Field Report Potential Breeding Sites for NZ Fairy Tern by Rangi Zimmerman. Prepared for the Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society

Transcription

1 PART 2 Field Report Potential Breeding Sites for NZ Fairy Tern by Rangi Zimmerman Prepared for the Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society 2010 ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 1

2 Potential Breeding Sites for New Zealand Fairy Tern Rangi Zimmerman Introduction Over a period of two months I visited potential breeding sites for New Zealand fairy tern for future expansion of the species. I identified 25 sites to visit, and was declined access to two of these sites. Nine criteria were used to assess suitability of the site for breeding habitat for NZ fairy tern: Proximity of foraging areas In an estuary, river, stream, canal, creek or ocean that is nearby (5 10 minutes flight) from where NZ fairy tern would nest. Due to the very low population numbers of NZ fairy tern it was not expected to encounter the species at most of the sites visited so instead Caspian tern (Sterna caspia) were used as an indicator species of prey availability. They take similar prey species, albeit of a larger size, to NZ fairy tern e.g. flounder, white bait, smelt and bullies. (The Field Guide to the Birds Of New Zealand by Heather & Robertson 1996). Depth of water for foraging The water needs to be shallow enough for the NZ fairy tern to forage for small prey items (8-9cm in length). Shallow water can be determined by the steepness of the gradient from the beach to the sea and needs to be assessed at half tide falling, low tide and at half tide rising. Clarity of water for foraging The water needs to be clear enough at least at least 1 2 metres from the shore out into the water so the NZ fairy terns can see their prey items. Presence of shell patches for nesting above spring high tide at the site A shell patch, preferably with a low gradient or flat needs to be safe from a spring high tide so that it doesn t get washed away. Ability to create a shell patch at the site If there was no naturally occurring shell patch above the spring high tide line then an area would be required where a suitable safe shell patch could be created. It would need to be above the spring high tide line sheltered from prevailing winds if possible so that the eggs/chicks wouldn t get sanded over or washed away. The shell also needed to be the right colouring (orange, grey and white) to camouflage incubating adults, eggs or chicks. Availability of shell to import to the site If there wasn t enough shell at the potential nesting site shell it would need to be brought in or if there was shell that was in a different place but at the same site that could be gathered up and added to a potential nesting site. Current coastal bird protection programme in place at the site (including predator control) Is predator control to protect shore birds or other fauna currently being implemented at the site. This may be undertaken by Department of Conservation officers, contractors or volunteer community groups. Feasibility of predator control Could a predator trap line be set up and relatively easily serviced throughout the breeding season. Presence of other breeding shore birds at the site The close proximity of other breeding birds particularly variable oystercatchers is thought to deter fairy terns from nesting. ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 2

3 Degree of disturbance by people and dogs at the site This was determined by searching for vehicle tracks, and people and dog foot prints in the sand, and noting public access routes to the site. Also, identifying any camping grounds in the vicinity and their distance from the potential site. Due to dynamic (changeable) nature of coasts I would recommend a recce of the most promising sites in early August to confirm their physical characteristics and layout. Site: Awana Bay, Great Barrier Island Date: 20/04/10 Grid Reference: Topo Map, AY 34, Site Description Great Barrier Island (Motu Aotea) is 100 kilometres north east of central Auckland in the outer Hauraki Gulf. Awana Bay is approximately four kilometres north of Claris on the east coast of G.B.I. The Awana River is flanked to the north east with steep bush clad hills; this land is wahi tapu. On the western side of the River there is mid to high elevated dunes with a predominantly spinifex, cover on the fore dunes, with native convolvulus and pingao also present. Foraging Availability NZ fairy tern could forage in the Awana River, however the ocean would not be suitable because of the steepness of the gradient from the beach to the sea. On the day of my site visit the Awana River mouth was closed by accumulated sand. The water quality in the stream was clean and clear. ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 3

4 Nest Site Availability On the day of my visit there were no existing shell patches above high tide. A shell patch could be created on the western side of the beach; there is a big open area of rolling type craters with small terraces, shell would need to be added. There was good base shell, (small) and sparse whole shell, (Pecten). Threats/Issues There are two main access points, one at the north western end where there is a DOC camp ground which has a limit of 150 people and at peak times it does reach this quota. A lot of vehicles enter in from the northern end of the river and could be a threat to nesting birds (H. Jamieson, pers.comm.). There is also public walking access at the southern end of the beach. Some cat trapping for other shore birds has been carried out on the dunes over most summers supported by the Awana Catchment Trust and DOC, however no regular rat trapping is done (J. Ogden, pers.comm.). Summary Awana Beach has a high population of people, and many vehicles at peak holiday times which would be in the middle of a NZ fairy tern breeding season. The ocean is not suitable for foraging. Of the three sites visited on G.B.I, Awana Beach would not be suitable for breeding NZ fairy tern. ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 4

5 Site: Big Sand Island, Manukapua Date of Visit: 26/04/10 Grid Reference: Topo Map, AZ 30, Site Description Big Sand Island is at the end of Okahukura Peninsula in the Kaipara Harbour on the west coast of Auckland. Big Sand Island is a Wildlife Refuge and a well known roost site for wading birds. The island is connected to the peninsula at low tide and is passable two hours either side of low tide (locally known as the causeway). After crossing to the Island there is an area of mangroves and salt marsh. There is a well worn track that runs east to west in the middle of the Island. There are flat areas with predominantly jointed rush, pampas and Cassinia leptophyllous (tauhini). The dunes range from low to high elevation, some with no vegetation and others mostly covered in marram grass. Foraging Availability NZ fairy tern could forage in the causeway and surrounding sand/mud flats, as well as at Waikiri Creek to the north east of Big Sand Island. The Kaipara Harbour is a large area and provides potentially large areas of foraging habitat suitable for NZ fairy tern. The water is clean and clear. Nest Site Availability On the western side of Big Sand Island there is a sand ridge with a scattering of mainly white shell that was above the spring high tide. With the addition of suitable coloured shell nesting habitat for NZ fairy tern could be created. North east of Big Sand Island there was a small Island that has ideal substrate and shell for NZ fairy tern. This site looked as though it was only just above the spring high tide. It appears likely that not all NZ fairy tern nesting sites are located in any given year, especially at Papakanui Spit/Wallers Island. The McInnes 2004/05 Papakanui Warden s Report, states that nests were found for only one of the three pairs that season. The same occurred during the 2009/10 season. In April 2005 (post-breeding), members of OSNZ, found an NZ fairy tern egg along the tide wrack at Big Sand Island. A.M. Habraken saw a known Papakanui NZ fairy tern pair making scrapes around the little island (off the north east end of Big Sand Island) in October/November, This indicates that a pair or pairs were interested in nesting in this area. The last recorded nest at Big Sand Island was by ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 5

