New Zealand's Sparrow Introduction Backfired, Leading to Bounties

New Zealand introduced house sparrows in 1867 to control pests, but the birds rapidly multiplied, became a significant agricultural problem, and eventually led to bounties being paid for their eradication.

18 Aug, 08:40 — 18 Aug, 08:40

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Times of IndiaMostly Factual19d ago

New Zealand released 40 sparrows for pests, then paid bounties to kill them

New Zealand introduced house sparrows in 1867 hoping they would help farmers control crop-eating insects. The birds multiplied quickly and soon became a problem, feeding on grains and fruit and damaging wheat, barley and maize crops. Their rapid rise led to organised efforts to control them, including poisoned grain, shooting and bounties for eggs and heads. The story was part of a wider push to introduce European birds for farming and sentimental reasons.

By TOI WORLD DESK

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New Zealand's Sparrow Introduction Backfired, Leading to Bounties

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New Zealand released 40 sparrows for pests, then paid bounties to kill them

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