Predator Free Martinborough

A local pest control initiative – Predator Free Martinborough – has been expanding its network of traps in vineyards around the village.

“It’s been a strange summer, and we’ve frequently found nothing when checking our trap lines,” says Jane Lenting, Coordinator of the group.  “However, now that the weather cools, the catch rate is going up.  What has been surprising is that this is the first time we have ever caught a possum in a DOC250 trap using rabbit as a lure.  I thought possums liked fruit – who knew rabbits were appealing to possums!”

Jane and Victor recently picked up 24 new DOC200 and DOC250 traps. These traps were purchased with a grant from the Greater Wellington Regional Council.  Previous trap sponsors have included South Wairarapa Rotary Club, a Trust associated with Wellington Zoo, and DOC Masterton.

The traps will be used in trap lines on the edge of Martinborough, near to where it is likely that NZ falcon are nesting. The target is to catch mustelids, hedgehogs, rats, and other pest animals.

Predator Free Martinborough is an informal group, not an Incorporated Society. It receives some administrative support from the South Wairarapa Biodiversity Group. 

“We would like to encourage more people to support the Martinborough Predator Free programme”, says Jane, “so we are holding informal workshops at our home, where people can learn how to trap rats on their own property,. We will give advice on trap setting, and the best lures and placement. We can help you to log on to the Trap NZ website so you can record your catch numbers.”

Workshop Dates

Sunday 14^th May 

Saturday 20^th May 

Any time between 10am to 12.00 noon 

41B Weld Street. (Back section. Please park cars on the street)

“In terms of getting involved with the village edge trap lines We are looking for either residents or weekenders who can commit to an hour or two every 2-3 weeks.

A big thank you to all those who have already taken on trap lines.”

Please contact Jane to register your interest in either a workshop or taking on a trap line.

janelenting@xtra.co.nz.

https://www.facebook.com/predatorfreemarty/

Toitu Te Whenua Land Information New Zealand

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