Pests trapped, birds thriving
I have recently returned from a twoweek trip to Stewart Island and Martins Bay in the Hollyford.
While travelling in these more remote areas, I was again inspired by the difference trapping and a dedicated programme aimed at protecting of our native flora, fauna and animals can do.
The Hollyford is a stunning part of our country and in fact has Unesco status. However, the stark evidence of bird song, in particular the Dawn Chorus, plus the regeneration of vegetation, in areas trapped and
monitored vs those that this was not occurring was mind-blowing.
The first two days there was very little evidence or sitting of any wildlife. On the third day where active trapping occurred, the bush was dense, lush and just alive with birds, songs and plants. All of this due to locals actively setting up and funding volunteer trapping regimes. To physically and audibly witness the difference was nothing short of inspirational.
Moving onto to Stewart Island, we were confronted by tu¯¯ı and kereru¯ constantly dive-bombing us and amassing everywhere we looked. This is without mentioning ka¯ ka sitting in the trees or your deck and sightings of kiwi during both the day and night, all due to minimal rodents, cats and all dogs having to be fully trained to not chase kiwi.
In short, if we think our little bits of trapping do not make a difference, this is just not correct. As we increase the pockets of our individual trappings be rest assured you will see the difference and you too will be inspired. If you are not convinced, please visit The Blade at the end of Whakamarama Rd and hear and see for yourself, the difference the trapping of a small group of wonderful weekly volunteers can make.
I have regularly walked up in this part of the Kaimai Range for the last 20 years. Thanks to The Friends of The Blade, what was once a mostly silent place is now full of song from the birds that now reside up there. Please remember we have traps to loan free at The Pest Trap Library on the last Sunday of every month. Current hours are 4-5.30pm.
You too can make a difference and often a lot.