, 102-103, 166.
Coalfish, 102-103, 166.
Cod, Cultus, 102-103, 166.
Ling, 21.
Rock, 153.
Tom, 102-103, 167.
Codfish, 81, 176.
Corbina, 133.
Crappie, 210.
Croaker, 133.
Dogfish, 102-103, 166.
Flounder, 102-103, 166.
Flying Fish, 15, 10, 18.
Gar, 21.
Ilag-fish, 39.
Hake, 102-103, 166.
Halibut, 96, 102^103, 104, 155, 166.
Herring, 99, 102-103, 166, 198, 199.
Kingfish, 102-108, 166.
Lamprey, 21.
Mackerel, 102-103, 106.
Mullet, 102-103, 166.
Perch, 51, 102-103, 145, 166.
Sacramento, 210.
Pike, 51.
California, 102-103, 166.
Pompano, 102-103, 166.
Rock-fish, 102-103, 155, 166.
Salmon, 38, 51, 61, 62, 96, 99, 102,
104, 154, 156, 166, 190, 198, 199.
200, 209 ; to be tagged in Monterey
Bay, 153.
Blue-back, 41.
Chinook, 41.
Dog, 41.
Humpback, 41.
King, 41.
Quinnat, 42, 88, 98, 153, 209.
Silver, 41, 42.
Sockeye, 41.
Sand-dab, 102-103, 166.
Sardine, 15, 40, 102, 153, 154, 166, 204.
Sculpin, 102-103, 166.
Shad, 58, 59, 61, 62, 63, 64, 96, 99.
101, 102-103, 104, 106, 107, 108,
153, 166, 200 ; to be propagated in
California, 52 ; in California, 59-
64 ; first taken from Columbia, 152.
Roe, 62, 153.
Skate, 102-103, 166.
Smelt, 102-103, 166, 187.
Sole, 102-103, 166.
Stickleback. 50, 182.
Sturgeon, 102-103, 166.
Sucker, 21.
Sunfish, Blue-gilled, 208, 210
Top-minnow, 179, 180.
228
INDEX.
Trout, 21, 42, 44, 51, 88, 98, 132, 165,
187, 190, 201, 207, 208, 215.
Black-spotted, 150.
Dolly A'arden, 208.
Eastern Brook, 97, 98, 150, 187;
obtained in Nevada, 202.
Golden, 33, 43.
German Brown, 150, 208.
Lake, 102-103, 112, 167.
Loch Leven, 97, 145, 150.
Rainbow, 97, 145, 150, 187, 191, 203.
Sea, 102-1C3, 167.
Steolhead, SS, 97, 102, 142, 145, 150,
1G6, 187, 200, 208, 214, 215.
Tuna, 14, 15, 16, 17, IS, 19, 133, 203,
204.
Long-finned, 41, 203.
Yellow-fin, 133.
Turbot, 102-103, 167.
White Fish, 51.
Whitebait, 102-103, 167.
Yellowtail, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 102-108,
133, 153, 167.
Fish and Game, 14, 20, 30; information
on, 87 ; conditions in Southern Cali-
fornia, 131-135 ; lectures given to
forestry students, 144 ; exhibit at
Chico Fair, 145 ; in San Mateo
County, 185-187.
Fish and Game Commission, California,
3, 4, 7, 8, 11, 28, 29, 32, 36, 40, 43,
59, 60, 61, 65, 78, 83, 84, 85, 88,
91. 96, 97, 98, 99, 100, 131, 132,
134, 135, 137, 139, 140, 141, 142,
143, 144, 145, 151, 153, 178, 179,
180, 183, 185, 187, ISO, 190, 191, 194,
202, 206, 207, 208, 209, 212, 214.
Connecticut, 101.
Illinois, 158.
Massachusetts, 49, 101, 149, 157; will
issue quarterly, 160.
Nevada, 202.
New York, report of, 60.
Oregon, 212.
I'ennsylvania, 44.
United States, 51, 60, 61.
Utah, 160.
Fish and Game Commissioners, National
Association of, 36.
Fish cannery, 40; statistics of, 153.
Fish culture, 98, 131, 1S9, 200; new
quarters for department of, 97 ; oper-
ation of department of, 150.
Fish culturist, 59.
Fish ladder, sec fishway ; new screen and
ladder surveys, 202.
Fish planting, 187, 199.
Fisher, 35, 84.
Fisher, A. K., 33.
Fisher. J. P., clams in San Francisco Bay,
209-210.
Fishway, 142, 143; to be installed, 98;
new surveys, 202.
Fisheries, 20, 38, 41, 62, 64, 85, 96, 101,
129, 131, 155, 20€, 207, 211; notes.
151, 157, 203-211; Monterey notes,
154; statistics, 99-100, 102-103,
166-167 ; new plant at Monterey,
154 ; Mendocino, 154 ; commercial
statistics, 156 ; products, 1545 ; con-
ference at San Diego, 203-205.
Fishermen, 22, 26, 27, 38, 39, 62, 97.
101, 133, 153, 154, 155, 157, 190,
198, 199, 200, 207, 211; market, 15,
99, 100.
Fishing, 14, 45, 62, 112, 132, 133, 135,
155, 187, 211; at Santa Catalina
Island — its development and met hods,
14-19; popular, 190.
Flamingo, American, 192.
FlickiM-. Ked-shafted. 89.
Flounder, 102, 151, 166 ; eat flam necks.
151.
Fly, 43, 44, 132.
Food, of ducks, 34, 90, 133 ; of cormo-
rants, 45, 198, 199 ; of opossums, 46 ;
of pheasants, 49, 95 ; of birds, 148 ;
of sea-otter, 81 ; of band-tailed
pigeon, 212 ; of sooty grouse, 213.
Forbush, E. H., 218.
Forest Service Co-operation, S3.
Foster, H. E., fall arrival of the Wilson
snipe, 48.
Fox, aj, 211.
Cross, 35.
Gray, 158, 212.
Red, 35, 158, 212.
French, D. G., fishing at Santa ("atalina
Island, 14-19.
FRESNO REPUBLICAN, 28.
Frog, 21 ; bull, introduced into Oregon, 44.
Fry, 199.
Salmon, 97, 98, 145, 150, 156.
Shad, 59, 61.
Trout, 132, 142, 200, 201.
Fuertes, L. A., 189.
Fulvous Tree-duck, 30, 199.
Fur, 103.
Fur-bearers, 20, 21, 34, 35, S2, 84, 85.
87, 90, 91.
INDEX.
229
Gallinago delicata, 48, 110.
Game, 3, 4, 5, 19, 28, .81, 44, 77, 78, 88,
89, 92, 111, 131, 133, 144, 14.5, 149,
190, 193, 194, 197, 212 ; parcels post
shipments of, 84; and cold weather,
85-86 ; wild, 157 ; seasons on, coun-
ties may close in Pennsylvania, 44-
45; its preservation, 143; condition.s
in Great Britain vs. conditions in
California, 3-10; California's pre-
historic, 82; early conditions in Sis-
kiyou County, 12.3-125 ; resources ad-
vertised by Forest Service, 190 ;
ranchers protect, 191 ; Mississippi
establishes commission, 212.
Animals, 20, 21, 84, 216.
Birds, G, 9, 38, 34, 38, 84, 85, 109, 146.
148, 158, 160, 186, 189, 199, 216;
propagation of 9, 10.
Fish, 189.
Game Farm, State, 9. 29, 30, 32, 36, 37,
46, 85, 120, 145, 199.
Gamekeeper, 4, 5.
Game Laws, .see law.
Game Refuge, see refuge.
Game Sanctuaries, see sanctuary.
Game Warden, see warden.
Geese, 110, 143.
Gill, 210.
Goat, 137.
Godwit, Hudsonian, 193.
Goose, 49.
