H.—ll.

become obliterated, and the "glans" destroyed, as a result of diseased action; subsequently, an abscess appeared to form somewhere in the line of the urethral canal, from which urine constantly trickling caused excoriation of all the neighbouring parts. Asa result the sheep get into a very low state, many dying of rupture of the abdominal walls. The cause of this trouble I have been unable yet to determine; but, should any more reports of this complaint appearing be received, I hope to be afforded an opportunity of making further investigation. At the present time lam informed that it is difficult to find any sheep suffering. I have, _c, John F. McClean, M.E.C.V.S., The Hon. the Minister of Lands. Government Veterinarian.

No. 8. Mortality among Cattle, Stratford. Sir,— Live Stock Department, Wellington, 27th May, 1892. I have the honour to report having visited the district between Hawera and Taranaki, for the purpose of inquiring into the mortality prevailing there amongst young cattle. From the examinations I made I am of opinion the chief cause of death is Tuberculosis in one form or another, and I would therefore advise that the departmental circular on this subject be again distributed among the farmers of this district. The evils of breeding from animals of doubtful health, and the necessity of supplying cattle with extra food and shelter, are there pointed out. I would also direct your attention to the necessity of having the provisions of " The Cattle Act, 1890," strictly enforced, especially as regards the destruction of diseased stock found in saleyards ; and in performing this duty in the Hawera-Taranaki district one Inspector would be kept very well employed. When in Hawera, I was afforded an opportunity of addressing the members of the Egmont Agricultural and Pastoral Society on this subject, and all agreed on the necessity of stringent measures being taken to prevent the extension of this malady, and there is no doubt that if the members of this society co-operate for this purpose much good will be done. I have, &c, John F. McClean, M.E.C.V.S., The Hon. the Minister of Lands. Government Veterinarian.

The following are the annual reports of the Inspectors for the different districts of the colony for the year ending the 31st March, 1892 : — Auckland District. As the last sheep known to be scabby was killed at Miranda in November, 1889, it may be fairly assumed that that the Auckland flocks are now free from disease. The mortality resulting from the prevalence of internal parasites still continues, perhaps somewhat abated, but not nearly so much as it might be if farmers would only realise that the improved treatment of lambs, particularly at weaning, and more careful drenching, would reduce this loss to a minimum. The mortality at Tauranga among lambs has been considerably reduced this season; the factors being more careful treatment and more general drenching, assisted in two instances by the use of medicated licks. In three flocks, where the result of altered treatment has been perhaps most successful, the following course has been followed : — On No. I.—The lambs were not bred on the farm where treated; and although the farm on which they were bred is in the area affected with the so-called disease, the change was doubtless beneficial; and, again, the farm to which they were brought has probably the best sheep-pasture in the district. The specially additional treatment was repeated dosing with Larney's anthelmintic. On No. 2.—The lambs here had a medicated lick of chlorate of potash, sulphate of iron, and salt always before them, and were weaned on turnips with chaff and grain. They were drenched three times with turpentine and oil, and seven times with Larney's. It cannot be said perhaps that the lambs were worth the treatment, but'they now look well and the mortality has not been excessive. On No. 3. —The lambs have had access to the medicated lick, as recommended by Mr. McClean, M.E.C.V.S. All have been dosed with Larney's. They have been kept, as far as possible, on fresh short grass, or sheep-feed, as against long rank grass or cattle-feed. These lambs lost condition after the first summer rain, but improved again as soon as the grass hardened. By these owners Larney's is considered a specific. Captain Clark and some others have followed the usual practice and sent their lambs to Katikati. They claim to get the same results by this change that others only arrive at by so much care, and then only at a much greater cost. Auckland, 31st March, 1892. E. Clifton, Inspector.

Napier District. Sheep. —Sheep are generally in a very satisfactory condition; the lambing was quite up to the average ; the clip was in very good condition. I anticipate rather a heavy loss amongst the hoggets, owing to the unusual quantity of rain and the washy state of the feed. Dipping has been generally carried out. Cattle and Horses. —I have no particular remarks to make about cattle and horses. They are all in good condition and healthy as far as I know. Napier, 9th June, 1892. B. C. Pasley, Inspector.

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