Brutal truths: 7 feral cat facts
Feral cats are among the most skilled hunters in our country. They roam far, survive in harsh conditions and prey on native wildlife, pushing vulnerable…
These carnivorous snails slurp earthworms like spaghetti
It’s a dark, rainy night in the beech forest. A lemon-sized snail glides silently across the leaf litter, hot on the trail of an unsuspecting…
True cost: predators can damage your home and your wallet
When cold weather pushes rats and mice indoors, infestations happen. Rodents cause damage by chewing through wiring, timber, insulation, and pipes. The bad news? Most…
The hills have eyes: cameras reveal predators dodging traps in Mt Aspiring National Park
Predators are being trapped in record numbers in the West Matukituki Valley — but some cunning survivors are slipping through the cracks. Now, a local…
Next-gen traps built for NZ’s toughest terrain
Smart traps that recognise their targets, reset themselves and adapt to trap-evading predators are joining the predator free movement. And they can withstand the rugged,…
The possum buffet: bird helps clean up trap catches
Most people put out bird feeders to attract tuneful songbirds. Not Hamish Trolove. His lifestyle block “bird feeder” caters to a different crowd – large,…
Crack into it: 5 quick facts about native eggs
From clever tricks to team parenting, here are some cracking facts about our native wildlife and their weird, wonderful eggs. Outsourcing parenting: koekoeā (long-tailed cuckoo) …
Birdsong and buy-in: Simplicity Foundation backs grassroots trapping
From tiny towns to beachside suburbs, neighbours are getting organised, predators are getting caught, and that sought-after dawn chorus is getting a little louder. With…
Can tourism actually help nature? This company thinks so
“Take only photos and leave only footprints” is the golden rule of responsible travel. But what if tourism did more? What if it helped bring…
Wild neighbours: living next to an ecosanctuary
From finding a wandering kākāpō to fending off a kārearea (falcon), life near an ecosanctuary comes with unforgettable wildlife encounters – and big responsibilities. Before…
“Underrated predators”: 5 surprising facts about hedgehogs
Hedgehogs were first introduced in New Zealand in the 1870s to make British settlers feel more at home. Now, 150 years later, the impact hedgehogs…
Old socks and kitchen tongs? 7 accessories to elevate your trapping kit
Trapping might not be glamorous, but there’s still room to accessorise. Whether you’re a seasoned trapper or just starting out, having the right kit makes…
“The rarest bird you’ve never heard of”: last stand against feral cats for southern dotterel
Six rangers and 472 feral cat traps stand between the pukunui (southern NZ dotterel) and oblivion. When ranger Daniel Cocker arrives to check on one…
Are these the most scenic traps in New Zealand?
Exploring most trails in Aotearoa, you might notice wooden boxes or contraptions. While mysterious to those unfamiliar, they are actually signs of hope. New Zealand…
The future is now: 5 tech advancements for Predator Free 2050
Tools of the trade are getting smarter, cooler and downright futuristic. While there’s no magical silver bullet for solving our pest problem, a wave of…