Canada, successfully bred in California,
47.
Honker, 47.
Grilse, 209.
Grinupll, .T.. 38, 126, 216.
Grizzly, 6.5, 66; does it exist in Cali-
fornia?, 65-69.
Grou.se, 5, 6, 20, 87, 91, 110, 190; in the
Eldorado National Forest, 164.
Columbian Sharp-tailed, in Oregon, 45 ;
in northeastern California, 161.
Pinnated, 193.
Prairie Sharp-tail, 193.
Sage, 193.
Red, 4.
Ruffed, 44, 45, 148.
Sooty, 110; in Trinity County, 212-
213.
Guinea Pig, 12.
Gull, 45; destroy mice, 218.
California, 218.
Gun Club, 3, 8.
Gun, automatic, 157 ; pump, 157.
H
ilag-fish, 39.
Ilake, l()2-lo:5, i»jt>.
Haliutis, 182.
rufescens, 176.
Halibut, 9(), 104, 1.5.5.
California, 102-103, 166.
Hammond, L. W., mourning doves bred
in captivity, 163.
Hare, 4.
Hatchery, 101, 1.32 ; in full operation,
97-98; notes, 151-157, 199-203; the
shad hatchery at Yuba City, 199 ; the
Inyo, 203.
Almanor, 200, 202.
Bear Valley, 201.
Brookdale, 98, 201.
Eel River, 40, 200.
Fort Seward, 1.50, 200.
Inyo, 213.
Kearsage, 150.
Oak Creek, 134.
Price Creek, 98.
Sisson, 97, 150, 201, 202.
Tahoe, 202.
Tallac, 201.
Ukiah, 98, 200.
Verdi, 98, 202.
Hawk, 31, 86.
Heacock, R. B., 39, 41.
Hearing, at Santa Rosa, 87-88, 89 ; at
Eureka, 20.5-208.
Heath Hen, 193.
Heath, H. E., 40; California clams, 175-
178.
Heckmann, W. H. H., 207.
Iledderly. E. L., notes from the Los An-
geles district, 85 ; fish and game con-
ditions in Southern California, 131-
13.5.
Herring, 99, 102-103, 166, 198, 199.
Hoen, D. H., 190.
Hoerl, J. H., 97.
Hog cholera, 214.
Holder, C. F., 14, 29-^.
Honker, 47.
Horned Lark. 34.
Hoyt, F. D., malformed antlers, 48.
Hubbs, C. L., 151.
Hudson, C. B.. 189.
Hunt. E. W., 97, 199.
Hunter, .T. S., fish and game in San
Mateo County, 185-187.
Hunters, 8, 9, 10, 79, 80, 89, 93, 96, 111,
112, 122, 144, 146, 159, 162, 186,
187, 192, 196.
230
INDEX.
Hunting, 45, 81, 93, 109, 123, 135, 138,
185, 100; accidents, 93, 136, 186,
214, 210.
Ibis, Scarlet, 192.
Insect, 49; control, artificial is. natural
methods, 49.
Is it any wonder?, 145.
J
.Tack Rabbit, 215.
Jay, 34.
.Tohnston. E. F., 204.
Jordan, D. S., first shad taken from Co-
lumbia, 152.
Kelp, 18, 204; will cutting injure the
fisherie.s?, 129-131.
Kennedy, C. IT., a possible enemy of the
mosquito, 179-182.
Kingfish. 102-103, 166.
T^ingfisher, 199.
Tvite, use in fishing, 15-18.
Tvite, White-tailed, 193.
Tvlamath Lake Bird Reservation, 89.
Klamath River Jack, 19.5.
Klink, P., early game conditions in Sis-
kiyou County, 124.
Lambson. G. U., 97, 199.
LA NATURE, 184.
Larus californicits, 218.
Law, 182, 212; the trespass in Alabama,
109 ; buck, advantages of a, 138.
Crab, 206.
Fish, 88, 97.
Game. 10, 2S, 36, 91, 108, 125, 145, 159,
163, 196, 214, 215; harmonized
with federal regulations, 45 ; vs.
knowledge, 89 ; unique, 108.
Fish and Game. 77, 78, 112, 141, 142,
144, 160, 190; some suggested
changes in, 197-198.
Lcpomis pallidus, 210.
License, 85, 131, 135; angling, 187; fish-
ing, 190; game, 5; hunting, 6, 187,
212 ; shooting, 8 ; trapper's, 84 ; com-
mercial fishing, 99.
Limit, 143.
Lion, bounties, 115.
Mountain, see mountain lion.
Laws, G. O., 138, 165.
Little, E. v., the opossum in Los Angeles
County, 46.
Littlejohn, C, habits and hunting of the
sea otter, 79-82.
Lobster, Spiny, 101, 102-103, 129, 155,
167.
Los Angeles District, notes from, 84-85.
M
Mace, B. TL, nesting of the sooty grouse,
110 ; swat the coyote, 213-214.
Mackerel, 102-103, 166.
Macoma, 210.
secta, 178.
nasuta, 178, 209.
Macomas, 178.
Macrocystis pyrifcra, 130.
Malformations, 120.
Magpie, 34.
Mallard, 49, 90, 147, 161, 199.
Malone, W. C, 201.
Mammals, 31, 145.
Big Game, 38, 67, 145.
Fur-bearing, 34 ; Oregon protects, 84-
85.
Predaceous, see predatory.
Manly, W. M., Sierra mountain sheep in
the Mono National Forest, 111 ;
sage hens in the Mono National
Forest, 163.
Market Hunter, 143.
Marshall, A. H., 191.
Marten, 35, 84.
Mastodon, 82.
McAfee, W. L., 34.
Merrill, IT. G., fish killed by mud flow.
11 1 ; good case made by I^assen
ranger, 112.
Mice, gulls destroy, 218.
Field, 22.
Michael, E. L., 205.
Migration, 110.
Migratory Bird Law, see federal migra-
tory bird law.
Miller »& T^ux, 71, 76.
Milt, 40, 41.
Mink, 35, 84, 92, 109, 158, 211, 212;
domesticating, 92.
Mollusk, 40, 99, 102-103, 167, 204; dis-
tribution of food fishes and mol-
lusks to be studied. 151.
Mosquito, 50; a possible enemy of, 179-
182.
Mountain Lion, 32, 35, 213.
Mountain Quail, see Quail.
INDEX.
231
Mountain Sheep, 125, 160.
Desert, 32.
Sierra, 14 ; in Mono National Forest,
111 ; seen in Oali Creek Pass, 213.
Mullet, 102-103, 16G.
Museum of History, Science and Art, 82.
Museum of Vertebrate Zoology, 38, 65,
68, 69, 125, 129, 144, 196.
Muskrat, 84.
Mussel, 125, 176, 178.
California, 101, 102-103, 155, 167.
Black, 176, 178.
Ml/a arenaria, 40, 177, 210.
Mytilus ealifornica, 176, 178.
N
Nacre, 183, 184, 185.
National Association of Audubon Socie-
ties, 91.
National Educators Conservation So-
ciety, 138, 157.
National Forest, 7, 193.
Angeles, 164.
California, 110, 141, 165, 213; im-
proved conditions in, 214-215.
Cleveland, 112, 164, 215.
Eldorado, fishing in, 165.
Lassen, 111.
Modoc, 161.
Mono, 111, 163.
Plumas, 112.
Santa Barbara, peculiar deer killed in,
164.
Sequoia, 214.
Shasta, 111.
Sierra, 214.
Trinity, 140, 190, 212.
Neale, Geo., 47, 199 ; ducks vs. rice, 49-
50 ; black bass eat mosquitos, 50 ;
commission feeds deer and quail,
83-84.
Nest, 110, 161 ; of green-winged teal, 46 ;
of valley quail, 47; of mallard duck,
147, 161; edible birds', 100-110; of
swifts, 109-110; of band-tailed
pigeon, 212 ; of sooty grouse, 213.
