Waingaro Wetland in Summit’s Whangapoua Forest was highlighted as being a significant habitat for the endangered North Island Fern Bird, the Reef Heron and other bird species.
In an attempt to protect these endangered bird species, Summit engages Project Kiwi to carry out a predator control programme aimed at capturing the pests that pose a risk.
Fifty ground-based traps are sited around the perimeter of this wetland, checked and serviced 24 times a year by Project Kiwi.
The programme has been very successful so far: between July 2019 and June 2021 the traps captured stoat, weasels (20), cats (5), and rats (204).
The next step of this project is to engage with the local school and arrange ongoing, regular student involvement in the care of this wetland.