Sunday 8th December 2024

the gulls are making up for a poor season last year

​Hello friends and family
On Sunday I got the anonymous call – bird flu on a local poultry farm. This was confirmed in the press on Monday. A highly pathogenic strand, but not the H5N1 that has crossed to mammals and caused numerous bird deaths around the world. It is in fact, the poultry farm that I can see out my kitchen window. 3Km away.

the youngest chicks are growing well

​On Tuesday morning the team came out and we made some short-term plans. I had seen the fitting Black-backed gull last week and am not convinced that the flu has not reached the wildlife. 

furry babies

​Fortunately, we are well prepared for this. With the support of the local community, we have been able to purchase the requirements and practice using them. The next two weeks will be critical. 

even the sky is up for a bit of drama

​On Thursday afternoon, representatives from Ngai Tahu came and explained that they did not want this house and so I must remove it. They are not planning to continue  penguin conservation on this site, so we will have to move somewhere else. This will not happen quickly, so there is no need for panic.

The older chicks are looking better

​Robbie and I attended the Hui on Friday morning. DOC have begun the process of creating a management plan for this site for when the other bird flu gets here. The longest journeys start with the first step.

Taking time out

Have a great week!
Rosalie