Threats to weka
North Island weka
The stability, density and causes of decline of weka populations are linked in complex ways to the ecosystem of each local region.
The main threats for weka are:
- They are preyed upon by ferrets, cats, stoats and dogs.
- Competition with introduced species for native fruits and invertebrates.
- A change in forest and forest leaf litter composition due to the impact of introduced animals such as deer, pigs and possums.
- Habitat depletion, modification and degradation.
- Disease and parasites, although this is not well understood.
- Climate change, which could enhance the number or length of droughts and lower food and water availability.
- Motor vehicles causing road kills.
- Snail and slug baits.
- Pest control operations where weka are exposed to poorly protected traps, anti-coagulant baits (some rat baits) or acute toxins (like cyanide). Weka can be killed by feeding on other poisoned animals (secondary poisoning). Safer toxins are now available.
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