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The Conservation Sacrifice: How Far New Zealand Will Go to Save Its Birds MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY by C) Brittany Flaherty Payne JUN 2 5 2019 nl Co B.S. Biology LIBRARIES B.A. Environmental Studies William Smith College, 2010 SUBMITTED TO THE PROGRAM IN COMPARATIVE MEDIA STUDIES/WRITING IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DEGREE OF MASTER OF SCIENCE IN SCIENCE WRITING AT THE MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY SEPTEMBER 2019 © 2019 Brittany Flaherty Payne. All rights reserved. The author hereby grants to MIT permission to reproduce and to distribute publicly paper and electronic copies of this thesis document in whole or in part in any medium now known or hereafter created. Signature redacted Signature of Author: Depa rnent of Comparative Media Studies/Writing May 21, 2019 Signature redacted Certified by: Marcia Bartusiak Professor of the Practice Thesis Supervisor Signature redacted Accepted by: Thomas Levenson Professor of Science Writing Director, Graduate Program in Science Writing 1 The Conservation Sacrifice: How Far New Zealand Will Go to Save Its Birds by Brittany Flaherty Payne Submitted to the Program in Comparative Media Studies/Writing on May 21, 2019 in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Master of Science in Science Writing ABSTRACT In July of 2016, the New Zealand government announced plans for Predator Free 2050, the biggest predator control effort ever undertaken in the country-and perhaps the world. Predator Free 2050 is a government-sanctioned goal to eliminate rats, stoats, and possums from New Zealand. Since New Zealand has no native land mammals, its bird species are poorly adapted to withstand predation from the mammals that have been introduced since humans first arrived on the nation's shores. -
RESEARCH Intake of Sugar Water by Kākā in Orokonui Eco-Sanctuary
AicheleNew Zealand et al.: JournalSugar water of Ecology intake (2021)by kaka 45(1): 3431 © 2021 New Zealand Ecological Society. 1 RESEARCH Intake of sugar water by kākā in Orokonui Eco-sanctuary Anna Aichele1, Philip Seddon1 and Yolanda van Heezik1* 1Department of Zoology, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin, New Zealand. Author for correspondence (Email: [email protected]) Published online: 8 December 2020 Abstract: Supplementary food is provided to native birds in eco-sanctuaries throughout New Zealand to discourage their movement outside the sanctuary, to enhance reproductive success, and to promote visitor encounters with wildlife. We recorded the frequency of visits by South Island kākā (Nestor meridionalis meridionalis) to four feeders in Orokonui eco-sanctuary to quantify sugar water consumption as a contribution to daily energy requirements. During 11 days of observations that took place between May and July 2018, thirty-one kākā visited the feeders (16 juveniles, 8 sub-adults, 8 adults; 55% females); we obtained complete records of all visits from 20 birds. The amount of time spent drinking at the feeders did not vary between sexes, age groups, or feeders. Mean daily kilojoules consumed (4.01 kJ ± 3.30 SD) was only 0.76% ± 0.62% of daily energy requirements. Provision of sugar water therefore encourages kākā to regularly visit the feeders, providing good viewing opportunities for the public, but does not appear to form a major component of the birds’ diet. Keywords: Nestor meridionalis meridionalis, parrot, provisioning, supplementary feeding Introduction suggested as a potential negative impact of food provisioning (Robb et al. -
October 2003