Net, 38, 39, 41, 80, 141, 156, 180, 199,
207.
Crab, 23, 24.
Gill, 39.
Herring, 198.
Hoop, 22, 23.
Salmon, 62.
Trammel, 38, 39.
Nettion carolinense, 46, 110.
Newbert, F. M., 84.
Newkirk, G., Dr. Charles Frederick
Holder, 29-30.
New York Zoological Society, 149.
Nidever, H. B., shad in California, 59-64.
Nightingale, 93.
Noack, H. R., band-tailed pigeons bred
in captivity, 212.
Non-game birds, 52, 114, 170.
Ober, E. H., 196; feeding game, 86;
mountain sheep seen in Oak Creek
Pass, 213.
Odocoileus coliim'bianus columhianus, 48,
118.
columhianus scaphiotus, fawns born in
winter, 110.
Ohl, H. C, gulls destroy mice, 218.
Oliver, J. H., abalone pearl formation,
182.
Onchorhyncht(s gorbuscha, 41.
keta, 41.
Opossum, in Los Angeles County, 46^7 ;
in Alameda County, 110 ; in Amador
County, 111.
OREGON SPORTSMAN, THE, 44; in
new form, 45.
Ornithological work, suggestions foi", 146.
Otter, 79, 80, 81, 82, 84.
River, 35.
Sea, 79, 80, 81.
Ovis canadensis sierra;, 213.
Owl, 93.
Oyer, P. H., 39, 110.
Oyster. 101, 102-103, 157, 167, 178, 207,
209; of San Francisco Bay, 208;
chlorinating, 208.
Panama-California International Expo-
sition, 76.
Panama-Pacific International Exposition,
30, 32, 33, 209.
Panther, 190.
Parakeet, Carolina, 192.
Partridge, 4, 5, 6, 93, 148.
European, 196.
Hungarian, 44 ; established in British
Columbia, 196.
Pearl, formation in abalone, 182-185.
Pedioecetes phasianellus columhianus,
161.
232
INDEX.
Pelican, AN'hile, IGl ; fornioily nostcd
near Sacramento, 1(51.
PENNSYLVANIA SPORTSMAN, 159.
Perch, 51, 102-103, 145, 160.
Sacramento, 210.
Perkins, C. R., 139.
Permanent Wild Life Protection Fund,
193.
Petrel, Black-capped, 193.
"Wilson Stormy, 38.
I'heasant, 4, 5, 6, 28, 30, 32, 93, 145,
148 ; a mixed ration for, 95 ; a great
work on, 149; increase on Yerba
Buena Island in San Francisco Bay,
163; obtain an authoritative work on
breeding, 196.
American, the breeding and shooting
of, 149.
L' hi nose, 49.
Golden, 32, 144, 199.
Ring-necked, 32, 44, 95, 149, 199; as
an insect destroyer, 49 ; in Utah,
157.
Silver, 32, 199.
Phalacrocorax auritus, 198.
Pierce, C. C, and Clegg, M. T., the effect
of strychnine sulphate on California
valley quail, 11-13.
Pigeon,
Band-tailed, 193; bred in captivity,
212; alleged destroyers of grain,
212.
Domestic, 212.
Nicobar, 212.
I'assenger, 192.
\Vil(l, accused of carrying hog cholera,
214.
Pike, 51.
California, 102-103, 166.
Pintail, 110, 199.
Plankton, 204.
Plover, Black-breasted, 191.
Golden, 191, 193.
Upland, 193.
Poaching, 199.
Poison, 11, 33, 112, 216, 217.
Pollution, 21, 149.
Pompano, 102-103, 166.
Pomoxis annularis, 210.
sparoides, 210.
Poster, a Connecticut, 44.
Prairie Chicken, 45, 161.
Prairie Dog, 33.
Pratt, G. D., conservation costs little in
New York, 211.
PnMl;il,u-y animals, 85, 86, 144, 190, 191;
Pennsylvania pays liouiity on, 158;
being killed in California National
Forest, 213.
Prescott, II. S., 39.
Precipitin test, 137.
I'reserve, 90, 206.
Propagation of fish, 45, 101.
Protection of forest, fish and game ani-
mals, science and progress in, 19-22.
Ptarmigan, 160.
Quail. 11, 12, 13, 20, 28, 30, 44, 45, 47.
85, 86, 91, 131, 145. 186, 190; com-
mission feeds, 83-84 ; reappearance
of disease, 95 ; feeding hou.se.s for,
9(; ; jNIinnesota advocates feeding,
109; shooting for market in San
Mateo County, 188; season, 214.
Bol)\vhite, 30, 109.
California Valley, 11, 13.
Mountain, 30, 33, 86, 186.
Valley, 30, 32, 33, 86, 186. 199; suc-
cessfully propagated, 47-48.
Quarles, K. A., 196.
Rabbit, 190; damage crops in San Diego
County, 215-218.
Cottontail, 186, 215.
Brush, 186.
Jack, 215.
Rabies, 111, 214.
Raccoon, 35.
Kae I^ikes, 19<j, 203, 213.
Rail, Clapper, 186.
Ralston, E. B., 1>><;: shooting (|uail for
market in San Maleo County, 188.
Rancho La Brea, 82.
Ranger, 215 ; good case made by, 112.
Rankin, E. P., 204.
Rattlesnake, 215.
Recipes, 106. 107, 108.
Reel, 14, 15, 19.
Refuge, 30; game, 35, 36, 164, 165; a
chain of, for California, 189.
Angeles National Forest, 164.
Cleveland National Forest, 164.
Pinnacles National Monument, 86.
Trinity National Forest, 165.
Reindeer, 9.
REPORTS.
Violations of fish and game laws, 52,
114, 170, 219.
INDEX.
233
Seizures and searches, 53, 113, 1G9,
219.
Financial, 54, 116, 171, 220.
Fishery products, 102-103, 166-167.
Lion bounties, 115.
Number of deer killed during season
1914-1915, 168-169.
Reservation (see refuge), bird, 35; at-
tempt to abolish Klamath Lake, 89.
Ring-tailed Cat, 35.
Ritter, W. E., 205.
Robin, 89.
Ro<-k-fish, 102-103, 155, 166.
Rod, 14, 19.
Rodent, 148.
Roe, 40.
Salmon, 40, 41.
Shad, 40.
Russell, W., early game conditions in
Siskiyou County, 124-125.
S
Sage, Mrs. Russell, 108.
Sage Hen, 87, 163; courting of, 163; in
Mono National Forest, 163.
Salmon, 38, 51, 61, 62, 88, 96, 98, 99,
102-103, 104, 154, 156, 166, 190, 198,
199, 200; fall run of, 41-42; to be
tagged in Monterey Bay, 153 ;
marked, liberated, 209.
Blueback, 41.
Dog, 41.
Humpback, 41.
King, 41.
Quinnat, 41, 42, 88, 153, 209.
Silver, 41, 42.
Sockeye, 41.
Salt licks, 190; for deer, 140-141.
Sanctuary (see refuge), 30, 91, 189;
cemeteries as, 91 ; in Pennsylvania,
108; bird, in Illinois, 158.
Game, 108, 109, 157, 158, 194; Utah
plans, for each county, 160.
Sand-dab, 39, 102-103, 166.
Sand-fleas, 63.
SAN FRANCISCO EXAMINER, 2, 8,
142.
Sandpiper, Red-breasted, 193.
Pectoral, 193.
Sardine, 40, 102-103, 153, 154, 166, 204.
Saxidome, 178.
^axidomus giganteus, 178.
Schaeffle, E., 193, 212; the need of co-
operation in fish and game preserva-
tion, 77-79.
