Wildlife rescue centre battles to save birdlife
Even before Kaiko¯ ura Wildlife Rescue opened its doors in October it received its first patient.
A blue penguin male from a colony in South Bay was dropped off two weeks before the opening.
Named Solo, it had cuts, swelling and an infection in its leg after becoming entangled in a fishing line.
It was no surprise to manager Sabrina Luecht, the person behind the new rescue facility.
‘‘It’s something that unfortunately happens much too often,’’ she said.
After three days of rest, medication and feeding, the bird was released back to its breeding colony.
‘‘I expected it – birds are always in need,’’ she said.
‘‘It was fortunate the person who brought the bird in already knew about my work.’’
Since then many birds have been handed in to the facility on Mill Rd.
As well as Hutton’s shearwaters that have crash-landed, there’s been a pukeko hit by a car, a poisoned racing pigeon, abandoned grey teal and paradise shelduck ducklings, newly hatched pukeko chicks, and starling and thrush chicks attacked by cats.
Although the centre focuses on native species, Luecht will not turn away injured exotic birds.
The zoologist has worked with endangered wildlife worldwide and wants to inspire others through wildlife education.
"In Kaiko¯ ura we have quite a few bird species that aren't doing well." Kaiko¯ ura Wildlife Rescue manager Sabrina Luecht
Partner and sculptor Ben Foster has renovated the facility, which consists of a small indoor wildlife room and outdoor enclosure.
The long-term goal is to create a wildlife sanctuary, with several large flight aviaries on the property for native birds that can’t be released, but could be used for advocacy work.
The project is self-funded, but in desperate need of money to cover the cost of wildlife rehabilitation.
‘‘I work from home and do it in my spare time,’’ said Luecht.
The facility works closely with VetCARE Kaikoura, and is hoping for local business sponsorships.
‘‘I’ve got the passion, skills and knowledge and I’m really aware of how much wildlife comes in, and most of it is human-induced,’’ said Luecht.
‘‘The majority of birds tend to be threatened species due to predation and habitat loss.
‘‘In Kaiko¯ ura we have quite a few bird species that aren’t doing well. The Hutton’s shearwater is endangered and its colonies were severely affected by the earthquake,’’ she said
‘‘Kaiko¯ura is also the seabird capital of the world, with many albatross and petrel species. Many of these are declining and some are endangered. Shorebirds such as the banded dotterel are also doing very poorly.’’
If someone finds an injured or sick bird, Luecht says place it in a box or crate, keep it in a cool, quiet place, and call 021 585 586.
Healthy uninjured Hutton’s shearwaters should be taken to the Hutton’s Hub on 115 Ludstone Rd, which is checked daily.
‘‘Any human interaction is hugely stressful for these wild animals. Seabirds can easily overheat ... Minimising the risk of dehydration and managing injuries promptly is key.’’
For more information go to the facility’s Facebook page or, to donate, visit Givealittle.
Donations will cover ongoing medical, food, housing, equipment and cleaning supplies.