Stoat **(Mustela erminea)**

About

These formidable predators were first brought to New Zealand from Britain in 1884 to control rabbits which were damaging the sheep pastures of European settlers.

Our native birds have very little defence against these ruthless hunters who can climb to the highest nest and also forage in underground burrows. They can travel large distances and maintain considerable territories, with females able to produce up to nine young each year.

Control

We currently use DOC200 and DOC250 kill traps to control stoats over 40km of tracks and roads, in and around the Nelson Lakes National Park.

Some of our innovative volunteers have been refining a hinged style box for these traps, as well as trialling a new preserved meat/fish bait. One of our goals is to share our knowledge, as per the information sheets below.

If you would like to become a stoat trapping volunteer or would like more information about our stoat trapping - please contact us.