MADCS is currently working with organisations to create an Enhanced Predator Eradication scheme using trap sensors and long-life lures. As NZ progresses towards its predator free goals there are many new technologies that can improve the efficiency of trapping projects, and it is MAD Conservation Services' aim to remain at the forefront of accessing these technologies, and pushing them out into the community and local projects. This also aligns with the Kotahitanga mō Te Taiao strategy (Top of the South initiative) and Predator Free 2050 outcomes.
The trap sensor has revolutionised pest control, as it gives real time data on the effectiveness of each trap and aids in a better understanding of how each trapping project is working. Enhanced long life lures paired with trap sensors means that we can leave these traps out in the environment for far longer periods without the need for checking periodically (weekly or monthly), instead we can be notified when the trap has been set off, and head directly to that trap for servicing (even in your own backyard). In large landscape trapping projects, time spent checking every single trap can be laborious and inefficient, especially on working farms where there is already so much other work to achieve daily.
MADCS make our own stoat/rat traps, based on the Department of Conservations series traps (DOC150, 200 & 250), with a slightly different design to the traditional boxes, designed to keep weka out.
The number of traps and materials that are required will be determined by the size of the operational area. MADCS can monitor and service traps at an hourly rate.
MADCS uses the DOC Animal Trapping database and trapping app Walk the Line for capturing trap catch data. If this database is not preferred then we can look at other options of data management such as Trap NZ.
Pest animal control is a vital part of conservation in New Zealand. We can organise your trapping programme from setting a box in your backyard, the initial cutting of trap lines, building and laying out the traps or tracking tunnels, checking and maintaining trap lines, recording and reporting on trap catches. Depending on your goals and resources, our level of involvement can be altered to suit you, e.g. we can run the whole project from start to finish, or set up trap lines that community group volunteers can check and maintain.
Get in touch with M.A.D Conservation Services to see how we can help you with predator control:
Find out more . . .call O27 5345 918 or email info@madconservation.co.nz.