6 (Laurie and Alison Howell) in 1976 (G.A. Pulham, pers.comm. to NZ fairy tern Charitable Trust committee, 21/10/09). In the first half of the 20 th century the area now known as Big Sand Island was configured differently. (Refer to 1981 edition of NZMS, 260 series, sheet Q09, Kaipara.) A large shallow estuary flowed south eastwards and inland from the western shoreline at approximately the middle of the current Island. A large sand/shell spit extended northwards to enclose this estuary, and possibly was a former nesting site. (G.A. Pulham, pers.comm.). Threats/Issues There is currently no predator control at Big Sand Island (D. Wilson, pers.comm.), however predator control could be feasible at this site. On the day of my site visit I saw; a horse, dog, rabbit, deer and vehicle tracks. There is easy public access to Big Sand Island with 4x4, you can drive to the crossing point which is off Okahukura Road, leaving the mainland near a DOC sign. I suspect that motorbikes could also access Big Sand Island from Journeys End. Summary Big Sand Island could be a breeding site for NZ fairy terns. With the addition of suitable shell, the western side could be a possibility. On the north eastern side where there is a small island, this could be an ideal nesting site, however it would need to be monitored at spring high tide especially during storm conditions to ensure the nests would not be flooded.. Foraging habitat is very close-by and the water quality was clean and clear. Tony Habraken s sighting of a known Papakanui NZ fairy tern pair in early October 2009 indicates that this site is already being investigated by NZ fairy tern. Trapping would be essential if breeding attempts were to succeed. With monitoring and management this site could be a possibility for NZ fairy tern to breed Site: Bird Island, (Journey s End), (Taporapora) Date of Visit: 07/04/2010 Grid Reference: Topo Map, AZ30, ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 6

7 Site Description Bird Island is at the end of Okahukura Peninsula on the west coast of Auckland in the Kaipara Harbour. It is immediately north of Big Sand Island.. The Island is densely vegetated with spinifex, pingao, and invasive lupin, gorse and pampas. There is a small clear sandy area at the north eastern end of the Island. The northern tip of Bird Island is a sand spit, which is slowly moving north. (G.A. Pulham, pers.comm.)there is a high steep dune on the western side of the Island. Bird Island is a known roosting site for waders. Historical The late Pepe Tito remembers NZ fairy tern breeding on Bird Island in the 1930 s+1940 s. The late Bruce Goffin discovered a roosting flock of mixed NZ fairy terns and Little Terns there in John Dowding and Simon Chamberlin also found mixed roosting flock there in Throughout 1990s it was a major roosting area however vegetation growth has reduced its suitability as a roost site for wading birds. Late in October 2003 Gordon Gorby and Gwenda Pulham saw a pair of NZ fairy tern investigating, prospecting and dive bombing on and near the Island, as observed from the mainland (G.A.Pulham, pers.comm.). Foraging Availability NZ fairy tern could forage the sand/mud flats in the Kaipara Harbour. The water is clean and clear. Nest Site Availability ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 7

8 There were no naturally occurring shell patches (suitable for NZ fairy tern to nest on) above spring high tide. There was only a scattering of shell. A shell patch could be created at the very north eastern end of the Island, however a lot of vegetation would need to be removed and shell brought in. Threats/Issues There does not appear to be any predator control at this site. Predator control could be feasible on the Island. I did see rabbit prints on the Island. Access to the Island is by boat and stormy conditions could be an issue for getting over to the Island for management work. Summary Bird Island could be a potential breeding site for NZ fairy terns. With habitat improvements the north eastern side of the Island in particular, could be a possibility for NZ fairy tern breeding habitat. Shell would need to be brought in and vegetation removed to create a safe nesting area. There is foraging available locally. NZ fairy tern may already be investigating this area as it is not far from Big Sand Island where A.M. Habraken observed a known Papakanui NZ fairy tern pair making scrapes around the little island (off the northeast of Big Sand Island) in October/November Site: Horahora Grid Reference: Topo Map, AX31, Access to this site declined by the land owner. ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 8

9 Site: Kahika Stream Date of Visit: 11/05/2010 Grid Reference: Topo Map, AT25, Site Description Kahika Stream is in Great Exhibition Bay which is on the east coast north of Kaitaia. Kahika Stream is surrounded by radiata pine forest on three sides - southern, western and eastern aspects. There are mid to high dunes in front of the forest with a predominantly spinifex and Cassina leptophylla (tauhini) vegetation cover. The beach was very small in area on the eastern side. Foraging Availability Kahika Stream had very brown coloured water with rushes, raupo and flax on both edges. The stream was small and unsuitable for foraging. ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 9

10 Nest Site Availability There were no naturally occurring shell patches (suitable for NZ fairy tern to nest on) above spring high tide. There was no shell at this site. There was no suitable place to make a safe shell patch. Threats/Issues There was no predator control and because of the unsuitability of this site, predator control would not be feasible. Access to this site would not be easy; it is on privately owned Maori land with locked gates. This site could be accessed by boat but you would be restricted because of weather conditions. Privately owned vehicles access this site, on the day of my site visit there were vehicle tracks that went right through the stream, and dog prints were seen too. Summary The stream is not suitable for NZ fairy tern foraging. There is no shell and because this site was so small in area there wasn t enough room to make a shell patch. Access to manage the site would also be very difficult. Kahika Stream would not be a suitable breeding site for NZ fairy tern. Site: Kaitoke Beach, Great Barrier Island Date of visit: 21/04/10 Grid reference: Topo Map, AY34, Site Description Kaitoke Beach is on the south east side of Great Barrier Island. The Claris airport lies less than one kilometre from this beach. Kaitoke Beach is approximately two km long. The stream is at the northern end of the beach. The predominant vegetation cover is spinifex with lesser amounts of pingao and marram grass. ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 10

11 Foraging Availability NZ fairy tern could forage in the Kaitoke Stream and in the nearby ocean. The water is shallow enough at half tide falling, low tide and half tide rising for foraging. The Kaitoke Swamp drains into the stream releasing tannins and as a result of this the stream bed was brown, however the water from the edge of the shore to two metres into the stream was clear. On the day of my visit I saw small fish in the stream. Nest Site Availability Above the spring high tide mark there were sparsely scattered shell patches, that would need enhancing to be suitable for NZ fairy tern nesting, However if a spring high tide was accompanied by a low pressure system (easterly storm) this site would not be safe from being washed out. Pecten (scallop) shells or other orange coloured shell would need to be added to attract NZ fairy terns. Threats/Issues There are two access points; one at the northern end of the beach is through the Claris Recreation Reserve where it is possible to cross to Kaitoke Beach at low tide. The other access site is half way down the beach via Ocean View Road. Dogs are permitted as long as they are on a leash. On the day of my visit horse tracks were seen. In addition there were rat prints all over the dunes. There is no trapping currently being undertaken at Kaitoke Beach. A few years ago there was a couple who did some rat and cat trapping at the northern end of the beach to protect dotterels but they have since left the island (H. Jamieson, pers.comm.). Summary Kaitoke Beach could be a possible breeding site for NZ fairy tern with the addition of suitable shell patches and predator control. Larger shells such as scallop would need to be added. The water quality was clear; however this would need to be investigated during periods of high rainfall due to the proximity of the Kaitoke swamp. Monitoring this site would be necessary to determine the impact of high tides and low pressure weather systems. There is also a strong possibility that people do let their dogs off the leash. Site: Kokota Spit Date of Visit: 17/05/2010 ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 11

12 Grid Reference: Topo Map, AT25, Site Description Kokota Spit is the southern headland enclosing the Parengarenga Harbour in the Far North. It is approximately 2.5 kilometres east of the village of Paua. At the widest point, the Spit is approximately 3.2 kilometres wide and is 7.5 kilometres long. It is an extensive coastal dune and beach system with large flat areas rolling dunes, mid dunes and big dunes throughout. There is a mixture of vegetation and bare sand. The main species of plants present are pingao, spinifex, jointed rush and Cassinisa leptophylla (tauhini), as well as the invasive marram and pampas. Foraging Availability NZ fairy tern could forage in the very extensive Parengarenga Harbour or the adjacent ocean. The water appears to be of pristine quality. The foraging area could potentially support a number of NZ fairy tern. Nest Site Availability There were naturally occurring shell patches above the spring high tide line from the middle of the northern tip to the north eastern side of the Spit. On the day of my visit I saw all the ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 12

