Wetland weed control helps rare native birds

Efforts to tackle invasive weeds in two significant Canterbury wetlands are giving rare native birds a helping hand. 

The recent control efforts were undertaken at wetlands throughout many upper river catchments, including around Lake Heron, in the Rakaia catchment. 

The work is part of Toitū Te Whenua Land Information New Zealand’s (LINZ) annual biosecurity programme for the region.

LINZ Biosecurity Manager Tracey Burton says yellow flag iris, willow and Russell lupins were a key focus of the control efforts. 

“Early detection is crucial for weed control, and we fortunately found yellow flag iris early enough that we’re aiming to eradicate it from the area. 

“Unfortunately, lupins are too widespread in the catchment, and we’re simply trying to keep these in check.

“This work is important as when these weeds get a stronghold it’s very hard to eliminate them completely. Once established, they can outcompete native species and degrade these ecosystems, which are home to rare species including the bird of the century, the Australasian crested grebe / pūteketeke and Australasian bittern / matuku hūrepo.” 

The control efforts were carried out by LINZ partner Boffa Miskell, with support from our partners Environment Canterbury and Department of Conservation.

To find out more about LINZ biosecurity and biodiversity work visit: Biosecurity and biodiversity