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First Report

Of

(same and Fish Warden

For

New Mexico

1909-1910-1911

n. AF i
SFr O'7 1919

Dat] hy.

ba

So BACT Hh. OT? NEW 2 Me EO O:
Depariment of Game and Fish.

Santa Fe, New Mexico, December 31, 1°11.
To Honorable William C. McDonald, Governor, and the First State Legislature
of New Mexico: Faris 7 —~
I beg leave to submit herewith, my report, covering the period of two years
and nine months, beginning April Ist, 1909, to, and including December 31, 1911.
. Respectfully,
THOMAS P. GABLE.
Game and Fish Warden.

HONORABLE WILLIAM C. McDONALD,
First Governor of the State of New Mexico.

EMER ODe eTLON,

1 herewith transmit the first printed report made by the Game and Fish
Warden’s Department since the enactment of the game laws of 1903.

I have endeavored to treat concisely of the various subjects pertaining to game
and fish, submitting also, my financial statement of the receipts and disbursements
of this office, during the period of my incumbency.

This report will show that hereafter no appropriation will be needed from the
legislature for the maintenance of this department, unless the legislature should
enact laws authorizing the establishment of fish hatcheries and game preserves.

The printing of this report is authorized by Section 38, Session Laws of 1909.

Yours for the protection of our game, fish and song birds,

THOMAS P. GABLE,
Game and Fish Warden.

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN.

New Mexico has no more valuable asset among all her endless treasures
than her incomparable game and fish preserves, which are unrivaled by any
other commonwealth in any nation of the world. Within her confines are more
than eleven million acres in the forest reserves and approximately thirty-one
inillion acres of unoccupied government lands.

There is not a man living, who is tossed about, month after month, in the
bustle and bang of business life, who does not need a vacation. He needs it
for his mental; moral and physical development. He needs the woods, the music
of the streams, the rock-ribbed mountains, the warbling birds, and the chance to
drive out the fetid air of the stuffy office and dusty street, and to fill his :ungs
with the pure, undefiled, vigorous ozone, found only in the mountains, the
forest and open field. It is Nature’s tonic, and she presents it freely, abundently,
to anyone who will accept the offering.

That man is a misanthrope, a misfit, a misfortune, who does not enjoy with
genuine zest, the free, boundless outdoor life. There is something awry in the
construction of the man to whom there does not sometimes come a longing for
the camp fire by the rippling brook, within the shaded wood, with a frying pan
over the glowing coals, from which steals out on the soft summer air, that
alluring odor of speckled trout, fresh from the stream, growing both crisp
and tender as they splutter in the bacon grease until they reach just the
perfect turn. Thus, whether one finds the greatest delight in playing the gamey
trout or in the quick beating of the pulse as the huntsman strikes the fresh track
of deer, wild turkey or even some predatory animal, or as the whirr of quail or
erouse sets his nerves a-tingling, it is the glorious outdoor life that lures the man
in whose veins runs the red blood of health and vigor, and who possesses the spirit
to appreciate the beautiful, the inspiring attributes which can only be found in a
life in the broad and health giving open.

It is not exaggeration to say that here in New Mexico, are found attractions
to the sportsman, the tourist, the healthseeker, the lover of the picturesque, the
sublime, the uplifting, that are unsurpassed in all the world. Nowhere are more
rugged mountains, lifting their snow-capped peaks up into the very clouds,
mountains where big game abound in their natural surroundings, where they wan-
der at will, through the vast tracts of unbroken forest, living the life that is theirs
by nature, and undisturbed only when the huntsman enters that land of heart’s
desire, to find his wildest dreams fulfilled and his most ardent hopes gratified. No
one who hag not seen it, can fully appreciate the beauty, the grandeur, the marvelous
attractiveness of this particular spot in Uncle Sam’s big domain. Here Nature
has fairly outdone herself; here she touched the landscape with her most brilliant

‘SLOdS ALOVHd AHL AO &NO

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO. 11

colorings; here she inarked the channels for the most perfect, the purest, clearest
mountain streams; here she builded her noblest mountains and clothed them with
a varied and beautiful verdure; here she spread broad, fertile, productive valleys,
freshened by rippling waters, and stocked them with game birds, at once the most
beautiful, the most attractive, the most sought by the true sportsman and the ex-
perienced epicure. It is a veritable paradise for the huntsman and for all those
who truly love the hest life of all——the life out of doors, with its pure air, its
woodsy odors, its breadth, its beauty and its power to bestow health.

To our neighbors in other states, New Mexico extends a cordial invitation to
come among us and enjoy with us the bounties which Nature has poured out here
with such splendid abundance.

It is only within very recent years that the position of game and fish warden
has been regarded as of great importance to the well conducted and progressive
state government.

For generations the wild game of America was considered, without other
thought, as the natural prey of him who wished to destroy it, and as the rightful
booty of any who might discover the prize. It was this thoughtless consideration
of this valuable and charming adjunct to the physical attractiveness of outdoor
American life, that led to the absolute effacement of the buffalo, and the almost
total depletion of wild game in our eastern states, and it was only when the birds
had disappeared from the meadows and woodlands, the game from the mountains
and the fish from the streams, that the people themselves awakened to the damage
they had sustained and sought some method of restitution and a rehabilitation of
that which they recognized as a distinct loss.

Then, when the preservation of game and fish became a subject of statutory
enactment and a department was provided in many states for their protection, the
opinion prevailed that this was but a play in the interests of the rich and that
the poor were being discriminated against. The results have clearly proven that
the opposite is true. The man of wealth, if he be a sportsman, can hunt where
it pleases him. Ji game and fish are rare in his neighborhood, it is only at the
expenditure of a little time and a small amount of money, that he is enabled to
reach those points where the game which he might be seeking could be found in
abundance; but to the average citizen this door was closed. He must find this
recreation and enjoyment in his own iocality or miss it altogether. The protection
now given by statute to game and fish in nearly all our states, gives to the sportsman
in every station of life, a full opportunity for the indulgence of his desires. The
value of game protection has become generally acknowledged and the advantage
accruing to all our people 1s a conceded fact. It has become a settled principle of
law, sustained by the courts, that our wild game belongs to all the people, and not
to a favored few.

Just what method of regulation is most desirable and effective has opene:
an experimental line of action, but it has now become almost universally conceded
that the ligense system is the most satisfactory and the most equitable for securing
funds for the maintenance’and accomplishment of game protection and the enforec-

12 REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO.

ment of the law. It is, as well, the only system that enables the sportsman of
moderate means to share the field sports with his more fortunate neighbor.

With the revenues derived from this source the burden of expense for game
protection rests upon those receiving the benefit,—the persons who hunt and fish.

In 1909, the legislature of New Mexico wisely enacted a license law for resi-
dent and non-resident hunters and for non-resident fishermen. The three years
during which this law has been in force has thoroughly and conclusively proven
the wisdom of it, an-l it is now accepted by the people generally, as the most satis-
factory method of regulation. The hearty and generous support given by the press
of New Mexico in publishing favorable comments regarding this system has been
of very great assistance and has been highly appreciated by this department.

The system of non-resident licenses practically began in the United States in
1895, since which time nearly all the states have adopted the plan; the fees for
licenses varying in different states and ranging from $1.00 to $5.00 for residents
and $15.00 to $100.00 for non-residents and aliens. The fee of $1.00 for bird and
$1.00 for big game for residents, and $25.00 for non-residents and aliens, as
charged by New Mexico, is recognized as being fair and reasonable, and is now
fully accepted and highly regarded by the people of the state.

I am pleased to report that the revenue now derived from licenses issued by
this office renders it self sustaining and no further appropriation will be
neeced from the legislature for the game and fish department, provided that body
does not establish a fish hatchery in the state, which would, of course, call for an
amount that could not be provided from the regular revenues that come naturally
to this department. That the office of game and fish warden has become entirely
seli-sustaining is a fact that must appeal to the tax payers of the state, and it
is naturally a matter of pride that this condition has been brought about under
the administration of the present head of this now important department. In
this connection it is a matter of interest to compare the amounts appropriated
and expended by other states as shown by the following table taken from the official
reports for the year 1910:

DU iirois ao. ens nek: ieee ae $y 604-780) Ul Gabi ges nes kee feta ores stent & $35,850.00
WilsGoneimre sy somen 1 te e mekraanrele ATs O52 Oke LO Wiel whee nel ee secens terke Bee elncass 31,846.00
Colorado tds cams ae ae oe RAPA OOOO Montel: pees a oes tetree keane 27,000.00
Tracitariias vecacar teats: Oo tebe eae SAO 704 Os alo uisiana, “cee es eee 71,871.18
MimneS ota.» -: yeas re ee bdet64:49) Calitorniaw a eee ee ee 77,012.00
INiewirelersey 5. fev. perenne LOST 7307: MISsOums (ite sy neces eee 56,192.24
Michie — 2s... oh ae eee 27,738.24

From this statement it must be readily admitted that New Mexico stands well
to the front of other states in the economical administration of her ¢ game and fish
laws, and I feel she is entitled to the congratulations of all who are interested
im the successful operation of this important branch of state service, as the
annual appropriation for salaries in this office is but $2,300, all other expenses,
including the purchase of game and fish being met by monies received from

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO. 13

the game protection fund. A complete statement of all receipts and expenditures
may be found on another page of this report.

It is a significant fact that no state has ever repealed a license law when
once such a law has been placed upon the statute books. The value of the license
law is now universally conceded.

An article from “Forest and Stream,” date of July, 1906, throws light on
the system prevailing where the rights of the people are curtailed and the sports-
man’s pleasures are confined to comparatively few favored ones. A portion of
the article is as follows:

“The news dispatches tell us that Henry Phipps, of Pittsburg, has
rented the famous Glen Quoitch deer forest in Scotland. The estate com-
prises fifty thousand acres, or something more than seventy-eight square
miles. The papers put the “total expenses” at $500,000.00 a season; but
this is a patent exaggeration, although the finances of deer forests are ex-
pressed in large figures. At the time of a recent computation there were, in
Scotland, one hundred and ten deer forests, covering a total area of two
million acres, and bringing an annual rental, if let, of one million five hundred
thousand dollais.”

This all brings us naturally to the question of

GAME PRESERVES.

As game and fish warden, a study of game and fish protection, and experience
in building up this important industry, have led me to recommend to the bio-
logical survey the setting aside of a tract of land comprising seventeen townships
in the Pecos National Forest Reserve, which extends into the counties of Santa
Fe, San Miguel, Mora, Taos and Rio Arriba, which tract will be under the super-
vision of the United States government, as indicated by the following letter of
Dr. Palmer, assistant chief of the biological survey :

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE.
Bureau of Biological Survey
Washington, D. C.
“Mr. Thomas P. Gable,
“Territorial Game and Fish Warden,
“Santa Fe, New Mexico,
“Dear Sir:

“T am in receipt of your letter of September 7, and I beg to thank you
for the offer of the hearty support of your department in the establishment
uf a game reserve in the Pecos National Forest.

“It is very gratifying to know that you are so interested in the matter
of game preserves, and I am glad that Mr. Cooper was able to go over the
subject with you. His report has not as yet come to hand, but will be due
in“a few days. Judging from the correspondence which we have received,
there seems to be a good deal of local sentiment in favor of the establishment
of a reserve at this point and I hope the project may receive favorable con-
sideration from Congress.

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REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO. 15

“There are, doubtless, several localities in New Mexico which are ad-
mirably ‘adapted for game reserves. A reserve for antelope is greatly needed
in one of the southern counties; another for elk and deer might be located in
the southwestern part of the Territory. While it may not be possible to secure
more than one National Reserve at present, it may be feasible to have one

two State Reserves, modeled after those of Wyoming, Montana, or Cali-
fornia. I hope you will bear this matter in mind when your legislature
convenes.

“Assuring you of my deep interest in this question, I remain

| “Very truly yours,
“YT. S. PALMER,
“Acting Chief, Biological Survey”

The map annexed shows the area covered in this proposed reserve. The plan
is to place in this large reserve a number of deer, elk, antelope, mountain sheep,
turkey and grouse, and to permit them to increase here, taking them at proper
intervals from this reserve and transferring them to various points throughoui
the state. It is intended to protect this preserve by a prohibitive zone, three
miles in extent on each side, which will prevent the slaughter of the game en-
closed, by careless or reckless hunters, intentionally or otherwise. I consider th's
the best possible method of game propagation, as an adjunct to the natural increase
in different parts of the state.

Aside from the preservation of our game in this large national park, it will
serve as an interesting and attractive advertisement for New Mexico, partaking,
as it does, somewhat of the nature of the famous Yellowstone Park, and furnishing,
as well, a most delightful point for tourists to visit and enjoy. Within the en-
closure, trails will be Jaid out, lodges and other buildings erected, and through
it will be completed the “Scenic Highway,” now being constructed by the state,
which already touches the borders of this tract on the north and south. Perhaps
no method of advertisement is more effective or attracts more tourists than that
which offers an opportunity to see our wild game in natural haunts and at the
same time opens to view the beautiful, matchless scenery of the west, which is
no where more allttring or more satisfying than in the state of New Mexico, where
the tourist and sight-seer has, in the past, been all too casually invited.

In an endeavor to bring about the establishment of this extensive preserve
this department has had the earnest co-operation of T. S. Palmer of the biological
survey, A. C. Ringiand, district forester, and A. C. Cooper, U. S. game warden.
Mr. Cooper has spent several months investigating the game conditions in New
Mexico, and is enthusiastic over the state’s resources and oat oe
the project of establishing this government preserve, Mr. Cooper says:

“Such a preserve would prove of untold good to the sportsmen of this state
for it would serve the purpose of stocking the forests. Just as the water reservoirs
are a good hing to save water for drinking and irrigation purposes, so a game
preserve works to the advantage of the hunter, though he may not think so at
first. The plan is to fence in about seventeen townships. In this preserve will be

Regarding

‘SHAUNSAUd ANVD 'IVNOLLVN NI AVMHODIH OINAOS

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO. 17

kept big game, turkey and grouse. There will be plenty of quail and turkey
to get outside the preserve after the hatching season and these will furnish ma-
terial for the sportsman to shoot at.”

Thus, with the active co-operation of the United States government, this great
preserve cannot fail to become one of the most attractive features of the west
for both tourist and sportsman.

A NEW DEPARTURE.

The time is ripe, in my opinion, based on a close study of game and fish con-
ditions in this country, and a knowledge of the subject which can only be gained
by actual contact with these conditions, for a new departure in the matter of
caring for and distributing our game and fish. I am a firm believer in the
establishment of a private preserve for both fish and game, on a limited scale,
of course, where they can be bred, raised, and sold for market. This new de-
parture in the care and propagation of game and fish has been strongly urged
during the past few years by the United States department of agriculture, and
the suggestions have been adopted in some states, notably in Iowa, Illinois and
Colorado, where the plan has worked with a large measure of success. In Illinois,
Mr. Warren R. Leach has a large private preserve where elk, Virginia deer,
European red deer, Japanese Sika deer and a small flock of sheep, dwell together
in perfect harmony, free from the attacks of dogs, which occasionally dig in,
but are quickly disposed of by the elk, as these kingly, antlered animals will not
harbor the presence of a rank outsider.

The history of game preserves in the United States has been a series of ex-
periments. In some cases success has been achieved and in some failure has re-
suited. These experiments, however, have been salutary and have tended toward a
successful end. As the system becomes better understood and our population
increases, the private game preserve will be more importantly considered, not
only as a large factor in game preservation, but as a means of recreation and
diversion.

Preserves may be established with especially good iesults in sections where
game is not locally abundant. In some places, by sinking wells, making ponds,
constructing dikes, artificial marshes may be formed, which attract large numbers
of ducks and migratory birds, or small lakes may be formed for various kinds of
fish. Regulated properly, by state control, the private preserve is bound to become
a valuable adjunct to game and fish preservation and offers an additional method
of supply. This system of game and fish conservation invites no danger from over
production, no matter how many persons might establish a private preserve, as
the demand could never be fully met. The Americans are a game loving people,
delighting in an abundant amount for table use, and as the natural supply is being
rapidly exhausted, and as the time of procuring it under the law is limited, there
would never be a time, when the markets would be overstocked. In addition
to this, a new field of industry would be provided for a large number of our
citizens and the door would be opened to a vew element of producers in the world
of American business life.

‘HAYHSHUd ANVS "IVNOLLVN GHSOdOUd NI ‘HAMVWI LSOHYD ATIOH

REPOR't OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO. 19

Still another argument in favor of this plan lies in the fact that elk and
deer, especially the former, are fond of a class of vegetation that grows wild in
the mesa often preferring it to the fresh green feed or hay raised in cultivated
fielas, thus saving the expense that might otherwise lessen the profit in this province
of big game propagation.

The domestication of deer and elk offers an interesting field for experiment,
as well as remunerative returns for the investment of capital. Both these animals
can be raised successfully and cheaply under conditions prevalent here, and no
drawback presents itself that would prevent the raising of them as a source of
profit to both the individual and the state.

The same conditions prevail regarding fish as are found in respect to game.
The fish found in the wild and unbroken regions of New Mexico are the most
sought after and enjoyed. No fish excites the admiration and delight of the
American as does the speckled trout. He is generally recognized as the most
delicate and delicious member of the fish family and would always be in demand
on the market.