Number 3 October 2003 ISSN 1175-6233 Haere ra Jacqueline Contents As we go to press, a key member management strategies for of the invasive invertebrate team introduced wasps and ants; and Haere ra Jacqueline 1 and editor of Stowaways — developed BIOSECURE, a web- Jacqueline Beggs — is leaving. based decision tool for managing At The Warehouse, The Warehouse 2 The rest of the team want to take biosecurity risks to New Zealand’s That 'caffiene" buzz 3 this opportunity to acknowledge indigenous ecosystems. all Jacqueline has achieved Annual meeting of Entomogical Society 3 As a skilled science while working for Landcare communicator, Jacqueline has Invasiveness is promoted by good Research and to wish her well in actively spread the word that habitat and plenty of it 4 her new role as a lecturer at the invasive species are a major University of Auckland. Have trye, will travel 6 threat to native ecosystems. As Arboviruses in New Zealand 8 Jacqueline's first research was she says, “We desperately need on the native parrot, kaka, for answers on how to prevent more Bumbling in the dark 9 DSIR Division in 1984. This species arriving, and how to evolved into Ant invaders galore!! 10 research on the New kids on the block 11 ecology and Brian Karl control of Argentine ant update 12 introduced Sea containers: Plugging New Zealand’s wasps. She has leaky border 14 led the “Invasive What else do container ships bring Invertebrates in into New Zealand? 15 Natural Ecosystems” Obituary: Dr Nigel Barlow 15 research Recent publications 16 programme since 1992. -
NZ Journal of Ecology, In
1 2 FORUM/REVIEW ARTICLE 3 4 A research strategy for biodiversity conservation on New Zealand’s 5 offshore islands 6 7 David R. Towns 1* , Peter J. Bellingham 2, Christa P.H. Mulder 3, Phil O’B. Lyver 2 8 1Research and Development Group, Department of Conservation, Private Bag 68 908, 9 Newton, Auckland 1145, New Zealand. 10 2Landcare Research, PO Box 40, Lincoln 7640, New Zealand 11 3 Department of Biology and Wildlife & Institute of Arctic Biology, University of 12 Alaska Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA 13 *Author for correspondence (Email: [email protected]) 14 15 Abstract: New Zealand’s (NZ) offshore islands are refuges for many threatened 16 species, a high proportion of vertebrate diversity, and the world’s most diverse fauna 17 of seabirds. We present key issues and questions that can be used to guide research on 18 the conservation of biodiversity on these islands. Four global reviews formed a basis 19 from which we identified research questions of potential relevance to the management 20 of NZ islands. The research questions were assigned in the context of nine objectives 21 proposed as a means of achieving ecological integrity. For each of the nine 22 objectives, we then asked what has been achieved in terms of island research and 23 management, and what needs to be achieved in order to meet long term goals. We 24 used local examples to identify issues and questions specific to islands in the NZ 25 region. Our analyses revealed two research areas in which current understanding is 1 26 poor. -
Can You Teach an Old Parrot New Tricks?
Can you teach an old parrot new tricks? Individual variation in the problem-solving abilities of wild kaka (Nestor meridionalis) by Julia Loepelt A thesis submitted to the Victoria University of Wellington in fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy. Victoria University of Wellington Te Whare Wānanga o te Ūpoko o te Ika a Māui 2016 “It is not only fine feathers that make fine birds.” Aesop, The Jay and the Peacock This thesis was conducted under the supervision of Associate Professor Kevin C. Burns Victoria University of Wellington Wellington, New Zealand and Dr. Rachael C. Shaw Victoria University of Wellington Wellington, New Zealand ABSTRACT Identifying factors that may influence cognitive variation in the wild is essential for furthering our understanding of how ecological and evolutionary mechanisms shape cognitive phenotypes. Yet, studies on cognitive variation in the wild and its causes and consequences are still rare. In both the wild and captivity, birds have become a centre of attention, revealing striking cognitive abilities that may rival the great apes. While much of this research has focused on corvids, few parrot species have been studied thoroughly. One of these species is the kea (Nestor notabilis), which has shown remarkable social and physical cognitive skills, including the use of tools. This thesis explores the innovative problem-solving skills of the only other Nestor species, the kaka (Nestor meridionalis), with the overall aim to investigate ecological, developmental and genetic factors influencing within-species variation of these abilities in the wild. When confronted with a series of novel problems at a familiar feeding station, juvenile kaka outperform adult kaka, especially in their ability and efficiency to find an innovative solution to acquiring the food reward. -
