Copra-Fed Sheep Die

SERIOUS mortality has occurred among sheep fed on copra in the Narrabri district of NSW (says “Sydney Morning Herald” of 11/12/1940). The copra was not fed as a meal, but in an unprepared state.

It is suspected that copra when fed to excess contains something toxic to animals, although thousands of sheep have been fed on it with excellent results. Experts discount the suggestion that the toxic ele ment is in the fat.

One authority recommends that not more than 25 per cent, of the ration should be copra meal, though a much higher percentage has been used with success. It is considered that, mixed with wheat or other grains and with hay, copra may be put to good use in the feed ing of stock.

The subject is creating much interest in the north-west, where considerable quantities of copra meal are being used.

Messrs. Burns Philp state that graziers, unable to get other fodders in this drought period, have been eagerly experimenting on a large scale with copra—feeding it “raw” to the sheep, without any oil ex traction. It is confidently believed that if the oil content of copra is reduced, and it is then mixed with other recognised fod ders, it will be completely satisfactory.

Mr. D. R, Blyton arrived in Wau, New Guinea, recently to replace Mr. A.

Aubrey as accountant at the Bank of NSW. Mr. Aubrey, who was in the Terri tory for two years, has returned to Aus tralia.