There are 60 more skilled trappers on the Kiwi Coast after a successful Trapper Training Workshop held by Marunui Conservation in Mangawhai.
Article submitted by Marunui Conservation
On 18 June Marunui Conservation held a Trapper Training Workshop in Mangawhai. It was a huge success with 60 people attending to hear presentations by Ngaire Tyson – Kiwi Coast Coordinator, and professional trappers Glen Coulston of Good Wood Aotearoa and Todd Hamilton of Backyard Kiwi, and advice from Steve Henderson, Northland Regional Council’s Biosecurity Officer.
John Hawley of Marunui said it was a very positive event and great to see such widespread community support for kiwi recovery.
“Many new contacts were made and an impressive number of people around the Brynderwyns and beyond are already, or want to become, involved in predator control. “
We thought it might take about 10 to 15 years to engage the wider community but it seems to be happening so much faster which is fantastic.”
Some people were there to upskill while others wanted to learn the basics. A range of traps for different predators were demonstrated, information given on where to put them and what baits to use and best practice techniques in their use and how to keep kiwi safe. Glen covered possums and rats while Todd addressed mustelids, feral cats and emphasised the importance of dog control.
There were some lively performances and opportunities to try out traps.
It was the third such workshop organised by Marunui Conservation since the reintroduction of Northland brown kiwi on their land in the Brynderwyns between 2013-2015. As the birds have been breeding and extending their territories beyond Marunui, there has been increasing interest in their protection. There was a clear message given about what can be achieved individually or by working together on a broad scale and there was considerable interest in Marunui’s work and the Kiwi Coast project.
To find out about a Trapper Training Workshop near you keep an eye on the Kiwi Coast Events Calendar or request a workshop be held to assist your community group by contacting Ngaire the Kiwi Coast Coordinator.
