The biodiversity of the region is threatened by a
range of predators and pests, namely weasels, stoats and
ferrets, wild cats, brown and ship rats, mice, dogs,
wild pigs, wild goat, mynahs and magpies, and possums.
Predator control is established across the entire Upper Waitangi River Catchment area for native bird and forest recovery.
By compiling and monitoring trapping and kill records
for predators and recording observations, the Trust is
able to obtain a general view of predator activity.
The Trust's predator control comprises Fenn trapping for mustelids, and SA and Timms traps or cage trapping of cats, and rat trap boxes for rats. We also provide dog traps to landowners if requested.
Various poisons are used in addition to trapping.
Two contract trappers are used and this is supplemented by individual volunteer hunting and trapping. The trappers undertake on-going 'predator trapper workshops' facilitated by the NZ Landcare Trust. The trappers are also expected to take opportunities to visit other projects as appropriate.
Details of all predators trapped are entered on datasheets. Landowners are also requested to report all sightings of predators to the trapping coordinator.
Click here to view information about the main predators and also to view video of these predators attacking native species.
Summary of predator control activity
A monthly summary of predator control data provided by our members and trappers can be viewed by
clicking
here.
If you are in our area and would like to contribute to this data please fill in the
monitoring form from this website.