Council Tackles Possum and Rat Numbers

The Palmerston North City Council has significantly reduced the possum and rat populations in the Kahuterawa Outdoor Recreation Area.

Latest figures show both possums and rats are in decline as a result of bait stations installed in targeted areas around both the Back Track and Sledge Track and in native bush areas on adjoining private land.

The recreational area was identified as containing significant flora and fauna including native trees, birds and a giant carnivorous snail which are easy prey for introduced mammals.

The Council monitors population numbers by using small pink wax blocks flavoured with aniseed. When collected the blocks are examined for bite marks which can be attributed to the various pests.

“The blocks are being chewed by possums, rats and mice,” Brian Way, Council Leisure Assets Officer, said. “Rats and possums are well known for climbing trees and taking the eggs or fledglings from nests or eating the native snails, so to see a drop in their numbers is great news.”

Monitoring is expected to be on-going in these areas so that PNCC can assess the effectiveness of the pest control programme on introduced mammals and native flora and fauna.

For more information contact Brian Way on 06 356 8199