Sunday 12th July 2020

​Hello friends and family
Our focus this week was on a different project as the tree planting site is exposed and there has been a cold wind and the paddock is too soft to drive on. We have tried to relocate some Koura (freshwater crayfish) from hidden forest streams to a new pond that has been recently planted out with native trees. Patrick led the project and showed us how to make traps and what the issues are with catching Koura. So far, we have not caught any!

Who is this pair at a new nest box?

​The penguins are enjoying their winter holiday and the last one was released from care yesterday. After a course of Malarone, he tested clear for Malaria and was well pleased to be free again. I can unset my morning alarm for 7:30 and sleep in until the sun comes up!

an error of judgement

​Yesterday the government announced a rescue fund for rehabbers and zoos. We will put in an application as funding at the gate has declined sharply and one of our sponsors has withdrawn because of Covid 19. DOC records the numbers of visitors so I will ask them for the information over the last 3 months. I don’t know if we exactly fit the criteria – it is hard to fit into boxes when you are working with endangered species.

Katiki boulders on a damp winter morning

Hiltrun and Elaine cleared yet another corner at the Moeraki colony yesterday, in glorious sunshine. A pleasant change from the cold wet week that we have had.
Have a great week!
Rosalie
​