Protecting native species with predator control in the Hollyford Valley

The Department of Conservation (DOC) wants to reduce rat, stoat and possum numbers to protect native species in the Hollyford Valley.

Description of the area

The Hollyford Valley is a special place. Fiordland’s tallest and most rugged mountains tower over the mighty Hollyford River as it winds its way to the sea. Glaciers and rock give way to tussock and then lush forest of beech, broadleaved species and podocarps such as rimu and kahikatea. 

These habitats are home to a variety of native species and are particularly important for kea, tuke/rock wren, kākā, kererū, rare lizards, whio, toutouwai/robin, pekapeka/long-tailed bat and mistletoe. The Hollyford – Whakatipu Ka Tuka – has significance to Ngāi Tahu and is rich in Māori heritage. 

Why we need to control introduced predators 

Native species are fighting for survival due to predation from rats, stoats and possums. Without protection, we risk losing the unique natural heritage and biodiversity within Fiordland National Park.

Rodent numbers are currently high due to abundant seed in the forest and tussock. This will drive a boom in stoat numbers unless we act now. 

The safest and most effective method we have to control introduced predators over large areas is to use biodegradable cereal pellets containing 1080. This bait targets rodents and possums. Stoats are also controlled through secondary poisoning as they feed on the carcasses of the dead rodents.

Helicopters will safely and precisely distribute bait across 29,694 ha of the forest along pre-determined and monitored flight paths. This is the only viable method to control introduced predators in the Hollyford due to the vast and rugged terrain.

In the Routeburn area we also have a large trap network in place, which protects many native species from stoats when stoat numbers are low. However, high numbers of predators can overwhelm trapping networks. The only option for managing predators in the Hollyford is to combine ongoing trapping with aerial 1080 in years of high predator numbers.

Method of predator control 

This operation will use aerially applied cereal pellets containing biodegradable 1080 to control predators. Pre-feed non-toxic cereal pellets will be aerially applied to the treatment area prior to the toxic operation. The proposed application date of cereal pellets containing the toxin will be on or after 6th November 2023, following the pre-feed application, in the first fine weather window. The Department of Conservation complies with all relevant regulations and takes a precautionary approach to the aerial application of 1080.

The toxic cereal bait pellets contain 0.15% of 1080, are cylindrical and approximately 2 cm in diameter. They are dyed green to deter birds and contain a cinnamon lure to attract rodents. 

Non-toxic pre-feed cylindrical pellets are approximately 2 cm in diameter and sandy coloured (not dyed).

The pesticide is poisonous to humans, domestic and game animals. Always remember:

• DO NOT touch or eat the bait
• WATCH CHILDREN at all times
• DO NOT EAT animals from this area
• Toxic baits and carcasses are DEADLY to DOGS

Observe these rules whenever you see warning signs placed at the public access ways in the above areas. Warning signs indicate that pesticide residues may still remain in baits and carcasses, possibly for more than six months.

If you suspect poisoning

Always contact: Your local doctor or local hospital or the National Poisons Centre: 0800 764 766 (urgent calls) or 03 479 7248 or dial 111.

For further information please contact:

DOC Fiordland Office 

03 249 0200 Email: [email protected]

Or Contract Wild Animal Control New Zealand Ltd

0800 292 269 Email: [email protected]

Or visit: https://www.doc.govt.nz/our-work/national-predator-control-programme/ 

A detailed map of the application area/s may be viewed at the DOC Westport Office, or on the Pesticides Summaries website: https://www.doc.govt.nz/nature/pests-and-threats/pesticide-summaries