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The TAKAHE once lived throughout
the North and South Islands, although the North Island birds were probably a
separate species (being taller and finer boned), but by the time of Maori
settlement, it was already reduced in numbers and localised in distribution.
After its rediscovery in 1948, a 500 sq. km special area within Fiordland
National Park was set aside for its conservation. The population had dwindled
to a low of 118 birds. This rapid decline occurred during the 1940-50s when
deer became established throughout Fiordland. Research has shown that deer,
more than any other pest, have had a detrimental effect on the birds'
nutrition (contributing to chick loss) and habitat. Following deer control in
the Murchison Mountains, the species has recovered slightly. Even so, only
about 130 birds remain in Fiordland. Takahe are classified as an endangered
species and are managed by the Department of Conservation. To help conserve
the species, a few pairs of takahe have been established on four islands: Maud
Island (Marlborough Sounds), Mana Island (off Wellington's west coast), Kapiti
Island (north of Mana) and Tiritiri Matangi Island (Hauraki Gulf). Since 1984
these birds have bred and increased the total population on islands to about
60 birds. This shows that takahe may adapt to a variety of habitats. The
Department also runs a captive breeding and captive rearing programme at
Burwood Breeding Centre near Te Anau.
KERERU (New Zealand Native Pigeon) The New Zealand native pigeon or kereru
is a large bird with greyish green feathers on its back and head, and a smart
white vest. The low-flying beat of its wings is a distinctive sound in our
forests. The pigeon is found in most lowland native forests of the North and
South Islands, Stewart Island and many of its neighbouring islands.
Unfortunately, the exciting 'whoosh' of kereru wings could become a rare sound
in the future. Although still quite widespread in areas with large tracts of
forest, its numbers are declining rapidly through habitat loss, predation,
competition and illegal hunting. Although the kereru was traditionally hunted
for its meat and feathers, hunting of the bird is now illegal.
TOROA (Albatross) Many of the world's albatross
and petrel species are threatened with extinction, mainly because of the
impacts of longline fishing. Pollution and other fishing methods, like
trawling, are also having a negative impact on albatross and petrel
populations. New Zealand, with its wide diversity of albatross species, can be
rightly described as 'the albatross capital of the world'. New Zealand's
sub-Antarctic islands are home to more species of breeding albatross than any
other country. New Zealand is also home to a diverse range of petrel species.
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