Conservation Week: Breed for release programme

calendar iconPosted 02/09/2024

In recognition of Conservation Week 2nd - 8th September, we’re excited to share updates all this week showcasing our conservation efforts at Hamilton Zoo! We’re eager to show you how we contribute to wildlife protection and would love to hear how you’re making a difference too. 

At Hamilton Zoo, we're proud to play a vital role in conservation through the Breed for Release programme for New Zealand Kākā. By breeding these beautiful birds in the free-flight aviary, we help bolster their numbers in the wild, ensuring they can thrive despite threats like predators and pests. Curious to see how it’s done? Watch this video to learn more! 

And here’s what you can do to help: 

  • Trap predators on your property: Introduced predators like rats, stoats, and possums pose a significant threat to native birds. Setting up predator traps on your property can help reduce their numbers and protect wildlife in your area. 

  • Plant native flowering trees: Native trees provide essential food and habitat for New Zealand’s unique bird species. By planting locally native trees, you’re creating a natural haven that supports local wildlife year-round. 

  • Hang water baths: Offering a clean water source in your garden can attract birds and help them stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months. Make sure to regularly clean and refill the water to prevent the spread of disease.

  • Leave areas of leaf litter around your garden: Leaf litter creates a microhabitat for insects and invertebrates, which are a crucial food source for many bird species. By allowing some parts of your garden to remain untidy, you’re helping to sustain a healthy ecosystem for native wildlife. 

Let’s work together to make a difference! Share your conservation efforts with us, and let’s inspire others to take action. 

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