Safeguards against the destruction and sale of wild deer in place of domesti-
cated are not difficult to enforce. For this purpose a system of licensing private
parks, and of tagging deer or carcasses sold or shipped, so that they may be
easily traced and identified, is recommended. There is no doubt that, with favor-
able legislation, much otherwise waste land in New Mexico may be utilized for the
production of venison so as to yield profitable returns, and also that this excellent
and much esteemed meat, instead of being denied to 99% of the population of
the country, may become a familiar product in our markets and purchased at a
price not higher than the ordinary meats now offered for sale.

How inconsistent our own game laws must appear in authorizing the issuance
of a permit te deales for the sale of protected game and fish, and yet prohibiting
the keepers of hotels and restaurants from serving them on the table or naming
them on their menu.

The following states have modified their laws so as to provide, under regula-
tions, for the sale of deer from private preserves. Transportation and even ex-
port are included in some of them:

Arkansas.——Possession, sale, and shipment of deer or fawns is permitted
when they have been raised in captivity for domestic purposes and are accompanied
by an affidavit from the raiser.

Colorado.-Owners of private preserves under a license are permitted to
sell and ship deer or other quadrupeds that are accompanied by an invoice. A
fee is required for each animal sold.

Iilinois—Any person who raises deer for market may kill and sell them at
any time in the same manner as other domestic animals.

Indiana.—The provisions of the law as to possession and sale do not apply
to persons’ who have under ownership or control any deer raised in a deer park.

Massachusetts—The owner may sell his own tame deer kept on his own
grounds.

Minnesota.—VPersons who desire to domesticate deer, moose, elk, or caribou

‘VNWTIVOOVIW LY NHGYUVM 4O ADYVHO NI SNVIGNI

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO. 21

may secure a permit to do so from the state board of game and fish commissioners
by paying a fee of 50 cents for each animal in captivity and a like fee for each
animal added later by natural increase or otherwise. The animals kept in captivity
may be sold or shipped within or without the state, by permission of the commis-
sioners.

Missouri.—Deer or elk, alive or dead, may be shipped from any private pre-
serve and sold in the markets of the state when accompanied by a tag furnished
by the game warden of the county, showing whose property it is, and to whom
shipped.

New Hampshire —The Blue Mountain Forest Association may kill elk, deer,
or moose in their preserve for one month after the open season, and at any time
may transport them outside the state.

New York.—Deer may be sold during the open season; and moose, elk, cari-
bou, and antelope from private parks may be sold during the same period.
Common carriers may transport animals into the state for breeding purposes,
but may not transport venison unless it is accompanied by the owner.

North Carolina.—Seventeen covnties permit the owner and keeper of an
inclosed game reserve, who raises deer for use or sale, to kill, sell, or use those raised
or kept in said inclosure.

Pennsylvania.—Owners of game preserves who hold a game-propagating cer-
tificate may sell and transport deer or fawn alive for propagating purposes only,
after securing the written consent of the president of the board of game com-
missioners.

In three cr four other states game “under private ownership legally acquired,”
is supposed to be exempt from the general provisions of the game law; but in
a test case as to its sale or export it is doubtful whether the courts would so hold
without more specific provision legalizing such commerce.

VIOLATION OF GAME LAWS.

The strict enforcement of the game laws is not effected without some diffi-
culty and requires constant vigilance and activity on the part of the game warden
and his deputies. For generations the Indian has ranged over the broad tracts of
this great western section of our country and hunted at will. It is no small task
to teach them the law and demonstrate the benefit which comes to them, as
well as to others, through its enforcement.

Up to two years ago nothing had ever been accomplished in the way of putting
a stop to the reckless, wholesale slaughter of deer and all big game by the reser-
vation and Pueblo Indians. They simply killed at will, in accordance with their
long established and unmolested custom. Upon assuming the office of game and
fish warden, in order to acquaint the people with the law relative to game and
fish, and deeming this the most efficient method of securing compliance with the
statute, I had printed several thousand copies of the law, in English and Spanish;
also a synopsis on cards and cloth posters, sending them to all the county clerks,
deputy game wardens, forest supervisors and guards, teachers at the various Indian
pueblos and reservations, as well as to individuals and newspapers of the territory

‘UM LNOH NVIGNI NV

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO. 93

for their information and distribution. The Indians had copies widely distributed
among them with attention called to the license and limit proviso and they
seemed to understand the meaning of the law, as they procured licenses; but, in
the face of this they went on shooting and slaughtering all the game they could
find, in reckless disregard of the prohibitory statute, until it seemed to me that
some energetic and severe measures must be adopted to prevent the further
unlawful destruction of the game. ‘This department was constantly receiving
reports from different sections of the territory detailing the violations of the
game laws, the following being an example:

“Hunters say that a band of marauding Apaches from Arizona has
butchered hundreds of deer in violation of the game laws. literally wiping
the game out of one of the best hunting sections of the southwest. Ranch-
men and rangers have seen stacks of hams and quarters piled breast high,
and it is said the Indians are killing every deer they can find.”

In the fall of 1910, five different bands of Indians were arrested, Each
individual member of these bands was convicted and fined. One band of Pueblos
arrested in the Datil mountains, about one hundred miles west of Magdalena,
by deputy warden Bob Lewis and ranchman Earl Morley, had in its possession
neatly one hundred head of deer, consisting of bucks, does and fawns. Valuable
assistance was also rendered this department by Supervisor W. H. Goddard and
his forest guards by the arrest and conviction of violators of the game laws in the
Datil forest district. The accompanying picture presents a good view of this band
when arrested and in charge of the warden. I took the whole posse of violators
before the justice of the peace of Magdalena, where they were fined five hundred
dollars, and costs taxed at one hundred and twenty-five dollars, all of which was
paid.

In this matter great pressure was brought to bear by many prominent citizens
in favor of the Indians, the argument being that they intended no wrong and
believed they were but acting within their inherited rights; but it seemed to
me that this was an opportune time to impress a lasting lesson, and I urged the fact
that the Indians purchased licenses having the law plainly printed on the back,
which was sufficient evidence that they were not entirely innocent of wrong doing.
In two other cases where arrests were made the Indians attempted to get the hides
and heads of their booty into the pueblo by sending special couriers away from
the main body. This, in itself, seemed to me at least strong circumstantial evi-
dence that the violators recognized the wrong. They were captured, however,
and paid their fine.

While in these cases, the costs, including transportation, telegrams, long
distance telephones and necessary expenditures, were considerable, yet, the intflic-
tion of fines, instead of a term of imprisonment, more than met all these expenses,
and in addition to this the moral effect was sufficiently impressive to bring about
the most satisfactory results.

There seems to be no doubt that the reservation Indians, when hunting on
their reservations, are exempt from arrest for violation of the game laws, but
court decisions seem to establish the principle that Indians found outside the

END OF THE CHASE.

y.

Taos Count

and Holder,

Captured by Ruggles

or

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO. 2

reservation, with game illegally captured or killed, may be followed onto the
reservation and arrested, or the game may be confiscated in transit, if found off
the reservation, even though it was killed on Indian land. This ruling does
not apply to the Pueblo Indians, they being classed as citizens. This legal status
touching the relation of the reservation Indians to the game laws of the state is
the cause of some difficulty in knowing always just where to draw the line. In
the main, however, the Indians, at the present time, are causing but little trouble
for this department.

I am now pleased to report that during the year 1911, I have had no
complaint of the wholesale slaughter of deer, one of my deputy wardens whom
I sent on a tour of inspection, reporting that he was “unable to find a moc-
casin track in the Datil mountains.” The same is true in all other parts of the
state, and I anticipate no further violations of the game !aw on the part of the
Indians. It is gratifying also, to make note of the fact that our records show
that the native people, comprising those of Mexican descent, have been consistent
observers of the game laws, and it has become a generally recognized fact, among
them, as among all others, that the protection of game and fish is both necessary
and beneficial, giving as it does, an opportunity to procure game near home, with-
out being compelled to go a long distance to secure it.

OUR GAME AND FISH.

New Mexico presents a field, unsurpassed anywhere in the world for that
recreation and enjoyment so relished by the true sportsman. Its great mountain
‘ranges are covered with a heavy growth of timber, while down their rugged sides
flow inexhaustible streams of cold, pure water, heading in the snow-capped peaks
of the majestic Rockies. Over the vast wooded areas wander deer and antelope.
as well as a legion of predatory animals, always the delight of the ambitious
hunter, the bagging of which causes the most supreme pleasure.

Those unacquainted with the habits of these wild beasts of prey, cannot fully
appreciate the havoc wrought by them to the game which the state is endeavoring
to protect. ‘The mountain lions now very numerous in our rugged, lofty woodlands
are, perhaps, the most destructive of all these savage creatures that roam the vast
tracts of unbroken forests, and hide in the rocky canyons where the hunter finds
difficulty in tracking the wary marauder into those hidden haunts he knows so
well. It is estimated by students of the habits of these destructive animals that
one mountain lion will kill a deer each week, a statement that will occasion sur-
prise among those who only know this wily brute as one of the wild creatures of
the west, or a rare specimen captured for exhibition in the red wagon of the
circus parade.

In evidence of the destructive tendencies of the mountain lion, I would state
that word was recently received at this office that Stephen Arnold, a ranchman on
the upper Pecos, had lost fourteen colts and one full grown horse, killed by these
noxious animals this last year.

As a matter of fact, the ruinous operations of the mountain lion constitute
one of the problems for solution by this department. The only method of at least

‘SOOWd UHddn AHL NO ANOG SI LI AVM AHL

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO. 20

lessening the depredations of this destroyer of game, as wel! as others of his class,
suck as the bob cat and lobo wolf, is to put a sufficiently large price on his head to
induce lovers of big game hunting to make strenuous effort toward his elimina-
tion.

The bob cat, commonly known as the wild cat, is another predatory animal
that is very destructive to the smaller wild game, the greatest sufferers from his
depredations being the turkey and the grouse; he has been known also to kall
fawn, when his cunning in the capture of his favorite food failed to meet the
demands of his appetite.

Still another carniverous and baneful animal is the lobo wolf, a species not
uncommon in New Mexico. This free booter is an enemy to the sheep herds, one
ranchman in Torrance county being reported to have lost as many as three hundred
sheep in a single night, as a result of the bloodthirsty instinct of this animal. The
lobo wolf does not kill for food only, but apparently from a spirit of pure enjoyment
in the slaughter, like sheep-killing dogs; leaving his victims dead or dying.

While a good many bear, comprising the silver tip, cinnamon and black, are
found in different sections. they are not seriously regarded, as it is but rarely
thai they kill other animals; the ranch cattle and burros being the only objects of
their attack when their natural food becomes scarce. Of course, the bagging of a
grizzley is always an ambition of the big game hunter, and here his desires in this
direction may be fully gratified.

Bear are reported as being quite numerous on the upper Pecos, as the ac-
companying picture would indicate.

I am pleased to report that in spite of the depredations of these predatory
animals, the actual amount of wild game in New Mexico is greater than it has
beer for many years, and the same is true of the game fish in our lakes and streams,
a subject which will be touched upon later in this report.

In the mountain districts deer have increased in number and these sections
are now well stocked. It is of interest to know, in this connection, that no New
Mexico hunter going out during the past season, whose prowess and accuracy of
aim entitled him to the prize, failed, on his return to bring with him the one
pair of buck’s horns to which he is entitled under the law. This result, as
detailed, is a tribute both to the splendid hunting opportunities afforded here,
and to the skill of our local nimrods. Recently, Sonorian or rock deer, have ap-
peared in the Mogollon mountains, having apparently drifted into this district
from Mexico, which is their habitat. They bid fair to become more plentiful
in the future and will add another attractive element to the New Mexico sporting
field. There is also a band of mountain sheep, aggregating, probably, from two to
four hundred, in the Guadalupe mountains on the line between Texas and New
Mexico, and a small bunch aiso have been reported near Truchas peaks in Rio
Arriba county. These fine specimens of wild game once so plentiful in the moun-
tainous regions of the west were fast becoming extinct before the ravages of the
huntsman#but it is hoped that under the rigid protection of our game laws, they may
increase rapidly in the state. The law provides a closed season until 1915.

“28 REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO.

The antelope, once so numerous all through the west, disappeared very rapid-
iy as their feeding grounds were encroached upon by homeseekers, who took up
these lands for cultivation, but in various sections a number are still reported in
Colfax, Socorro and Valencia counties, while in southern New Mexico reports
show as follows:

Carlsbad. district;> South <40: 10 (65.amilesa ayes eee 50 antelope

- id Wall ‘Cravens “Rameh:oie 2s eater a ee ee See

< 9° k Ranch, 4s entiles Somat evcvct-5 ont eeeecee eee AD anaes

i ee Rader Ranch. al bsmilesisoubie sos ae eee ips es

me ¥ 35-amales northeast-or Carlsbad 20-450. sooner BOs os

gg 35 mules-southeast on Carlshadiet mm. st.eocieet ees BQ; Boks

G = northwest :Ob Carlsbad ssc asee aie ee otee eee L5Oiea
i Barber: (Ranch 20 x76 oe eco en ee Gpaent ss

THE CLUB GROUNDS AT CAMP TOBERMORY, NOVEMBER 14, 1911.
I'rom left to right: A. R. Streicher, Hugh Smith, A. L. Hobbs, W. H. Smith—Poke.

On the Sacramento mesa, Otero county, 350 head are reported and at Fort
Stanton, also, 100 more. It is estimated that there are about 1,700 in the state.

Elk will soon become a prominent feature in New Mexico game life, and as
the procuring of them is in the nature of a new departure, I will treat of them
specifically on another page of this report.

The beaver, also, will have a special mention.

In the world of bird life, I feel a gratification in reporting that conditions are
most favorable. Wild turkeys, which have always been attractive to the hunter, are
rapidly increasing in numbers and these, together with the ever popular grouse,

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO, 29
are found more nuinerously than for a long period past, in the northern counties
especially. A few wild pigeons have been reported in the counties of Rio Arriba,
Taos, San Miguel, Eddy, Grant and Otero. The once plentiful and much sought
prairie chicken is now again appearing quite extensively along the eastern border
of the state. A few ptarmigan are still seen in Taos county, but they are very
scarce and it can be but a short time when they will become extinct. The quail,
Gambel, blue mountain and bob white, are becoming constantly more numerous.
The various species of game birds will be specifically mentioned in another section
of this report.

FISH OF NEW MEXICO

The fish of our state have become numerous both as to quantity and kind. The
lakes and ponds have, as inhabitants, the ring perch, cat fish, carp, buffalo and
black bass. Of these the perch and bass, of course, are greatly preferred, and
really, the only fish that are especially attractive to the devotee of the rod and
line.

As the lion is the king of beasts and the eagle of birds, so is the black bass
the king of the fresh water fish. This splendid inhabitant of our inland waters
is the delight of the angler on account of his gamey spirit, and on the table he is
without a peer . As evidence of his popularity it is only necessary to state that.
on the market he brings the highest price.

In planting fish for propagation it is wise to study their habits, both as to
kind of food and their relation to the body of water and the other fish in the
same waters.

The black bass, a wary and gamey warrior, is particular both as to his sur-
roundings and his food. While he may thrive under certain conditions, in rivers
and creeks, his favorite habitat is in ponds, where clear water prevails and where
aquatic plants abound or where he may hide around old tree tops, logs or brush
piles that may lie in the water, the lily pads being enjoyed by this fish for spawn-
ing grounds. The spawning season for black bass is from May 15 to July Ist.
Black bass, while voracious feeders, are very fussy about it, and want only the
best the market affords. An old bass not only wants the best, but likes a change
of diet, which accounts perhaps, for the fact that aside from small fish, cray fish
and frogs are quite often found in the dissected stomach of black bass, and in some
instances insects and even birds. Some difficulty has been found in bass culture
on account of the cannibalistic qualities of this fish, as the bass does not hesitate
to eat his own kind, when food to his liking is not at hand . To obviate this diffi-
culty, ponds containing black bass should be stocked liberally with suckers, bull
heads, and other rapidly breeding fish, to keep up the food supply without de-
pleting the number of young bass, which would otherwise be destroyed by the
Jarger members of tleir own family. The bass guard their eggs while they are
being hatched from all those enemies which feed upon the spawn of fish, seeming
to regard this food with the same delightful appreciation that the human family,
the members of which can afford the luxury, seek for the delicate caviare. So pro-
tective of its eggs is this scrappy member of the fish family that he has beem

30 REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO.

known to kill fish much larger than himself, during the spawning season, by dart-
ing under the intruding enemy, striking with the sharp, knife-like fin, which the
bass carries on his dark and shiny back. It has been proven by experience and
actual test that black bass will clear a lake or pond of German carp, pre-
sumably by this means, and feeding upon the young. One instance clearly proy-
ing this statement is shown in the fact that one of the ten lakes owned by J.
D. Hand, on his large estate in San Miguel county, which was stocked by the
former owner, with German carp, and was literally alive with this undesirable
fish, was stocked by the present owner with black bass. Five years later and at
the present time the German carp have entirely disappeared and the kingly bass
now reigns supreme in this lake where once the carp predominated. Inasmuch
as the German carp, which was introduced into New Mexico some years ago, is a
poor table fish, is a cannibal and a destroyer of other valuable fish, it is to be
hoped and urged that those stocking lakes and ponds will no longer order carp,
hut will confine thei orders to black bass, ring perch, erappies, cat fish and wall-
eved pike. These fish are suitable only for Jakes and ponds, and those who
possess waters of these kinds should stock them only with the fish mentioned
above which can be obtained at present and free of cost, only through Hon.
George M. Bowers, bureau of fisheries, Washington, D .C., to whom application
should be made. The application must also be endorsed by one of our members
of congress, or one of our members of the United States senate. The demand
on the government for these fish is so great that it is only possible to fill requests
in the order in which they are received and filed. No means have yet been found
by which this class of fish can be successfully spawned and raised in hatcheries,
although the government has spent large sums in experimental trials.

