KEA CONSERVATION TRUST
(Funded by 21 Peaks in 21 Days and anonymous donor).
A three year survey of the Nelson lakes kea population carried out by the Kea Conservation Trust from 2009 – 2011 has shown a decline of approximately 80 % in the numbers of breeding pairs and fledgling production since the population was first studied in the 1990’s by DOC.
Predation of nests by introduced stoats and possums appears to be a factor in this decline and as such a programme to protect vulnerable nests during the breeding season was initiated in 2012.
Programme aims:
- To monitor numbers of possums and stoats within the project area
- To prevent possums and stoats interfering with active kea nests
- To increase kea nest survivorship and fledgling numbers.