The pest control project for 2016 is now complete. The toxins of Pindone and Feratox® (cyanide) were used again this year, and the results are shown on the chart below. It was disappointing to find the rat numbers had increased instead of reducing. Several other projects in the area have also reported low pre-baiting numbers for rats and a poor reduction post baiting. The reason is unknown. At Tikitapu there was plenty of bait left when the stations were cleared but obviously the rats had found other food more to their liking!
The caution period for the reserve will continue until the signs are taken down, approximately 4 months after the stations were cleared. This time is required for the complete decomposition of the carcasses and degradation of the bait. Until the signs are removed please do not touch any and remember to keep dogs out of the reserve at all times.
The annual monitoring of bird activity in Tikitapu Reserve to determine if bird abundance is increasing as a result of the pest management strategy, has now been completed. A comprehensive report, including comparisons with counts made in previous years will be prepared for the Bay of Plenty Regional Council which supports the pest control programme.
A monthly roster of volunteers ensured the Mistletoe and Nature walks were checked and maintained.
A big thank you to all those who have helped with the Tikitapu Pest Control Project this year. The project depends on your assistance.
New volunteers are always welcome and if anyone is interested in being involved in the pest control programme, or going on the roster to check the Nature and Mistletoe walks, please let me know. Some of our older volunteers are finding they are no longer able to continue with this project and we would love to get some younger people on the volunteer list.
Frances Blakely
Phone: 3628 480
Email: jandfblakely@gmail.com
The annual monitoring of bird activity in Tikitapu Reserve to determine if bird abundance is increasing as a result of the pest management strategy, has now been completed. A comprehensive report, including comparisons with counts made in previous years will be prepared for the Bay of Plenty Regional Council which supports the pest control programme.
A monthly roster of volunteers ensured the Mistletoe and Nature walks were checked and maintained.
A big thank you to all those who have helped with the Tikitapu Pest Control Project this year. The project depends on your assistance.
New volunteers are always welcome and if anyone is interested in being involved in the pest control programme, or going on the roster to check the Nature and Mistletoe walks, please let me know. Some of our older volunteers are finding they are no longer able to continue with this project and we would love to get some younger people on the volunteer list.
Frances Blakely
Phone: 3628 480
Email: jandfblakely@gmail.com
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