Kamo has an exciting opportunity to be part of the national Predator Free movement. Following the establishment of the successful Predator Free Onerahi project, and with Predator Free Parihaka off the ground, Tiakina Whangārei is now looking forward to helping Kamo to become predator free.
A local community group – Kamo Community Inc – is getting behind the cause and calling for more people to get involved with backyard trapping within the Kamo area with the aim of becoming a predator-free suburb.
Ruth Marsh, Secretary for Kamo Community Inc, is an avid backyard trapper from her home near the Pukenui Forest and says she wants to do her bit to protect “that gem of a forest”.
“There are so many benefits to trapping that I’ve seen around our place. I do it to protect my own garden from pests, but also to protect our unique and precious native wildlife. Along with this comes the health benefits of living in a supportive and healthy natural environment.
“Since trapping, I’ve noticed there are fewer rats and possums around our place and the bird life around us is stunning.
“Putting a trap in your backyard is a no-brainer. It’s so easy but so rewarding. Just set one trap, see what you catch, and sit back and listen to the birdlife sing!”
Ruth says starting the Predator Free Kamo project will help the tight-knit community to create a green and healthy village for all to live in and enjoy.
“We know the emotional, spiritual and physical health benefits of spending time in a healthy natural environment and trapping is one way to participate and help to create that. You meet others in your community doing the same and create connections that are beneficial in so many ways.
“We’re hoping to organise a public meeting in the new year as an opportunity for our community to get to know more about the project. More details will be published closer to the time.”
Success measures of the project will include involvement from schools and businesses, greater community involvement and backyard traps in most Kamo homes and more native birdlife throughout the suburb.
Predator control data is collated by Tiakina Whangārei, a community-led urban pest control initiative encouraging those living in urban areas to get involved in predator control through backyard trapping and other community activities.