Trapping at Waihaha

I was extremely fortunate to be invited to Waihaha to assist a team in expanding the trapping network. It truly is a stunning location The journey over was rather thrilling, with the lake feeling like the open sea. I did feel like we overpacked for only one night, but we had all the trapping resources, which included many DOC 200s and Flipping Timmys. Between the Waiahaha River and the Cliffs, there is a stunning wetland and some really stunning kanuka forests with tree fuchsia, which were full of flowers and new leaves. We were able to see Bellbirds/ Korimako feeding on the tree fuchsia/ kōtukutuku flowers.

Along the edge of the wetland, we heard an at-risk spotless crake/pūweto, These birds are rarely seen, they are very secretive and crepuscular (meaning active at twilight); this one must have been heading to bed a bit late, as it was 10 a.m. when we heard it. We also heard a few Fernbirds/Mātātā, Fernbirds are endemic to NZ and are at risk and both species are declining due to Predation, habitat loss, and human disturbance.

The Waihaha Papakainga Trust is committed to protecting this taio/environment, It was wonderful to work alongside Marilyn and Beryl. Both were very hands-on with the traps and keen to learn all they could.

The next day was another stunning day, and the lake was much calmer, making the trip back a bit more relaxing. It was great to see many of the wilding pines dying within the lake shore reserves. These trees will collapse and be replaced with the surrounding native vegetation.

It was a great trip and it is always very much appreciated to have the opportunity to work and learn alongside WRC staff and PT staff member Shirley. Thank you for including PFT.

I look forward to the updates.