1014 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
1 hour ago

Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.

This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.

Do you think this ban is reasonable?

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Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
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  • 0% No
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  • 0% Other - I'll share below
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0 votes
24 minutes ago

Music in Parks and Movies in Parks are returning in 2025!

The Team from Auckland Council

🎶🎬 Get ready, Tāmaki Makaurau! Music in Parks and Movies in Parks are returning in 2025! 🌟 Enjoy free concerts and movies this summer🙌☀️

13 hours ago

Think You’ve Got the Answer? Today’s Riddle Says ‘Prove It’!

Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

If eleven plus two equals one, what does nine plus five equal?

Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.

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