Controlling feral animals on the Chathams

An aerial operation to control feral animals on the Chatham Islands has significantly reduced wild cattle numbers by more than 5,700 animals.

The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has been supporting the Island’s farmers, the local council, and wider Chatham Islands community as they manage Island challenges.

The operation funded and organised by MPI in partnership with Chatham Island farmers and the Council, and carried out by Precision Helicopters New Zealand, started in late June and finished in mid-August. It reduced feral cattle numbers by 5,762, pigs by 356, and wild sheep by 69.

Pest control work only occurred on properties where landowners gave their permission.

“MPI worked with Environment Canterbury, Precision Helicopters, and the local community, including iwi and imi, to reduce any environmental impacts,” MPI’s director of On Farm Support Dr John Roche says.

“Livestock were mustered away from waterways prior to control and any carcasses near waterways were removed by helicopter.

“The operation has relieved some of pressure facing the Island’s farmers and we’d like to thank the community for its support.”

Reducing feral animal numbers will enable limited livestock feed on the Island to be kept for farmed sheep and cattle and helps reduce damage to fences.