MARK CARWARDINE WILD THOUGHTS I Was Saddened Recently to Hear of the Death of an Old Friend of Mine
MARK CARWARDINE WILD THOUGHTS I was saddened recently to hear of the death of an old friend of mine. Richard Henry, who was believed to be more than 80 years old, died of natural causes. A legendary kakapo from New Zealand, he was named after a Victorian conservationist who pioneered efforts to save this Critically Endangered night parrot from extinction. Then I started to think about how many of the last survivors of a range of endangered species I happen to have met over the years. There are loads: from Lonesome George, the last known individual of the Pinta Island giant tortoise in the Galápagos Islands, to Najin, Fatu, Sudan and Suni, four of the world’s last remaining eight northern white rhinoceroses, who I accompanied on their long journey from the Czech Republic to Kenya last year. Of course, scientists working full-time in the field know a great many more individuals by name. Partly, this is a measure of the Mark Carwardine intensity of conservation and research efforts: people get to know and recognise individuals personally because they spend so much time with them – in many cases, more time than they spend with their spouses. I have friends who study humpback The head-mating Sirocco, perhaps whales, and they can the best-known kakapo in the world. recognise and name every individual in “I suppose it’s inevitable populations of hundreds that we get to know the or even thousands. last survivors when there But often this is a measure of how rare are so few left, but it’s many species have shocking nonetheless.” become. -
Competition Between the Introduced Wasps Vespula Germanica and V. Vulgaris in Honeydew Beech Forest, North-Western South Island
"'''''''k,",'''' between the introduced e'"'-"'-"=~= and y. ""-='''&=~ beech forest, north-western Island, New Zealand. Richard J. Harris ,;::: A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements of Doctor of Philosophy in Zoology, University of Canterbury 1992. Hz .:; I ~ c( Z To Barbara and Brian I TABLE OF CONTENTS Abstract Chapter Introduction 1 Chapter Study sites Documentation of competition between Vespula vulgaris and V. gennanica in honeydew beech forest The influence of habitat use and foraging on the 29 replacement of Vespula gennanica by V. vulgaris The protein diet of Vespula vulgaris and V. gennanica in 38 honeydew beech forest Chapter Honeydew foraging: harvesting a limited resource 53 Chapter 7: Variation in the quality of Vespula vulgaris queens and 75 its significance in population dynamics Chapter 8: Population dynamics and competitive exclusion among 98 vespid wasps in honeydew beech forest: a conceptual model Acknowledgments 108 References 110 Appendix 1: Harris, R.J. 1991: Diet of the wasps Vespula vulgaris and 119 V. gennanica in honeydew beech forest of the South Island, New Zealand. New Zealand Journal of Zoology 18: 159~ 169. Appendix 2: Harris, R.J.; Thomas, C.D. & Moller, H. 1991: The influence 130 of habitat use and foraging on the replacement of one introduced wasp species by another in New Zealand. Ecological Entomology 16: 441-448. Appendix 3: Harris, R.J.; Moller, H. & Tilley, J.A.V. 1991: Weather- 138 related differences in attractiveness of protein foods to Vespula wasps. New Zealand Journal ofEcology 15: 167-170. Harris, R.I. 1989: An entrance trap to sample foods of 142 social wasps (Hymenoptera: Vespidae). -
Strigops Habroptilus)