SCIENTIFIC AMERICAN SUPPLE-
MENT, 184, 185.
Scientific collector, the, 146.
Scofield, N. P,., 22, 50, SS, 142, 189, 205 ;
the humpback and dog salmon taken
in San Lorenzo River, 41 ; will cut-
ting the kelp injure the fisheries,
129-131 ; calico bass, sharp-eared
bass, and bluegill sunfish, 210 ; com-
mercial fishery notes, 203-211.
Scott, E. L., grouse in the Eldorado Na-
tional Forest, 164.
Screen, 98, 111; to be installed, 98-99;
new screen and ladder surveys, 202.
Scripps Institution for Biological Re-
search, 130, 131, 155.
Sculpin, 102-103, 166.
Sea Brant, Eastern, 38.
Sea Lion, tried as cai-p killers, 145.
Sea Otter, habits and hunting of, 79-82.
Sea-trout, 102-103, 166.
Sea-urchin, 81.
Seal, 81.
Seaweed, 81.
Seine, 23.
Sentences, judges give severe, 141.
Seton, E. T., 126.
Shad, 58, 59, 61, 62, 63, 64, 99, 102-103,
153, 166, 199, 20O; spawn to be
furnished Eastern states, 101 ; as a
food fish, 104 ; preparation of fillet
of, 104-105 ; removal of bones from,
106 ; recipes, 106-108 ; to be propa-
gated in California, 152 ; first taken
from Columbia, 152 ; hatchery at
Yuba City, 190-200.
Sharp, H. M., 194.
Shebley, F. H., 213.
Shebley, W. H., 97, 189; hatchery notes,
199-203.
Sheep, Mountain, see mountaiu sheep.
Shellfish., 40, 182, 184, 185, 209 ; selection
of, 156.
Shoemaker, C. D., 45.
Shook, H., 47.
Shoot, look before you, 136.
Shore birds, 33, 191 ; and their future, 35.
Shrimp. 27, 63, 101, 102-103, 167.
SIERRA RANGER, 49.
Siphon, 20i8, 209.
Skate, 102-103, 166.
Skylark, 152.
Skunk, 31.
Spotted, 35.
Striped, 35.
Sloth, Ground, 82.
234
INDEX.
Smelt, 102-103, 187.
Smithsonian Institute, 152.
Snail, 17.J, 182.
Snake, 21.j ; club urges protection of, 197.
Garter, 20.
Water, 20.
Rattlesnake, 215.
Snipe, 110, 111, 148.
Wilson, 110, 191; fall arrival of, 43;
unusually abundant in Alameda
County, 110-111.
Snow Mountain Dam hearing, 141.
Sole, 39, 102-103.
Song-bird, 89, 91, 109, 148, 152; are
killed, 89.
Sparrow, 38 ; English, 144 ; war to be
waged on, 141 ; campaign against,
191.
European House, 144, 191.
Song, 147.
Spat, 210.
Spawn, 101, 178.
Spiked Buck, 3G, 122.
Spoonbill, 199.
Roseate, 38, 192.
Sportsmen, 5, 8, 19, 28, 44, 77, 78, 87,
131, 132, 134, 146, 190, 193; show,
95-96; to the sportsmen of Califor-
nia, 49 ; organizations of, in Massa-
chusetts, 157.
Spray, 216.
Spring Shooting, 1.56, 160.
Squid, 101, 102-103, 167, 204.
Squirrel, 11, 13, 44, 190; poisoning and
valley quail, 33-34.
Gray, 186; in Plumas National Forest,
112.
Ground, 11, 12, 13, 215.
Red, 20.
Tree, 33.
STAATS-ZEITUNG, 159.
Stag, 5, 121, 122.
Stanford University, 151, 175.
Stanley, A. J., gray squirrels in the
Plumas National Forest, 112.
Starling, spread of in New England, 218.
State Board of Health, 150, 208.
Steele, A. J., 203.
Steelhead, see trout.
Stickleback, 50, 182.
Sting-ray, 151 ; destroyed, 157.
Stomach contents, 26. 181.
Stomach examination, 49, 181.
Strychnine, 216 ; effect of on valley quail,
11-13.
Sturgeon, 102-103, 166.
Caviar, 99.
Sucker, 21.
Sunfish, Blue-gilled, 208, 210.
Swan, Trumpeter, 192.
Swift, 109, 110.
Swiftlets, 109, 110.
Tadpole, 44.
Taverner, P. A., 146, 198.
Teal, Cinnamon, 46, 199.
Green-winged, 110, 199; nesting in
Alameda County, 46.
Thrush, 93, 152.
Tiger, Saber-toothed, 82.
Tillotson, M. R., elk in Shasta County,
111 ; trapping for fur in the Shasta
National Forest, 111.
Timber Wolf, in California, 125-129.
Tivela stultorum, 175.
Toms, W., 90.
Top-minnow, 179, 180.
Towhee, 89.
Trapper, 84, 111.
Treaty with Canada, 192.
Trespass, 4.
Trolling, 14, 42.
Trout, 21, 33, 42, 44, 51, 88, 98, 132, 134,
187, 190, 201, 207, 208; in Goose
Lake, 112; large, taken at Stony
Creek Dam, 165 ; to be rescued from
streams, 215.
Black-spotted, 150, 202.
Dolly Varden, 208.
Eastern Brook, 97, 98, 145, 150, 187;
obtained in Nevada, 202.
German Brown, 150, 208.
Golden, 33, 43.
Lake, 102-103, 112, 166.
Loch Leven, 97, 145, 150.
Rainbow, 97, 145, 150, 187, 191, 203.
Steelhead, 88, 97, 102-103, 150, 166,
187, 200, 208, 214, 215.
Tubbs, C. E., the opossum in Amador
County, 111.
Tuna, 14, 133, 153, 203, 204 ; club, 14.
Turbot, 102, 166.
Turkey, Wild, 44, 158. 163; a game bird
in Pennsylvania, 158.
Turtle, 21.
U
United Anglers League, 211.
United States Biological Survey, 33, 34,
35, 111, 128, 148, 192, 213, 215.
United States Bureau of Fisheries, 97,
204, 207.
INDEX.
235
United States Department of Agriculture,
34, 35, 36, 92, 128, 129, 192, 217.
United States Forest Service, 7, 83, 87,
111, 189, 194; co-operation, 163;
game resources of California adver-
tised by, 190.
United States Public Health Service, 11.
University of California, 69, 125, 144, 183.
Ursus americanus alti frontalis, 68.
Varmint, 213.
Venison, 28, 138, 214; can be distin-
guished from other meats, 137 ; should
be utilized, 164.
Vermin, 10, 148, 149, 197.
Violators, four classes of, 196-197.
Von Blon, J. L., 196.
W
Walters, C, 213.
Ward, L. A., valley quail successfully
propagated, 47^8.
Warbler, Tennessee, 38.
Warden, Game, 29, 36, 45, 193; and
automobiles, 92; duties in Pennsyl-
vania, 197 ; in Wisconsin furnished
motorcycles, 211.
Warren, L. J., 86.
Waterfowl, 30, 45, 143, 159, 197.
Water Thrush, Louisiana, 38.
Water Turkey, 38.
Weasel, 31, 35, 109, 158, 211, 212.
Weinland, H., 215.
Westerfeld, C, 43, 196 ; game conditions
in Great Britain vs. conditions in
California, 3-10.
Weymouth, F. W., contributions to the
life history of the Pacific coast edible
crab, 22-27.
Whale, 81.
Killer, 81.
Whitebait (fry), 102-103, 157.
Whiteman, L. H., 189, 213.
Who is responsible?, 91.
Wild Cat, 35, 158, 211, 212.
Wildfowl, 5, 34, 90.
Wild Life, 38, 44, 82, 91, 143, 157, 192 ;
protection fund increased, 108-109.
