A native and once-critically endangered bird species has found itself a new home on the mainland.
One hundred tīeke, or South Island saddlebacks, have been translocated to a sanctuary near Dunedin, in a project that aims to reestablish a population on the South Island at Orokonui Ecosanctuary.
Tīeke were once widespread throughout the mainland and island forests, but by the 20th century, they were close to extinction and limited to three islands near Stewart Island.
Disaster struck the southern species in the early 1960s when a boat accidentally brought rats to Big South Cape Island.
The rats quickly spread to the other two island habitats and the Wildlife Service, a precursor to the Department of Conservation, moved them to predator-free islands. The current population of over 2000 birds is descended from these survivors.
Saddlebacks were once widespread on NZ’s mainland and island forests but neared extinction and were limited to three islands near Stewart Island. (Source: 1News)
Kāti Huirapa Rūnaka Ki Puketeraki member Lyn Carter said the birds were “so enthusiastic to get out of the boxes”.
“All the way down to the track they were pecking away on the screens and they just seemed to be so pleased and be in a habitat they’re familiar with.”
Rakiura Tītī Islands Administering Body chairperson Tāne Davis said it was “moving” and “extremely special” to see the birds return.
“Tīeke were once here, but were predated over a large number of years. Now, this will be the first time tīeke have been returned.”
A previous translocation attempt to Orokonui 10 years ago ended in disaster with a stoat incursion.
Operations manager Elton Smith said it was “such a full circle” to return the birds and that it was the only place in the South Island where you could see and hear them.
“It’s emotional,” he said.
The wings of 25 of the tīeke were clipped to encourage them to stay close.
“It doesn’t mean they can’t fly, they can, but they won’t be able to fly long distances, so hopefully those 25 won’t go too far at all.”
