Rat Invasion Curtailed

Rats are one of the most serious threats to our native birds. These rodents not only eat the eggs of native species but also compete for food sources. 

Our regular monitoring during the winter indicated a major invasion of rats in the conservation area. More than sixty percent of the monitoring stations showed evidence of rat activity. Rat numbers can suddenly surge at any time as conditions provide a good food source and opportunity for breeding. Rats reach sexual maturity at only nine weeks old and each female can have around 5-10 litters a year meaning that rat numbers can explode in the right conditions.

We responded to the increased rat numbers in the Mana Manu conservation area with a comprehensive pulse baiting programme in the spring. Baits were laid at regular intervals over a six week period to increase the likelihood of knocking back rat numbers. 

Monitoring conducted at the conclusion of the spring baiting programme showed a drastic drop in rat numbers. Only five per cent of the monitoring stations showed evidence of rats. Pulse baiting is labour intensive as each bait station is visited three or four times but it is also highly effective.

Read more about our baiting programme.