Predator control is something we can all do to create safe habitat for native birds and other wildlife to nest, roost, breed and feed.

Restore Hibiscus & Bays recommends that volunteers conduct predator control at intervals. This is called ‘pulsing’. It is more resource effective, targeted, easier on volunteers and residents, reduces the risk of ‘shy’ predators and, when using toxins, reduces the risk of secondary poisoning to other animals such as pets. 

We recommend pulsing four times a year in February, April, August and November for controlling rats, possums and mustelids (stoats and ferrets). These months match the availability of resources and breeding times for both rats and native bird life. A pulse lasts four weeks in total.

We recommend using chew cards, monitoring tunnels and wax tags to find where pests are present and to help inform the specific location and placement of bait stations and traps. 

Don’t forget to record your results! You can use apps such as Trap.NZ to report your catches or bait taken. Look up ‘RestoreHB’ or another project name to add your data to the multiple groups and projects within our network. Let us know at predators@restorehb.org.nz if you need any help with this.