A number of plantings of various species of trees and shrubs were made 

 In 195^ on sites selected In 1953 In two south-western Ontario townships, to 

 determine the ability of various species to withstand the shock of transplanting | 

 to permit growth rate study, and to Indicate what effect they may have on the 

 wildlife In the Immediate vicinity. During the year, drought caused severe losses 

 in both townships. Weather appears to be the most Important limiting factor, but 

 grass competition Is also severe. 



Laboratory Studies 



During the past year, 750 specimens comprising whole animals and various 

 organs were examined as part of a continuing survey of disease conditions and 

 anomalies of birds and mammsilso The collection of parasites was reorganized* 

 Blghty-flve representative specimens were stained or cleared sind mounted for 

 reference. Approximately 150 reports were sent to the members of the field staff 

 who had submitted specimens for examination. 



Additional data were obtained on normal weights and measurements of 

 birds and mammals to enable recognition of abnormalities. General conclusions 

 may be drawn vhen a sufficient volume of these data is on hand. 



A large number of waterfowl have been examined to determine the pro* 

 portion which is carrying lead shot in the muscles. This may provide an index 

 to the intensity of hunting to which the population is subjected, based on the 

 assumption that the number of birds bearing shot from non-crlpling wounds will 

 be proportional to the amount of shot fired at the entire population. In the 

 winter of 195^55 birds of 15 species, totalling 568, were examined. The highest 

 incidence of shot occurred in the greater scaup, followed by American goldeneye 

 and canvasback. 



Preliminary examination in 1953-5**- of some moose ovaries suggested that 

 the entire breeding history of a cow might be determined from a study of these 

 organs. The ovaries of a number of cows from various parts of the province wer« 

 examined, and the evidences of pregnancy in the ovaries were related to data on 

 the age of cows and the number of embryos in their uteri. Among the Important 

 findings was the discovery of positive evidence of pregnancy in cow moose in the 

 second year. 



In an effort to find an acciirate method for determining the age of 

 beaver, a laboratory study was begun to relate physical characteristics to age* 



