Kākā peering out over the top of some trees.

Proof 1080 is protecting native species

Introduction

When introduced predators are controlled, native species have a better chance of survival, their food source is more abundant, and the forest is healthier.

Monitoring native species and introduced predators

We are successfully using traps and toxins like 1080 to reduce the threat of introduced predators at conservation sites around New Zealand.

Experts monitor and analyse the results from operations using:

  • cameras
  • acoustic recorders
  • tracking tunnels
  • chew tags
  • human observation methods.

These results tell us:

  • where and when predators need to be controlled to get the best outcomes for threatened native wildlife
  • how effective an operation was at reducing predator numbers
  • how native species responded.

Achieving results for native species

Many populations of native birds, bats, frogs, reptiles, insects and plants are now stable or recovering. This is thanks to combined efforts with hapū, iwi, other environmental agencies and community groups.

However, some populations continue to decline due to intense pressure from predators. In areas with no predator control, native species, including more common birds, are declining at greater rates. In some cases, they're becoming locally extinct.

Learn more about the progress of some of our most threatened native species at National Predator Control Programme Monitoring results.

Examples of success

Watch our video below about how native bird numbers in Landsborough Valley have doubled.

1080 operations have protected our own native legend the kiwi and the blue duck/whio.

Without predator control only 5% of kiwi chicks hatched in the wild make it until they're old enough to breed - their 4th birthday. With predator control up to 60% will survive to breeding age.
North Island brown kiwi chick survival rates are 12 times higher with predator control
Photo: Neil Hutton

Blue duck/Whio duckling survival rates at Tongariro Forest Security Site. Before pest control: For every 3 breeding pairs, 2 duckling made it to fledgling. After aerial 1080 and trapping in 2011: For every 3 breeding pairs, 6 duckling made it to fledging.
Three times more whio survived to fledge after aerial 1080 and trapping
Photo: Alan Reith

Other success stories