Those who have the water but no natural ponds can readily construct an arti-
ficial one. We give herewith some valuable suggestions along this line, offered
by L. L. Dyche, game and fish warden of Kansas, an acknowledged queries on
fish culture. Mr. Dyche says:

“After the dam or dike has been finished and the bottom of the pond has been
put in proper condition to be filled with water, the owners are usually anxious
to see the new pon! area filled up with water either from natural drainage or
such other sources of water as the locality may afford. It would really be
hetter in many cases to allow the new dam and pond area to stand and settle for a
few months or even a year. However, this is not necessary, as it is possible to fill
new-made pond basins as soon as they are finished. Before the water is turned
onto the ground that is to serve as the bottom of the newly-made pond it should
be carefully examined for sandy, gravelly or porous places.

There should be natural or scooped-out places in every fish pond not less
than six feet in depth (8 or 10 feet would be better) ; water on the bottom of a
pond remains more even in temperature than that on the surface. The deeper
holes in a pond provide cool places for the fish to rest in during the hot summer
weather. It also furnishes them places of retreat where they can bed with more
safety when the weather is cool and when the pond is covered with ice in the
dead of winter. Unless the fish are surrounded by plenty of water at such times

*(Soprowyes snia}dorstyy) L09
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REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO. 31

they may die for want of air. For many years we have noticed that many fish
that have been bedded, either from necessity or by accident, in shallow water—
water that was not more than one to two feet in depth—have died during the
winter. ‘They seem to become very numb and nearly frozen, so to speak, and
apparently die for want of air; in this weakened condition they seem to be more
susceptible to the attacks of the white fungus disease which, under such con-
ditions, sometimes kills off great numbers of fish.

While spring water is usually considered to be very fine for fish, it is, per-
haps, the poorest of all waters when it comes to furnishing the fish with food
supplies. It contains practically no fish-food material, and when it comes from
ihe ground is poorly supphed with air. It can be much improved and supplied
with both food and air by carrying it for greater or less distances through open
ditches, ravines or creeks, where there is more or less plant and animal life grow-
ing. Artesian water and water pumped from wells are as destitute of fish-food
as spring water, but the quality of such water for fish purposes may be improved
by running it into ponds that are well supplied with water plants and insect
life.

Fish live in the water and breathe the air that is held in small bubbles in
mechanical mixture with the water. They do not live on water any more than
human beings live on air. We live im the air and breathe it; fish live in the water
and breathe by passing the water through the gills (their lumgs) and by this
operation get or gather the oxygen from the particles of air that the water contains
in the shape of minute bubbles. Hence, running water or water that is agitated
into waves by the wind is always better for fish as it contains more minute air-
bubbles for them to breathe in.”

Bass are numerous in the Spring rivers, all the deep lakes in Chaves and
Eddy counties, Salt Creek, the Seven rivers and Black river, in the last mentioned
county; in fact in nearly all the clear water lakes and streams of the state.

Great sport is thus offered the fishermen of these sections and in addition,
they find enjoyment in the substitution of this diet for the habitual one of mutton
and beef.

An established and satisfactory method of preparing the bottom of an arti-
ficial pond, to prevent leaking, and where the soil is sandy, is to drive a herd of
sheep or goats back and forth over a coating of clay, placed over the sand. This
gives a hard surface which holds the water and gives a substantial and permanent
bottom to the pond.

A fish perhaps as well known as any of the fish family, is the cat fish. The
very mame takes us back home, to the wooded pond, a mile or two from town,
to which we tramped on stone bruised feet, bearing on shoulder the primitive fish
rod and the hook purchased at the village hardware store for one copper cent.
That boy has lost a good deal out of life who never knew the cat fish, his habits,
his appearance and the flavor of his flesh. This fish has become a good deal of a
favorite in reccnt years as evidenced from a government report which states that
in one year ‘twenty-three states reported a catch of 14,726,000 pounds; also that
“both commercial fishermen and anglers throughout the country are showing in-

32 REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO.

creased interest in catfishes ,and requests for stocking public and private waters
have recently been numerous.” Catfishes are bottom feeders, omniverous in their
habits, taking more or less vegetable and a great variety of animal food. They
uave large mouths, heads, stomachs and appetities and are capable of adapting
themselves to a wider range of conditions than most any other member of the
fish family. ‘This fact renders these fishes increasingly valuable for pond stock-
ing. They will prosper in brooks inhabited by the bass tribe.

The crappie is another fish that is becoming popular as a pond fish. He
helongs to the pug variety with his large mouth and protruding jaw, but is not, to
any great extent, given to the destruction of other fishes. Their nature is not can-
nibalistic and they do not devour their own kind; their main food being vegetable
matter mixed with insects and crustaceans of both land and water varieties.
While the crappie is not classed as a game fish, yet he gives guod sport to the
angler and is very satisfactory in the frying pan.

To the true fisherman, who delights above all other sports, in the light rod
and humming reel, no word has a greater lure than that magic one, “Trout.”
The locality which can offer a tempting field for the trout fisherman is sure to have
a niche in the hall of fame in the sport world, and to bring to it every season,
the out-of-door lovers from every section of the country. Colorado is reaping a
veritable harvest from tourists, and furnishing great sport for the home angler.
This state has established nine hatcheries, which are maintained by legislative
appropriation, this being found necessary to meet the constantly increasing de-
mand. The waters of that state have become so far famed and popular that
during the past season a special train was run daily out of Denver, known far
and wide as the “Daylight Train,” which passed through Wagon Wheel Gap and
stopped at Creede, where the fishing was superb. This enticing sport seems to
have no rival in the estimation of those who love the camp life among the moun-
tains where gambols the “speckled beauty,”’—the fish that never fails to arouse
the spirit of the angler. The far famed and greatly admired brook trout has habits
snd peculiarities which belong to him alone, though in some ways he resembles
strongly the mountain trout which is his cousin. Alike, these two members of
the trout family are gamey, wary, and most delectable. The distinct difference
which distinguishes them lies in the coloring, marking and in their habits of
spawning. The brook trout has clearly defined spots on the side, which are a
clear red in color, wt ile on the mountain trout the spots are dark brown or nearly
black. One argument in favor of the brook trout, wherein he is especially beneficial
and valuable, is based on the fact that this fish will breed and spawn where
planted and will there remain, unlike the mountain and rainbow trout which
go to the headwaters for the spawning season. The brook trout spawns in No-
vember, the eggs hatching during the winter months, even under the ice. The
young fish coming out early in the spring have the advantage of a substantiai
growth before going into winter quarters, when they are large enough to escape
fromm the attacks of other cannibalistic fishes that might otherwise destroy them.
Another point of vaiue lies in the fact that eggs of this fish are not as subject to
freshets that wash the eggs ashore, where many of them are destroyed or become

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REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO. 30

worthless. Still anether point of difference between the brook trout and others of
this family, lies in the established fact that the brook trout will not cross with the
mountain or rainbow trout. owing, perhaps, to the time of year at which the
spawning occurs. The flesh of the brook trout is as dainty and delicious as any
fish that swims, and this variety is especially desirable for propagation because,
always remaining where first planted, it can be caught in July and August when
other members of this popular family are at the head waters, spawning. Many
a time, on the broad stream, a fisherman is heard to say, “Let’s go up to the head
of the stream and get some of the red fellows;” but, as a matter of fact. few, even
among experienced anglers, understand that the distinctly rosy tint found in the
flesh of the trout or the red color on his underside, is due to the diet consisting of
very small shrimp. Up the stream, toward its head, grow masses of heavy sod and
water cress. Underneath, among the roots, are thousands of these tiny red animals,
which are considered a great delicacy by the trout, and they feed upon these diminu-
tive creatures with supreme delight. In the lower waters this food is not found as
abundantiy and the trout loses the bright red coloring.

The mountain trout is a native of the rocky mountain region, and by many
sportsmen is considered the chief of his tribe, for both food and qualities of
gameness. In habits this most popular fish differs little, if any, from the rain-
bow, as they soawn during the same month of the year and seek the headwaters
for that purpose. ‘These two varieties cross very readily, so that it is difficult
now to find these distinct species, except at the hatcheries, where, of course, they
are kept carefully separated for breeding. It has become a well known fact to
all students of fish life and culture, that crossing is beneficial. The same
effect is produced as in the human and animal kingdoms, where it is now fully
understood that interbreeding begets a stunted and less vigorous progeny. Before
the introduction of the rainbow and mountain trout from other waters into the
New Mexico streams it was a rare catch that landed a trout that exceeded four
pounds in weight; the constant interbreeding had tended to decrease the size, but
with the introduction of trout from streams in other sections there has been a
decided and very noticeable change in the size and condition of these fishes in our
waters. The interbreeding of the rainbow and mountain trout has had the same
effect.

The rainbow trout, like other members of his tribe, is a thing of beauty and
a joy forever, growing to a larger size than any other member of the mountain
trout family. Within the last few years rainbow trout have been caught in large
numbers, weighing from five to seven pounds and a few have tipped the scales at
ten pounds.. This trout is not a native of the rocky mountain region, but was
brought here for trial and has thrived luxuriantly. When crossed with the moun-
fain trout, the result gives a splendid fish for mountain streams,—vyery gamey and
a great table delicacy. These two species of fish, spawning during months of June
and July, travel many miles to reach the headwaters for this purpose. The
trequent fregnets during summer months and the destruction of the eggs from

a

lizards, snakes and other enemies, necessarily greatly decrease the number of young

ALONE WITH NATURE.

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO. 3

LD) |

fish that would otherwise find existence in the water, as but few of the eggs can
reach maturity. This is partially due to the fact that the rainbow and mountain
trout leave the spawning ground after depositing the eggs and then return to their
former haunts. From these conditions it is readily seen that it is absolutely
necessary, in order to keep our streams well stocked, to make good the loss by re-
placing fish fry or fixgerling in the streams that are depleted through natural
and unavoidable agencies. It is a well established fact that 95% of the eggs
taken from fish and placed in the state hatcheries are successfully hatched, while
only 10 or 12% of the eggs laid in the natural way in the mountain streams
reach maturity. No stronger argument can be advanced to establish the necessity
of restocking our streams each year with trout from hatcheries. “The demand
for fish, either for food or sport, can no more be supphed.by the natural increase
than the demand for fruit can be supplied by the wild natural growths.” Nearly
all our states, realizing this fact, have established state hatcheries which are being
operated with such success that the plan of establishing this important branch of
state service has never been dispensed with in any state.

New Mexico having no hatcheries, we are necessarily compelled to depend on
securing our fish from the government and by purchase from private hatcheries.
It is for the legislature to determine whether it is desirable to build a state hatch-
ery for stocking our streams, and it is well to consider the question on all sides
when it comes up for serious consideration. The management and conduct of a
fish hatchery demands experience, skill, and judgment on the part of the person
who may be in charge, as indifferently conducted, a hatchery would be of no value
to the state, and would be but a constant drain on the treasury, with no results.

The National government has been very friendly and liberal, having furnished
for planting, to this department and to individuals, during the years 1910 and
1911, as shown in «. detailed statement on another page of this report, 9,589,000
trout and 16,265 of all other kinds of fish. Im addition, during the same period,
1 have purchased and planted 1,513,300 trout fry. The demand for fish, and
especially the trout family, is growing greater each year, and naturally the price is
constantly going up. Orders must be placed during summer and fall when eggs
are taken for future delivery in order to secure them. I therefore placed an order
for 500,000 trout fry for spring delivery of 1912.

The dynamiting of fish is one of the most inexcusable and pernicious prac-
ices indulged in by those who, lacking the spirit of the true sportsman, would
procure fish in any manner and regardless of legal and just restrictions. So rep-
rehensible is this practice regarded, that in some states it has been made a
felony. This despicable offense should be punished by a penalty so severe that
no one will hereafter have the temerity to indulge in it.

Young fish can be shipped almost any distance with proper care, and when
judiciously planted, will nearly all live. Nothing lessens the vitality of trout so
much as careless handling in transit, or afterward planting in water either much
colder or warmer than that in the cans, or where the water is too deep, or the
current too strong.

36 REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO. m

In case the distance from the station to place of planting’ is more than
three or four miles, or if there is any delay in transit, sufficient ice should be pro-
vided and placed in the cans in small quantities from time to time, to keep
the temperature of the water about the same as when received. In case the water
where the fish are to be planted is known to be warmer than that in the cans, the
temperature should be equalized before planting. The temperature of the water
should be kept substantially the same as when received, and the wagon kept in
motion, but if a stop exceeding ten minutes is made, the attendant, having provided
himself with « long-handled dipper, should, every few minutes, dip the water
from the cans, pouring it from a height of a foot or more, to thoroughly aerate
the water. lis is better than a change of water.

At the time of planting there should not be more than three degrees of dif-
ference in the water in the cans and that in which the fish are to be planted.

This equalization can be effected by dipping the water from the stream or
lake and pouring it into the cans until the temperature is about the same in both.
This gradual change will have no ill effect on the fish. A thermometer is desirable
but not necessary as the equalization can be tested by the hand.

In planting, pour the fish gently from the cans, if possible in channels or
bayous where there ere grass or willows, as the fish will then be in less danger from
larger fish or birds.

T also wish to call attention to the necessity of having screens or paddle
wheels placed at the head of irrigation ditches. So important has this matter
become, in the estimation of those interested in this subject, that at the meeting
of the American Fisheries Society, held last October in St. Louis, the following
resolution was introduced by W. T. Thompson, who is connected with the U. 8.
biological survey, and adopted:

“This society deplores the large and increasing destruction of valuable
food and game fish in the ditches of irrigation systems.

“Recognizing the recent and future great increase in irrigation projects
of our nation, and the certainty that this loss will be largely augmented
thereby, we urge upon ihe attention of state officials and legislative bodies in
regions where irrigation is practiced that they spread knowledge of the means
by which said loss may be averted and provide by a statute for the introduc-
tion of such apparatus at the intake of ditches and canals that the descent
of fishes into these artificial channels may be prevented.

“We deem this of great importance, not only that the sums devoted by
the state and nation to the propagation and culture of fish should bring
adequate returns, but also, that so attractive a feature of outdoor recreation
and sport, also so valuable a food material may be conserved for the people for
its proper use.”

The matter of the distribution of fish presents a problem that is, often times,
most difficult of solution. The demand always exceeds the supply and an equit--
able distribution is not always possible, however desirous the warden may be to
exercise absolute impartiality. I have endeavored to make proportionate assign-
ment of trout fry, and in numerous cases I have planted them in places where I

a eet ee ee eee eS ee a a leg bob i c}

REPOR'’ OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO. 37

thought they were most needed, even though no application was made therefor
by any person in that immediate locality.

These facts clearly demonstrate that the opportunities for those who enjoy
the sports afield are unsurpassed, and that the pleasures offered to the sportsman
here are without limit.

OUR BIRDS.

In addition to the game birds in New Mexico, we have an almost endless
variety of birds classed as “non-game,” including songsters and insectiverous birds,
which are rigidly protected under a law enacted during the legislative session of
1901. We can scarcely overestimate the value of these birds. Aside from their
beauty and attractiveness, they are a positive benefit in the protection they give
to crops, trees, gardens and all vegetation, by destroying the insects which infest
them. I am in favor of the most rigid enforcement of the law which protects
these birds.

It is a question if it would not be wise to shorten the season on turtle doves, if
not indeed, to give them the benefit of a closed season, as is already done in twenty-
six states. ‘This lovely, harmless, and useful bird, trusting and friendly as it is,
should not be put freely on the block for slaughter when the black bird and
the crow are given the protection of the law. The turtle dove is a positive benefit,
coming about the door yard, nesting in the orchard, and hunting out the wild seeds
in the fields and waste places, destroying insects, but never injuring the grain
crop nor devastating the product which is the result of so great toil. The reckless
killing of this gentle creature should be at least curtailed if not prohibited al-
together.

We quote the following paragraph from a booklet issued by the American
Game Protective Association :

“This country stands today at the parting of the ways in the matter of
field sports. It faces today the question whether free shooting shall continue
or whether the European system of preserves and posted lands is to become
universal.”

The Albuquerque Morning Journal of January 8, 1912, adds these very per-
tinent paragraphs:

“Aside from the interest which all right-minded people will have in the
preservation of harmless wild birds and animals, the question has a most prac-
tical financial side. It is estimated that between $250,000,090 and $300,000,-
000 damage is done annually to the crops and forests of this country by in-
sects. The sole and only reason for the increase of these insects is the destruc-
tion of the birds and other animals which are intended by nature as a check
on insect life. The birds eat not only the insects, but the eggs and larvae and
the number of insects which a single bird will dispose of in a season is enor-
mous. It has also been proven that the destruction of the bird means a great
increase Gn various sorts of obnoxious weeds, the seeds of which would other-
wise be eaten by the birds.

