1406 days ago

'Absolutely stoked': Rangers declare Shakespear Regional Park stoat free

Caroline Williams Reporter from Rodney Times

Shakespear Regional Park has reclaimed its pest-free status, after a stoat incursion spanning almost two years.

The sanctuary provides wildlife such as kiwi pukupuku (little spotted kiwi), hihi (stitchbird) and tīeke (saddleback) with a safe and pest-free habitat.

However, that safety was compromised after a stoat was spotted in March 2020.

By summer, it was evident the stoat had given birth, as the DNA analysis of scat (poo) samples had identified the presence of nine individual stoats, Auckland Council senior ranger at the sanctuary Matt Maitland said.

In early August 2021, the eighth stoat was captured. No more have been caught since. It's possible the ninth male stoat, last seen on camera on August 22, may have left the sanctuary or had “had some other misadventure” befall it.

Cautious of declaring the stoat incursion over, due to the high stakes for wildlife, the team allowed the stoats a breeding cycle before celebrating the sanctuary as stoat free in late January.

Maitland said he was “absolutely stoked” to see the end of the stoat saga.

Click 'read more' for the full story on Stuff.

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More messages from your neighbours
G
1 hour ago

Christmas disappointment.

Geoff from Gulf Harbour

People may wish to reconsider purchasing products made by Fyna Foods Pty Australia.
Also found a box of "Tiny Toblerones" was way too big for the contents.

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4 days ago

Poll: Is it ok to regift something that you have been given?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

🎁 Holiday Gift Chat!

Do you ever regift?
What’s your take on asking for a receipt if a gift doesn’t fit?

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Is it ok to regift something that you have been given?
  • 79.9% Yes! It's better to regift what I don't need
    79.9% Complete
  • 20.1% No. It's the thought and effort that matters
    20.1% Complete
826 votes
8 hours ago

Create a Stunning Stain Feature Wall with Resene Colorwood

The Team from Resene ColorShop Silverdale

Transform your living room into a work of art with Resene Colorwood wood stains. Find out how to create your own stain feature wall with these easy step by step instructions.

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