13 types of shell that NZ fairy tern nest on. In places where the shell was sparse, shell could be sought from other areas on the Spit and added to enhance safe nesting sites. Threats/Issues It is unlikely that there is any predator control on the Spit. It would be feasible to set up trap lines. No predator prints or vehicle tracks were observed on the day of my visit. Kokota Spit can be accessed by boat. I travelled to the Spit via a privately owned Oyster Barge. The Spit can also be accessed by vehicle from Te Kao, via a locked gate but permission would need to be sought as this is Maori owned land. The locals in the area told me that in the middle of the Spit there were areas of quick sand. Summary Kokota Spit could be an excellent breeding site for NZ fairy tern. There appears to be excellent foraging habitat available and I expect there would be many nesting sites on the Spit than I observed during my visit. The area is very large and a more complete survey would be needed to determine the exact extent of potential breeding habitat for fairy tern. It is likely that Kokota Spit gets very little people use. Weather conditions may be a factor for accessing the spit. With enhancement to existing shell patches and monitoring of this site Kokota Spit is likely to be able to sustain a number of NZ fairy tern pairs. Site: Ngunguru Date of Visit: 25/05/2010 Grid Reference: Topo Map, AW31, ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 13

14 Site Description Ngunguru Spit is on the east coast just north of Whangarei. The Spit runs north-south, with the ocean on the eastern side and the estuary the western side. The dunes on the eastern side are mainly mid height with the occasional high dune. The Spit is densely vegetated with a mix of native vegetation including spinifex, Cassina leptophylla (tauhini) and pingao. Foraging Availability NZ fairy tern could forage in the Estuary or adjacent ocean. On the day of my site visit the water in the Estuary was very murky, (there had been a lot of rain) and I could only see about one metre from the shore out into the water. Murky water makes foraging difficult for NZ fairy tern. Nest Site Availability There were no naturally occurring shell patches (suitable for NZ fairy tern to nest on) above spring high tide. There were scatterings of shell in various areas over the entire Spit. A shell patch could be created half way down the western side of the Spit, vegetation would need to be removed and shell gathered up from surrounding areas. ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 14

15 Threats/Issues It is unlikely that there is any predator control currently being undertaken. Predator control would be feasible and essential. On the day of my site visit I noticed that the pingao had been grazed quite heavily. There were numerous rabbits and their sign everywhere. I saw cow pats and horses grazing right up to the edge of the Estuary (there were no fences) and I suspect these horses do go onto the Spit. I accessed the spit at the end of Ford Road through privately owned Maori land and walked two kilometres to the end of the Spit. Five hundred metres from the end of the Spit I came across a sign that stated, beyond this point is privately owned land, and the sign didn t state who the land belonged to. Vehicles access the Estuary at low tide through private land. Summary Ngunguru Spit could be a breeding site for NZ fairy terns. With habitat enhancement, the western side of the Spit on the Estuary side in particular, could be a possibility for NZ fairy tern breeding habitat. There is foraging available locally. Site: Okaro Creek Date of Visit: 03/05/2010 Grid Reference: Topo Map, AY29, Site Description Okaro Creek is approximately 50 kilometres south of Dargaville on the Pouto Peninsula. The upper reaches (north, west, south) of Okaro Creek are bordered by mangroves. A plantation of Pinus radiata is on the north western edge of the mangroves. On the south western side, native bush clad hills flank the mangroves. The mouth of Okaro Creek faces east at the northern end of Kaipara Harbour. On the southern side of the mouth there is a small sandy beach with small dunes covered predominantly in marram grass and spinifex. West of these dunes there is a corridor with a mixture of gorse, pampas, wattle trees, wattle seedlings and native bush that extends down to the beach. Foraging Availability ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 15

16 NZ fairy tern could forage on the sand/mud flats from half tide in Okaro Creek as well as the sand/mud flats in the Kaipara Harbour. The water was clean and clear. On the day of my visit a Caspian tern was foraging in Okaro Creek. Nest Site Availability There was a flattish shell patch above spring high tide. The shell patch was missing the Pecten and Turritela genera which provide the essential orange shell colouring which is attractive to NZ fairy tern for nest sites. Shell would need to be brought in from elsewhere. On the northern and southern sides of Okaro Creek, there are sand patches above high tide, these are known roosting sites. Threats/Issues On the day of my site visit I saw fresh pig rooting on the beach and pig prints leading into the bush. I also saw a single boxed trap with two DOC 250 traps inside, which looked as though it hadn t been checked in quite a while. This was the only trap I saw. There used to be someone doing trapping, but currently no one is trapping. (S. Mc Pherson, pers.comm.). On the walk into Okaro Creek eight cats were seen. I accessed this site through private property. There is no public access to this site by foot, but it could be accessed by boat. ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 16

17 Summary Okaro Creek could be a possible breeding site for NZ fairy tern. The water quality was clean and clear. Shell would need to be brought in to enhance the existing shell patch. The corridor of bush that leads right down to the beach could be a concern as predators could access this site. Predators could be a major concern at this site along with access. Site: Omaha Sandspit Date of Visit: 07/04/10 Grid Reference: Topo Map, AZ32, Site Description Omaha Sand Spit is 64 kilometres north of Auckland. It joins Tawharanui Peninsula at its base and encloses Whangateau Harbour from Little Omaha Bay. The Omaha Sandspit is a Rodney District Council Recreation Reserve and has been named the Laura McKinlay Reserve in memory of Jim McKinlay s late wife. More recently the Omaha Shorebird Protection Trust has been established to continue the work of enhancing the spit for wildlife purposes (G.A. Pulham, pers.comm.). The beach sediment composition is over 70% quartz sand. There are three artificial groins that have been placed at the northern part of the Spit to accumulate sediment from long shore drift and prevent erosion. Rodney District Council in the last two decades have planted spinifex, pingao and marram grass to help stabilize the Spit and established fences to contain the sand. Historic Sightings On November, 2009, Marie Wood and Joanne McPhee (members of the newly formed Omaha Shorebird Protection Group) along with Cameron Walker (RDC.) saw a NZ fairy tern roosting on the Omaha Spit. Unpartnered/immature birds have been seen around Omaha Spit for a couple of weeks at a time, once in December in the mid 1990 s, and then again in November in the late 1990 s. In early 2000 Simon Chamberlin observed (a one-off sighting)of a juvenile NZ fairy tern (only months old) at Omaha Spit (Gwenda Pulham New Zealand Fairy Tern Charitable Trust Bulletin, No.9 : 2009, 18 December). Foraging Availability ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 17

