Date Time
New survey shows rock wren hot spots
Rock wrens/tuke live year-round in the harsh alpine environment. No bigger than a silvereye, they are weak flyers and nest on the ground, making them easy prey for rats and stoats.
The Department of Conservation (DOC) began monitoring rock wrens at 22 sites from Fiordland to Kahurangi in 2019 to measure how populations respond to predator control. Two summer surveys have been completed.
DOC lead researcher Tristan Rawlence says results are showing healthy rock wren/tuke populations largely where predators are managed.
“For the first time we’re getting an overall picture of how rock wrens are doing and it’s looking good where predators are controlled, but dire where they’re not.
Source: New Zealand Government
The Government is significantly increasing its investment in restoring Central Otagoâs waterways while at the same time delivering jobs to the region hard-hit by the economic impact of Covid-19, says Land Information Minister, Damien OâConnor.Â
 Mr OâConnor says two new community projects under the Jobs for Nature funding programme will deliver more than 23 jobs in the region over the next four years, while contributing to the restoration of the regionâs precious waterways.   Â
Aspiring Biodiversity Trust â up to $321,000 over four years
The Aspiring Biodiversity Trust will carry out monitoring, pest and weed management, and restoration on the Wilkins and Makarora rivers which flow into Lake WÄnaka.