STNN have been undertaking trapping for pest animals in some of the reserves in South Titirangi for the last few years. We do this in consultation with the council and DOC. This is working really well, we have a schedule of volunteers who regularly clear and reset the traps and enter the data into trap.nz. We have removed over 100 animal pests so far in the few reserves we cover.
The pest animals we mainly target are possums, rats and mice. But also stoats and hedgehogs (cute but deadly). These pests are hugely damaging to our flora and fauna. These pests will eat birds eggs, young birds, lizards weta, spiders, insects, seeds, plants and many other things. To bring back the birds and regenerate the forest we need to reduce the numbers of these pest animals greatly.
We are keen to see more of the reserves and immediately surrounding properties in South Titirangi cared for in this way. STNN can supply all of the equipment and provide training. We would undertake the initial setup of traps and volunteer training.
The reserve we want to focus on next is Davies Bay. This is a popular bush and beach reserve on the Eastern part of the peninsula. As far as we know it is completely untrapped.
We would ideally like to have a team of 6-8 volunteers who would clear and reset traps on a rotational basis. It’s a good way to get outside and help the environment at the same time. We find that volunteers who undertake this work find it really interesting and rewarding. It’s not difficult work and it can make a real difference to the environment.
All of the traps will be DOC approved ones in boxes with screw down lids so that pets and children can’t get into them. Possum traps are mounted in trees out of reach of children.
If you are interested in this, please contact David Blake, 021-725-909, davidnblake36@gmail.com.