18 NZ fairy tern could forage in the Whangateau Harbour and in Waikokopu Creek (upper estuary) as well as the adjacent ocean. The water appears to be of relatively high quality. Nest Site Availability The substrate at Omaha was very coarse sand with many layers of shell packed onto it, perhaps too compacted for NZ fairy tern. There are pairs of New Zealand dotterels and pairs of variable oystercatcher (VOC) nesting on Omaha Spit. (G.A. Pulham, pers.comm.). Gwenda Pulham suggested that there could be one possible space left on the Spit for NZ fairy tern to breed, metres north of the southern groin. Access/Issues The Omaha Shorebird Protection Trust ran a trapping roster at Omaha spit from 17th August 2009 until the end of March Volunteers were rostered daily to check the fifteen DOC 200 s traps during this time. Interference by humans is an issue here and two traps were burnt, two were broken and needed extensive repair, and a further three were wrenched from their posts and their wooden bases broken. (M. Ward, pers.comm.). During the 2009/10 NZ fairy tern breeding season at Waipu Paulla-Jean Pridham and I witnessed a pair of VOC interfere with a NZ fairy tern nest with two eggs in it. One of the VOC s pierced the egg and with the egg still on the end of its beak walked a few paces away. This observation confirmed that what had previously just been suspected that VOC are the culprits of some NZ fairy tern egg damage and nest losses (New Zealand Fairy Tern Charitable Trust Bulletin (NZ fairy tern CT) No.1, 2010 Gwenda Pulham, Parrish & Pulham, TANE 1995a, p170). On the 18/12/07 Gwenda Pulham, John Simmons, Paulla-Jean Pridham and I observed on the north shoreline of the Waipu River a pair of NZ fairy tern that had a scrape that they had made, were allowed to settle for was just one minute before being chased off by adjacent nesting NZ dotterels or VOC. The population of breeding NZ dotterels and VOC in the immediate area of the only available nesting area possible for NZ fairy tern (max 40 m2) at Omaha Sand Spit was five pairs of NZ dotterels and seven pairs of VOC, all of whom were incubating eggs or attending chicks. Nesting for NZ dotterels and VOCs gets underway well before that of NZ fairy tern. The fairy terns are disadvantaged, as the NZ dotterels and VOCs are already defending eggs or chicks at the time the NZ fairy tern are ready to lay. High densities of breeding NZ dotterels and VOC in any given area are possibly a deterrent and/or threat to NZ fairy tern laying in close proximity. There is public access to the entire Spit, although shorebird breeding areas are roped off and people are advised by signage not to take unleashed dogs into the area because of ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 18

19 disturbance. Unfortunately this does still occur. In addition the only site seemingly left available for NZ fairy tern is at the base of the groin which is popular with line casting fishermen so would present an additional disturbance to the birds. Summary The very coarse high concentration of shell on Omaha Sand Spit means that the bulk of the substrate is not that suitable for NZ fairy tern breeding habitat. Of further concern is the availability of actual space for NZ fairy tern to nest. NZ dotterels and VOC would have already established themselves in their allotted spaces at nesting time on the Omaha Sand Spit and I consider a pair of NZ fairy tern would find it difficult to squeeze in. In addition there are issues of potential disturbance by people who have full access to the Spit. Site: Pataua North Date of Visit: 25/05/2010 Grid Reference: Topo Map, AX31, Site Description Pataua North is on the coast north east of Whangarei. Hills, bush and farmland surround Pataua River and it is a popular seaside village with intensive residential development. On the northern side of the River mouth there is a small dune with spinifex and pingao. Foraging Availability NZ fairy tern could potentially forage in the Pataua River or the adjacent ocean. On the day of my visit the River was quite brown (there had been a lot of rain) and the run-off from the surrounding hills, goes into the River. It is possible the is always brown from the run-off, however I could see for two metres from the bank out into the water. Nest Site Availability There are no naturally occurring shell patches (suitable for NZ fairy tern to nest on) above spring high tide. There was one small dune where a shell patch could be created on the northern side of the river mouth. There was only a small scattering of shell. ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 19

20 Threats/Issues There does not appear to be any predator control at this site and I do not think it is feasible as the area is very public and very small in area. The Whangarei District Council has been planting spinifex and pingao on the only dune at Pataua and these conflicts with NZ fairy tern habitat requirements. I did see dog prints in the beach. This site would be very populated over the summer months due to the close proximity of a small settlement and camping grounds.. Summary Pataua North would not be a suitable or safe site for NZ fairy tern. Site: Poutawa Stream Mouth Date of Visit: 07/04/2010 Grid Reference: Topo Map, AY 31, Site Description Poutawa stream mouth is on the east coast of Auckland, five kilometres south of Te Arai Point, and approximately six kilometres north of the Pakiri River mouth. On the south side of Poutawa Stream there are high sand dunes and clay terraces containing a few small shell middens. Pingao is the predominant plant species on the sand/clay terraces. Spinifex is predominant on the low foredunes. West of the terraces is a private forestry block. North of the stream there are foredunes which slope west and open up into a large sandflat. Gorse and native convolvulus are the predominant plant species in this open area and it is flanked to the north and west by the very tall shelter-belt pines of the Mangawhai Forest. Foraging Availability NZ fairy tern could forage in the Poutawa Stream or the adjacent ocean. Eliane Lagnaz (NZ fairy tern warden for Pakiri) recorded NZ fairy tern foraging in the stream in the 2009/10 breeding season indicating that it must contain at least some suitable prey items. The adjacent ocean appears to be of pristine water quality. The stream water exiting to the ocean did have a ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 20

21 slight brownish tinge but the water clarity was sufficient for NZ fairy tern to forage. Eliane Lagnaz reported that the Poutawa Stream mouth had closed off about two months ago and a lake had built up behind the dammed exit (E.G. Lagnaz, pers.comm.). Water flow from the stream to the ocean has re-established, but the discolouration of the stream water on the day of my visit could have been due to remaining slightly stagnant upstream water. Nest Site Availability There are no naturally occurring shell patches (suitable for NZ fairy tern to nest on) above high spring tide. On the south side of the stream the middens on the sand/clay terraces could be enhanced by the addition of suitable shell. Historically, i.e. prior to 1978, NZ fairy tern nested on the middens at the northern end of Te Arai Beach. (G.A. Pulham, pers.comm.). So a midden substrate for a nest should not be discounted. On the north side of the stream, low vegetation could be removed and shell added to the large open area behind the fore dunes. Both these potential sites are well above the high spring tide. There was minimal shell in the substrate on the day of my visit. To create shell patches shell would need to be brought in from elsewhere and Iwi would probably need to be consulted. Two main types of shell, which aid camouflage for NZ fairy tern that would need to be included are those of the Turritella and Pecten genera. (G.A. Pulham, pers.comm.). Threats/Issues Predators could access the coastal area from the forest adjacent. Predator trap lines could easily be set up along the edges of the forest, west of potential nesting sites. Eliane Lagnaz is currently trapping this site since early September Initially she used six box traps. Early in December 2009, 10 Fenn traps in five tunnels were added. Eliane is currently checking traps biweekly over the NZ fairy tern breeding season (E.G. Lagnaz, pers.comm.). Although there were vehicle and dog tracks on the day of my site visit public access is not easy. There is public access to Pakiri Beach approximately five km to the north at Te Arai Point (toilets, picnic tables etc.) There is also a privately operated camping ground (Mangawhai Forest Camp) at Te Arai Point. It is likely that vehicles can gain access to the beach there, as there was a person with a 4x4 vehicle camping on the north side of the Stream on the day of my visit. The Mangawhai Forest is currently closed due to fire risk, so it appears the camper drove to the site via the beach. There is another camping ground approximately six km to the south at Pakiri River Mouth. Horses are exercised along the beach at low tide. Local people also access the beach, probably by quad-bike and with their dogs, via a privately owned access track that has combination-lock gates. Summary Poutawa Stream Mouth could be a breeding site for NZ fairy terns. With habitat enhancement, the northern side of the stream in particular, could be a definite possibility. As Poutawa is in close proximity to current breeding grounds this increases the likelihood of NZ fairy tern re-establishing here. Two pairs of NZ fairy tern nested in the vast sand dune area north of Poutawa Stream in the first half of the 20 th century before the forest was planted. (Geoff Moon, pers. comm. to G.A. Pulham in 2004). There is foraging available locally. Polystyrene models of NZ fairy tern could be placed in the vicinity of the created shell patch (BUT NOT ON THEM) to see whether it attracts NZ fairy tern to the site to breed (G.A. Pulham, pers.comm.). Due to the dynamic (changeable) nature of this coast I would recommend a recce of the site in early August to confirm its habitat characteristics and layout. With nest site manipulation, safe places could be made and the proximity of the stream to these places could see Poutawa Stream mouth become prime real estate for one pair of NZ fairy tern. ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 21

