Wānaka Backyard Trapping currently run 14 trapping projects on public land, targeting a wide range of introduced predators – mice, rats, hedgehogs, possums, stoats, ferrets and weasels.
We have over 500 active traps which include a mix of DOC 150, 200 and 250 mechanisms, BT 200’s, mouse traps, Trapinators, Timm’s and Flipping Timmy possum traps.
During 2022, a total of 606 predators were removed from our local environment by trapping on our trap lines. In addition, at least 317 traps on private land are active in our area and 20 x DOC 200 traps are held in our trap library for locals to borrow.
We undertake regular monitoring of pest species using tracking tunnels – these sometimes show lizard footprints too!
Bird monitoring is also done quarterly using five minute bird counts and well trained bird experts from our committee.
Public engagement is growing as more locals become aware of the native species in our region and the risks they face from predation, habitat loss and a changing climate. We work closely with other environmental groups and organisations to encourage the planting of native trees and shrubs, enhancement of waterways and biodiversity education for children and adults.
We also want to engage more locals by educating them about introduced predators, native wildlife and ways in which to proactively manage predators on their own land. Every trap brings us one step closer to the ultimate goal of making the Upper Clutha a predator-free region of Aotearoa. We publish a quarterly newsletter and organise public talks by visiting experts, trapping workshops and school/preschool visits.
Ideally we want to expand our trapping network to cover more ground and link up existing trap lines. Hundreds more traps and plenty of people power will be needed to achieve this goal! The benefits of our mahi? More native birds, lizards and invertebrates in our backyards, reserves, waterways and mountains… all contributing their ‘ecosystem services’ to the environment, making the Wānaka region an even more amazing place to live!