“There are many beautiful and valuable species of birds which have been

38 REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO.

completely exterminated by reckless shooting and many other kinds which soon
will be urdess prompt action is taken. The legislation advocated by the
American Game Protective association is moderate and much needed. It
is to be hoped that the association will succeed in arousing public opinion
on the subject before it is too late.” ;
The turtle dove is a migratory bird. It has been advocated by sportsmen
and hunters, that for this reason it should not be protected. It must be admitted
that many of our migratory birds are fast disappearing, some of them being
almost extinct. Among these are the wild goose, canvass back duck and snipe,
of which there are numerous varieties. There should be a national law enacted,
protecting all migratory birds during their mating and nesting time, with a
closed season, on some of them. This, I beheve, will be eventually accomplished.

QUAIL.

No bird classed in the game catalogue is more fascinating, pleasing and
cleanly in habits than the cheery, beautiful, dainty quail. This bird belongs to
a very large family, the members of which often vary but slightly in habits and
appearance, though they are placed in different classifications, and bear distinct
names. ‘The quail most known and most numerous in New Mexico are the blue
mountain which abound in the northern portion of the state, and the Gambel,
sometimes called the California, which is found more numerously in the south-
ern portion. ‘The Gambel is a handsome bird, the head being adorned with a jet
black recurving crest, and marked on the flanks with a bright chestnut, streaked
with white. This quail is one of the most conspicuous and charming forms of
desert life, and quickly repays favors received, by becoming semi-domesticated.
There is something pecularly attractive about this species of quail, adding, as
it does, a touch of animation to the lonely stretch of mesa, and it is a most winning
Jittle figure as it struts daintily out across the road, with its feathered top knot
nodding with every step. In 1910 and 1911 I had trapped in southern New Mex-
ico, 2,306 Gambel quail, exchanging some of them with other states for bob-
white, and distributing the balance in the northern and eastern counties, where
none of this variety had heretofore existed. It has been clearly demonstrated
that they are ron-migratory, remaining in the neighborhood where planted. They
have proven, also, to be very prolific breeders.

All reports coming from deputy game wardens throughout the state show that
quail are more abundant than they have been for a number of years past, the only
exceptions being in the counties of Luna and Grant. Just as the devotee to the
rod and reel waits for the opening day of the fishing season, when he can thresh
the trout stream with the flashy fly and play the speckled beauties until at last
landed on the grassy bank, so the sportsman, whose delight is with the gun,
grects buoyantly the day when, unhampered by the game laws, he can listen for
the joyous call of the bonny quail, and tramp the hills and woodlands in search
of this comely bird. This graceful and beautiful member of the quail family is
naturally coy and timid, protecting himself from those predatory animals which

——
——
rf

$f Lote a “

GAMBEL’S PARTRIDGE.

FROM COL. F. M. WOODRUFF,

1).

a gambe

(Callipep

, Life-size

I

80

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO. 39

are his constant and alert enemies by roosting in trees, but during the day he
haunts the lands near farms, in the fields and bosques.

The blue mountain quail is found more on the open mesa, hiding under the
malpais, cactus and sage brush. Both these species of quail which abound in
New Mexico, are much sought after by the sportsman who finds no greater pleasure
than in a full bag at the close of a day’s hunt. The !aw on quail is, with gun
only, October Ist to December 31st. Limit: thirty in possession at one time.

The bob white is distinctly an American bird and he has a popularity that is
nation wide. Famed for his beauty and sought as a great table delicacy, the
bob white has no rival among the game birds, being of great economic value as
well, as his food consists of seeds and insects and he seldom does any injury to
crops.

Bob white is a handsome lien with his white throat and showy golden brown
feathers, distinctly marked with lines of black and white, with ash colored tail.
This bird has about him a most fascinating quality and seems to bear an atmos-
phere of cheer. He is naturally affectionate and can, with care and proper treat-
ment, be domesticated, though of course, he is at his best in his favorite and native
haunts. “There are scarcely any among the smaller game birds possessing the
peculiarly attractive qualities that belong to this charming member of the bird
family. The bob white has been very little known in New Mexico heretofore, not
being a native to this locality; but realizing the fact that he is a great favorite
among sportsmen, and being satisfied that he would thrive here, if given a chance,
I imported a few, during the year 1911, having exchanged them for our native
quail, the laws prohibiting the shipping of game or game birds out of most of
the other states, except in exchange for other game birds. The price of the bob
white, purchased from game bird breeders is so high, as in the case of pheasants,
that I have not deemed it wise to procure them through this channel. The few
that have been brought here, through the medium of exchange. give promise of
doing well, and under the protection given by the game laws, I have reason to
expect a rapid natural increase, so that in the future his cheerful note will
become one of the delightful features in the fields and woodlands of the state.
The bob white is protected until March 18, 1914.

PHEASANTS.

The price of pheasants, ranging from five dollars for English, and forty
dollars for Mongolion, per pair, has seemed to me almost prohibitive and I have
not deemed it wise to go extensively into the purchase of these birds, though their
beautiful plumage renders them unusually attractive, and their position in the
world of game birds has made them extremely popular. However, by way of
experiment I purchased, last year, thirty-one pheasants and intrusted them to the
care of Captain M. 8. Murray of Rosw ell, deputy game warden, who built breed-
ing pens, purchased some bantams, and is endeay oring to raise them for distribu-
tion. The success achieved by Captain Murray, and the present condition of
these birds is indicated in the following letter written August 9th, 1911:

40

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO.

“Mr. Thomas P. Gable, Game Warden,

“Santa Fe, New Mexico.

SSL

“In reply to your letter of 7th inst. I would state that the pheasants that
were purchased for the purpose of propagating in this section of the country:
All the birds purchased are still living and in good health. About fifty young
birds were hatched, and apparently in good health.

“The hatch was much longer in coming than in other parts of the
country where 23 or 24 days are required, usually. Some of those here re-
quired 29, 26 and 28 days. In addition, I believe they require more of a range
to wander over than I have at present. I am practically convinced that the
best way is to turn the birds loose in the mountains and let them get next to
natural cenditions. * * * * T am convinced, however, that this is the place
for them, especially in the mountain country, as feed is abundant and shelter
good. There are several places about here where a pen could be turned loose
next spring and allowed to do for themselves. This, I believe, is the solution,
as far as I can see at present. Other parties here who invested in the same
variety, have not had as good success, not even hatching a chick, the eggs
not being fertile. I regret that a better showing could not be made, but I
have not lost heart. I believe next year, when the birds are acclimated, they
will do much better.

“Very respectfully,
“M.S. Murray.”

The following letter from William French of Cimarron, bears out the belief

of Captain Murray that pheasants should thrive in New Mevyico, and eventually
become a popular game bird:

THE W. S. RANCH
Cimarron, New Mexico, Colfax County.
“Thos. P. Gable, Keq.,
“Territorial Game Warden,
“Santa Fe, New Mexico,
“Dear sir:

“Replying to your letter of January 4th, would say that I turned fifty
pheasants loose here on the Ponil about ten years ago, twelve males and twenty-
eight females, as near as I can recollect. There are still quite a number
around this neighborhood, principally on the Cimarron river, as I think they
do not like it where the brush is too thick for them to fly out . There are some
on the Penil, but not so many as on the Cimarron. Of course, they have a
great many enemies, both human, as well as wild animals, but they have done
well enough to show that when they are protected for a time they will increase
and do well in this country.

“Yours very truly,
“WILLIAM FRENCH.”

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO. 41

The pheasant is protected until March 18, 1914. I have also purchased and
released twenty-two guineas during the past year, as an experimental trial in fur-
} te) 3 Ps .
nishing a new game bird in the state.

GROUSE.

The grouse is an inhabitant of the transcontinental coniferous forests from
the northern border of the United States, east of the Rocky Mountains, to Labra-
dor and Alaska. The male is an especially handsome bird, the markings being
very distinct, and in the spring the brilliant red combs above the eyes add to
the beauty of the cock as he struts along the trunk of a fallen log and drums in
a peculiar way, similar to the eastern partridge. This grouse nests in May or
early June and lays about a dozen buff colored eggs, handsomely marked in chest-
nut and brown. ‘This grouse is strictly a bird of the forest, and does not appear
at any time, to come into contact with agricultural products. The flesh of this
bird is highly flavored, tender, juicy and regarded with great favor, but, as often
happens with all game birds, the flavor of the flesh of the grouse, at certain sea-
sons, is affected by the character of its diet.

ADIOS.

In some respects the grouse is a difficult bird to protect as he takes no pre-
caution in protecting himself. Of one peculiar trait possessed by the grouse, Hon.
Theodore Roosevelt writes:

“The mountain men call this bird the fool-hen; and most certainly it de-
serves the name. The members of this particular flock, consisting of a hen
and jier three-parts grown chicks, acted with a stupidity unwonted even for
their kind. They were feeding on the ground among some young spruce, and
on our*approach flew up and perched in the branches, four or five feet above
our heads. There they stayed, uttering a low complaining whistle, and showed

4? REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO.

not the slightest suspicion when we came underneath them with long sticks

and knocked them off their perches.”

The grouse in New Mexico are becoming more plentiful owing to the rigid pro-
tection, largely due to the careful attention of the deputy wardens, assisted by the
forest guards. The law on these birds is, with gun only, October 1st to December
31st of each year.

PTARMIGAN.

This bird, now fast disappearing, is naturally a dweller of the colder climes,
and is found more numerously still in Alaska and the mountains of British Co-
Iembia. It ranges, to some extent, however, as far south as Colorado, and northern
New Mexico, though seldom seen, and is regarded as sufficiently in the novelty
class to be pointed out to tourists as one of the sights seen only in the west and far
north. “The ptarmigan breeds in the higher altitudes, even reaching a height of
13,500 feet and often wanders to the lofty summit peaks one thousand feet higher.
They nest early in June, and in winter they descend to the lower altitudes when
the sexes separate into different flocks. The food of the ptarmigan consists largely
of buds, insects, some kinds of flowers and sometimes small beetles.” The flesh
of this bird has never been considered of the choicest class, though it is said to be
quite palatable. The ptarmigan, which is a trusting creature, takes no precaution
in protecting itself, and is given the benefit of the closed season.

WILD TURKEY.

This splendid bird, distinguished as our biggest game bird, is designated under
our license law in the big game class.

The following quotation from a bulletin, issued by Sylvester D. Judd, assis-
tant in the biological survey, sets forth clearly the condition of the wild turkey at
the present time and the cause of his elimination:

“The wild turkey, our biggest game bird, was formerly abundant over a
wide area. It has been eaterminated throughout much of its former range, and
unless radical measures are taken it will become extinct in a few years. In
early colonial days it was numerous in Massachusetts, coming about the houses
of the settlers in large flocks. It is now totally extinct in New England. It
is hard to realize that at the beginning of the nineteenth century turkeys were
so abundant that they sold for 6 cents apiece, though the largest ones, weighing
from 25 to 30 pounds, sometimes brought a quarter of a dollar. A big wild
turkey nowadays would not long go begging at $5. It is their value as food
that it made it worth while to hunt turkeys to the very point of extermina-
tion. So-called sportsmen go out in the late summer ostensibly to shoot
squirrels, but really to pot turkeys on the roost. Another practice is to lie in
ambush and lure the game by imitating the call note of the hen in spring.
The writer has personal knowledge of such methods of hunting in Virginia
and Maryland, and they are largely responsible for the extermination now im-
minent. Trapping turkeys in pens—a very simple matter—has also accelerated
the destruction of the species.”

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO. 43

As with our tame turkey, the raising of the young wild turkey presents many
difficulties as the chicks are very delicate and exceedingly sensitive to the wet. Audu-
bon says, that during wet weather they are fed by their mothers with buds of
spice brush much as human youngsters are dosed with quinine.

When the young wild turkeys are two weeks old they roost on low branches
with the mother, as by the time they have reached this stage they have passed
many of their early ills.

The condition of the wild turkey in New Mexico is most excellent, and they are

WHO WOULDN'T BE A BOY AGAIN?

increasing rapidly at the present time, now being very plentiful in the mountain
districts.

I have reports from reliable sources that as many as one hundred and fifty
wild turkeys have been seen together at one time this season in Rio Arriba county,
where they are said to be found in great numbers. They are appearing, as well.
in districts where they have not been seen for many years past.

Ofscourse, the wild turkey is still, as he has always been, the prize for which
‘he huntsman seeks with the greatest zest, and he holds his place without fear of
rivalry, om the festal board; neither Thanksgiving nor Christmas being considered
properly recognized without the presence of this cherished viand as the piece de
resistance. If he is of the wild variety his value is greatly enhanced.

44 REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO.

The food of the wild turkey is both animal and vegetable, the latter predom-
nating; though nothing seems to be quite so satisfying to the turkey appetite as
grasshoppers and crickets, but berries, seeds and nuts are not scorned. Even
where wild turkeys are plentiful they have not caused any trouble to the ranchman
or tarmer by feeding on their grain. The flavor of the flesh of the wild turkey is
often affected by their diet, as during certain seasons, when eating berries, especially
the juniper, it becomes so strong that it cannot be eaten with relish. The flesh
is most palatable when the turkeys are feeding on acorns and pinon nuts. The
game Jaw on wild turkey is: with gun only, November 1st to December 31st of
each year. Limit: four im possession at one time.

THE PRAIRIE HEN.

This attractive and alluring bird is, I am much pleased to report, growing
more plentiful in New Mexico, being found most numerously in Guadalupe and
Curry counties. They have evidently drifted over the line from Oklahoma, driven
out, it is presumable, by the encroachment of settlers as the farm lands were gradual-
ly taken up. In former years the prairie hen was very plentiful in Iowa, Kansas and
Missouri, and even in the eastern states; but now is very rare east of the Mississip-
pi, though everywhere they are being most rigidly protected, the open season
being very short, even where their hunting is permitted at all. The prairie hen is
very highly regarded as a table delicacy, the flesh being dark and having a most
delicious flavor. Many sportsmen declare that there is no better sport than
chicken shooting, as this bird is unquestionably one of the noblest of our game
birds. This fowl is not as swift of flight as the bob white or ruffled grouse, and
his preservation is more difficult than that of the former, as that beautiful game
bird is far more prolific than the prairie hen, and does not require so extensive
a range. Like every other bird this pretty denizen of the prairie has its own pe-
culiar characteristics. “During the nuptial season they assemble at daybreak
cach morning on httle mounds and hillocks, where the cocks strut about with droop-
ing wings, the large orange colored sacs on the sides of the neck fully inflated,
while at intervals they lower their heads and give forth a strange, booming love ~
note that can be heard a mile away. It is one of the most welcome and striking of
all the notes that go to make vp the spring bird chorus. As a rule but one brood is
raised in a season, and the young leave the nest as soon as hatched and run about
im search of food.”

No food seems as acceptable to the prairie hen as the grasshopper, any kind
being agreeab!e, and this claes of food is varied by consuming beetles and some mis-
vellaneous insects, together with a small amount of vegetable matter. One notable
feature of this fowl which makes it of especial value to the farmer hes in the fact
that it is a consumer of those pests which are injurious to the farm and garden.
On this account the farmers of the east have greatly missed the prairie hen as it
became extinct in those sections where once it thrived. Efforts are being made
among them to establish measures for its reintroduction and protection. However,
in the winter when snow covers the ground, it visits the cornfield as a favorite place
for securing sustenance. The law protects the prairie hen until January 1, 1915

(SNUBDJIIOWEB sny ynuBdWwA I )

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO. 45

THE CROW.

The crow is now protected along with other non-game birds, but in my opin-
ion is unworthy of this consideration. In some states the crows have become so
destructive that the government receives their heads in lieu of taxes, at a smail
given price. Two serious charges are made against the crow, as regards its relation
to other birds, in that it destroys the eggs and young of domesticated fowls and is
even more destructive to those of wild birds. The testimony of observers is
abuadant and unimpeachable regarding these charges. Dr. John D. Godman, atter
years of careful observation, mainly in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, says:

“Where food is at any time scarce, or the opportunity for such marauding
inviting, there is scarcely a young animal about the farmyards safe from the
attacks of the crow. Young chickens, ducks, goslings, and even little pigs,
when quite young and feeble, are carried off by them. They are not less eager
to discover the nests of domestic fowls, and will sit very quietly in sight, at

a convenient distance, until the hen leaves the nest, and then fly down and

suck her eggs at leisure.”

Crows are ale so very destructive to corn, the evidence being voluminous and
conclusive. In addition to destroying corn in the milk, crows are fond of pulling
the sprouting leaves, often causing very great damage to the fields of the farmer,
who has come to regard this freebooter as a dangerous enemy. In my judgment
the common crow should be taken from the list of protected birds.

OUR VANISHING SHORE BIRDS.
Regarding these birds, W. L. MecAtee, assistant biologist, says:

“The term shorebird is applied to a group of long-legged, slender-billed,
and usually plainly colored birds belonging to the order Limicola. More than
60 species of them occur in North America. True to their name they frequent
the shores of all bodies of water, large and small, but many of them are equally
at home on plains and prairies.

“Shorebirds have been hunted until only a remnant of their once vast
numbers are left. Their limited power of reproduction, coupled with the
natural vicissitudes of the breeding period, make their increase slow, and pe-
culiarly expose them to danger of extermination.

“In the way of protection a beginning has been made, and a continuous
close season until 1915 has been established for the following birds: The kill-
deer, in Massachusetts and Louisiana; the upland plover, in Massachusetts and
Vermont; and the piping plover, in Massachusetts. But, considering the needs
and value of these birds, this modicum of protection is small indeed.