Willet, 193.
Wolf, 82, 125, 127, 128, 129, 148.
Gray, 125, 126.
Timber, 125, 126, 127.
Wood, C. A., some suggested changes in
fish and game laws, 197-198.
Woodcock, 148.
Wood Rat, 216.
Wood Duck, 30, 193.
Woodpecker, 49.
Wren, 147.
Wynne, S. W., deer need closed season,
164.
Yellowlegs, Greater, 191.
Lesser, 191.
Yellowtail, 102-103, 133, 153, 167.
Zcnaidura macoura marginella, 163.
CALIFORNIA
nSH-GAME
CONSERVATION Of WILD LIFE THROUGH EDUCATION
•»'»
BOARD OF FISH AND GAME COMMISSIONERS,
Commissioners appointed by the Governor, by and with the consent of the Senat*.
Term at pleasure of Governor. No compensation.
P. M. NEWBERT, President Sacramento
M. J. CONNELL, Commissioner Los Anpelei
CARL WESTERFELD, Commissioner San Francisco
ERNEST SCHAEFFLE, Executive Officer San Franclsoo
J. S. HUNTER, Assistant Executive Officer San Francisco
J. P. FISHER, Game Expert San Francisco
R. D. DUKE, Attorney San Francisco
HATCHERY DEPARTMENT.
W. H. SHEBLEY, Superintendent of Hatcheries Slsson
B. W. HUNT, Superintendent, Tahoe Hatchery Tahoe
P. A. SHEBLEY, Superintendent Ukiah and Snow Mountain
W. O. FASSETT, Superintendent, Humboldt County Hatchery Grizzly Bluff
STATE GAME FARM.
W. N. DIRKS, Superintendent State Game Farm Hayward
SPECIAL ASSISTANTS.
DR. H. C. BRYANT, In charge Bureau of Education, Publicity and Research, Berkeley
N. B. SCOFIELD, In charge Department of Commercial Fisheries San Franclsoo
PATROL SERVICE.
SAN FRANCISCO DIVISION.
Ernest Schaeffle, Executive Officer.
Carl Westerfeld, Commissioner in Charge.
Head Office, 734 Mills Building, San Francisco.
W. H. Armstrong Vallejo
Earl P. Barnes Eureka
Theo. M. Benson Fortuna
BJ. C. Boucher San Francisco
Edward Boyle San Francisco
J. L. Bundock Oakland
John Burke Colma
M. S. Clark San Francisco
Martin Cleary San Francisco
T. T. Dixon Monterey
Earl Downing Pleasanton
A. M. Fairfield San Francisco
J. W. Gallaway San Francisco
R. B. Heacock Seabright
J. H. Hellard Alder Point
J. H. HiU -Watsonville
H. H. Hunt San Francisco
D. H. Hoen San Rafael
I. L. Koppel San Jo«e
A. F. Lea Cloverdale
Henry Lencioni Santa Rosa
T. F. Maloney Redwood City
B. H. Miller Uklah
W. J. Moore Napa
P. H. Oyer Paclflo Grove
Chas. R. Perkins Fort Bra^g
H. S. Prescott Crescent City
Frank Siiook Salinas
Paul Smith Guerneville
H. B. Foster—Launch "Quinnat," Vallejo
Chas. Bouton Launch "Quinnat," Vallejo
SACRAMENTO DIVISION.
F. M. Newbert, Commissioner In Charge.
Geo. Neale, Assistant. Chas. L. Gilmore, Engineer-Draughtsman.
Forum Building, Sacramento.
T. W. Birmingham Red Bluff
C. H. Blemer Sacramento
Frank F. Cady^ SusanvlUe
S. J. Carpenter Maxwell
Geo. Courtrlght Canby
W. J. Green Sacramento
Euell Gray Shingle
J. W. Harris Greenvlew
Q. O. Laws Weaverville
Geo. J. Merritt (on furlough) Manteca
R. C. O'Connor Grass Valley
Frank S. Parke Sutter Creek
E. D. Rlcketts Live Oak
D. B. Roberts Murphys
Chester A. Scroggs Loomls
R. L. Slnkey Woodland
Richard Squire Lodl
L. A. Streuber Gazelle
Jas. S. White Redding
L. J. Warren TaylorsvlUe
FRESNO DIVISION.
Carl Westerfeld, Commissioner in Charge. A. D. Fergruson, Assistant.
Rowell Building, Fresno.
A. H. Brown Fresno
O. P. Brownlow Porterville
F. A. Bullard , Dunlap
S. L. N. Ellis Fresno
Geo. P. Grant Columbia
Earl Kimball Gustine
R. S. Kimball Columbia
Tipton Mathews Wasco
J. Lilburn Fresno
J. E. Newsome Newman
E. W. Smalley Hanford
LOS ANGELES DIVISION.
M. J. Connell, Commissioner in Charge. H. I. Pritchard, Assistant.
Union League Building, Los Angeles.
H. J. Abels Santa Maria
C. S. Bauder San Luis Obispo
H. D. Becker Los Angeles
J. H. Gyger Elsinore
B. H. Ober Big Pine
W. K. Robinson El Toro
A. J. Stout Los Angeles
Webb Toms San Diego
1915 CAI "FORMA flSH AND GAME LAWS 1917
,^|ui.|Fu|iui|uiii|iur
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-i—
u
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4
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L _
i 11 •ii-
m ■ ' ■
RABBITS, (OOTTONTAaurfMtUSH)
AI
: \\.\
E
1
ISt^itT- JOcaanO.
TREE SQUIRRELS .-
-■BOHiBH
1
I
k
llpoaLuoo.
EU, Antelope, Mountala Sheep
AS
1 in
- -■■=4=^—
1 _ J. _
L-:-
[A'li.
KILUNC OP ELK A nLONY.
SEA OTTER -
All
' r
itMoraa.
Docks, Qeese, Brant, Undhens
All
■ 'r-7
E
D«fa tc4 C<at 2S <>a iliTi 90 ea •nk. Hookas
uxl Bli^k i. B.»ol li pa 1.71 » pa wtA.
ynjON SN1P& BLACX BKIASTID PLOVBl
YJOXOW LEGS, GOLDEN PtOVIK.
AS
■
E
IS pa d^r- V) pa vak.
RaU, Wood Duck, WUd Pigeon
All
VALLEY and DESERT QUAIL
All
E
M
Upa<.T. Wpanck.
mountain Quail or Oroose -..
U4
+
lOMosiubQiuIpaliri >Opa««k.
<CKxaipa^ri<>a««L
E
SAGE HEN
All
: ■ :
f
4 pa d«r- 4 pa vak.
DOVE ^-^--
Al
ISpaa.,,
TROUT ,_.^.. .
>.-■'.
1 » Tibop Tioul In a» lUr l> tUi a DkWd Om
VTHTTKFISH .« .
HiB 1
1 - I ■*( )\ -
■:
TROTrr<"Si«!*
•m
-J Bl:-v
> IHI
^hI :^ > 10 (ioaodi or <»«r pa d«r<
~s
,.-jy :;u:
• ii''.'
GOLDEN TROUT
AS
-1 i.J-i'v.
1"
1
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20 pa (fjiTt 5 tack mtainwin Uatlk.
TtT-ACTT BA^S
'""'" HIHflHiHI
M
.,;:,..J
J
■
SaCTamento Perdi, Sunfish, Crappit.
All
H
2Spail<r. NoS«k.
SALMON
^1
No doail luaoa b book, liaa <■ «•». 1 pa 44r
Sept. IS u Nov. IV
Hook uJ iioo oolT lo DMrkl IS.
■ B
■'--:.
STRIPED BASS „ ...-
All
S|o4irai<o3poai4sinrllK. Rol noit Iku S pa 4>«
S<pl. 2Slolln. 14. Ho uk m lUmcat 040 3 M.
