It’s vital to have an Ecosanctuary
When Dunedin was a young city 150 years ago, coastal Otago was covered in forest, fernland, tussockland, shrubland and swamp. There were over 500 species of native flowering plants and ferns. More than 30 types of native land birds lived in and around Dunedin. Although the moa had long gone and many other species, (such as tuatara and takahe), had retreated to off shore islands or deepest Fiordland, bats, lizards and forest birds were still abundant around the city, and multitudes of seabirds nested on the mainland coast. Now most of these have disappeared, hunted to local extinction by introduced predators and driven away by habitat destruction. The 300 ha Ecosanctuary, under the guidance of the Otago Natural History Trust is being developed in the Orokonui Valley which is just 20 km north of Dunedin’s Octagon.
|
It’s vital to have an Ecosanctuary
The site has been enclosed by a specialised pest-proof fence, just
under 2 metres tall and more than 7 km long. It features steel mesh fine enough to stop even the smallest mice getting through, a “top hat” to exclude climbing animals and a ground skirt to prevent animals from burrowing under.
The eradication programme will remove all introduced mammalian pests such as rats, stoats, and possums. This will improve the health of the forest ecosystem and provide safety for vulnerable native fauna.
Restoration of the forest ecosystem will entail weed removal, replanting with native species, and the return of our lost birds, reptiles and bats. High on our list to bring back home are Kiwi, Tuatara, Saddleback, Kaka and Kakariki.
Facilities to help visitors have an enjoyable experience will include a welcoming reception centre with informative displays, café and toilets. A network of tracks will provide good access to points of interest in the sanctuary. A teaching room will enhance the learning experience for school children and students.
A Superb asset
Dunedin has an established reputation in the world of ecotourism. Orokonui Ecosanctuary will complement the marine wildlife attractions that the region currently offers. To find out more or get involved Click Here
