Kiwi chicks herald spring

 

Spring in the Brynderwyns has been heralded by the arrival of two kiwi chicks, hatched in Marunui Conservation’s covenanted bush. Parents, Tahuhu and Beverley, who produced one of last year’s two nests, have clearly confirmed their partnership.

Catherine Hawley of Marunui says the exciting news is that a further five nests have been identified and all being well, their eggs will be progressively hatching during October and November.

“Hearing the sound of so many incubation pulses on our monitoring equipment from the sitting males has been wonderful. Three birds are from last year’s release and two from the recent releases in April and May.”

There will be wide interest from the local community who named several of the breeding birds. Anzac and Poppy were named by the Mangawhai Cadet Unit, Aroha by Mangawhai Beach School, and Manukah and Anahera by the Friends of the Brynderwyns Society.

Catherine Hawley says Marunui values these links and those naming the birds feel a close connection. She advises that with the prospect of up to 10 more chicks the challenge now is to ensure that they and their parents are kept safe and she acknowledges the key role played by volunteers.

“We do intensive predator trapping monthly from March to October and fortnightly from November to February. Our main targets are stoats, ferrets, weasels, feral cats and rats. We have a dedicated group helping us, many local and others from as far away as Auckland. Recently we’ve been delighted to receive help from two students from Northland Polytech’s environmental course and the offer of help from two more at Otamatea High School.”

The existence of six nests shows that the kiwi are flourishing in the Brynderwyns and provides an even greater incentive to maintain pressure on predators. Spring for the kiwi and other native birds is also breeding time for the pests.

„ Marunui can always use more help and welcomes all offers. Phone 027 233 1434 or Email marunui. conservation@gmail.com

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