CATFISH, SHAD
All
■■■
No cload auofl a uu limft «rflk kook tod luM Go
■potl.
CRABS -..-... ..._..
All
a
To Ix ukci wtlh boop a aftb 0.1 oolr* No Fcaukb
NaM lot Ihao 7 dicha.
SPINY LOBSTER icrawtoh) .._ .
All
■ '
, -E
TobcUkaaMitt.wlUlttApiooIr. NoockstkAa
9 bxka oa oioa Ihut [3H iadta ki lcn«tk.
Red -
All
Z^
■" I
. JliMt oMAMMi VlA 19 kiduu Ctao, 18 tackoi PlaX
4>lT linll ol l(^ kol oo Bbck. Foo bod oolr. =
Nodn^l. (Voipu.!
^^^•'^'^GreeiLPink.BtuL
■ '
All shooting forbidden in districts. 24, 25, 26, 27. 29
ANGLERS' LICENSES
JANUARY 1st TO DECEMBER 31st
Obtain of County Clerks or Fish and Game
Commission or Deputies
$1.00 per year CITIZENS, rcskleiiu »1 Ciiifortia, over 18 yNrs $1.00 per year
10.00 per year CITIZENS, non-resiiieat of Ciiiforiii, over 18 rears 3.00 per year
25.00 per year ALIENS, over 18 ytars 3.00 per year
For market fishing laws see special market fishing cards or booklets of laws In fulL
* All other waterfowl and shore birds are protected.
Waterfowl only may be shot in District 28.
HUNTERS' LICENSES
JULY 1st TO JUNE 30th
Obtain of County Clerks or Fish and Game
Commission or Deputies
CITIZENS, resident of California
CITIZENS, non-resident of California
ALIENS,
CALIFORNIA
FISH- GAME
CONSERVATION Of WILD LIFE THROUGH EDUCATION
-fl
SHAD NUMBER
BOARD OF FISH AND GAME COMMISSIONERS.
Commissioners appointed by the Governor, by and with the consent of the Senate.
Term at pleasure of Governor. No compensation.
F. M. NEWBERT, President Sacramento
M. J. CONNELL, Commissioner Los Angeles
CARL WESTERFELD, Commissioner San Francisco
ERNEST SCHAEFFLE, Executive Officer San Francisco
J S. HUNTER, Assistant Executive Officer San Francisco
J. P. FISHER, License and Property Agent San Francisco
R D. DUKE, Attorney San Francisco
A. D. FERGUSON, Field Agent Fresno
E. C. BOUCHER, Special Agent San Francisco
HATCHERY DEPARTMENT.
W. H. SHEBLEY, In Charge Fish Culture San Francisco
E. W. HUNT, Field Agent, Dept. Fish Culture Tahoe
G. H. LAMBSON, Superintendent, Sisson Hatchery Sisson
F. A. SHEBLEY, Superintendent, Ukiah and Snow Mountain Hatcheries Ukiah
W. O. FASSETT, Superintendent, Fort Seward Hatchery Fort Seward
STATE GAME FARM.
W. N. DIRKS, Superintendent, State Game Farm Hayward
SPECIAL ASSISTANTS.
DR. H. C. BRYANT, Bureau of Education, Publicity and Research Berkeley
N. B. SCOFIELD, Department of Commercial Fisheries . San Francisco
PATROL SERVICE.
SAN FRANCISCO DIVISION.
Ernest Schaeffle, Executive Officer. Carl Westerfeld, Commissioner in Charge.
Head Office, New Call Bwilding, San Francisco.
W. H. Armstrong Vallejo
Earl P. Barnes Eureka
Theo. M. Benson Fortuna
Edward Boyle San Francisco
O. P. Brownlow Porterville
F. A. Bullard Dunlap
J. L. Bundock Oakland
J. Burke Colma
M. S. Clark San Francisco
Martin Cleary San Francisco
Earle Downing Pleasanton
S. L. N. Ellis Fresno
A. M. Fairfield San Francisco
J. W. Gallaway San Francisco
Geo. F. Grant Columbia
R. B. Heacock San Francisco
J. H. Hellard Alder Point
J. H. Hill Watsonville
D. H. Hoen San Rafael
H. H. Hunt San Francisco
R. S. Kimball Merced
I. L. Koppel San Jose
A. F. Lea Cloverdale
Henry Lencioni Santa Rosa
T. P. Maloney Santa Cruz
B. H. Miller Ukiah
W. J. Moore Napa
J. E. Newsome Newman
P. H. Oyer Pacific Grove
Claas. R. Perkins Fort Bragg
H. S. Prescott Crescent' City
Frank Shook 1 Salinas City
E. W. Smalley Hanford
Paul Smitli Guerneville
H. E. Foster Launch "Quinnat," "Vallejo
Chas. Bouton__Launch "Quinnat," Vallejo
SACRAMENTO DIVISION.
F. M. Newbert, Commissioner in Charge.
Geo. Neale, Assistant. Chas. L. Gilmore, Engineer-Draughtsman.
Forum Building, Sacramento.
T. W. Birmingham Red Bluff
C. H. Blemer Sacramento
Frank P. Cady Susanville
S. J. Carpenter Maxwell
Geo. W. Courtright Canby
Euell Gray Shingle
W. J. Green Sacramento
J. W. Harris Greenview
G. O. Laws Weaverville
Geo. J. Merritt (on furlough) Manteca
R. C. O'Connor Grass Valley
F. S. Parke : Sutter Creek
B. D. Ricketts Live Oak
D. E. Roberts Murphys
C. A. Scroggs Loomis
R. L. Sinkey Woodland
Richard Squire Lodi
L. A. Streuber Gazelle
Albert Tracy Launch "Audubon," Lodi
L. J. "Warren Taylorsville
J. S. "White Redding
LOS ANGELES DIVISION.
M. J. Connell, Commissioner in Charge. H. I. Pritchard, Assistant.
Union League Building, Los Angeles.
H. J. Abels Santa Maria
J. J. Barnett Ventura
C. S. Bauder San Luis Obispo
H. D. Becker Los Angeles
J. H. Gyger Elsinore
W. C. Malone San Bernardino
Tipton Mathews (on furlough) "Wasco
B. H. Ober Big Pine
"W. K. Robinson (on furlough) El Toro
A. J. Stout Bakersfield
"Webb Toms San Diego
Atmda/yi/»»
S I 4 H f Y O U
f^ Q & Q C
C^f^nl r tine
ANGLERS* LICENSES
JANUARY 1st TO DECEMBER 31st
Obtain of County Clerks or Fish and Game
Commission or Deputies
CITIZENS, residents of California, over 18 years $1.00 per year
CITIZENS, non-resident of California, over 18 years 3.00 per year
ALIENS, over 1 8 years 3.00 per year
ABSTRACT Of FISH LAWS ( Sporting)
TROUT
WHITEFISH
23
June 1 to Oct. 31
20 Tahoe trout in one day In this or Dlst. 1;
other varieties limit as In other districts.
No limit on whitellsh.
land 4
May Ito Nov. 30
50 llsh or 10 pounds and one flsh. or 1 fish of 10
pounds or over per day.
In Dlst. 2, from Dec. 15 to Feb. 14, 2 Bsh per
day.
TROUT (other than Golden)
2
MayltoNof. 30
Dec. 10 to Feb. 14
S
May 1 to Oct. 31
GOLDEN TROUT
AU
July 81 to Oct. 1
20 per day, 5 hiches minimum length.
BUCK BASS
1.2,12
May 1 to Nov. 30
25 per day. 7 Inches minimum length. No sale
3.4
Mar. 2 to No». 30
SACRAMENTO PERCH. SUNFISH
CRAPPIE
All
May 1 to No». SO
25 per day. No sale.