Copyright is owned by the Author of the thesis. Permission is given for a copy to be downloaded by an individual for the purpose of research and private study only. The thesis may not be reproduced elsewhere without the permission of the Author. The ecology and anatomy of scent in the critically endangered kakapo (Strigops habroptilus) A thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Zoology at Massey University, Auckland, New Zealand Anna Clarissa Gsell May 2012 Hoki, the kakapo - Photo by Dr. Luis Ortiz Catedral Kakapo chicks born in 2008;©Photo by Chris Birmingham ABSTRACT The focus of the research presented here is the analysis of feather scent emitted by a parrot, the kakapo (Strigops habroptilus) and the kakapo’s ability to perceive scent by studying the anatomy of its brain and the olfactory bulb. In addition, behavioural research was conducted to determine the capability of the kakapo’s closest relatives, the kea (Nestor notabilis) and kaka (N. meridionalis) to detect scents and to distinguish between different concentrations of scents. The strong odour of the kakapo is one of the many unique characteristics of this critically endan- gered parrot, but its sense of smell has never been described in detail. The kakapo is the largest par- rot worldwide, it is nocturnal and flightless. Kakapo are herbivorous and it is the only parrot with a lek breeding system. Males defend several display arenas during the breeding season and continu- ously produce low frequency booming calls. Females come from afar and appraise different males and choose one with which they want to mate. -
Auckland-Conservation-Boa
Te Runanga Papa Atawhai o Tamaki Makaurau AUCKLAND CONSERVATION BOARD MINUTES OF THE 117TH MEETING OF THE AUCKLAND CONSERVATION BOARD HELD AT AUCKLAND CONSERVANCY OFFICE ON 15TH MAY 2013 PRESENT: Mr Ross Aitken Chairperson Mr Laurie Beamish Deputy Chair Dr Jacqueline Beggs Board member Mrs Stella Chan Board member Mrs Dianne Glenn Board member Mr Thomas Grace Board member Mr Martin Gummer Board member Mrs Jo Knight Board member Mr Ian Rodger Board member STAFF IN ATTENDANCE Mr Sean Goddard Conservator Mr John Galilee Conservation Support Manager Mrs Raewyn Bennett Board Support Officer Ms Sarah Smylie Management Planner PUBLIC FORUM ATTENDEES. Mr Brett O’Riley ATEED – Chief Executive Ms Pauline Dwight ATEED – Product Development Manager Ms Bernie Mabbs ATEED – Operational Strategy Advisor Mr Daniel Harrison ATEED – Partnership Manager 1 MINUTES OF THE 117TH MEETING HELD ON 15TH MAY 2013 AUCKLAND CONSERVATION BOARD - TE RUNANGA PAPA ATAWHAI O TAMAKI MAKAURAU BOARD MEMBER PROFILES Ross Aitken, Mahurangi: Previously a senior General Manager of the Westpac Group both in New Zealand and Australia. Presently owner/operator with my wife of Waipiata Lodge and actively involved with Business Mentors in New Zealand and The Solomon Islands. Member of Tawharanui Open Sanctuary Society Inc, Forest and Bird Mid Northern and Hauturu/Little Barrier Island Supporters Trust. Recreational interests include kayaking, tramping and swimming. Laurie Beamish, Ngai Tai of Umupuia: Deputy Chair. 35 years marine experience commercial fishing and skippering a charter boat; voyaged extensively on both coasts of the North Island and to the Kermadec Islands; CEO of Ngai Tai environmental arm; Co-secretary of Ngai Tai ki Tamaki Tribal Trust; Trustee and member of Tiriti negotiation team on Hauraki and Tamaki Makarau collective; direct ancestral links to both European and Maori first settlers in the Auckland region; recreational interests include traditional food gathering, Waka Taua, boating, surfing and diving. -
A Parrot Apart: the Natural History of the Kakapo (Strigops Habroptilus), and the Context of Its Conservation Management
A parrot apart: the natural history of the kakapo (Strigops habroptilus), and the context of its conservation management RALPH G. POWLESLAND Abstract Since the last review of kakapo biology, published 50 years ago, much Research, Development & Improvement has been learnt as a result of the transfer of all known individuals to offshore islands, Division, Department of Conservation, P.O. and their intensive management to increase adult survival and productivity. This Box 10-420, Wellington, New Zealand review summarises information on a diversity of topics, including taxonomy, plumage, [email protected] moult, mass, anatomy, physiology, reasons for decline in distribution, present numbers and status, sex ratio, habitat, home range, foraging activities, diet, voice, DON V. MERTON breeding biology, nesting success, sexual maturity, and adult survival. In addition, Honorary Research Associate, Research, those kakapo attributes that compromise its long-term survival in present-day New Development & Improvement Division, Zealand are discussed, along with management practises developed to overcome Department of Conservation, P.O. Box 10- these problems. 