“The above-named species are not the only ones that should be exempt
from persecution, for all the shorebirds of the United States are in great need
of better protection. They should be protected, first, to save them from the
danger of extermination, and, second, because of their great economic im-
portance. So great, indeed, is their economic value, that their retention on the
game list and their destruction by sportsmen is a serious loss to agriculture.”

46 REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO.

BIG GAME OF NEW MEXICO.

Of all the big game found in the west the elk stands supreme in a class by
himself. New Mexico has not known this noble specimen of the antlered tribe
for many years, though formerly it was known as the elk’s home. When the Indians
roamed and hunted at will through this great hunter’s territory, and held the lands
as their own, as a supposed right of inheritance, they ruthlessly slaughtered the
elk, and with no opportunity for natural increase, they were finally eliminated
entirely from the confines of New Mexico. Even today the horns of this splendid
aniinal are found in the mountain ranges, which is conclusive evidence that elk
were formerly abundant in this region.

This imposing and kingly animal, often designated as the “Monarch of the
Glen,” is not surpassed for beauty and majesty in the game animal kingdom,
New Mexico is the natural habitat of the elk, as the winters are not so severe, the
feed is abundant and the range unlimited. The climate in this state is in strong
contrast with that of Wyoming and other states of the extreme north, where elk
abound, and where the long, severe winters, with deep snows, are most disastrous.
From the Jackson Hole region, Wyoming, come most pitiful stories of starving
elk, where, because their food is covered by the abounding snows or withered by
drought, the poor creatures have died in great bands for lack of sustenance. The
legislature of Wyoming appropriated money to buy food for these starving ani-
mals; likewise, the congress of the United States appropriated a large sum, and
the farmers gave liberally of their supply of hay, but in spite of these efforts to
aid and sustain them, the elk died, literally by thousands from actual starvation.

In the above named state where they are most numerous, elk are regarded
as a valuable asset to the commonwealth, from a purely financial standpoint, as
no animal is more attractive to the hunter after big game than the elk, and
those coming from distant points from year to year, run into large numbers,
more than willing to pay the non-resident hunter’s fee of $20.00. The habits of
ihe elk are not generally known, yet make an interesting study. The bull elk
shed their wonderful antlers each year, usually beginning about the first of March,
though sometimes they are shed much earlier, and others carry them till May.
During the period of shedding and while the new horns are growing the bulls
assemble in bands, remaining entirely apart from the cows. Later on, about the
last of September, when the horns are fully grown, a complete change comes over
them and their gentle nature develops into one at once belligerant and irascible.
At this time many a battle royal takes place between rivel bulls, and the moun-
tains echo with that peculiar whistle which ends with a deep roar. It is then that each
bull endeavors to gather into a herd all the cows he can induce to follow him.
Any interference with a bull at this time by any rival means a terrific fight. One
characteristic of the elk is that they have no fear of dogs or coyotes, as they kill
them by striking them with their front feet.

Realizing the importance of stocking our forests with these superb animals
and recognizing the natural conditions so manifest here, I purchased with monies
derived from the game protection fund, twelve head of three year old elk, in Routt

THE ELK.

As They Appeared When Brought Into New Mexico, May, 1911.

Snap-shot of a Portion of the Same Band on Their Range,
* November, 1911.

Near Cimarron,

48 REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO.

county, Colorado. This purchase included nine cows and three bulls, which I
divided into three separate bands consisting of three cows and one bull each. One
of these bands was released in Red River canyon, about fifteen miles north of
Raton; a second in Gallinas canyon, twelve miles northwest of Las Vegas, and a
third in the Cimarron canyon in Colfax county.

On the accompanying pages will be found a picture of these elk when received
by me, and a second showing the present condition and appearance of the bunch
which I released in the Cimarron canyon. It will be of interest to note the com-
parative appearance as shown in the picture when the elk were received in May
and again when the second picture was taken in November, 1911. The ragged-
ness and depleted condition in the one is in strong contrast to the splendid, flourish-
ing appearance in the other A close inspection of the larger picture will disclose
two knobs on the head of the male elk where the horns are just beginning to
grow, while in the smaller picture they are seen in full maturity, each prong in-
dicating one year’s age.

The accompanying letter describes the condition of one band of these elk at the
present time:

THE URRACA RANCH.
Cimarron, New Mexico.

“December 16, 1911.
“Mr. Thomas P. Gable,
“Santa Fe, New Mexico.

“Dear Mr. Gable:

“I take pleasure in enclosing herewith several very good pictures of the
band of elk which I have on the Urraca Ranch . These elk are doing splendid-
ly and the two calves which were dropped shortly after their arrival are al-
most full grown. I find these animals very thrifty and not at all hard to
handle. The bull, as you will observe, has become a splendid specimen. It is
my opinion that if elk are imported to this section of New Mexico and held
a sufficient length of time to become thoroughly acclimated and located, they
will make no further effort to wander from this range and that it will be an
easy matter to restock the ranges of the state which are adapted to their mode
of hving.

“T think your step in this direction is one of the best things ever done by
any game warden that we have ever had. It will add immensely, in years to
come, to the attraction offered new settlers and sportsmen to the state. I
take pleasure at this time also in stating that as a result of your willingness to
freely appoint game wardens in this section the game im this vicinity has been
well protected and is remarkably on the increase. Both turkey and deer have
been plentiful in this section this fall. Although I have been a careful ob-
server, I have discovered no extensive abuses of the law. J think the system
which you have established is good and I wish you at this time every success

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW NEXICO. 49

in the efforts you are making to protect and advance the game interests of the
new state.
“With the season’s best wishes, I remain,
“Very truly yours,
“Gro. H. WEBSTER, JR.

W. H. Bartlett, proprietor of a big game preserve in Vermejo Park, has
probably twenty-five or thirty head of elk, and Judge A. B. Fall reports that five
head have been seen in Otero county, located in Indian Creek canyon, which is
one of the branches of Three Rivers. It is not known how these elk came to be in
this locality, nor from whence they came.

All of the elk released are in excellent condition, six calves having been born,
and all are thriving finely. It is my desire and hope to secure from Wyoming at
least two carloads of elk for distribution in other parts of the state.

The game laws of New Mexico make a closed season on elk.

THE DEER.

In respect to deer, I take great pleasure in reporting that these graceful, hand-
some, winning animals are certainly increasing rapidly, the numbers at present
being far in excess of those for many years past. This is due, without doubt, to the
more strict enforcement of the game laws, compelling a cessation of wholesale
slaughter, the destroying of deer blinds and salt licks, maintained in districts where
deer abound, and to the watchfulness and energy of the deputy game wardens who
have had the hearty co-operation of the forest officers.

There is no more popular nor seductive sport offered the huntsman, than that
afforded by the annual camp in the woods and mountains, where, gathered about
the roaring night fire, weired tales are exchanged of past experiences, and hopes
expressed for good fortune on the morrow. Perhaps there is no pleasure more al-
luring to the real lover of outdoor life than he finds in those hours of relaxation, far
removed from care, anxiety and responsibility, when, with an untrammeled spirit, he
can give free rein to pleasure and enter, without restraint, into the excitement
and exhilaration of the chase. It is a pleasure to know that the state of New Mexico
offers splendid opportunities of just this nature to the true sport lovers both at home
and abroad.

One point to which I would eall attention in the game laws, is that relative to
the killing of deer with horns. This is an excellent provision and should be re-
tained. It is protective in a further sense than to the game. being as well, a saver
of human life. The killing of hunters has become a very serious matter in other
states, during the deer season, and any provision of law that offers such protec-
tion is worthy of retention. In looking for deer in the woods, the huntsman is liable
to become excited at the least noise and shoot without investigating, taking it for
eranted that he has a deer. If the law compels the hunter to discriminate between
a buck and doe, he will stop long enough, at least, to find out what he is shooting
at, and insthat hesitation, lies the protection afforded by this law. Year by year
the number of people killed and maimed by careless hunters is steadily on the

‘GHIWASILLVS

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO. 51

increase. ‘The reports from game wardens in various states are fairly startling.
In a recent season the total number of accidental deaths reached seventy-four,
with. seventy persons injured, some of them so seriously that death was likely to
result. Any law that has a tendency to lessen this dangerous evil, can but be
salutary in its results.

THE BEAVER.

Undoubtedly, the majority of people in New Mexico are of the opinion that
the beaver is practically extinct in this state. As a commercial factor it is true,
that the beaver ceased to exist some years ago, but it does not follow that this in-
teresting and industrious little animal should pass entirely from those localities
which he has so long known. ‘The beavers are as prolific as muskrats and in former
years were very abundant, before the entrance of the trapper who sought him for
the value of his fur, which constitutes the beaver’s chief worth; but he has other
economic uses of great importance, as well. His practice is to construct extensive
dams at the head of streams, thereby forming ponds, which make fine resorts for
trout, and in a rainless season, when drought pravails, these ponds become avail-
able for irrigation purposes.

In building these dams the beavers disylay almost human intelligence, as they
prepare their material by cutting down cottonwood and quaking aspens, going
always above the dam site for these logging operations, and cutting the trunks
through with their marvelously strong teeth which are as effective as a saw. They
then float or drag the logs down to the point where the dam is to be constructe:l.
After placing the larger logs they chink in the spaces as, in early days, the pioneer
used to chink his log house. Recently on a trip of investigation which was made
in answer to a complaint charging damage done by beavers, I found a great many
pieces of young timber, cut in lengths of from two to four feet, piled on the bank
cf the streain to be used by these cunning mechanics in the chinking process,
when constructing the dam. They lay these small pieces between the large logs,
and plaster in the mud, using their tails as trowels.

The dams themselves cause no particular damage, but are really a benefit
except in case of floods caused by extended rainfalls or melting snows which
cause the water to rise to the overflowing point, when, in many instances, the
adjoining lands are submerged and frequently the channel of the stream is en-
tirely changed and valuable lands and crops are destroyed. In streams of the
size and character of the Rio Grande the water is too swift and floods too numerous,
I presume, for the operation of the beavers, as they have not made any attemp¢
to construct dams there. However, there are a great many beavers on this streani
from the neighborhood of Belen to Embudo., They burrow in the bank and build
homes, where they rear their families, living on cottonwood and willows found in
adjacent territory. In places where they have exhausted their favorite food they
have become quite troublesome and destructive by attacking orchards, the bark of
the apple trees, being especially favored. I have been requested to issue permits
for the trapping of beaver in several instances where orchards were being de-
stroyed, and have not hesitated to give the permission requested, as I regard one

52 REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO.

apple tree ten years of age as of more intrinsic value than a whole colony of
beavers.

While beaver are more numerous in Colfax county, due to the protection
given by the ranch owners who realize their benefit as storers of water, yet they
are also found in large numbers in Taos, Rio Arriba, San Juan, Lincoln and San
Miguel counties.

It is probably true that occasionally applications have been made by parties.
for the capture of beaver for the purpose of using the fur only, but in each case
I have endeavored to ascertain definitely the conditions and facts from direct evi-

dence, either by personal investigation or by reports from deputies before issuing
a permit.

GENERAL OBSERVATIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS.

It is the general purpose of the game and fish laws to protect the wild life in
our forests, streams and woodljands from reckless slaughter and eventual annihila-
tion. Not long would these beautiful, charming and valuable auxiliaries to our
state’s attractiveness and prosperity be left to us were the strong, protective edicts
of the law erased from the statute books.

It is the highest duty of those entrusted with the execution of the law t)
prosecute without fear or favor those who wilfully violate it, and to use every
endeavor not only to protect our defenseless wild game and fish from destruction,
but to retain what we already have and prevent its depletion by constant restock-.
ing and adopting methods of propagation. .

In the earlier days, when the protection of game and fish was first considered,
and experimental methods were being tried, the whcle matter was lightly regarded,
and not deemed to be of much importance. As the subject was forced upon the
people by the constant and rapid decrease of wild game, the question of protection
and propagation assumed a grave significance and the sentimert has grown steadily,
until now the department of game and fish is regarded in most of our states as
second to none in importance. ‘Touching this phase of the subject, I quote from
the report of Jesse A. Tolerton, game and fish warden of Missouri, giving a
synopsis of the speech of Dr. T. 8. Palmer, in charge of National game preserva-
tion, Washington, D. C. The speech was delivered at a gathering of state and
federal officiais at the fifth annval convention of wardens and commissioners of
the United States. The quotation is as follows:

“Dr. Palmer maintained that for the best results the system should be
put on a basis where it would work automatically, even if the head suddenly
resigned or was incapavitated for service for any reason. He advocated the
building up of a body of men who give their whole time to the work. Game
warden siould be a profession, not a job, and that the position should be taken
out of politics, as the subject was large enough and broad enough to require
the best energies and the greatest amount of knowledge that could be put into
it. Each state must learn of other states and foreign countries. Even South
Africa leads America in some problems of game protection.”

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO. 53
Further, on this subject we quote from Commissioner Kelly Evans, a dis-

tinguished authority on game and fish, as follows:

“Under the stress of modern civilization the jack-of-all-trades is rapidly
being replaced by the specialist in every branch of business and commercial
life. It is not sufficient for a man to be a respectable citizen, with just enough
knowledge of his profession to enable him to disguise his own incapacity
beneath a veneer of self-assurance. To get on in the world, to make good, a
man must know his gun—lock, stock and barrel; his business from top to
bottom and inside out. The professional man grasps this, and attunes him-
self to the situation; the business man realizes it, and, as employer, demands
it of his employees. Unfortunately, however, in the machinery for the en-
forcement of the regulations, designed to conserve for the people some of
the natural food resources of the province, this most important fact seems to
have been neglected, or, at least, overlooked.

“The organization of the outside service of the department of game and
fisheries is not the creation of any one man or of one political party. It is,
on the contrary, the child of circumstance, nurtured by the partizan spirit of
political patronage, and handed down from one administration to another.
Though of late years a very distinct improvement has taken place, the brief-
est study of the system will disclose the necessity for radical reform.

“That the men entrusted by the government with the enforcement of the
law on its waters or in its woods should be expert sailors or woodsmen, as the
case may be, and physically capable of discharging their duties, none will be
found to deny; as likewise the fact that to employ those who are not, is, in
the efficacy of its pecuniary investment, closely akin to casting gold into a
bottomless pit. * * * * )

“That a subordinate officer, entrusted with the enforcement of the game
and fishery regulations over a district comprising many miles of lake and
woodland should be 90 years of age; that an officer of the outside service,
occupying a position of some importance, should generally have the reputation
among persons in his district of being unused to the handling of a boat, and
timid of venturing his person on the water; that a game warden should have no
woodcraft, and be afraid to venture alone into the woods; that another should
attach himself to a shooting party and indulge with them in the illegal destruc-
tion of game during the closed season—these are, to say the least of it, absurd:-
ties; and yet they are but few of the instances brought to the attention of your
commissioners. * * * * *

“In the selection of officers for the outside service of the department
of game and fisheries it would seem that the principal general requirements
to be looked for are good character and sobriety, health, energy, strength
fearlessness, tact, thorough knowledge of the game laws and fishery regula-
tions, and education sufficient to read and write; and that, in particular, for
the fisheries protective service, knowledge of the different fishes, knowledge
of the waters to be patrolled; and, in particular, for the inland service, know-

or

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO. )

ledge of the denizens of the woods, their characteristics and habits, should be
considered indispensable attainments.”

CLERICAL WORK.

The clerical work of this department since the license law went into effect
has assumed such proportions as to surprise anyone who has not given attention
to the matter. A complete change of system became necessary and on many oc-
casions additional office help was required to keep up with the work,

There are at present 148 collecting deputies who issue licenses. Every book
of licenses sent out must be charged to the party receiving it, and this involves
the keeping of an individual and separate account for each license collector, and
eacli month, as the monies from the sale of the same are sent to the state treasurer,
he in turn informs us of the amount which must be credited to the individual
account of the person remitting it. Each license collector is required to make
monthly reports to this office, the number of licenses issued, and the amount of
money remitted to the state treasurer, which report is compared and must balance
with that of the state treasurer. The bookkeeping referred to above is but a
small proportion of the clerical work necessary. Every license is made out
in duplicate, from a written and signed application, the licensee receiving the
original, the duplicate or carbon copy being sent to this office, while the application
is retained by the deputy issuing the license. When one stops to consider that the
issuance of licenses annually, is over ten thousand, some idea can be gained of the
amount of work that is necessary to handle this part of the routine alone.

At the beginning of each year when it is necessary to send out the packages
of licenses to county leuk and other license collectors the same must be weighed,
addressed, and either expressed or sent by registered mail, and a receipt for same
sent to each individual collector for his signature and return to this office. This,
in itself, is no small undertaking.

The correspondence received by this office, and which must be taken care
of, has assumed proportions scarcely believable. When the license system first
went into effect, hundreds of letters of inquiry were received and answered, some
of them requiring lengthy explanations relative to the new law, an average of
fifty to one hundred letters being sent out daily for some time. It will be readily
recognized that the keeping in touch with over three hundred deputies, to say
nothing of the numerous inquiries from private citizens, both in our own and from
other states, entails a very extensive correspondence.

MINORS CARRYING GUNS.

It seems to me quite proper at this time to call especial attention to the danger
of allowing children under seventeen years of age to carry fire arms. The joke
books have had a wide range of material for fun making over the “gun that wasn’t
loaded,” but in reality, fire arms in the hands of irresponsible or careless persons,
are a source of very great hazard. But, aside from the danger involved, there is
another important consideration, and that is the deplorable destruction of our

56 REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO.

bird life. It is safe to say that more song and insectiverous birds are destroyed
by boys with twenty-two rifles than by all other agencies combined.