22 Site: Rarawa Beach (Great Exhibition Bay) Date of Visit: 10/05/2010 Grid Reference: Topo Map, AU25, ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 22

23 Site Description Rarawa Beach is on the east coast north of Houhora. Access is via Rarawa Beach Road approximately 10km north of Houhora on the SH. Rarawa Stream forks just below a DOC camp ground and the south east fork continues as Rarawa Stream. A hill with pohutakawa, pine trees and scrubby bush flanks the stream. The eastern fork of the stream known as Ngataki Stream is dominated by rushes, and there are also mid to high sand dunes with spinifex. West of these dunes there is a big open sandy area, with minimal vegetation. Foraging Availability NZ fairy tern could forage in the Rarawa Stream or the adjacent ocean. The adjacent ocean appears to be of pristine quality. The stream is stained with tannins, thus making the bottom of the stream brown. From the stream mouth the first 150 metres is clear and from this point heading upstream the stream water has patches of clarity and patches of discolouration. On the day of my visit no prey items were sighted. Nest Site Availability There were no naturally occurring shell patches (suitable for NZ fairy tern to nest on) above high spring tide. There was however, abundant shell. On the eastern side of the stream on the sandy spit, low vegetation could be removed and suitable shell added to a mounded area of sand. ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 23

24 Threats/Issues Trapping is being undertaken by a trapper employed by the Department of Conservation (DOC with around 17 DOC 200's being deployed for the purpose of protecting NZ dotterel (I. Petrove, pers.comm.). Trapping in 2009 started on the 20th July and will continue until the NZ dotterel chicks fledge. The traps are usually checked weekly. Initially 17 pairs of NZ dotterels attempted to nest but a big storm in August 2009 reduce this to just six pairs. Ten pairs of oyster catchers were nesting during this past season but at times up to 30 birds were seen feeding (I. Petrove, pers.comm.). Rarawa Beach can be accessed through a DOC managed camping ground. There is also public access to the beach at the end of Rarawa Beach Road, where people can take vehicles onto the beach. On the day of my site visit I saw vehicle tracks on the beach. A very rough estimate of people camping would be 3000 minimum maximum per year at Rarawa Campsite (I. Petrove, pers.comm.). Summary Rarawa Beach is a potential breeding site for NZ fairy tern, but it would require enhancement by creating a shell patch above high spring tides. One of the advantages of this site is that it is currently being trapped, is fenced off and does have minimal monitoring. However the high numbers of NZ dotterels and variable oystercatchers currently nesting at this site may impact the ability of NZ fairy tern to nest here successfully. ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 24

25 Site: Ruakaka Date of Visit: 29/04/2010 Grid Reference: Topo Map, AX30, Site Description The coastal township of Ruakaka is approximately 30 kilometres south of Whangarei, off SH1. A long sandy beach extends from the Ruakaka River mouth, north and south for several kilometres. A sand spit extends from dunes on the southern side of the River northwards. On the northern side of the River the predominant vegetation on the dunes is gorse and pampas. There is an extensive coastal township on the southern side. Historical Historically NZ fairy tern bred at Ruakaka possibly up until 1979 (Parrish and Honnor, Threatened Species Recovery Plan no. 23 Department of Conservation 1997). Long-term members of Northland OSNZ recall NZ fairy tern attempting to nest there in the 1980s. Kelly Brogtrop (2006/07 Shorebird Monitoring and Protection Report) reported sightings of unidentified NZ fairy tern fishing in the Ruakaka River. She suggests that the Ruakaka River may have been the foraging territory for a fourth, late arriving Waipu breeding pair (usually Waipu supports only three breeding pairs). G.A. Pulham believes that it could also have been a pair trying to nest and failing at Ruakaka, then switching to the Waipu site for a second attempt (23/11/06). Foraging Availability NZ fairy tern could forage in the Ruakaka River and the adjacent ocean. The water appears to be of pristine quality. On the day of my visit I saw hundreds of suitable prey items along the edges of the River. I also saw Caspian Terns foraging in the River. ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 25

26 Nest Site Availability At the southern end of the sand spit there were flattish shell patches above the high spring tide, however if an easterly storm coincided with a high spring tide the water could possibly wash over this area. On the northern side of the River there were no naturally occurring shell patches above the high spring tide. There was an area on the northern side of the river where a shell patch could be created above high spring tide. Low vegetation could be removed and shell added to further enhance the site for NZ fairy tern breeding habitat. Threats/Issues The Bream Bay Coastal Care Trust (BBCCT) does predator control for shorebirds Ruakaka is a major area for kite surfing, which are known to disturb NZ fairy tern trying to forage in shallow water. There is a camping ground west of the spit, which is highly populated over the summer period. On the day of my site visit I crossed the Ruakaka River at low tide, which means people staying at the camping ground could also easily access the spit. I also saw dog prints on the day of my site visit. Summary Ruakaka could once again be a breeding site for NZ fairy terns. However, habitat enhancement on the northern side of the River would be required and Major efforts put into controlling public access and disturbance to both nesting and foraging habitat. Site: Skull Creek, Whangarei Harbour ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 26

27 Date of Visit: 29/05/2010 Grid Reference: Topo Map, AX30, Skull Creek in Whangarei Harbour is a former breeding site for NZ fairy tern (breeding recorded in 1951 in Parrish & Honnor, 1997). Also it was a major small tern species roost in the 1970 s (Munroe & Miller). Currently this is a known post-breeding flocking area for NZ fairy tern, along with the Taitoki Creek area, to the west of Hewlett's Point (Tony Beauchamp, pers.comm.). An extensive visual survey on 29/04/10 from Takahiwai, Mangawhati and Hewlett's Point revealed no obvious suitable areas for NZ fairy tern. However, P-J Pridham (date, pers.comm.) identified a sizeable, slightly elevated, heavily grassed area with a tell-tale shell perimeter that could have been a former shell bank. On enquiring with the land owner about this area, he confirmed that it was once a clear open sand/shell bar where Caspian tern used to form a small colony each summer. Repeated tidal inundation had caused them to move elsewhere in the Harbour to breed. Grasses have taken over the shell bank, but being flattish, slightly elevated above the surrounding Sarcacornia and in an unpopulated wilderness area it was now used for helicopter landing/take-off practising. A 1970s map shows the above shell bank as Mangwhati shell bank. Summary This site is not longer suitable as breeding habitat for NZ fairy tern Site: Takou Bay Date of Visit: 13/05/2010 Grid Reference: Topo Map, AU29, Site Description Takou Bay is on the on the north east coast north of Kerikeri. There is no coastal community here, but there is a small rural community inland. The Takou River flows through mixed farmland and bush and exits into the bay with a sandspit extending from south to north. This sand spit on the south western side of the mouth consists of a big flat sandy area at the foot of rolling dunes with predominantly spinifex. Bush clad hills flank these dunes at the base of the spit. On the northern side of the river mouth there is medium-sized sand spit with low to ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 27