SALMON
AU ex-
cept 15
No closed season for hook
and line or spear
3 per day from Sept 25 to Nov. 14. Hook and
line only in Dlst. 15.
15
Apr. 15 to Aug. 31
STRIPED BASS
AU
f(o closed season
5 per day under 3 pounds any time; not moc«
than 5 per day from .Sept. 25 to Nov. 14. No
sale or shipment under 3 pounds.
CATFISH, SHAD
AU
No closed season
No size limit for hook and line.
CRABS
AU
Nov. IS to July 30
No females, and none less than 7 Inches.
SPINY LOBSTER (Crawfish)
AU
Oct. 15 to Feb. last
To he taken with crawfish traps only. None less
than 9 nor mure than \?.\ Inches in lengUi.
Rrd
ABALONE
AU
March Ito Jan. 31
Size limit: Rrd. 19 Inches: Green. 18 Incho,
Pink, 16 Inrhes: Black. 14 Inches. Dist. 19
and 20, daily limit of 10, hut no black. No
do'ine and no spears. For food only.
Green, Pink, Black
AU
May 1 to Jan. 31
CAUFGRNIA
nSH-GAME
CONSERVATION OF WILD LIFE THROUGH EDUCATION
-fl
DEER. NUMBER
BOARD OF FISH AND GAME COMMISSIONERS.
Commissioners appointed by the Governor, by and with the consent of the Senate.
Term at pleasure of Governor. No compensation,
F. M. NEWBERT, President Sacramento
M. J. CONNELL, Commissioner Los Angelea
CARL WESTERFELD, Commissioner San Francisco
ERNEST SCHAEFFLE. Executive OflScer San Francisco
J S. HUNTER, Assistant Executive Officer San Francisco
J. P. FISHER, License and Property Agent San Francisco
R, D. DUKE, Attorney '_ San Francisco
A. D. FERGUSON, Field Agent Fresno
E. C. BOUCHER, Special Agent San Francisco
DEPARTMENT OF FISH CULTURE.
W. H. SHEBLEY, In Charge Fish Culture San Francisco
E. W. HUNT, Field Agent, Dept Fish Culture Tahoe
G. H. LAMBSON, Superintendent, Sisson Hatchery Sisson
F. A. SHEBLEY, Superintendent, Ukiah and Snow Mountain Hatcheries Ukiah
W. O. FASSETT, Superintendent, Fort Seward Hatchery Fort Seward
STATE GAME FARM.
W. N. DIRKS, Superintendent, State Game Farm Hayward
SPECIAL ASSISTANTS.
DR. H. C. BRYANT, Bureau of Education, Publicity and R«search Berkeley
N. B. SCOFIELD, Department of Commercial Fisheries San Francisco
PATROL SERVICE.
SAN FRANCISCO DIVISION.
Carl Westerfeld, Commissioner In Charge. Ernest Schaeffle, Executive Officer.
Head Office, New Call Building, San Francisco.
Phone Sutter 6100.
W. H. Armstrong Vallejo
Earl P. Barnes Eurelca
Theo. M. Benson —Fortuna
Edward Boyle San Francisco
O. P. Brownlow Portervllle
F. A. BuUard Dunlap
J. L. Bundock Oakland
J. Burke Colma
M. S. Clark San Francisco
Earle Downing Pleasanton
S. Lr. N. Ellis Fresno
A. M. Fairfield San Francisco
J. W, Gallaway San Francisco
Geo. F. Grant Columbia
J. H. Hellard A.lder Point
J. H. Hill Watsonville
D. H. Hoen j. San Rafael
H. H. Hunt San Francisco
R. S. Kimball Merced
I. L>. Koppel San Jose
A. F. Lea Cloverdale
Henry Lencloni . Santa Rosa
T. F. Maloney Santa Cruz
B. H. Miller Ukiah
W. J. Moore Napa
J. B. Newsome Newman
P. H. Oyer : Pacific Grove
Chas. R. Perkins Fort Bragg
H. S. Prescott Crescent City
Frank Shook Salinas City
E. W. Smalley Hanford
Paul Smith Guerneville
H. E. Foster Launch "Quinnat," Vallejo
Chas. Bouton — Launch "Quinnat," Vallejo
SACRAMENTO DIVISION.
F. M. Newbert, Commissioner in Charge.
Geo. Neale, Assistant. Chas. L. Gilmore, Engineer-Draughtsman.
Forum Building, Sacramento.
Phone Main 4300.
T. W. Birmingham Red Bluff
C. H. Blemer Sacramento
Frank P. Cady Susanville
S. J. Carpenter Maxwell
Geo. W. Courtright Canby
Euell Gray- Placerville
W. J. Green Sacramento
J. W. Harris Greenview
R. B. Heacock Sacramento
G. O. Laws Weaverville
R. C. O'Connor Grass Valley
F. S. Parke Sutter Creek
E. D. Ricketts Live Oak
D. B. Roberts Murphys
J. Saunders Truckee
C. A. Scroggs Loomis
R. L. Sinkey Woodland
Richard Squire Lodi
L. A. Streuber Gazelle
Albert Tracy_Launch "Audubon,"_Stockton
L. J. "Warren Taylorsville
J. S. White Redding
LOS ANGELES DIVISION.
M. J. Connell, Commissioner in Charge. H. L Pritchard, Assistant.
Union League Building, Los Angeles.
Phones*: Broadway 1155 ; Home, F 5705.
H J. Abels Santa Maria
J. J. Barnett Ventura
C. S. Bauder San Luis Obispo
H. D. Becker Los Angeles
J. H. Gyger Elsinore
W. C. Malone San Bernardino
Tipton Mathews (on furlough) Wasco
E. H. Ober Big Pine
W. K. Robinson (on furlough) El Tore
A. J. Stoutl Bakersfield
Webb Toms San Diego
tmmJt
n^MtiP).
C*«irtfr tin*
HUNTERS' LICENSES
JULY 1st TO JUNE 30th
Obtain of County Clerks or Fish and Game
Commission or Deputies
CITIZENS, resident of California $1.00 per year
CITIZENS, non-resident of California 10.00 per year
25.00 per year
Cm^ttyO"
OvTune /(/>'
d-'M'-"
ABSTRACT OF GAME LAWS (Sportins)
VtrlatJ
Dlft.
Op«D 8«uoo
(both <Ut« Included)
Bw Umttt. etc
LJS
Aug. 15 to Get. 14
No does, fawns or spike btida; ao sale of meat
Two buds per season.
DEER
2.S
Aug. 1 to Sept. 14
4
Sept. 1 to 8*pL 30
RABBITS (C«tt«iUJI and Brush)
All
Oct. 15 to Dec 31
16 per day, .30 per wett
TREE SQUIRRELS
An
Sept. 1 to Dec 31
12 per season.
ELK, ANTELOPE. MOUNTAIN SHEEP
An
No open aeason
KUllnc or elk a felonr.
SEA OTTER
AO
No opeo seuco
Penaltr. $1000.00 Bne.
DUCKS, GEESE, BRANT, MUOHENS
AU
Gel. 15 to Jtn. 31
Docks and (e«se, 25 per day, 50 per week:
bonkers and sea brant 12 per day, 24 per
week.
WILSON SNIPE, BLACK BREASTED
PLOVER, YELLOW LEGS, GOLDEN
PLOVER
AU
Oct. IS to Jul 31
15 per day, 30 per wee*.
RAIL. WOOD DUCK, WILD PIGEON
AU
No opeli Mason
VALLEY AND DESERT QUAIL
An
Oct 15 to Dec. 31
15 per day, 30 per week.
MOUNTAIN QUAIL AND GROUSE
1.23
Sept. 1 to Not. 30
10 mountain quaU per day, 20 per week: 4
grouse per day. 8 per week
2.S. 4
Oct IB to Dm. SI
SAGE HEN
AU
Sept 1 to Not. 30
4 per day, 8 per week.
