Sanctuaries of New Zealand workshop 2014 – DRAFT 29 July 2014
Sanctuaries – workshop introduction; translocations and mouse impacts
John Innes and Corinne Watts, Landcare Research, Hamilton
The value of ecosanctuaries to the conservation of tuatara
Alison Cree, University of Otago
Tuatara translocation to Orokonui Ecosanctuary
Scott Jarvie, University of Otago
Survival and nesting success of South Island robins at three sites in Dunedin with variable intensity
of predator control
Michael Jones and Ian Jamieson, University of Otago
Dealing with the detrimental effects of invasive predators is an area of particular importance for
endemic species in New Zealand. One of the more successful strategies for use on the mainland is
fenced sanctuaries. Our research attempts to quantify the effectiveness of Orokonui Ecosanctuary in
ensuring the survival and nesting success of South Island robins (Petroica australis australis)
translocated to the sanctuary in 2010. Additionally, comparisons are made to two robin populations
in close proximity to Orokonui: Silver Peaks (an aerial 1080 operation in 2011) and Silverstream (a
minimal trapping site). Survival and nesting success of South Island robins were monitored at all sites
over the breeding season from August to the following February between 2009 (2010 for Orokonui)
and 2014. Since 2011, Orokonui continues to display increased nest survival as well as adult survival
as compared to the other two sites. This lends further evidence to the effectiveness of predatorproof sanctuaries as safe havens for threatened species.
Translocation strategies for jewelled geckos
Carey Knox (EcoGecko) & Jo Monks (Department of Conservation)
Our research examined the effects of different translocation strategies on dispersal of jewelled
geckos using radio-tracking. We compared hard-releases (uncontrolled dispersal) versus softreleases (restricting dispersal in an enclosure) for a period of time. Research completed in 2012
found strong evidence that the soft-release strategy minimised dispersal of geckos, at least for a
spring translocation, despite a low sample size. Further research was undertaken in 2014 and initial
results will be presented.
Pateke Habitat Use
Debbie Lewis, University of Otago
Once abundant and widely distributed, pateke (Anas chlorotis) have declined in number and are now
restricted to just a few key strongholds. Recruitment failure has been identified as a main cause of
recent declines, with habitat change and juvenile starvation being possible causes of the recruitment
failure. Using GPS telemetry and stable isotope analysis (SIA), I investigated and compared the
resource selection of two pateke populations. The two study locations are Mimiwhangata Coastal
Reserve in Nothland, with an apparently stable population, and Okiwi Basin on Great Barrier Island,
which suffers annual juvenile losses. I will describe the basic habitat types used by pateke, and
compare pateke habitat selection between the two study sites. I will also discuss the preliminary
results of the SIA, specifically the identified differences in the isotopic ratios between the two
populations.
Where are we going?
William Lee, Landcare Research, Dunedin
The talk explores the past and discusses the future of predator-free eco-sanctuaries and how these
important conservation initiatives contribute to the total conservation portfolio in New Zealand. I
am interested in developing biodiversity goals and outcomes for eco-sanctuaries that both sustain
community commitment while also helping us reach critical conservation goals nationally.
How much pest control is enough?
Grant Norbury, Landcare Research
One of the fundamental principles of cost-effective pest management is knowing the maximum
allowable pest density (or minimum control effort) that achieves a desirable conservation outcome.
Surprisingly, this knowledge is lacking for many invaded ecological systems. Without knowing the
relationship between pest density and ecological outcome, conservationists run the risk of not
applying enough effort, or conversely, overcommitting resources unnecessarily. I will review some of
the empirical evidence from New Zealand ecosystems, outline the pitfalls of interpreting simple
density-impact relationships for conservation, and recommend their appropriate use for species
conservation.
New Zealand Bird Translocations: past, present and future
Kevin Parker, Parker Conservation and Massey University
Conservation translocations started in New Zealand in the late 1800s with Richard Henry’s heroic
attempts to establish populations of kakapo and kiwi on Resolution Island. Henry’s efforts failed
following the invasion of mustelids in 1900. However, translocations were subsequently used by the
New Zealand Wildlife Service from the 1960s in pioneering work that snatched species such as
saddlebacks, black robins and kakapo from the brink of extinction. The recent growth in community
based restoration projects creates unprecedented opportunities for translocating birds, especially on
the mainland. However, to maximise translocation success we need to understand our translocation
history. Therefore, I will talk about the past, present and future of bird translocations in New
Zealand with a particular focus on successes, challenges and future directions. I will also provide
practical advice for planning and conducting successful translocations.
Might the moa be a goer? DeExtinction and the prospect of species resurrections
Phil Seddon, University of Otago
The prospect of species de-extinction, the resurrection of extinct species using new genetic
engineering techniques, potentially broadens the range of species and associated processes we
might seek to restore. De-extinction of one species has already occurred, and we will see the
resurrection of multiple species at some future time. But this possibility raises many questions, from
scientific, conservation, ethical and moral points of view. Because the goals of de-extinction relate to
ecological enrichment, selection of de-extinction candidates should be guided by the feasibility and
risks of their release into suitable habitat but which species and what habitat? Is the world ready for
the return of the woolly mammoth or the sabre-tooth cat? Could Tasmanian tigers (thylacine) reinhabitat Tasmania? Is the moa a goer for New Zealand, or are there better options?
Considering dispersal in reintroduction and restoration planning
Kate Richardson, Massey University
I will discuss issues for consideration in the planning of mainland reintroductions, including selecting
appropriate sites for the species, integrated landscape management, and possible tools for reducing
or mitigating dispersal.