The eradication of mammalian predators from Quail Island, Banks Peninsula, Canterbury, New Zealand

摘要: Summary During January 2000 -January 2003 an attempt was made to eradicate mammalian pests (rodents, mustelids and hedgehogs) from Quail Island (Otamahua) allow re-introductions of native species that were once present. Eradication techniques involved live trapping, kill trapping using Fenn traps night searches removed a total 353 individuals. A ground-based poison operation also undertaken. 2 - 9 August 2002, 555 bait stations (yellow black) placed at 40 m intervals covering Island. Stations baited with Pestoff 20R rodent pellets (0.002% brodifacoum) and, later stages the operation, Talon 50 WB briquette (0.005% brodifacoum). An analysis predominant vegetation surrounding Exotic grassland dominant habitat where hedgehogs trapped found during searches. Hedgehogs caught more readily on or near tracks, which they presumably use feed travel around island. Male rats up 70% rat catch. Bait-take by rodents highest black scrubland habitats could not be confirmed, as few still active but most, if all damage, appears ground (Hemiandrus sp.) cave weta (Pleioplectron simplex Hutton). Furthermore, hedgehog scats have been since began no observed for 18 months indicating become vary scarce eradicated. This information will important future management due proximity mainland, via mudflats, need ongoing vigilance protect against pest reinvasion.