DOVE
An
Bcpt 1 to No*. SO
16 per day.
OMJFQRNIA
FISH- GAME
C0NSERV9a"I0N OF WILD LIFE THROUGH EDUCATION
'ft
1 Volnme 2
San Francisco, October, 1916
Number 4 ■
^H
y j; J
1
lwM»
1
J
■^^Hllfewll AlilH
^HH^/^Hb ' *'''y ^B
^1 ■T^^*~^""*^^^^J . ,
^1 '"'^^Bi^B^BBI^^^^* ^^^^^
WB^^jm ■J"'' ■* H
^^^^^
1 a .^SitmUMaf^ ' \l
»"^l
BOARD OF FISH AND GAME COMMISSIONERS.
Commissioners appointed by the Governor, by and with the consent of the Senate.
Term at pleasure of Governor. No compensation.
F. M. NEWBERT, President Sacramento
M. J. CONNELL, Commissioner Los Angeles
CARL WESTERFELD, Commissioner San Francisco
ERNEST SCHAEFFLE, Executive Officer San Francisco
J. S. HUNTER, Assistant Executive Officer San Francisco
R. D. DUKE, Attorney San Francisco
J. P. FISHER, License and Property Agent San Francisco
A. D. FERGUSON, Field Agent Fresno
DEPARTMENT OF FISH CULTURE.
W. H. SHEBLEY, In Charge Fish Culture San Francisco
E. W. HUNT, Field Agent, Dept. Fish Culture Tahoe
G. H. LAMBSON, Superintendent, Sisson Hatchery Sisson
F. A. SHEBLEY, Superintendent, Ukiah and Snow Mountain Hatcheries Ukiah
W. O. FASSETT, Superintendent, Fort Seward Hatchery Fort Seward
* * • *
SCREEN, LADDER AND WATER POLLUTION DEPARTMENT.
W. H. Shebley, in Charge.
A. E. DONEY, Fish Ladders San Francisco
A. E. CULVER, Fish Screens San Francisco
A. M. FAIRFIELD, Water Pollution San Francisco
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCIAL FISHERIES
N. B. SCOFIELD, In Charge San Francisco
H. B. NIDEVER, Assistant San Francisco
STATE GAME FARM.
W. N. DIRKS, Superintendent, State Game Farm Hayward
BUREAU OF EDUCATION. PUBLICITY AND RESEARCH.
DR. H. C. BRYANT, In Charge Berkeley
PATROL SERVICE.
SAN FRANCISCO DIVISION.
Carl Westerfeld, Commissioner in Charge. Ernest Schaeffle, Executive Officer.
J. S. Hunter, Assistant Executive Officer. E. C. Boucher, Special Agent.
Head Office, New Call Building, San Francisco.
Phone Sutter 6100.
W. H. Armstrong Vallejo
Earl P. Barnes Eureka
Theo. M. Benson Fortuna
Edward Boyle San Francisco
O. P. Brownlow Porterville
F. A. Bullard Dunlap
J. L. Bundock Oakland
J. Burke Colma
M. S. Clark San Francisco
Earle Downing Pleasanton
S. L. N. Ellis Fresno
J. W. Gallaway San Francisco
Geo. F. Grant Columbia
J. H. Hellard Laytonville
J. H. Hill Watsonville
D. H. Hoen San Rafael
H. H. Hunt San Francisco
R. S. Kimball Merced
I. L. Koppel San Jose
A. F. Lea Cloverdale
Henry Lencioni Santa Rosa
T. F. Maloney Santa Cruz
Tipton Mathews Coalinga
B. H. Miller Ukiah
W. J. Moore Napa
J. E. Newsome Newman
P. H. Oyer Pacific Grove
Chas. R. Perkins Fort Bragg
H. S. Prescott Crescent City
Frank Shook Salinas City
E. W. Smalley Hanford
Paul Smith Guerneville
H. E. Foster Launch "Quinnat," Vallejo
Chas. Bouton Launch "Quinnat," Vallejo
SACRAMENTO DIVISION.
F. M. Newbert, Commissioner in Charge.
Geo. Neale, Assistant.
Forum Building, Sacramento.
Phone Main 4300.
T. W. Birmingham Red Bluff
C. H. Blemer Sacramento
Prank P. Cady Susanville
S. J. Carpenter Maxwell
Geo. W. Courtright Canby
Euell Gray Placerville
W. J. Green Sacramento
J. W. Harris Greenview
R. B. Heacock- Sacramento
G. O. Laws Weaverville
R. C. O'Connor Grass Valley
F. S. Parke Sutter Creek
E. D. Ricketts Live Oak
D. E. Roberts Murphya
J. Sanders Truckee
C. A. Scroggs Loomis
R. L. Sinkey Woodland
Richard Squire Lodi
L. A. Streuber Dana
L. J. "Warren Taylorsvllle
J. S. White Castella
LOS ANGELES DIVISION.
M. J. Connell, Commissioner in Charge.
H. L Pritchard, Assistant. Edwin L. Hedderly, Assistant.
Union League Building, Los Angeles.
Phones: Broadway 1155; Home, P 5705.
H. J. Abels Santa Maria
J. J. Barnett Ventura
C. S. Bander San Luis Obispo
H. D. Becker — Los Angeles
J. H. Gyger :_— Elsinore
W. C. Malone San Bernardino
A. T. Norton San Diego
E. H. Ober Big Pine
W. K. Robinson (on furlough) El Tore
A. J. Stout Bakersfleld
Webb Toms San Diego
HUNTERS' LICENSES
JULY 1st TO JUNE 30th
Obtain of County Clerks or Fish and Game
Commission or Deputies
CITIZENS, resident of California $1.00 per year
CITIZENS, non-resident of Caiifornia 10.00 per )m
ALIENS. 25.00 per yw
Ouruitr ff/if
fti»s^G/tM€ 0/sr/r/crs
ABSTRACT OF GAME LAWS (Sportine)
T>rta(r
DlsL
Open Sauon
(twth (Utea Indudad)
Btt Umllii etc
Las
Auc 15 to Oct 14
No does, fawiu or (pike bucka: no sale of oeat
Two bucb per seaaoo.
D€£R
3,3
Alts. 1 to Sept. 14
4
8<pt 1 1« 8epL 3»
RABBI1S (Cottontail and Bnith)
AU
Oct IS to D«. 31
15 per dar. 30 per reek.
TREE SQUIRRELS
An
8cpt 1 U> Dec 31
12 per season.
ELK. ANTELOPE, MOUItTAIN SHEEP
AH
No open settoe
KUUnc or elk a felon/.
SEA OTTER
An
N« ooea Muoo
Penalty, $1000.00 One.
BUCKS, GEESE, BRANT, MUDHENS
AU
Oct 15 U Jul. 31
Ducki and geese. 25 per day. 50 per «e<k:
bonkers and sea brant 12 p« da/, 24 per
week.
WILSON SNIPE, BLACK BREASTED
PLOVER. YELLOW LEGS, GOLDEN
PLOVER
AU
Oct 15 to JvL 31
IS per day, 30 per week.
RAIL. WOOD DOCK. WH.0 PIGEON
AU
No 0»<k MIMD
VAUEY AND DESERT QVAIL
AO
Oct. 15 to Dee. 31
15 per dar, SO per week.
MOUNTAIN QUAIL AND GROUSE
1,13
Sept 1 to Not. so
10 mountain quail per dar, 20 per wack: 4
grouse per dar, 8 per week.
3.3.4
Oct IS to Dec 31
SAGE HEN
AU
Sept 1 to Nof. 30
4 per dar. 8 per week.
DOVE
AU
Sept 1 to No? . 30
15 per dar.
Date Due
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