Scientific Reserve
Reports on all the scientific studies conducted in the Reserve
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A Scientific Reserve has special purposes in the hierarchy of the New Zealand Conservation estate. We are in an unique situation here at the Waikanae Estuary where we have 3 high value habitats adjoining each other- this Scientific Reserve, the Kapiti Marine Reserve and Kapiti Island Nature Reserve. Each of them impacts the other in terms of biodiversity. The principal purpose of this Reserve is the protection and preservation in perpetuity of areas for scientific study, research, education and the benefit of the country. Entry to all or part of this reserve may be restricted to permit holders.
Plans and Challenges for the Reserve
Plans and Challenges for the Reserve
in 2020 we were part of a virtual field trip for Years 5-9 children who wanted to explore how to restore a River system. Come along for a view of the Reserve as we examine the challenges of managing a Scientific Reserve.
Scientific work in the Reserve
Scientific work in the Reserve
For the last 5 years we have changed our emphasis from only being about restoration to fulfilling one of the key purposes of a Scientific Reserve namely scientific study and research. Our aim is that for each year we identify particular aspects of our flora and fauna that deserve special attention in order to help fulfil the National Biodiversity strategy. Over time we want to involve as many people as possible in these projects- senior school pupils, DoC staff, University Masters and Ph.D. students etc.
In 2023 we started a long term Insect Identification Project. We welcome your interest in this, if you photograph an insect that is not in our photo list then please send to pam.stapleton@waikanaeestuary.org
Skinks survey
Skinks survey
Over a week in February 2019 some 4 zones were established where skinks and geckos might live. Some 40 pitfall traps were laid out and utilised with home-made pear being the attractive bait! This one pitfall trap bucket shows several families living in one area.
Each one was identified and measured then compared with the numbers found in similar zones in NZ Reserves. WESR had an above-average number of common skinks but there are many predators in this reserve, especially cats, which may bring these numbers down, unless controlled by their owners.
Fernbird population estimating
Fernbird population estimating
Starting in 2021/2 we aim to build up our knowledge of our resident fernbird (mātātā )population. They are very shy and hard to locate so, after a trial in one marshy area of the Reserve with assistance from Kapiti Coast District Council, we are using sound monitors to pick out how many individuals and pairs we might have.
Listen to the sound of a fernbird here and let us know if you hear or see one, usually in or near our wetlands.
Pest Management in the Reserve
Pest Management in the Reserve
We have to keep on top of the various pests in the Reserve like stoats, weasels, rats, hedgehogs, mice and rabbits. In the last 12 months our fantastic trapping team, using 86 traps, have caught
13 mustelids (stoats and weasels)
17 rats
4 hedgehogs
898 mice etc
Rabbit control is done by a contracted shooter 4 times per year
A new Goodnature A24 trap costs $200 and $40/year to bait!
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