An extensive network of 477 possum traps extends right across the 2000ha of the northern forest block using two types of kill trap - Possum Master and Timms traps. These are baited with a long-lasting cereal bait and an attractant made up of flour, icing sugar and spices is spread around the traps. Traps are checked by volunteers fortnightly in most cases, and monthly where catches are falling to very low levels.
Regular possum trapping has significantly reduced levels of possums in the forest. Prior to the start of regular trapping, the RTC (rate of trap catch) or number of possums caught per 100 traps was 27 per cent. By 2006 this had fallen to 1.8 per cent. This reduction in possum numbers will be a huge relief to both plants and animals in the Park.
February 2009 - MIRO POSSUM TRAPPING EFFORTS IN EAST HARBOUR REGIONAL PARK
WORKING TO GREAT EFFECT
Greater Wellington Regional Council (GW) has just commissioned a possum monitor by an independent contractor in East Harbour Regional Park, to determine levels of possums in the Park. This is the first monitor taken since June 2006.
The figure of 2.7 percent is up slightly from the June figure of 1.8 percent but well below the target level of 5 percent. This is the third monitor in a row that has been below the 5 percent level, confirming that possums have now been effectively suppressed in the Park for the last 5 years. The figure indicates the number of possums being caught per hundred traps. Prior to the start of trapping in 1995 the figure was a whopping 27 percent.
It is welcome reward for the MIRO trappers who regularly service the 447 kill traps scattered across the 2000 ha of the Park and it confirms the success of the park-wide trapping network set up in 2004 with GW assistance.
Maintaining the trapping on a regular basis, servicing the huge number of traps required involves a massive physical effort and the results of this latest monitor are a testament to the dedication of the MIRO trappers. It is gratifying to consider the resurgence that will be taking place in the trees, birds, insects and the forest generally as a result of effectively suppressing these predators.