In addition, specimens of Guinea worms (Dracunculus Inslgnls ) were 

 collected for future studies since this parasite occurs In several Important 

 species of wildlife. Also, as part of the responsibility of this unit, the 

 diagnostic service and provision of Information to the Forest Districts on In- 

 cidence and distribution of rabies was continued, 



Furbearer Unit 



The research jobs In this unit continued to recognize the relatively 

 great Importance of beaver In the fur Industry In Ontario. A five-year ex- 

 perimental beaver trapping program conducted In a research area in Algonquin 

 Park was concluded and a detailed analysis of the results Is continuing. Despite 

 the removal of 739 beaver from the 45 square mile area during five successive 

 winters, results showed that high populations were not decimated by the heavy 

 trapping pressure which Is greater than that Imposed by most Ontario trappers. 

 This Indicates that under conditions of high population density and continuing 

 favourable environment the present level of trapping pressure Is likely to have 

 little or no effect on the high beaver populations In south and central Ontario. 



Cooperation was continued with the Fish and Wildlife Branch on the re- 

 stocking of beaver and assessment of populations In Patricia Central and West. 

 Research surveys In the fall of 1960 showed remarkable Increase In the populations 

 throughout most of the area, and a re-openlng of beaver trapping In this area Is 

 anticipated for next year. >; >. 



In addition, other projects, such as those concerned with preliminary 

 studies of otter and the development of a technique for determining the age of 

 beaver, were continued. V 



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