420, Wellington, New Zealand Powlesland, R.G.; Merton, D.V.; Cockrem, J.F. 2006. A parrot apart: the natural JOHN F. COCKREM history of the kakapo (Strigops habroptilus), and the context of its conservation Conservation Endocrinology Research management. Notornis 53 (1): 3 - 26. Group, Institute of Veterinary, Animal & Biomedical Sciences, Massey University, Keywords Kakapo; Strigops habroptilus; Psittacidae; endangered species; review; Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, natural history; management practices; predatory mammals New Zealand INTRODUCTION The kakapo (Strigops habroptilus) is a large parrot (males 1.6 – 3.6 kg, females 0.9 – 1.9 kg) (Higgins 1999), with finely barred or mottled yellowish-green plumage. -
Alison Ballance
RESCUED FROM THE BRINK OF EXTINCTION KAKAPO ALISON BALLANCE This book is dedicated to the many people who have worked so hard over the years to save the kakapo; to Hoki, the first kakapo I had the pleasure of meeting; and to Queenie, a 2009 chick I had the privilege of naming and who is part of the kakapo’s bright future. CONTENTS FOREWORD Mark Carwardine 9 PREFACE To make a kakapo 11 The author and publisher gratefully acknowledge the Charles Fleming Fund (Publishing Award), Royal Society of New Zealand, for a grant to assist with publication. PART 1 KAKAPO, THE BIRD 13 1 Return of the kakapo 15 Copies of Kakapo: Rescued from the brink of extinction have been donated to all 2 Nora & the wind dynasty: on being a female kakapo 19 New Zealand intermediate and secondary schools with funding from ‘Kakapo Recovery’, a partnership between Rio Tinto Alcan, Forest and Bird, and the Department of 3 Felix: on being a male kakapo 33 Conservation. This generous donation celebrates the 20-year anniversary of the partnership. 4 The rimu connection 45 5 Kakapo: their place in the world 53 The author and publisher also acknowledge the Department of Conservation PART 2 for generously allowing the use of images from its photo collection. A BRIEF KAKAPO HISTORY 57 6 pre-1956 kakapo: a disappearing act 59 7 1956–85: on the road to extinction 62 First published in 2010 by Craig Potton Publishing 8 1989–96: lean times 71 Craig Potton Publishing 9 1997–2009: the turning tide 77 98 Vickerman Street, PO Box 555, Nelson, New Zealand www.craigpotton.co.nz PART -
Dunedin (2010)
BIODIVERSITY: 2010 and beyond NEW ZEALAND ECOLOGICAL SOCIETY CONFERENCE 22–25 November 2010 University of Otago, Dunedin Programme and Abstracts http://www.nzes.org.nz/ Miss E. L. Hellaby Indigenous Grasslands Research Trust Welcome and conference overview Welcome to ‗Biodiversity: 2010 and beyond‘, the 2010 annual conference of the New Zealand Ecological Society. The theme of this year‘s conference recognises and celebrates 2010 as the United Nations International Year of Biodiversity. To acknowledge this, we present ten symposia examining a range of topics related to biodiversity. There are nine plenary speakers, from Canada, the United Kingdom, the USA, and New Zealand, and more than 90 contributed oral and poster presentations. The subjects covered are diverse and we are sure you will find many to interest you. We extend a particular welcome to the students presenting many papers throughout the conference, and to our overseas guests. In addition to discussing organisms and ecosystems, several symposia explicitly consider biodiversity in relation to human populations – cultural perspectives, production lands, and urban environments. Others examine aspects of managing and protecting biodiversity – assessment, prioritisation and reporting, and reintroduction and pest management. Two special forums are offered: a workshop as part of the ‗Cultural perspectives‘ symposium, and a discussion panel as part of the ‗Production lands‘ symposium. These meetings are described later in this Programme. A successful conference depends on voluntary efforts by a great many people. We particularly thank the organising team, symposium convenors, and field trip organisers. Many people have helped in other ways, most notably the student volunteers who will assist to make things run smoothly.