Frank Lepera - Stoat Eradication Manager for Te Korowai o Waiheke on their road to PF2050

Presentation to Forest & Bird Waitakere members June 2024 by Frank Lepera who is Stoat Operations Manager for Te Korowai o Waiheke. He is working with a diverse team of volunteers, staff, farm hands, and contractors across 9200ha of variable terrain to service over 1600 traps in an effort to eradicate stoats from Waiheke Island.In the effort to eradicate stoats, Te Korowai o Waiheke has gained valuable knowledge on the effectiveness of various eradication methods, utilizing a variety of lures and traps. Advancing from the initial knockdown phase of reducing stoat numbers to a targeted detect and respond strategy, the program methodically deals with every stoat sighting on the island. Some great results are already being seen through a programme of outcome monitoring, this has shown a significant increase in the numbers of native and endemic birds counted, including kākā.