Threats to takahē
Takahē nest with a real egg and
a dummy egg which contains a datalogger
Fight for survival
The takahē once lived throughout the North and South Islands, although the North Island birds were probably a separate species (being taller and finer boned), but by the time of Māori settlement, it was already reduced in numbers and localised in distribution. After its rediscovery in 1948, a 500 sq. km special area within Fiordland National Park was set aside for its conservation.
By 1982, the population had dwindled to a low of 118 birds. This rapid decline occurred during the 1940-50s when deer became established throughout Fiordland. Research has shown that deer, more than any other pest, have had a detrimental effect on the birds' nutrition (contributing to chick loss) and habitat. Following deer control in the Murchison Mountains, the species has recovered slightly. Even so, only about 130 birds remain in Fiordland.
Contacts
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Pukaha Mount Bruce National Wildlife Centre
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Phone:
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+64 6 375 8004
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Address:
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State Highway 2
Masterton
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Email:
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Full office details
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