Mangamuka Woman’s Trapping Workshop

Fifteen keen local wahine attended Kiwi Coast’s Women’s Trapping Workshop on August 12 at Mangamuka School as part of Conservation Week.

A number of experienced female trappers were on hand to share their skills and experience including Lesley Baigent (Kiwi Coast’s Far North Coordinator),  Tina and Bonnie Winder (TJ Pest Termination), Mae Lewis (Kauaepepe Landcare), Ann Kearney (Puketotara Landcare), and Mandy Harris (Otangaroa Landcare).

Mandy Harris (Otangaroa Landcare) and Ann Kearney (Puketotara Landcare) share possum trapping techniques.  Photo: Mae Lewis

The damage possums, rats, mustelids and feral cats cause to the local environment was highlighted, as was the need to carry out efficient pest control to help native forests and wildlife thrive.

The most commonly used traps were made available, and each participant learnt hands-on how to set them safely and effectively. Local tips and tricks on how to get more pests into traps using lures and considering different trap locations were also shared to help each trapper get the best results possible.

Lesley Baigent, Far North Kiwi Coast Coordinator organised the day and said:

“Those attending were from varying areas and walks of life and while some were already doing some form of trapping, some had their eyes well and truly opened to the world of pests and left feeling empowered and motivated!

Women make awesome trappers and to have such experienced, successful trappers present on the day was confirmation of this. Thanks to Foundation North for funding the workshop, all who attended and especially those women willing to share their skills and experiences. Pests beware!”

To find out more about effective pest control tools and techniques for Northland download the Northland Pest Control Guidelines or request a copy from Ngaire the Kiwi Coast Coordinator.

If you would book a Kiwi Coast pest control workshop for your group or area just let us know.