28 medium dunes vegetated in spinifex, inland from these dunes are vegetated hills. To the northwest there is a Pinus radiata forest. From the mouth of the small estuary the water opens up like a lake inside the large sandspit. Foraging Availability NZ fairy tern could forage in the Takou Bay estuary or the adjacent ocean. With the size and the quality of the water, this is could be a great foraging area for NZ fairy tern. On the day of my visit there were Caspian terns foraging in the estuary, which suggests there could be suitable prey items. Nest Site Availability There were no naturally occurring shell patches (suitable for NZ fairy tern to nest on) above high spring tide. There was a scattering of shell on the day of my site visit, but more shell would need to be brought in to create shell patches. Shell patches could be created on both the southern and northern sides of the estuary. The northern site would be the safest option as less people are likely to visit this site due to a deep channel that would need to be crossed. Threats/Issues ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 28

29 The Takou Iwi Trust undertake possum and predator control on larger blocks of native bush and coastal pohutakawa on the perimeter of 2,500 hectares to protect native flora and fauna (quoted from The Bay Chronicle ). The Takou Trust has reopened access to Takou Bay Beach through private land after seven years of closure. (Quoted from the Bay Chronicle). There is a toll gate with a $5 per vehicle charge for day trippers. The Takou Trust sign states, no vehicles allowed on Beach or sand dunes, however on the day of my site visit I did see a vehicle and vehicle tracks. I also observed dogs being walked on the beach off their lead. Summary Takou Bay could be a potential breeding site for NZ fairy terns. With habitat enhancement, both the southern and northern side of the estuary would be possibilities for NZ fairy tern breeding habitat. The sand at this site was darker (brown colour) than what NZ fairy tern usually nest on, I am not sure whether or not this could be a problem. With nest site manipulation, safe places could be created. ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 29

30 Site: Taronui Bay Date of Visit: 13/05/2010 Grid Reference: Topo Map, Site Description Taronui Bay is on the north east coast from Kerikeri. There is a small coastal community located here. The Taronui River flows north into the Bay. Much of Taronui River flows through bush or farmland with riparian planting. On the eastern side of the River mouth is a line of rocks, flanking these are bush clad hills. West of the River mouth there are low dunes with predominantly spinifex in a sand spit. Foraging Availability NZ fairy tern could forage in the Taronui River or the adjacent Ocean. The water in the River and adjacent ocean was clean and clear. On the day of my site visit I saw potential prey items in the River. ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 30

31 Nest Site Availability There are no naturally occurring shell patches (suitable for NZ fairy tern to nest on) above the high spring tide. On the western side of the River on the spit a shell patch could be created. There was minimal shell in the substrate on the day of my site visit. To create shell patches, shell would need to be brought in from elsewhere. Threats/Issues Trapping is carried out in the reserve on the northern side of the river by the Department of Conservation. DOC trap this area once a month and target only possums. Predator control would be feasible on the western side in the low dunes. On the day of my site visit there were no birds at all in the area, but there were high numbers of wasps. Access to this site is through a combination locked gate by vehicle or alternatively walking 3.8 kilometres to get to the reserve. The other access is private and it also has a combination gate. On the day of my site visit I saw motorbike tracks and a dog on the beach. Summary Taronui Bay could be a potential breeding site for NZ fairy terns. With habitat enhancement, the western side of the River could be a possibility for NZ fairy tern breeding habitat, however it is possible, that, with a combination of a high spring tide and an easterly storm this site could be inundated with water. ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 31

32 Site: Tauranga Bay Date of Visit: 12/05/2010 Grid Reference: NZTopo50-AU28ptAV28, 35 o 05 N173 o 47 E Site Description Tauranga Bay is on the coast east of Whangaroa Harbour. Tauranga Stream runs south east to north east into the Bay. There is a small sand spit at the north eastern corner of the beach with predominantly spinifex and pingao vegetation cover. On the eastern side of the Stream there are 21 residential properties. Bordering the mouth of the Stream on the north eastern side are hills with pohutakawa and pines. A Far North District Council Reserve borders the north western side of the Stream. Foraging Availability NZ fairy tern could forage in the Stream and adjacent ocean. The water in the stream was clean and clear, as was the ocean. On the day of my visit I saw Caspian terns foraging in the Stream which would indicate there were prey items readily available. ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 32

33 Nest Site Availability There were no naturally occurring shell patches (suitable for NZ fairy tern to nest on) above high spring tide. There was good base shell (small scattering), however shell would need to be brought in and low vegetation would need to be removed along with driftwood to create a shell patch. On the day of my visit the small sand spit at the north eastern corner of the beach was fenced off with signs informing the public about, birds nesting in this area and no dogs allowed. There were also Department of Conservation signs in conjunction with a community partnership giving updates on the nesting NZ dotterels. Four pairs of NZ dotterel nested in the roped off area over the 2009/2010 season and eight NZ dotterel chicks fledged.. Threats/Issues I do not know if predator control is being done, but it would be feasible if it is not. This site could be accessed through the reserve or through the camping ground. On the eastern side people could access the spit through private property. This site is likely to get a lot of use over the summer. Summary Tauranga Bay could be a breeding site for NZ fairy terns with enhancement, on the north eastern side of the Stream in particular. With nest site manipulation, a safe place could be created. One advantage to this site is that it is already being monitored, however of concern is the number of NZ dotterels which nest here and I saw two pairs of variable oystercatchers in close proximity to this site, which could impact the suitability of this site. Site: Te Arai Canal Date of Visit: 28/04/2010 Grid Reference: NZTopo50 Map, AY31, 36 o 09 S 174 o 38 E ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 33

34 Site Description Te Arai Canal is on the east coast approximately 10km south of Mangawhai, and approximately 2.5 kilometres north of Eyres Point. On the north western side of Te Arai Canal there are high dunes with sparse vegetation, mostly spinifex. These dunes are flanked to the west by the Mangawhai plantation forest. On the south side of Te Arai Canal there are small rolling dunes with predominantly pingao and spinifex and plantation forest again to the west. The plantation forests cover the old dune systems leaving just the foredune free of trees. A stream also flows through farmland prior to entering the forested dune system. Three dune lakes are located behind Mangawhai Forest. Historical Historically and up to c 2005 the Te Arai Canal Mouth was a known NZ fairy tern postbreeding roost site. Since 1991 up to 14 birds of mixed ages have been recorded roosting there at any one time (OSNZ data). Its proximity to the known fresh water foraging habitats of Slipper and Spectacle Lakes could explain its popularity in the past. However, new fresh water habitats have been created in recent years, slightly west of the Mangawhai Harbour e.g. the Anchorage, the Sanctuary, and NZ fairy tern are often recorded utilizing these from midsummer into autumn (pers. obs. and A.S. Meagher, DOC Whangarei). Continual and increasing disturbance at the Canal Mouth by horses, dogs, motocross bikes and vehicles (G.A. Pulham, pers.comm.) could also account for the drop-off in use by roosting NZ fairy tern. The above situation has been remedied since late 2008 by the proactive involvement of the Te Arai Beach Preservation Society s Shorebird Group, but it remains to be seen if NZ fairy tern will roost there again. Foraging Availability NZ fairy tern could forage in the Te Arai Canal and the nearby ocean. The water quality in Te Arai Canal looks very brown, possibly from tannins that leach out of the swamp, however on the day of my site visit the water clarity up to the first hundred metres from the mouth of the canal heading up-stream, the visibility from the edge of the land, to, two metres out into the water, was clear. Beyond this point water visibility reduced to 0.5m from the edge of the land out into the water. On the day of my visit I saw small fish in the Canal. The Canal exit to the sea was blocked off by sand and it looked as though the only sea water getting into the Canal would have been at high tide. NZ fairy tern have been sighted foraging in Slipper Lake, approximately two kilometres south west of Te Arai Canal by OSNZ members. On the day of ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 34

