Date:  30 October 2017

DOC Battle for our Birds aerial 1080 predator control to protect native species in northern Paparoa National Park and adjoining conservation land has been completed. 

The pest control targeted rats and also possums which prey on native wildlife and cause browsing damage to native plants. Stoats are reduced through their eating poisoned rodent carcasses.

The pest control was carried out over approximately 36,000 hectares of national park and other conservation land between the Punakaiki River and Waitakere River and across to the main ridge of the Paparoa Range.

DOC Buller Operations Manager Bob Dickson said monitoring had shown rat numbers in the area were at a level where they threatened at-risk native species and stoat numbers could also rise due to more rodents to feed on.

“The predator control was particularly needed to protect vulnerable populations of great spotted kiwi, whio, kea, kākā, Powelliphanta snails and long-tailed bats.

“DOC Battle for our Birds operations and OSPRI TBfree pest control this year have provided protection for native species over a large part of Paparoa National Park and adjoining areas.”

Warning signs have been placed at all main access points to pest control areas.

Dogs owners are reminded to keep their dogs well away from areas where warning signs are present. If anyone is taking a dog into a pest control area, it should be kept on a leash or wear a muzzle.

Dogs should also be kept well away from any possums carcasses that might come downstream after heavy rain.

If it’s suspected a dog has ingested a toxic substance, they should immediately be taken to a vet. 

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