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A FLOATING ZOO.

   

Daily Herald, Saturday 3 May 1913, page 4

A FLOATING ZOO.

With the passing of the Currie line of steamers the Adelaide Zoological Gardens will lose one of its best friends and most ardent supporters. For many years the Currie liners traded regularly between India and Australia, but the fleet—which was Australian owned—has been disposed of to the British-India Company, one of the world's biggest shipping concerns. All of the vessels have changed flags with the exception of the Janus, which has frequently been termed "the floating zoo." She is still owned by Messrs. Archibald Currie & Co., but upon her return to Calcutta it is understood she will also be placed under new ownership. The Janus, which is the latest and most up-to-date vessel of the dying, fleet, is comparatively new, being the last vessel that was launched to the order of the Australian firm. She has had only one commander—genial Captain Colin McDonald, who was the Commodore of the fleet. Practically every voyage this veteran shipmaster brought out additions for the Zoo. He took a delight in bringing rare birds and animals, and it invariably happened that Mr. Minchin (Director of the Adelaide Zoo) was given first choice. Port Adelaide was again visited by "the floating zoo " yesterday, but probably this will be the last time she will bring out additions for the various zoological institutions in the Commonwealth. When the Janus changes hands Captain McDonald will relinquish his Command, it being his intention to retire from the sea and settle down with his family in Melbourne. Scarcely had the steamer been alongside of McLaren Wharf a few hours yesterday than Mr. Minchin boarded her and he succeeded in securing four crown pigeons, a pair of black storks, five deer (including a(unreadable)), and, about a dozen ducks of various kinds. Birds and animals which he left for the Melbourne and Sydney Zoos included bear cats, leopards, flamingos, Indian native birds, panthers, and Indian ducks and fowls of different descriptions. For these importations special accommodation is provided on the main deck, both fore and aft.

 

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