Mangawhai spit rabbit eradication plan unveiled

Public attention is being drawn to the announcement of a rabbit bait drop around the Mangawhai Wildlife Refuge area on the Mangawhai Spit.

From August 20 until late November bait will be applied and monitored and warning signs will be erected at each bait site as a precautionary measure.

“This is the culmination of eight years of planning,” says Trevor Downey, Chairman of the Mangawhai Harbour Restoration Society (MHRS).

“Peter Wilson of Te Uri O Hou has worked really hard on this with DoC and the NRC and I’m really pleased that all parties have finally been able to agree on a formulated five year plan in a concentrated effort to protect the site,” he adds.

Increasing rabbit infestation has meant losing plants, putting the habitat of the endangered birds at risk.

While it may not sit well with rabbit-lovers it’s important to preserve the good work and efforts of volunteers, says Mr Downey, who have planted out the wildlife refuge and stood vigil on the precious fairy terns, dotterells and other endangered species.

During the summer the Department of Conservation fences off nesting areas, and local volunteers paddle across to protect nests.

Migrating godwits also gather there in autumn, before they head north and depart on their annual Siberian sojourn.

Bait will also be stationed at strategic spots within the Tern Point gated area.

The bait is dyed bright green in colour and contains a poison called Pindone, which is an anticoagulant. The drug interacts with the body's supply of Vitamin K, which is a clotting agent and without which uncontrolled bleeding can occur.

Dogs are unlikely to be affected by eating a rabbit poisoned by the drug, but are at risk if they directly eat the bait.

Pindone is similar to the poisons found in household rat/mouse bait. Regardless, dogs are prohibited on the Spit under any conditions and the public are urged to please observe and obey the signage.
 

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