Genesis Energy Whio Recovery Programme
Genesis Energy is partnering with DOC to save whio
Genesis Energy is partnering with DOC to save whio/ blue duck. Over the next five years extra funding and resources will be provided to fully implement the Whio Recovery Plan 2009-2019.
About whio
Whio are unique to New Zealand.
They are one of four species of duck in the world that live permanently in rivers. With fewer than 3,000 birds left, whio are rarer than some other New Zealand iconic species.
Whio live in one of the most challenging environments in the world - fast flowing rivers in the North and South Islands.
Whio release at Tongariro Forest by Genesis Energy staff
They feed on aquatic larvae which can only be found in clean turbulent waters. Because of their habitat and diet whio are recognised as an indicator of healthy river eco-system.
The partnership
Genesis Energy is providing resources and their technical experts to support the work at a national level.
The recovery efforts will be focused at the eight 'security sites' to ensure the retention of viable duck population at these sites and making them fully operational. Recovery work will be extended to cover long-term 'recovery sites'.
DOC is currently working with a number of private and public organisations and community groups across the country on whio recovery. These initiatives underpin the recovery work and are critical to achieving viable whio population.
The Genesis Energy Whio Recovery Programme will be implemented over the next five years. It will complement the current whio recovery efforts and effectively double the current level of work.
Watch a video about the Genesis Energy Whio Recovery Programme