First-known Kāpiti nesting by endangered New Zealand dotterel

Wednesday, 29 November 2017

An endangered New Zealand dotterel at the Waikanae Estuary on the Kāpiti Coast.

Endangered New Zealand dotterels have been found nesting at the Waikanae Estuary for the first recorded time.

The rare birds are usually found on east coast beaches in Northland, and on Stewart Island, but were spotted at the Kāpiti Coast estuary reserve this week.

The nest of New Zealand dotterel eggs at the Waikanae Estuary. The birds typically lay only three eggs, so it is thought likely that two females are sharing the nest.

Word quickly spread through bird enthusiast circles, said Michael Peryer, who runs Waikanae Estuary Bird Tours.

There were six eggs in the nest, which was another unusual factor, as dotterels tended to lay only three at a time. 'So, the general consensus is that two mother birds are sharing the same nest,' he said.

One of four Department of Conservation signs placed around the nest.

* Foxton Estuary welcome to returning birds comes with warning

* Be careful of dotterel nests on North Piha's beach**

'It's certainly created quite a bit of excitement, this being the first time anyone has known of New Zealand dotterel nesting here.'

Peryer said the Waikanae River banks, sandspit and wider estuary were the natural habitat for about 65 bird species, including the more common banded dotterel, oystercatchers, godwits, shags and cuckoos. The nesting season would continue until mid-summer.

'The beauty of the area is that it allows people to get quite close to the birds and enjoy and appreciate them. The birds are quite tame and used to people, and as long as those with dogs keep them on a lead and under control, there's no problem.'

The New Zealand dotterels nest was on the estuary sandspit between the river and the sea, and thankfully not in an area accessed by vehicles. However, roaming dogs pose a real threat, he said.

On Tuesday two Department of Conservation officers visited and placed four signs around the nest, urging dog owners to keep their dogs on leads and under control at all times.

Peryer said he was pleased with DOC's interest, concern and quick response.

More information about designated areas, rules and restrictions was available from the council, as well as on the Dog Access Zones and Vehicles on the Beach pages at www.kapiticoast.govt.nz.