Rachel M wants to protect our native birds, and their habitats. She first started backyard trapping because she has seen first-hand the effects of pest control.
“We lived near the Pukenui Forest and I was able to volunteer with the team there to check traps and plant near the Whāu Valley dam.
“I recently walked the Routeburn Track in the Fiordland National Park in the South Island and was very surprised to learn that seeing native birds there is a rare occasion because of the mustelids that have decimated their populations.
“When I got home to Whangārei, I knew I needed to do more to support the amazing mahi in our community and appreciate the birdlife we have that I had been taking for granted! We’re lucky here to be surrounded by these beautiful bush-covered hills and stunning bush walks within a few minutes from the CBD.”
When Rachel and her family moved into a new house, she noticed that there were not as many birds so she got in touch with Tiakina Whangārei to help with sourcing some traps.
“We’ve already caught four possums within one month and a mouse. If you’re thinking about getting involved in backyard trapping – do it! Every pest caught is one less out there killing birds, eating seedlings, destroying habitats and stopping our natives from breeding. Do it for your kids! Set a good example for them to continue throughout their lives. If every one of us could set just one trap, imagine the difference we could make!”
Rachel says many people around Aotearoa don’t get the opportunity to appreciate the beautiful taonga that we have right on our doorstep – the amazing walking tracks, the expanse of native bush and forest that surrounds our city.
“It will be a sad day if our city is overrun with introduced pests, so you wouldn’t have a cheeky little Pīwakawaka following you as you walk the track, or you wouldn’t hear a Ruru calling out in the night, and don’t get me started on the beautiful yet boisterous Tui! Let’s protect what we have, together.”