35 my visit I also went to Slipper Lake and Spectacle Lake, where I saw a Caspian tern foraging indicating potential suitability for NZ fairy tern. In 18 years of regular visits to the Te Arai Canal Mouth, at all times of year, G.A. Pulham has only recorded NZ fairy tern actively foraging in the Canal on three occasions. These were all during periods of extended dry weather when the Canal water was relatively clean and clear. Usually the water is brown and opaque, especially so after rain possibly the result of runoff from farmland into the stream further up. (G.A. Pulham, pers.comm.). Nest Site Availability On the day of my visit there was no shell on the northern side of Te Arai Canal and it seems likely on a high spring tide accompanied with a low pressure system this area would be inundated. On the south western side of Te Arai Canal there is a scattering of shell, but no suitable existing shell patch above high spring tide, however I did see a suitable area that could be enhanced and be safe from high spring tides. In 2009/2010 there were six pairs of NZ fairy tern seen at Te Arai. Four pairs were on south side of canal and two on north side. Up to three other pairs appeared to be interested in breeding but we were unable to locate nests, eggs or chicks. One pair nested and produced three eggs within 200 metres of Te Arai Point car-park, but down on the beach.this nest was lost due to a high tide, in spite of efforts to prevent this by establishing sandbags around the nest. There were three resident pairs of variable oystercatchers on the south side of the Canal, one pair had three eggs, but were lost to a high tide as they nested just above the high tide mark. Another pair appeared to be looking after a pine cone rather than an egg, and another pair did not attempt to nest. They were all on south side of the Canal. Another two pairs of variable oystercatcher were also resident, one pair just down from the car park close to the rocks and another pair seemed to frequent the beach a little further along. (L. Whale, pers. comm.). Since 1992, G.A. Pulham advises that she has witnessed pre-breeding behaviour, including prospecting (both aerial and ground based), fish feeding (fish sourced from ocean shallows) or scrape-making, by known Mangawhai breeding pairs of NZ fairy tern, at the Te Arai Canal Mouth e.g. November 1993, November 1997, November and December 2007 (a different pair on each occasion) and November In the 2009/10 breeding season on the 28/10/09 two NZ fairy terns were observed fishing in the Canal, then two NZ fairy terns on the 7 /11/09 and on the 18 /11/09 a single NZ fairy tern was seen fishing up the Canal, observed for 20 minutes, and then on the 25/11/09 two NZ fairy terns flew around the Canal, twittered for awhile and then continued south (L. Whale, pers. comm.). It is highly likely that a NZ fairy tern nesting attempt occurred at Te Arai Canal Mouth in the 1997/98 breeding season, as a nest-monitoring video camera was set up there that season and trapping initiated along the forest edges. DOC staff were not prepared to disclose why these measures were taken. OSNZ members had enhanced an area at the canal mouth in September 1997 by removing large debris and adding shell. (G.A. Pulham, pers.comm.). Threats/Issues The Te Arai Beach Preservation Society s Shorebird Group trap this site annually. They began trapping in October The traps we used were two extra large cage traps, approximately 14 leg hold traps, one DOC 200, four DOC 250s and four Fenn traps (L. Whale, TBPS, pers.comm.). On the day of my visit there was a person riding a horse, accompanied by a dog along the western side of the Canal. Te Arai Canal can be accessed through the Mangawhai Forest but there is a locked gate and a permit is required to get through. This site can also be accessed at the end of Pacific Road. Summary ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 35

36 Te Arai Canal Mouth could be a breeding site for NZ fairy terns. With additional habitat enhancement, the south western side of the Canal in particular, could be a definite possibility for NZ fairy tern breeding habitat. Existing foraging and recent breeding attempts support this view. Even though the Canal water itself isn t that clear at times throughout the year NZ fairy tern could forage from ocean shallows as well as at nearby Slipper and Spectacle Lakes. Prior to NZ dotterels and variable oystercatchers starting to nest, possibly in late July/early August, a shell patch could be to enhanced so that it appealed to NZ fairy tern, but not NZ dotterels and VOC s. With the excellent work (trapping, monitoring and lobbying) of the Te Arai Beach Preservation Society s Group, this site could support one pair of breeding NZ fairy tern. Site: Waimamaku River Date of Visit: 05/05/2010 Grid Reference: NZTopo50 - AW27. Site Description The Waimamaku River is on the west coast adjacent to Waipoua Forest and flows west to reach the Tasman Sea, eight kilometres south of the Hokianga Harbour. The River flows through rough farmland and some bush. On the northern side of the River mouth there are medium sized dunes with spinifex the predominant plant species. On the southern side of the River mouth there are foredunes which slope south west and open up into a reasonably large flat area. Spinifex, jointed rush and Cassina (tauhini) are the predominant plant species in this open area and it is flanked to the southeast by high hills. To the southwest are medium sized dunes that are vegetated with spinifex. Foraging Availability NZ fairy tern could forage in the Waimamaku River or the adjacent ocean. The bottom of the River is brown, which is probably a direct result of cattle grazing right up to the river edge. On the day of my site visit the water in the river was clear to two metres from the edge of the shore out into the River, where I saw suitable prey items. Beyond this point visibility was poor. Closer to the River mouth the water quality was better, clean and clear, as was the ocean. Nest Site Availability There were no naturally occurring shell patches (suitable for NZ fairy tern to nest on) above high spring tide. In fact there was no shell at all at this site. From the amount of Driftwood strewn all over the beach up to the dunes, it looked as though this could have been a regular occurrence in storm conditions. On the south western side of the river, low vegetation could be removed and shell brought in, to the large open area behind the fore dunes. This site would be well above the high spring tide line. Threats/Issues On the day of my visit I saw rat prints throughout the dunes as well as some possum prints in the sand. Trapping does not appear to be undertaken here. Trap lines could be set up along the edges of the dunes and at the base of the hills, south east of potential nesting sites. There is public access onto the beach at the end of Waimamaku Beach Road. On the day of my site visit I saw a 4x4 vehicle on the beach that belonged to four people who were fishing ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 36

