SHPG Wildlife Sponsorship

South Island Robins Hitch a Ride

Story by Annette Smith

A short helicopter flight for 12 South Island robins/ Kakaruai has begun an exciting project that will re-establish the species in Mount Aspiring National Park's West Matukituki Valley.

The robins were transferred in April from the Dart Valley to a red beech forest in the West Matukituki; an area where robins haven't been sighted for some 30 years.

The project was a combined effort by staff from the Wakatipu and Wanaka Area Office's bio-diversity teams lead by Barry Lawrence and Stu Thorne respectively. Stu Thorne said “It's a significant milestone to be able to begin reintroducing the species into this area of the park.”

“It's also extremely satisfying to see the project reach this stage so quickly, thanks to the financial support of the Southern Hemisphere Proving Grounds (SHPG), a company based at the local Waiorau Snow Farm."

SHPG Chairman, Tom Elworthy, said the company was delighted to be involved with the department. “It's exciting that our project involves the reintroduction of the birds back into the park after so many absent years. We are thrilled to have been able to assist DOC with this project and we look forward to continuing support in the area.”

Preparations for the robin's transfer started 6 months ago, when Wanaka staff began an extensive rat and stoat trapping programme in the red beech forest. This was necessary to increase the birds' chances of survival.

At the same time feeding the Dart Valley population began by Wakatipu staff, encouraging the birds to take food to help in the capture process. As there is plenty of natural food available at this time of year this wasn't easy. As a further aid to success the project was timed outside of the breeding season when these aggressive birds were less territorial.

There are concerns that some birds may return to the Dart Valley, though it's thought that the 1,500-metre Cascade Saddle will be a natural barrier. As 20 pairs are needed to ensure good genetic variation, a further transfer will take place in early spring.

Footnote: Normally the armchair reporter of such events, I had the satisfaction of being involved on the day. While crouched in the dark, damp Dart Valley floor I gained a fresh appreciation of what field work can entail and witnessed the patience, skill and passion of the transfer team – thanks for the experience!

The transfer team – Barry Lawrence, Helen Clark & Stu Thorne.

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On 11th September a further 10 South Island Robins from the Routeburn – Lake Sylvan are were flown to the red beech forest behind Mt Aspiring hut. The release went very well with all birds flying off into the forest to explore their new habitat.

The total number of robins that have been transferred to date is now 22. During stoat trapping trips to the area, Department Of Conservation (DOC) workers have seen 8 different birds (prior to the 2nd release) which indicates that most birds have settled in to their new habitat and DOC are hopeful of seeing some breeding activity in the near future.