We need your help!
We are in desperate need to replace about 50 traps as part of our trap network at Waitetoko and Oruatua (southern Lake Taupō villages).
The Oruatua trap network was set up back in 2007 and has been extended over the years. Trapping at Waitetoko began in 2016 with mostly reconditioned traps. Many years on, lots of the traps are rusty and unlikely to perform well, if at all.
It is essential we get the traps replaced before the bird breeding season starts. There are Miromiro (Tomtit) and the odd Toutowai (Robin) in both reserves, but they won’t stand a chance of breeding if the pest numbers are unchecked. All traps are maintained by a small core group of local volunteers.
Our goal is to replace the deteriorated traps with full stainless steel DOC200 traps as they will last much longer. The cost of a new trap is approx $50.00. Most of the old boxes can be reused, but over time will need replacing too. A new box/trap cost is closer to $100 including freight.
State of the deteriorated traps.
Miromiro (Tomtit) seen in the reserve.