The Department of Conservation Fiordland District plans to reduce possum, rat, and stoat numbers over 45,332ha in the Eglinton Valley to protect threatened taonga species.

Description of the area

The Eglinton Valley is one of the few extensive lowland areas of mixed southern beech forest in New Zealand. It supports populations of more than 30 threatened plants and animals and some rare plant communities. The Eglinton Valley is a nationally important home for species such as kākā, mohua, pekapeka/long-tailed bats and short-tailed bats. It is also an important habitat for toutouwai/robin, titipounamu/rifleman and mistletoe.

Why we need to control introduced predators

Predation by rats and stoats has devastating impacts on these native birds and bats. Our monitoring shows that when rat and stoat numbers are high these species decline. Native species are especially vulnerable this upcoming year because native beech forests are predicted to drop trillions of seeds, fuelling a surge in rodents and stoats. Without protection, we risk losing the unique natural heritage and biodiversity within the Eglinton Valley and surrounds.

Method of predator control

The safest and most effective method to control introduced predators over large areas is to use biodegradable bait 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 accurately distribute bait across 45,332 hectares of the forest along pre-determined and monitored flight paths. This is the safest and most effective way to control predators in the Eglinton Valley due to the vast and rugged terrain.

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).

We will also use bait stations containing Pindone along roadsides and near campgrounds to control predators in areas where the aerial operation will not cover.

Timeframe

The operation is planned for the first clear weather window between 15 September 2025 and 19 December 2025, with baiting with toxin beginning after 1 October 2025.

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

• DO NOT touch or eat the bait

• WATCH CHILDREN at all times

• DO NOT EAT animals from this area or within the buffer zone outside the treatment boundary. The standard buffer zone is 2km for deer and pigs, 200m for rabbits and 1km for hares, tahr, wallabies and possums.

• Toxic baits and carcasses are DEADLY to DOGS

Observe these rules whenever you see warning signs about pesticides. These signs indicate pesticide residues may still be present in baits and poison carcasses. When signs are removed this means you can resume normal activities in the area.

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 Te Anau Office

0800 275 362 [email protected]

Or Contract Wild Animal Control New Zealand

0800 292 269 [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 Te Anau Office, or on the Pesticides Summaries Website: https://www.doc.govt.nz/nature/pests-and-threats/pesticide-summaries