Update from the GAC
Zero Invasive Predators (ZIP) has recently shared an update on the deer repellent trial that they are undertaking as part of the Predator Free Rakiura project.
They are continuing trials using non-toxic deer repellent in the Rakiura National Park to determine how deer repellent could be used as part of predator removal operations in the future. This research was designed by Manaaki Whenua Landcare Research and aims to test if deer repellent bait is effective in repelling wild white-tailed deer on Rakiura. This research is the first time it’s being done for Rakiura white-tailed deer.
ZIP is also placing trail cameras on game trails to observe wildlife interactions with two non-toxic baits (either with or without deer repellent) that have been placed in front of each camera. This will continue until they have a sample of 100 interactions recorded.
See information from ZIP about the deer repellent trial on the Predator Free Rakiura website here.
Our involvement
The GAC began liaising with ZIP, DOC, the NZDA and Rakiura Hunter Camps Trust regarding Predator Free Rakiura in mid-2024. In this forum, we advocate for hunters, the white-tailed deer herd on Stewart Island/Rakiura and for science-based decisions.