Mousey master’s project
A researcher responsible for a controlled outbreak of mice on Saddle Island (Te Haupa) has graduated.
Helen Nathan graduated from the University of Auckland’s School of Biological Sciences yesterday with a doctorate in ecology and conservation.
Her master’s project saw her introduce two mice to the 6ha Saddle Island off the coast of Mahurangi.
Within five months, the research discovered the previously pest-free island’s mouse population had exploded to 70 specimens.
The speed of the population boost was not the only surprising result noted in the study.
A genetic analysis revealed an unrelated female had found its way to the island and contributed offspring to the population.
The research reinforced the need for ongoing vigilance in the war against pests.
Nathan has already found work in the Wellington and Marlborough Sounds developing technologies to tackle pests in a bid to achieve a predator free New Zealand by 2050.
‘‘If we are going to succeed in such an ambitious plan, then we will need new ideas, new strategies and better ways to use the tools we already have,’’ she says.
‘‘I’m really loving it and I’m thrilled to be part of something that is so worthwhile.’’