In connection with this subject of gun carrying, it is a question if the best
method of licensing hunters is not by gun license in place of the present method.
The revenue from the gun license would be increased over the present one, and
it would have a tendency to check the killing of game out of season. For in-
stance, if the warden discovered some chap out with a gun in the closed season,
and would ask him what he was doing with his gun in the field, it is easy to
imagine the answer, “I am cut hunting rabbits.” Or, if the game hunter was out
during the closed turkey and grouse season, and were called to account, it is but
natural to say, “I am hunting predatory animals.’ A gun license system would
obviate this difficulty. Under such a method no minor could carry a gun without
legal permission, and this could not be secured without the consent of his parents
or guardian.

In my opinion the proper handling of fire arms should be taught in our pub-
lic schools, and the lessons should be given to both boys and girls. In these days,
especially in our western states, the ranchwoman, as well as the ranchman, oftea
has occasion to use a rifle or a gun, and, in her hands, understanding as she does,
their mechanism and use, they are harmless as the rolling pin. Danger in the
manipulation of fire arms would be entirely eradicated, if the children were given
lessons in their use.

The operation of such 2 department as that of game and fish warden cannot
be successfully carried out without the cordial confidence and active co-operation -
vf the people in general, and from them must come, in greater part, the informa-
tion regarding violations of the game laws. ‘To render co-operation effective the
sentiment of the citizens of the state must be with the cause of game protection and
propagation; and, on the other hand, the officers of the department must have the
confidence of the people. It is a well known fact that any information offered
is given in the belief that the name of the informant will not be divulged, and
with the understanding that he will be in no way connected with the prosecution.
The information given is usually more or less indefinite as to the facts, and it
then devolves upon this department to ferret out the evidence and substantiate the
statements given. J am very much gratified to be able to state that this office has
enjoyed the cordial co-operation above suggested. While the office of warden in-
volves duties largely similar to those of the police, yet. bemg often far removed
from headquarters, the deputies are frequently compelled to rely upon their own
initiative and depend on their own judgment, as to the course of action they
shall pursue.

All deputies, when appointed, are instructed as follows:

“Tt is not the policy of this department to be too officious in interfere with
hunters or fishermen to the extent of making this office obnoxious. What is de-
sired, however, is to pursue, without fear or favor, all those who knowingly, wil-
fully or maliciously violate the law.”

The result of many investigations proves that complaints have been made

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO. Yi

from motives of malice and a desire to persecute some one for personal reasons and
with no wish to further the interest of game protection.

Following is a list of deputies in active service at this time. In making these
appvintments it has been my aim to comply with the wishes of the residents in
the vicinity where the services of a deputy seemed necessary, without reference to
their political affiliations, but with a view only to securing men who were com-
petent, who would devote the requisite time to the work, and take an active interest
in it. Owing to the great distance to the county seats, in some sections of the
state, where the clerks are authorized to issue licenses, I have deemed it best to
appoint collecting deputies by whom hunters could be readily accomodated, there-
by debarring the offer of any excuse for hunting without a license. Many of these
deputies, being ardent sportsmen, have sacrificed freely, their time and have ex-
pended their own money in the service, with no other return than the twenty-five
cent fee, given on the issuing of each license. In this connection I desire to extend
to these assistants my most sincere appreciation of their able, faithful and intel-
ligent attention to their duties.

Monarch of the Glen.

58

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO.

DEPUTY GAME AND FISH WARDENS IN NEW MEXICO.

Santa Fe County.

Willi Gable Fischer, chief deputy,

Geo. W. Armijo,
Weddle ie ras
Elmer R. Sayle,
W. A. Bernard,
Jose A. Gomez,
Te Ch rion.
James Coleman,
W. M. Taber,

T. W. Hanna,
D.. L. Miller,

AS he pier.
A. D. Catanach,
James Leese,
Fred V. Plomteaux,
Gus Hunter,

J. W. Akers,
J. W. Giddings,

A. E. Walker,
Tony Michaelbach,

Raymond B. Stamm,

Joe K. Platero,
J. Fred Klein,
H. B. Hammond,
J. F. Mullen,
Louis Holt,
William Brown,
Fred Snyder,
Herbert M. Gaines,
W. R. Mattoon,
ed Parbsela,
Chas. M. Douglas,

EK. G. Twitty,
Douglas Wright,
J. F. Hutchinson,
Wm. B. Hickman,
tamon Abreu,

J. Van Houten,

Bernalillo County.

Colfax County.

Santa Fe.
Santa Fe.
Santa Fe.
Santa Fe.
Golden.
Ildefonso.
Hyer.
Cerrillos.
Glorieta.
Lamy.
Santa Fe.
Santa Fe.
Santa Fe.
Hspanola.
Santa Fe.
Santa Fe.
Santa Fe.
Santa Fe.

Old Albuquerque.
Old Albuquerque.
Albuquerque.
Albuquerque.
Albuquerque.
Albuquerque.
Albuquerque.
Albuquerque.
Old Albuquerque.
Albuquerque.
Albuquerque.
Albuquerque.
Barton.
Albuquerque.

Raton.
Springer.
Springer.
Cimarron.
Springer.
Rator.

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO.

Wm. T. Riley,
J. A. Black,

ds Ban,

Kk. H. Donaldson,
J. A. Hurst,

O. EK. Maulsby,
L. J. Edmunds.

Geo. H. Webster, Jr.,

W. L. Howard,
EK. R. Manning,
Jno. Friend,
Narcisso Valdez,
Chas. F. Lambert,

_D. D. Steffel ,

Abe Hixenbaugh,
D. Baldwin,

A. L. Hobbs,
Wade Brackett,
Geo. Young,
Joseph Rich,
Dilo Chacon,

Si Hickox,

Chas. H. Coulter,
Robert W. Denny,
J. D. Williams,
Henry Anderson,
E. B. Cropp,
Phil S. Baker,
Leon B. Ryan,
Wm. E. Inglis,
Karl Raney,

W. D. Walton,
Ed. Flynn,
Frank Curtis,

R. F. Ballard,
B. R. Buffam,
J. M. Johnson,
B. Cleve,

J. C. Eoff,

D. R. Patrick,
M. W. Evans,
Frank W. Crain,
A. C. Jones,

Chaves County.

Vermejo Park.
Dawson.
Cimarron.
French.
Dawson.
Koehler.
Raton.
Cimarron.
Cimarron.
Cimarron.
Cimarron.
Cimarron.
Cimarron.
Cimarron.
Raton.

Raton.

Raton.

Raton.
Vermejo Park.
Ponil Park.
Vermejo Park.
Vermejo Park.
Raton.

Raton.

P. O. Trinidad, Colorado.

Vermejo Park.
Raton.
Vermejo Park.
Koehler.
Vermejo Park.
Vermejo Park.
Raton.
Vermejo Park.
Vermejo Park.

Roswell.
foswell.

Roswell.

Elk.
Plainview.

Dexter.

Lake Arthur.

Dexter.

Hagerman.

o9

NIVUL MOVd HHL AC SSO AHL

ag a

f

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO.

Wm. P. Johnson,
M. 8S. Murray,
R. B. House,

BC. Blumlein,
F. P. Helm,

Isidoro Armijo,
Edw. Ehle ,

Benj. J. Viljoen,
Chas. T. Bartlett,
Austin Beasley,
Manuel R. Chaves,
James H. Knight,
R. Findley,

. L. Nation,

T. Raynolds,
oul, Jr,

. W. Taylor,
M. Piersol,

O. Bennett,

CSS ae

A. R. O’Quinn,
G. P. Jackson,
L. E. Klebolds,
John Stewart,
James M. Wood,
C. O. Merrifield,
Mark A. Corbin,
Chas. W. Lewis,
Daniel E. Bass,
James Harp,
Doc. N. Vest,
James M. Berry,
H. M. Chilcoat,

E. B. Venable,
S. A. Frey,

A. L. Bayne,
W. E. Watson,
Warren R. Huff,

Curry County.

Dona Ana County.

Eddy County.

Grant County.

Elk.
Roswell.
Roswell.

Clovis.
Clovis.

Las Cruces.
Las Cruces.
La Mega.
La Mesa.
Mesilla Park.
Mesilla.
Rincon.
Earlham.
Lanark.

La Mesa.
Las Cruces.
Rincon.
Hatch.

Las Cruces.

Carlsbad.
Malaga.
Knowles.
Queen.
Lakewood.
Hope.
Artesia.
Carlsbad.
Queen.
Carlsbad.
Carlsbad.
Dayton.
Loving.

Silver City.
Leopold.
Silver City.
Pinos Altos.
Central.

6k

62 REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO.

J. Crockett Givens, Central.

B .B. Ownby, Lordsburg.

Wm. T. Smith, Gila.

Hlza E. Poynter, Fierro.

Beverage. Pinos Altos.

Cecil R. C. Reindorp, Central.

M. H. Burford, Silver City.

Murray Averitt, P. O. Apache, Arizona.

Clayton M. Howells. Silver City.
Guadalupe County.

F. D>-Crespine
Chas. J. Martin,
Jaspar P. Brooks,

taymundo Harrison,

Monroe Williams,
EK. D. Monsimer,

J. F. Harbin,

Lee O. Lester,
C. C. Fielder,
Henry Mann,
W. D. Close,

J. G. Riggle,

I. W. Wingfield,
Chas. McMasters,
August Mayer,
Lewis J. Mundell,
Joseph Swain,

Marshall D. Loveless,
Raymond R. Rogers,

James R. Coleman,
John L. Bryan,
James A. Scott,
James H. Kinney,
James A. Lafferty,
Joseph Long,

W. C. Munda,

H. D. Murray,
W: KH. Carter,
John V. Hobble,
talph L. Bateman,
Lee R. York;

Luna County.

Lincoln County.

Santa Rosa.
Santa Rosa.
Ft. Sumner.
Anton Chico.
Vaughn.
Tsidor.
Cuervo.

Deming.
Deming.
Whitewater.
Columbus.

Lincoln.
tuidosa.
Carrizozo.
Picacho.
Holloway.
White Oaks.
Meek.
Lincoln.
Lincoln.
Nogal.
Capitan.
Capitan.
Richardson.
Meek.
Ancho.
Tinnie.
Ruidosa.
2ichardson
Glencoe.
Capitan.

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO.

F. W. Meyers,
Dr. E. J. Davis ,
D. E.. Harrington
‘Tom Ransome,
Chas. P. Gage,
Clarence Johnson.
Edward G. Miller.
Geo. K. Pradt,

Alberto Valdez,
Kk. D. Woodbury,
F. M. Hughes,
HK. J. H. Roy,
Frank A. Roy,
Geo. A. Viles,

John H. Bowman,
Thos. H. Tucker,
Leo. Rogers,

H. L. Newman,
D. 8. Mills,

Frank Curry,
Sam E. Blocker,
Saml. F. Miller,
Peleg G. Kinney,
J. B. Wingfield ,
Jesse A. Brubaker,
Verne Rhodes,

A. M. Neal,
James Madison,
L. L. Jones,

A. N. Bailey,
Fred A. Weir,

J. D. Allsup,

Jas. A. Simmons,
T. B. Longwell,

Wm. Jno. Anderson,

J. W. Belk,

Bert L. Hilburn,
James G. Sehultz,
J. H .Wallace,
"D. D. Harkness,
Frank Maxwell,

McKinley County.

Mora County.

Otero County.

Gallup.
Zuni.

Guam.
Gallup.

P. O. Fort Defiance, Arizona.

Gallup.
Guam.
Grants.

Mora.
Watrous.
Solano.
Roy.

Roy.
Cleveland.

Alamogordo.
Alamogordo.
Cloudcroft.
Newman.
Weed.
Tularosa.
Mesealero.
Mescalero.
Mesealero.
Three Rivers.
Alamogordo.
Alamogordo.
Alamogordo.
Alamogordo.
Alamogordo.
Alamogordo.
Alamogordo.
Pinon.
Clouderoft.
Clouderoft.
Clouderoft.
Clouderoft.
Weed.
Pinon.
Pinon.

La Luz.
Bent.

64

R. P. Donohoo,
W. I. Benner,
A. P. Seigel,
M. B. Peyton,
W. C. Hawkins,
oD Ebr:

Elhicio Lucero,
Max Quintana,
C: L. Pollard;
F. G. Blake,
Emmet Wirt,

J. W. Beck,
Carpio Archuleta,

Rio Arriba

Quay County.

Harry P. Huntington,

Elias Clark,

L. A. Shartzey,
James P. Lease,
xeo. Ray,

He knw

C2-PyaMatchelile
W. E. Marsh,
Jeff Hightower.

Andrew Kelley,
Thomas Verner,
Theo. Asselhofen,
C. M. Wells,

G. F. Worden,
VeiG.Erujililo,
W. S. Barnes,
S. Shanks,
Joseph W. Reid,
Reuben Pankey,
W. H. Weston,

L. G. Eblen,
J. Craig,
M. L. Burrows,

F. Randall,

Roosevelt County.

Sierra County.

San Juan County.

County.

REPORT OF GAME AND GISH WAYHDEN FOR NEW MEXICO.

Tucumeari.
Obar.

Nara Visa.
‘Tucumeari.
Tucumeari.

Quay.

Tierra Amarilla.

P. QO. Ortiz, Colorado.

Espanola.
Coyote.
Dulce.

El Rito.
Truchas.
Chama.
Alealde.
Canjilon.
Espanola.
Chama.

P. QO. Ortiz, Colorado.

Portales.
Portales.
Portales.

Hillsboro.
Chloride.
Cutter,
Engle.

Las Palomas.
Fairview.
Monticello.
Fairview.
Kingston.
Hillsboro.
Cutter.

Aztec.
Farmington.
Farmington.
Aztec.

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO.

EK. H. Sweet,
Wm. Borrowdale,
Frank Johnson,
Lee Baldwin,

Powell Stackhouse, Jr.,

J. A. MeDonald,
CB. Clark,

W. J. Andrus,

K. V. Baca,

Pete McFarland,
Albert C. Wagner,
Lee O. Carson,
Wm. Criswell,

J. J. Bruton,

W. G. Music,

A. H. Douglas,
R. F. Bathis,

EK.. H. Crabb,

J. F. Russell,

R. S. Blatehford,
B. J. Fischer,
Geo. Beyer,
Frederick Winn,
D:-F.- Wells,

W .H. Goddard,
R. W. Lewis,
Clinton A. Hodges,
By hi. Carter,

L. G. Haynes,
W. 8. Day,
Benjamin F. Hooten,
H. Basil Wales,
W. B. Bunton,
Geo. W. Miller,
Ross M. Atkins,
A. O. Reynolds,
R. F. Rheinhardt,
G. S. Exon,

Owen Holt,

F. P. Sickles,
Robert F. Reid,
Earl B. Young,
Herbert B. Fay.

Socorro County.

Socorro.
Magdalena.

San Marcial.

Reserve.

San Antonio.

Kelley.
Mogollon.
Aragon.
Socorro.
Magdalena.
Reserve.
Reserve.
Reserve.
Reserve.
Reserve.
Reserve.
Magdalena.
Magdalena.
Magdalena.
Magdalena.
Magdalena.
Magdalena.
Magdalena.
Magdalena.
Magdalena.
Magdalena.
Magdalena.
Magdalena.
Magdalena.
Magdalena.
Magdalena.
Magdalena.
Magdalena.
Magdalena:
Magdalena.
Luna.
Rosedale.

Water Canyon, via Socorra
San Antonio,

Socorro.
Alma.
Mogollon.
Mogollon.

66

Alfred N. Montoya,

Julius Seligman.
J. W. Miller,
EK. M. Fenton,
Victor Mallett,
H. E. Freclove,
M. Martinez.

Edgar C. Kennison,

Daniel W. Carter,
Hipolito Lucero,
Juan C. Chaves,

Lorenzo Delgado,
Wm. Harper,

John A. Rudolph,

Luther P. Raines.

San

Sandoval County.

Miguel County.

Ludwig William Ilfeld,

R. W. Smith,
W. W. Tipton,
G. M. Jones,

L. H. Misseman,

Sostensen Aragon,

Clarence Wright,
D. L. Williams,
Victor Vigil,

W. F. Steadman,
Bedi iracey,

S. W. Hill,
Pablo Martinez,

A. Clouthier,

Be Me Outazs

F. W. Drake,

A. A. Rivera,
Fidel Martinez,
Daniel Martinez,
iB. G. Phillips,
E. F. Lawrence,
Harry Martin,

Taos County.

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO.

Bernalillo.
Domingo.
Jemez. -

Jemez Springs.
Bernalillo.
Senorita.

Cuba.

Pines.

Pines.

Jemez Springs.
Algodones.

Kast Las Vegas.
Kast Las Vegas.
tociada.

Bell Ranch.

Las Vegas.

Kast Las Vegas.
Kast Las Vegas.
East Las Vegas.
Beaulah.

Fulton.

Glorieta.

Glorieta.

Cowles.

Las Vegas.
Rowe.

Rowe.

Pecos.

Taos.

Questa.
Hodges.
Taos.
Penasco.
Penasco.
Taos.

Taos.

Tres Piedras.

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO. 67

Torrance County.

E. W. Roberson, Estancia.

Julius Meyers, Estancia.

J. W. Collier, Estancia. )

C.. Lb. Burt, Mountainair.

