Rogue dogs likely killed eight korora¯
Pet owners urged to control animals as at-risk little penguins wash up on beach
Aroaming cat or dog is thought to be responsible for killing at least eight korora¯ that have washed up dead in a Napier suburb in the past two weeks.
The korora¯, or little penguins, were found along Ahuriri’s Hardinge Rd and in the inner harbour area.
A statement from a Napier City Council spokesperson said postmortem examinations had suggested predators may have been responsible, in some cases possibly a seal, but most likely a dog or cat.
Korora¯ are listed as “at risk” by the Department of Conservation.
Hawke’s Bay Regional Council pollution response and enforcement team leader Mike Signal said it was breeding season for little penguins and there were already a number of young ones in the area.
He said dogs were a key predator to korora¯.
“This is a reminder from HBRC, NCC and DoC to please keep dogs on a leash around these sensitive areas while korora¯ are breeding and nesting.
“Rogue cats have also been reported in these areas,” Signal said.
National Aquarium of New Zealand general manager Rachel Haydon said roaming pets can pose risks to wildlife.
“This risk includes stress from disturbance to significant injury or tragically even death,” Haydon said.
“It is up to all of us to act vigilant for the protection of those more vulnerable than ourselves, and this includes the wildlife we are privileged to live amongst.”
DoC has requested dog owners join its Lead The Way campaign, which encourages owners to keep dogs on their leads when exploring beaches to protect wildlife.