Survey and monitoring of black petrels on Great Barrier Island 2013/14

Summary

This report is part of an ongoing long-term study of the black petrel, Procellaria parkinsoni, on Great Barrier Island (Aotea Island) that was begun in the 1995/96 breeding season.

The black petrel, is a medium-sized endemic seabird which is only known to breed on Hauturu/Little Barrier Island and Great Barrier Island (Aotea Island), New Zealand. The main breeding area on Great Barrier Island is around the summit of Mount Hobson.

Monitoring work carried out during the 2013/14 breeding season was a continuation of the survey and monitoring study begun in 1995/96, adding to the baseline data on the Great Barrier Island black petrel population. Mark-recapture, breeding and population data from the 2006/07, 2010/11 and 2011/12 seasons have been included in this (2013/14) report.

This study assists in identifying effects that at-sea and land-based threats may have on the population and build on the earlier population parameter and tracking data. The population estimate and population trend data has been updated, ensuring that any population changes will be detected in time to implement the appropriate management strategies.