C. E. Davenport, Encino.

S. E. D. Sears, Willard.

Fred Kroenig, Mountainair.

J. H. Sherman, Tajique.

T. W. Carscallen, Mountainair.

Stephen Q. Garst, Willard.

John S. Moore, Estancia.

B. F. Nabours, Progresso,
Union County.

J. A. Pacheco, Clayton.

J. M. Martinez, Folsom.

Lee E. Byrne, N. Des Moines.

Benjamin F. Brown, Gould.

L. EH. Gallegos, Clayton.

J. M. Iiuna,
J. F. Tondre,

Valencia County.

Leos Lunas.
Los Lunas.

Alex MeInnis, McCartys.
Wm. Owens, Belen.
W. D. Radcliffe, Belen.
Samuel C. Young, (Bluewater.

Captain Fred Fornoff and his efficient corps of mounted police have ren-

dered signal service to this department by the able and vigorous manner in which
they have at all times co-operated with me in the carrying out of this important
work.

The newspapers of the state have contributed much toward the success of the
game and fish department in the zealous and hearty assistance they have unfailing-
ly rendered in giving space freely to the dissemination of information regarding
the law, and detailing the efforts being made to place New Mexico in her rightful
position as foremost among the game states of America.

The district attorneys and judges of our courts have shown commendable

zeal in the handling of cases coming under game law violations, and have
ever been ready to take up these matters when brought to their attention. The

sheriffs, justices of the peace and constables have also displayed a willingness to
do their part in upholding the law and carrying out its provisions.

JUST ONE MORE BEFORE SUPPER.

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO. 69

During my incumbency of this office, the records show:
107 Arrests
99 Convictions.
6 Acquittals.
2 Cases Pending.

In the matter of establishing private game preserves in the state and the con-
struction of private parks and ponds for the propagation of fish, and the disposal
of the same in the market, I desire strongly to recommend this method of pro-
cedure, as I believe it would prove to be of great value to the people. In a previous
chapter of this report, I have set forth the reasons that have led to this con-
clusion. Under this system, I conceive the most satisfactory method to be to issue
a license to the proprietor of every private park or lake; such license to extend
over a period of from two to ten years, the shorter period calling for the larger
license fee.

There can be no question that the establishment of these private preserves
would be of benefit alike to the owner and the people. Many ranchmen could,
with little expense, construct these ponds without damage to the public waters,
and from them they would reap an additional revenue from their Jand. This will
apply as well to game parks. The benefits would not be alone to the proprietors,
but to the people in the same degree, as they would have, continually in the market,
a product now always scarce, and to many prohibited altogether. I can see no
reason why the citizens of this state should not have the same privilege of selling
game and fish from their own preserves as of selling cattle, sheep or chickens.

Another subject which seems to me of great importance and which I desire
to mention briefly is that of the bounty on predatory animals. Section 1, of Chap-
ter 105, Session Laws of 1909, New Mexico, reads as follows:

“The Boards of County Commissioners of the several counties of the
Territory are hereby authorized and directed to levy annually a tax of not to
exceed one mill upon the assessed value of all taxable property in their re-
spective counties for the purpose of raising funds with which to pay bounties

for the killing of wild animals. * * * * * ‘
For each coyote, wildeat or lynx............. $ 2.00
PAGO GIR g NAW Mien Sante Soak a che Aw S g acess ea + + 15.00
For each panther or mountain lion..... 2 ee 10.00

While the lobo wolf, wildcat and coyote are all destroyers of yame, yet the
ereatest enemy to game life and the most destructive, among predatory animals, is
the mountain lion.

I recommend that an increased bounty be offered on all the above mentioned
freebooters in wild animal life, as an incentive to hunters to go out after them.
and aid in bringing about their ultimate extermination. They are in the nature
of a pest and their existence in the mountains and mesas is a perpetual menace
to the game which we are endeavoring to protect and propagate.

The bé@st method of procedure I believe to be the levying of one half mill,
which is one half mill less than is provided in the present law. on the taxable
property in each county, to be paid into the state treasury as a “wild animal bounty

>

70 REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO.

fund.” The hides should be presented to the county clerk as under the present
law, with an affidavit as to when and where captured. In the event that the
person presenting the hides is unknown to the county clerk personally, some one
must identify him. The clerk will then issue a receipt to him and forward the
pelts to the game warden, who will properly mark or cancel the hides and dispose
of them at the best price possible, depositing the money thus received with the
state treasurer to the credit of the wiid animal bounty fund. The game warden
wili issue to the owner of the pelts a certificate, designating their number and kind,
which, when presented to the state auditor will be an authorization to issue his
warrant on the treasurer for payment. This plan will give an absolute check,
first on the owner of the hides; second, on the county clerk; third, on the game
warden’s office, showing the number of hides received and sold, and the amount
deposited with the state treasurer. By this method any possible collusion will be
thwarted and no chance will be given for the payment for the same pelts more than
once. There is no.doubt that with this levy and the money received from the sale
of wild animal skins, there would be a sufficient amount to meet all payments for
bounties.

I would recommend, also, that all non-residents, who pay one hundred dollars
or more in taxes into any county in the state, should be entitled to a resident hunter’s
license.

REPOR'’ OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO.

AND PLANTED IN NEW MEXICO WATERS, FROM JULY 1,
1909, TO OCTOBER 10, 1910.

Large-mouth Black Bass.

Water
Laughing Water pond
Kennedy’s pond
Ingram’s pond
Burney’s pond
Harris’ pond
Hon’s pond
Jacobson’s pond
Kelly’s pond
Brown’s pond
McGill’s reservoir,
Asylum lake
Pecos river
Palomas Springs
Humble’s pond
Twin Mills pond
Central Creek pond
Stafford’s pond
Buchanan‘s pond
Gierhart pond
Lake Togo
Las Animas river
San Juan river
Las Animas river
Schleuter’s pond

Point of Deposit

Clovis
Columbus
Corona
Deming
Deming
Deming
Deming
Deming
Elida

Le Lande
Las Vegas
Las Vegas
Montoya
Portales
Portales
Silver City
Texico
Tucumeari
Farmington
Farmington
Aztec
Farmington
Farmington
Farmington

Rainbow Trout.

Water
Aqua Fria creek
Canon Bonita creek
Cimarroneiti creek
Cimarron river
Clear creek
Ponil creek
Rayado creek
Gallinas river, west fork
Myrtle pond
Sugarite creek
Crystal pond

Point of Deposit

Cimarron
Cimarron
Cimarron
Cimarron
(Cimarron
Cimarron
Cimarron
Las Vegas
taton
Raton
toswell

Number

100
80
80

Or Or

Number
2,000
1,000
1,000
1,000
1,000
1,000
1,000
2.400
1,200
6,000
2,000

71

FISH FURNISHED BY HON. GEORGE M. BOWERS OF THE U. S. FISH COMMISSION,

‘SouO SI ey} JO omOH e4YL—aAMVI OLSMUaVO

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO.

Black-spotted Trout.

Water
Canon Bonito creek
Cimarronciti creek
Cimarron river
Clear creek
Ponil creek
Rayado creek
Rayado river, west fork
Ute creek
Pecos river
Burro branch
Gallinas river
Fresinal creek
Nio ‘Tesuque river
Cow creek
Nuteritus creek
Rio Brazos
El Rio Nambe
Embudo river
Pecos river
Cimarron river
Chama river
Rangel creek
Cimarronciti creek
Santa Barbara river
Turkey creek
Ponil river
Pueblo river
Trampas river
Santa Clara creek
Rio Quemado
Aqua Fria creek
Clear creek
Canon Bonito creek
Chama river
Santa Fe river
Rayado river
Urraca reservoir No. 1
Ute creek

» Water
Cooper’s lake
Dark Canon creek

Point of Deposit

Cimarron
Cimarron
Cimarron
Cimarron
Cimarron
Cimarron
Cimarron
Cimarron
Glorieta
Las Vegas
Las Vegas

Mountain Park

Santa Fe
Glorieta
Chama
Chama
Santa Fe
Embudo
Glorieta
Cimarron
Chama
Socorro
Cimarron
Embudo
Cimarron
Cimarron
Embudo
Espanola
Jspanola
Espanola
Cimarron
Ute Park
Cimarron
Chama
Santa Fe
Cimarron
Cimarron
Ute Park

Rock Bass.

Point of Deposit

Ancho
Carlsbad

Number
2.000
2,000
2,000
2.000
2,000
2,000
3,000
4,000

14,000
4,000
6,000

15,000
7,200

10,000
9 000
9.000

12.500
7,500

10,090

12,000

15,000

12.500

12,000
7.500

12,000

12,000
7.500
7.500

10,900

20,000

12,000

12.000

12.000

15,000

12.500

12,000

12,090

12,000

Number
200

220

3

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN

Knowles’ pond
Peterson’s pond
Ramsey’s pond
Adams lake
Crescent pond
Silver lake

Deming
Deming
Deming
Colfax County
Texico
Tularosa

Large-mouth Black Bass.

Water
Clark’s lake
Pecos river
Rocky Arroyo creek
Adams lake
Bishop’s lake
Ramah reservoir
Wares’ reservoir
Buena Vista lake
Miller’s pond
Farmers’ reservoir
Jaritas lake
Santa Clara Creek reservoir
Dulce lake

Point of Deposit

Artesia
Carlsbad
Carlsbad
Colfax
Dexter
Gallup
Hagerman
Las Vegas
Santa Fe
Springer
Springer
Wagon Mound
Lumberton

Brook Trout.

Water
Spring Canon pond
El Rito de la Arrhaw
Sapello river

Rio Grande Livestock Co., lake

Rio del Medio creek
Santa Fe river

Tesuque creek

Glenwood pond
Glenwood Springs
Tilson creek

Brown Fork creek
Gallinas river, south fork
Arroyo Hondo creek
Gallinas river, Elk fork
Trout Springs creek

Rio Grande lake

Ponil river

Rayado creek, west fork
Rayado creek, north fork
Gallinas river, Wesner fork

Point of Deposit

Alamogordo
Glorieta

Las Vegas
Santa Fe
Santa Fe
Santa Fe
Santa Fe
Silver City
Silver City
Wagon Mound
East Las Vegas
Las Vegas
Serviletta

Las Vegas
Las Vegas
Santa Fe
Cimarron
Cimarron
Cimarron

Las Vegas

FOR NEW MEXICO.

100
100
100
300
100
200

Number
250
500
150
204

Number
5,000
2,000
4,000
2,000
3,200
2,000
2,000
4,000
5,000
1,600
3.200
4,090
3,200
3,200
3,200
3,200
5,000
5,000
5.000
3,200

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO. 75

Gallinas river, Youngs fork Las Vegas 3,200
Pecos river Glorieta 3,200
Gallinas river, Burro fork Las Vegas 3,200
Sunfish.
Water Point of Deposit Number
Harris’ pond Deming 150
Mesa lake ; Elida 100

Yellow Perch.

Water Point of Deposit Number
Adams lake Colfax 219

STATEMENT OF FISH PLANTED IN THE WATERS OF NEW MEXICO BY THE U
S. BUREAU OF FISHERIES DURING THE FISCAL YEAR
ENDING JUNE 30, 1911.

Catfish.
- Fingerlings,
yearlings,
Water Point of deposit and adults.

Branum’s pond Anchor 100
Las Ammas river Aztec 510
San Juan river Aztec 660
XX Ranch pond Cambrag 100
Howard’s pond Clovis 150
Laughing Water pond Clovis 100
Ramsey pond Deming 100
Rankin’s pond Elida 200
Gunshee pond Espanola 150
Gierhart pond Farmington 255
Lake Togo Farmington 255
Las Animas river Farmington 510
San Juan river Farmington 510
Schleuter’s pond — Farmington 128
Williams’ pond Melrose 100
Click’s reservoir Rodes 100
Dobson’s reservoir Rodes 100
Hale’s reservoir todes 100
Leatherman reservoir Rodes 100
Shugardt’s reservoir Rodes 100
» Timbrel’s pond Rodes 100
Veit’s reservoir Rodes 100
Fowler’s reservoir Roswell 100

‘“ACIAIG HHL NO

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN

Byert’s Big reservoir

Stafford’s reservoir
Reagan’s reservoir
Willow lake
Shafer lake

Weil Jake

Water
Tajique creek
Rio 'Tularosa
Silver lake
Red river
Hixon’s pond

Socorro

‘T'exico
Tularosa
Tularosa
Wagon Mound
Wagon Mound

Rainbow Trout.

Location
Estancia
‘Tularosa
Tularosa
Ute Park
Willard

Black-spotted Trout (Native).

Water
Chama river
Nuteritus creek
Rio Brazos
Aqua Fria creek
Canon Bonito creek
Cimarron river
Cimarroncito creel
Clear creek
Manning creek
Ponil river
Rayado river
Rayado creek
Turkey creek
Urraca reseryoir No.
Ute creek
Embudo river
Pueblo river
Santa Barbara river
Rio Quemado
Santa Clara creek
Trampas river
Cow creek
Pecos river

1

Location
Chama
Chama
Chama
Cimarron
Cimarron
Cimarron
Cimarron
Cimarron
Cimarron
Cimarron
Cimarron
Cimarron
Cimarron
Cimarron
Cimarron
Embudo
Embudo
Embudo
Espanola
Jspanola
Espanola
Glorietta
Glorietta

FOR NEW MEXICO.

100
100.
125
125
200

Fingerlings,

yearlings
and adults.
1.600
2.400
400
1,500
400

Fingerlings,

yearlings
and adults.
30,000
9 000
9 O00
12,000
12.000
12,000
12.000
12,000
10,090
62,000
12.000
7.500
2,000
2.000
2,000
i
‘
‘

— at

',500
590
590
20,000
10,000
7.000
10.090
10.090

a |

ban |

78

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO.

Santa Fe creek
El Rio Nambe
Santa Fe river
Rangel creek

Raton
Santa Fe
Santa Fe
Socorro

Brook Trout.

Water
Chama river
Clear creek
Ponil river
Rayado creek
Rayado creek, west fork
Ute creek
Van Houten creek
Valley creek
Whitney creek
Pecos river
Brown Fork creek
Gallinas river
Gallinas river, Elk fork
Gallinas river, south fork

Gallinas river, Wesner fork .
Gallinas river, Young’s fork

Front Springs creek
El Rio Nambe
Red Rock creek
Rio Grande lake

Arroyo Hondo creek, upper

Location
Chama
Cimarron
Cimarron
Cimarron
Cimarron
Cimarron
Cimarron
Cimarron
Cimarron
Glorietta
Las Vegas
Las Vegas
Las Vegas
Las Vegas
Las Vegas
Las Vegas
Las Vegas
Santa Fe
Santa Fe
Santa Fe
Serviletta

Crappie and Strawberry Bass.

Water
Ward’s reservoir
Hayne’s lake
Wilson pond

Location
Rodes

Roswell
Roswell

25,000
12,500
12,500
12,500

Fingerlings,
yearlings
and adults.

12,000
5,000
5,000

14,200
5,000
5,000

10,000

Fingerlings,
yearlings
and adults.

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO.

Rock Bass.

Water Location
Pendleton’s pond Elida
Honey pond Folsom
Lawrence reservoir Lake Arthur
Wheeler’s reservoir Roswell
Downing’s pond Sixela

Walter’s pond

South Springs

o
°

Large-mouth Black Bass.

Water
Rio Grande lake
Wheaton’s lake
Wheeler’s lake
Van lake
Dulce lake
Lake Sumner
Ramah reservoir
Lakes 13-20
Haymakers pond
North Spring river
Santa Fe Creek reservoir
Jaritas reservoir

Water
Glen Mary pond
Cornforth reservoir

Location
Albuquerque
Dexter
Dexter
Dexter
Dulee

Fort Sumner
Gallup
Maxwell
Roswell
Roswell
Santa Fe
Springer

Location
Rhodes

Mountain Park

RECAPITULATION.

Catfish
Rainbow trout

Black-spotted trout (native)

Brook trout

Crappie and Strawberry bass

Rock bass
Large-mouth Black bass
Sunfish

Total

Fingerlings,
yearlings
and adults.

125

a

Wo WO W DW CW
Cr Or Or Sr Cr

|

Fingerlings,
yearlings
and adults.

2A
21
20
12
300
110

Fingerlings,
yearlings
and adults.
100
100

80

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO.

THE YEAR 1910.

FISH PLANTED BY THE TERRITORY IN NEW MEXICO WATERS DURING

Water Fry; variety.

Arroyo Hondo Mountain trout 50,000
Rio Pueblo Mountain trout 70,000
Santa Barbara Rainbow trout 50,000
tio Medio Mountain trout 50,000
Frijoles Mountain trout 30,500
Santa Clara Rainbow trout 30,000
Pecos river Rainbow trout 200,000
Gallinas river Mountain trout 133,000
Los Pinos Mountain trout 50,500
tio Quemado Mountain trout 31,500
Chama river Mountain trout 59,000
Santa Fe river Rainbow trout 30,000

Total number of trout fry planted during 1910 823,500

FISH PLANTED BY THE TERRITORY IN NEW MEXICO WATERS, DURING
MBE YEAR 19d:

Waters

Fry; variety.