37 and who also had a dog with them. There were quad tracks throughout the dunes. I counted four Jet Ski s, which were unloaded about a hundred metres east of the river mouth. I also watched one person travelling up and down the river on his jet ski. Surfers also access this site, as there were people that came down to the beach from the hills on the northern side, where there may be private access to the beach. On the south eastern side of the River there was a make shift dwelling that looked as though someone was living in. Summary Even though there is the possibility of creating a safe shell patch at this site there are other concerns which would make this site difficult for NZ fairy tern. It is likely that there are severe storms that would destroy this site. There is a strong Iwi presence in this area and it was gathered that there was resistance to supporting NZ fairy tern in this area. ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 37

38 Site: Wairahi Stream Date of Visit: 11/05/2010 Grid Reference: NZTopo50 AT2534 o 395 S; 173 o 015 E Site Description Wairahi Stream is in Great Exhibition Bay south of Parengarenga Harbour. It drains a large area of swampy farmland, with a small dune lake just to the south. On the north side of Wairahi Stream there are low to medium sized dunes with predominantly spinifex and pingao vegetation cover. West of these dunes is a large flat area of sand, which is densely vegetated with jointed rush, harakeke and a few pampas plants, On the south side of the stream there are medium to high dunes with spinifex and pingao vegetation cover with forest flanking both sides of the Stream. Foraging Availability On the day of my visit the Stream exit was blocked by sand. Fifty metres up stream to the west the stream was very brown and had rushes, raupo and harakeke on both edges into the water. The stream is not suitable for foraging. ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 38

39 Nest Site Availability There were no naturally occurring shell patches (suitable for NZ fairy tern to nest on) above high spring tide. In fact there was no shell at this site. There was no suitable place to make a safe shell patch. Threats/Issues There is no predator control occurring and because of the unsuitability of this site predator control would not be feasible. Access to this site would not be easy. It is on privately owned Maori land with locked gates. This site could be accessed by boat but you would be restricted because of weather conditions. Privately owned vehicles access this site, on the day of my site visit there were quad tracks and I also saw cat prints. Summary Wairahi Stream is not suitable for foraging. There is no shell and because this site was so small in area there isn t enough room to make a shell patch. Access for management would also be very difficult. Wairahi Stream would not be a suitable breeding site for NZ fairy tern. Site: Walker Island Date of Visit: 18/05/2010 Grid Reference: 35 o S; 173 o E Site Description Walker Island is inside the entrance to Rangaunu Harbour which is bounded to the east by Karikari Peninsula and is north of Kaitaia. The Island is approximately 500 metres east of the village Kaimaumau. Access is by boat from a small sand spit called Kuaka point. There is no vegetation growing on the Island and it is relatively flat. Foraging Availability NZ fairy tern could forage in the Rangaunu Harbour. The water was of pristine quality. ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 39

40 Nest Site Availability On the day of my site visit there were two shell patches above the high spring tide mark, however the Island may be inundated by water during storm conditions. There are a lot of the right shell type that NZ fairy tern currently nest on elsewhere. Threats/Issues There is predators on Walker Island. I think that the main predators could possibly be aerial. Access to Walker Island is by boat. Caspian tern, white fronted tern, variable oystercatcher and black backed gulls nest on the Island, as well as the site being a major wader root site. (D. Davies, pers.comm.). This may make for little additional space for NZ fairy tern to establish nesting sites. Summary Walker Island may not be suitable for NZ fairy tern. The Island may be too small in area and it already has four species of birds nesting on it. In addition back backed gulls are known predators of NZ fairy tern. ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 40

41 Site: Whananaki South Date of Visit: 29/05/2010 Grid Reference: NZ Topo 50 Map, AW31,35 o S; 174 o E Site Description Whananaki South is on the coast north of Tutukaka near Whangarei. It includes a spit which runs north-south and has small dunes around its edge with predominantly spinifex vegetation cover, and a small estuary. A plantation forest covers three quarters of the spit. The Whananaki South residential area is on the inside base of the spit adjacent to the estuary. There are also two small residential areas on the northern side of the estuary, with foot access across the estuary by bridge. There is also a wharf on the northern side of the estuary. Foraging Availability NZ fairy tern could forage in the estuary and adjacent ocean. The water in the estuary and ocean appears to be of pristine quality. On the day of my visit I saw a Caspian tern foraging in the estuary. ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 41

42 Nest Site Availability There are no naturally occurring shell patches (suitable for NZ fairy tern to nest on) above high spring tide on the spit. There was only a scattering of shell. A shell patch could be created at the northern end of the spit, so vegetation would need to be removed and shell brought in. Threats/Issues There is no predator control at this site. It would be feasible to trap this site, and would be essential if it were to be used for NZ fairy terns as the adjacent forest acts as a corridor for predators. At the end of Whananaki Road there is Department of Conservation walkway. There is also a walking bridge at the end of Whananaki Road that crosses the estuary to its northern side. On the day of my visit I saw cattle prints and cow-pats on the estuary. I also saw dog, horse, hedgehog, rat, rabbit and cat prints. I saw vehicle tracks at low tide on the estuary. There was also a very noisy hovercraft driving around the estuary. ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 42

43 Summary Whananaki South could be a breeding site for NZ fairy terns. With enhancement at the north eastern side of the spit, this site could be a possibility. There is foraging available locally. With nest site manipulation, safe places could be created for NZ fairy tern breeding habitat. Site: Whangapoua Sand Spit - Great Barrier Island Date of Visit: 20/04/10 Grid Reference: NZ Topo 50 Map, AY 34, 36 o S; 175 o E Site Description Great Barrier Island (Motu Aotea) is 100 kilometres north east of central Auckland in the outer Hauraki Gulf. Whangapoua Estuary is on the east coast of GBI. A large sand spit forms the northern entrance to the Whangapoua Estuary. The upper reaches of the Estuary are dominated by mangroves. On the northern spit there are rolling dunes with a patch of 750 year old stone deposits from a tsunami. Half way along the beach there are ancient clay dunes. Spinifex, pingao and Cassinia (tauhini) are predominant vegetation cover. The southern side of the Estuary mouth is adjacent to a steep bush clad hill known as Whangapoua. Foraging Availability NZ fairy tern could forage in the Estuary and the adjacent ocean. On the day of the site visit Gwenda Pulham observed Caspian tern foraging in the Whangapoua Estuary (pers.comm.). Helema Jamieson, DOC (pers.comm.) confirmed that local people catch flounder in the Estuary. There is an overlap in the prey items that both Caspian and NZ fairy terns take i.e. small flounder, white bait, smelt and bullies. Both the ocean and the adjacent Estuary are of pristine water quality. ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 43

44 Nest Site Availability On the day of the my visit there were existing shell patches above spring high tide, however if there was a low pressure system accompanying the spring high tide I would suspect these existing shell patches could go under water. On the southern third of the spit the shell intensified. Threats/Issues There is currently predator control going on, DOC are trapping the area for cats using caged traps and conibear traps. Dogs and horses are not permitted and on the day of my site visit no prints were seen. I did see quite a few harriers so perhaps aerial predation could be of concern. Public access on the northern side of Whangapoua is at the end of Mayby Road, and then a two kilometre walk to the spit. Access at the southern end is through a DOC camp ground and locals do drive their vehicles through here to gather kaimoana below the high tide mark. At the camp an average of 10 people per night in peak season with a maximum capacity of 50 people per night. (H. Jamieson, pers.comm.). Summary Whangapoua Spit could be an excellent breeding site for NZ fairy tern. The water quality in the Estuary and the ocean was clean and clear. With the sighting of Caspian terns foraging in ROYAL FOREST AND BIRD PROTECTION SOCIETY of NZ Page 44