Kākāpō transfer signifies success of breeding programme
Archived content: This media release was accurate on the date of publication.
Introduction
In preparation for the 2010/11 breeding season, seven male kākāpō were successfully transferred from Codfish Island/Whenua Hou to a remote predator-free island.Date: 01 November 2010
In preparation for the 2010/11 breeding season, seven male kākāpō were successfully transferred from Codfish Island/Whenua Hou to a remote predator-free island.
The transfer, a first of its kind for the Kākāpō Recovery programme, will provide more space on Codfish Island and was part of an ongoing population management programme aimed at increasing the kākāpō population.
Department of Conservation Kākāpō Pogramme Manager Deidre Vercoe said the transfer indicated the success of the recovery programme with the team beginning to investigate other islands as potential homes for the native species.
“Ultimately we want to establish a third breeding site so we’re looking into other islands and how we could manage them to ensure kākāpō survives,” Ms Vercoe said.
The transferred birds included both adult and juvenile males who are already well represented in the genetic population.
“To get the best results this season we need the right number of birds with the best mix of genetics on site, so we’re creating a bit more breathing space,” Ms Vercoe said.
Rangers are hoping for up to 19 nests on Codfish Island this breeding season.