Gallinas river Brook trout 45,000
Gallinas river Rainbow trout 3,000
Pecos river, upper and lower Brook trout 79,000
Pecos river, upper and lower Rainbow trout 9,000
Rio Medio Brook trout 27,000
Rio Medio Rainbow trout 3,000
Ojo Caliente, and El Rito Brook trout 22,000
Rio Lucero and Arroyo Hondo Brook trout 37,000
Rio Lucero and Arroyo Hondo Rainbow trout 3,000
Los Pinos river Brook trout 72.000
Los Pinos river Rainbow trout 3,000
Chama river Rainbow trout DO,200
Brazos river Rainbow trout 27,625
El Rito creek Rainbow trout 27,625
Rio Medio creek Rainbow trout 116,025
Lower Pecos Rainbow trout 49.725
Pecos river, central Rainbow trout 49,725
Pecos river, upper tainbow trout 27,625
Santa Fe river Rainbow trout Solo.

Total number of trout fry planted during 1911 689,750

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO. 81

RECEIPTS.
As per Statement of Territorial Treasurer, from April 1st, 1909 to January ist, 1910.
Received from Legislative appropriation, Warden’s salary..... $1350.00
Received froin Legislative appropriation, Contingent expenses.. 447.26
Received from sale of licenses and permits.................. 7710.20
Received from fines for violations of Game and Fish Laws.... 175.00
Total receipts 9682.46
DISBURSEMENTS.

As Per Vouchers on File With Territorial Auditor, From April 1st, 1909, te Jan. 1st, 1910.

ob VES OC QVC Ga oT ate ee ca edo ee ea cP Sen oa ere $1350.00
eee reOReGitet CepUbia Wiest aonb ss oe enn o cite eee neat ae 75.00
PE Oa Pas N EEN eth ic eM AER A207 sara Sos Nie cat Ske a eles omehes PREY 5, © 625.60

For telegrams and telephone messages and rent of office *phone. — 83.32
For office supplies, traveling and incidental expenses of warden.. 428.25

Badges for use of deputy game and fish wardens.............. 75.00
Typewriter and cover for use in warden’s office............... 92.50
Wepre Pee and POE ST ORUGKe of 42010 epi actaht ac aye nds 6 Siu, dfs ven Salle ae aes? 120.13
eres pee MNCL MECN Oe fe Wvha?a. ahah cis) sp ielapeads a soo: bine aimaibe oe ela ates Weel)
Paid deputy game wardens for special field duty.............. 583.83

Total dishbursements.4.20 Sone cetews $4051.53

Balance in hands of Territorial Treasurer to credit of The Game
Protection: lund,” January bets VOUO. cd Foe eee ets > ot 5630.93

$9682.46
RECEIPTS.

As per statement of Territorial Treasurer, from January 1st, 1910, to January 1st, 1911.
Balance in Terr. Treasury to credit of Game Protection Fund. .$5630.93

Received from Legislative appropriation, warden’s salary...... 1800.09
Received from Legislative appropriation, contingent expenses... 533.15
Received from fines for violation of Game and Fish Laws...... 1428.60
Received from sale of licenses and permits.................. 7745.45
Total receipts $17138.13
_

82 REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO.

DISBURSEMENTS.

As Per Voucher on File With Territorial Auditor, From Jan. 1st, 1910 to Jan. ist, 1911.

Salary of werden s su, se) toe an eens ait ON area eee eer en $1800.00
Salary of sehier deputy icc. gcse pee eteta Cee etc eee 825.00
For: printing soc: get ac atte eee eee eee ee eee 407.90
For telegrams and telephone messages and rent of office *phone.. 209.19
For office supphes, traveling and incidental expenses of warden... 1071.55
Postage) and box Tema = ee aeias si eteiens pier teem earl Boke 117.75
Rxpress! and: reighiheiie ster meade mene A beet ieee ene 40.35
Paid /special deputies for deldwonk tess: stances aoe ae 832.60
Overpaid the Treasurer by deputies and refunded to bal. acct.... 22.50
Paid for fish and distributing in various streams............. 2520.72
Paid for sojmen lianas ic. vstrib tii 3 bch. ge cepa eae ee ne eee 122.90
Paid-tor .cuimeas amd’ distributing. xis to pete aes 9 ee 12.00
Total $: 7982.46

Balance in hands of Territorial Treasurer to credit of The Game
Protectron= Fiud),ps) annual voile el ONIN Ga Wire ae Weve ope eerie ea 9155.67

RECEIPTS.

As Per Statement of Territorial Treasurer, from January 1st, 1911, to January ist, 1912,

Balance in Terr. Treasury to credit of Game Protection Fund. .$9155.67

teceived from Legislative appropriation, warden’s salary...... 1800.00
Received from Legislative appropriation, contingent expenses... 356.00
Received from sale of licenses and permits...........-...---- 7128.00
teceived from fines for violation of Game and Fish Laws...... 210.35
Total receipts $18650.02
DISBURSEMENTS.

As Per Vouchers on File With Territorial Auditor, From Jan. 1st, 1911, to Jan. 1st, 1912.

Salaty. of. warden. iste. ster ster reales eee eae eee ee $1800.00
Salary votsehief . deputy... setts. 2 ee Sie acetal aeene 900.00
Ors OEMS 5 oso ui a gute ca nee cage ie eee oe en ha 224.85

For telegrams and telephone messages and rent of office *phone.. 202.13
For office supphes, traveling and incidental expenses of warden... 367.65

Postape: and ‘box sremt: 4G Acree eres as ck ee ee 93.08
xT Ss yes aaa stage eaters me pesaten «oda ae Oc, = ce a ee 52-51
Paid special deputy for teldsworl:. . geen oe ee eee QTN.25

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO. 83

Overpaid the Treasurer by deputies and refunded to bal. acct... 1.25
Paid for fish and distributing in various streams.............. 2820.20
SOUS Sc TETSAC OT CTS chee, fh A 1400.75
Paid for pheasants and their propagation.................... 151.43
Paid for quail and distributing......... Be peli 'as Say. vib ak oh ae 238.27

Total disbursements $8531.37

Balance in hands of Territorial Treasurer to credit of The Game
PrGeeemMote Wnte-damehy AOL OMe Als ecg hs se age bee a aie s 10118.65

$18650.02

A CRITICAL MOMENT.

@

4 REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO.

GAME AND FISH LAWS.

No person shail at any time shoot, hunt or take in any manner any game which
is by law protected in this state without first having in his possession a hunt-
ing license as hereinafter provided for the year in which such shooting or hunting
is done. Hunting licenses shall be issued by the county clerks, the state game
warden and such deputies as may be designated for that purpose by the state war-
den.

A general hunting license shall entitle the person therein named to hunt game,
quadrupeds and birds during the open season therefor.

A big game license shall entitle the person therein named to hunt game quad-
rupeds during the open season therefor. (Wild turkeys are classified as big game
under the meaning of the act).

A bird license shall entitle the person therein named to hunt game birds other
than wild turkey during the open season therefor.

Any person not a bona fide resident of this state, but who is a bona fide resi-
dent of the United States, shall be entitled to procure a non-resident hunting
license.

Any unnaturalized foreign-bora person who has lived in this state for six
months then last passed, shall be entitled to procure a resident-alien hunting license.

The state warden and license collectors shall charge and collect the following
fees :

Hor-each ;ouide: Incense... sols. ccascct any = ho cagore Sn os ae eee $ 5.00
Hor each bie game lncencermrestd emi tee otean. yacht ae ne ae 200%
Mor. each: bird:=heense, “residents, 2s. oe wee ee ae ee ee eee ee 1.09
Por éachyeeneral “humtinge. license; resides ..% cna ee ee eee 1.50
Por each bigyeame™ license, non-residentc 2. +.) ope ee ee 25.00
Ror each a Dindalicense, -10n-Tesid €M.cnecn acdc ae oes ee em 5.00
Hor-each bigs came icense, resident=aliense soar een sae eee ee 5.00
Hor cach «/birdselicence. resident - alien arcs 0 ae ee ee eee Cenc ed 5.00
Hor ‘each bird) license: non-resident aladmnc. acs tn eee eae eee 10.00
Ror each ssvora ge penmimiinie t sic: . i. 1c eegsree aie WE eee een ee 1.05
For each=importatiom =pemm tt... Cor sale. ape... <9edcl teen ee 2.00
For each siransportationy perme. of 2.552 one oe eee eee 1.00
for each permit, totranspertiout of the tate, deer (Gach) see eee ee 2.00
For each permit: to, ship out ot the state;ieach lobo fishy) seine ae 1.00
For each permit to retain game animal in captivity..........).....2.:. 1.09
For each duplicate. licenses certuicate or permit... 10-02 he eee - 1.00

All non-residents will be required to pay a fishing license of one dollar, but
nothing in this act shall be construed to prevent persons under the age of twelve
years from fishing during the open season. They will, however, be required to
otherwise comply with all the laws as herein specified.

The right given by this act to take or kill game or fish is limited to two wild
turkeys, six grouse, twenty ducks, thirty other birds, fifteen pounds of trout not

REPORT OF GAME AND FISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO. 85

less than six inches in length, fifteen pounds of bass not less than seven inches
in length, for each person in any one calendar day, and no person shall kill, take
or have in possession in any one open season more than one deer with horns, nor
have in possession at any one time more than four wild turkeys, six grouse, thirty
ducks or thirty other birds nor more than twenty-five pounds of trout or bass and
no game or fish shall be held in posesssion by any person more than five days after
the close of the season for killing of same, except as in this act otherwise pro-
vided.

No game shall be pursued, wounded, taken or killed with a steel or hard
pointed bullet, and in no instance shall fishing be done between the hours of 9
o'clock p. m., and 4 o’clock a. m., nor shall any person use in the pursuit, taking,
wounding or killing any animal, birds or fish protected by this act, any net, seine,
trap, cage, snare, salt lick, blind, scaffold, deadfall, pit. snag hook, trot line, arti-
ficial light or similar device whatever, provided that dogs, blinds, sinks and decoys
may be used in hunting birds; nor shall any person engage in hunting or shoot-
ing within the limits of any city or town, except the town or city council may by
ordinance fix a line within their limits permitting the same.:

OPEN SEASON FOR GAME AND FISH.

Deer with horns—With gun only ; October 15th to November 15th of each year.
Limit, one deer to each person.

Wild Turkey—With gun only; November 1st to December 51st of each year.
Limit, four in possession at one time.

Grouse—With gun only; October Ist to December 31st of each year. Limit,
thirty in possession at one time.

Native or Crested Quail—With gun only; October 1st to December 51st of
each year. Limit, thirty in possession at one time. :

Doves—With gun only; August Ist to October 31st of each year. Limit.
thirty in possession at one time.

Snipe, Curlew and Plover—With gun only; September 15th to March Ist of
each year. Limit, thirty in possession at one time.

Ducks—Limited to thirty in possession at one time

Trout (all species)—With rod, hook and line only; May 15th to October 15th
of each year. Size limit, not less than six inches in length. Weight limit, 15
pounds in any one calendar day, 25 pounds in possession at one time.

Bass (large and small mouth)—With rod, hook and line only. Size limit.
not less than seven inches in Jength. Weight limit, 15 pounds in any calendar
day, 25 pounds in possession at one time.

CLOSED SEASON.
Elk, Mountain Sheep, Beaver and Ptarmigan, killing capturing or injuring
prohibited at all times.
Antelope, Bob-white, Quail, Pheasant and Wild Pigeons, killing, capturing
or injuring prohibited until March 18, 1914.
Prairie Chicken, killing, capturing or injuring prohibited until January 1,
19415.

86 REPORT OF GAME AND GISH WARDEN FOR NEW MEXICO.

CONCLUSION.

In closing this report I desire to extend thanks to Hon, George M. Bowers
of the U. S. fish commission; Captain W. E. Smith, superintendent of U. 8. fish
car number 3; Dr. T. S. Palmer, assistant chief, U. S. biological survey, and A.
C. Cooper, of the same department; likewise to the game and fish wardens of other
states for many favors received; to the Santa Fe system, and to the Denver and
Rio Grande railroad company, which has, when requested, most cheerfully fur-
nished a car for the transportation of fish for distribution along the lines of its
road in this state.

In making this report I have had two objects in view: first, to acquaint the peo-
ple of the state fully with the work of this department,—what has been done and
what, in my judgment, should be done,—and further, to give to those outside the
state. the information which has been frequently sought from this office, regard-
ing the conditions of our game and fish.

T believe, in closing, it would be pardonable in me to say that there is very
much more to the proper conducting of this department than is generally helieved
or known.

Having been always deeply interested in outdoor sports, I entered into the
work with great interest and zest, and have devoted my entire time and best ener-
gies to the bringing about of the most beneficial results.

THOMAS P. GABLE,

Game and Fish Warden.

Page
SONIC RED “ee Siete Gg) Sok Se Ie So ee anna ea ee ee 28
Euigtee Sp cig Merry Tier aphe aN hg Seed ae ena AS hee oe g 69
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earl UY RE RE AGS sd coe fa eracic decd ns FS a A ee bb Seen eres os
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SER TER UMS E UTI ean ON ina: PNT gre ec ace aon 9% nr, « oyalipte ms eM Ware eae eo 37
TREE Me Pe CAEN Se eS cass ad x) nde eas. « oma ew er Sag ale 2 39
“? “Ptarmigan ..... ap ice Meret ...2 7 A An eee A eh. | eRe:
See Seraipies lee 7.22 sit a's eee one AN ot Mee ee fs ie, Ee RS a 44
eae ROOT EY Cho a hew sus dal Wat Paks Sha A feo ict Re ay a a ae Aras aaa ee, Soe lee ke 45
MEG MUNA. See enor nee Teens, Sane ad Sng. she ON y\ ote wv n a a eens “Die ae 395)
CONTERIS TOLINS Soo ea eye gre, alle Pe ala a ae ne eae PRS 5 6 ee 85
ORR PEL) SAGAR S So OME Sen Reed etna © tinh scck Maat RAREST OSs 6) on Sd iede a be 49
Ree pekPI GFE. 5 crs, pit acca ah ROR eo 89S See RMD we se 2.0"e D etaeuee 27
eae OL rUSLALITLOO.: <5 cc whee ct ie-tle ss =| vozemigieigtete a wien x as ss cia 8 abd we 12
LSS ae AR boleh a Tela 01 oe ks a A ie 9 nr eee 56
é .. eee en ert, 0's WE, fa) avs e's 3k wee www 58
MUS BB od GG eS reer 46
Ly SEPP es ge 21 a a ee rr 57 86
SUPA STEP OI eaten MRE CoN fk «a oleh vio s CEs ee sa Bit eal te alee 81
Re Nese LMC SEN dA RR he em a cig 2 h'5. no Sew wn a » ‘o Gowns ord a WIR no re kw 29
SD emmmR ER CORTON aes CRE oor ERE 8. , acy. yin,» oandinia amie’s vs ea alee By

oP LOC URE ATCT Od) 0) 902) RN GUN gt 2 SS 7 2 orc arr Sr mre a
ee REINS le Poets, St toi OE MORE EGEATES «yep “gi. «al onelwdlatas arene ek p's ee wx 5 35
Soh METI 2 ADU INN ITIE ee ei I c's Soo vib SA ald go RRR ee ee 35
oP aaa CNW, TAC WUOUTAUAA I ARO ete OS cue Gc ks diee ees awieldle eee score 33

Se oot SONAR ISTE ACLS WIDOT @ ALPEN peceeeMenS os ule S saqets Wa wiele o ewe is eens 71
Sa ee OO ee eee... asin Psies here Seed sy oe Faas e ees » 15
ys — er a rede EEE oc. ohare thie, x dic dw acy ode, Bede piece ee 17
ES id DR ALVOD Were. . fl tRMG As ois c asinix @alpss'aloaiely so 19
LI. Sot ty, Sagi ees... LRM... a wc a Vink pis cata took ees 7

88 INDEX.

Laws; Game “and. Mish. 555 cca ie as cioca ko simi eee ogee aren a eee eee ee S+
“> Abeenise: SyStemnscc: temncieetenits = cae ee eet '- aye eee neuen oe eaten ee reer 12

‘... Open and-Closed- Seasons Ge oa. a2... Saaheie alae Sine meee ee ake ate eee re 85
Minors: -Carryame:) Giimeicsc 5 ct setty ct a seciko)2 0s sv. ghiediogs ic iota pea ene eee . O00
Moumitarm’ Shee pias par tstcan ects pret eee toy secre oR sacic roy sa ar as ea ene colar to 27
Predatory. Avimal eae aco pace tome eg eere dees ON Ade i a etch ae ee REO ee 25
Eg 7-001 s (aM it maple oun ea sem, Son WP ot om NNEMG ater sini op nae NNNE SUN. PEIN Tat gas eri)
Preservation’ of Gamer aid isan cei oe took as aunts pete tee ann So okey ie ealeveatee ee et
Recommendations, Bounty on Predatory Animals......................- ee tO
e Change im: Methodior Payment. 0... 2: sais ceed = eee ieee 69

ne Gam PG OMISE 2 ee, skied Sis ls bob ed, Sa eee Ace 56

7 Handlime? SHrre Arts wt.c.cvassist evs} chet renee ce ee eee eee 56

a Non-Resident Tax Payer and License.................... 70

e Private ‘Game and: Fish: Preserves: 2.23 ec aa ae 17-69
Screens or Paddle Wheels ..... ae ARDS aaah 2 Se et ea) Aan a ag
Dats ys Ge ss Rigeeae soe owe) nominee ata the Aah hee eens tater aR Rae Acai meee ean 42
Violation: of (Game: Laws fan. cock 5 ctcaett-(ee seems y ov enane: «bot ea oe eee 21

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