Predator Free Russell
Predator Free Russell builds on the legacy of over 20 years of predator control undertaken on the Russell peninsula by Russell Landcare Trust and other passionate conservationists.
Our Mission is to eliminate rats, stoats & possums from the Russell peninsula, creating a mainland sanctuary where native birds and biodiversity can thrive, and endangered species can be reintroduced.
This work has enabled the growth of one of the largest and highest-density kiwi populations in NZ, as well as the continued presence of many rare and endangered native NZ birds, including:
- weka,
- tomtit (miromiro),
- dotterel (tūturiwhatu),
- little blue penguin (kororā),
- brown teal (pateke),
- bittern (matuku),
- fernbird (matata),
- spotless crake (puweto),
- and banded rail (mohu-peruru).
Russell is also home to other vulnerable native species, including Auckland green geckos, Kauri and flax snails, giraffe weevils, and black-spined stick insects.
Our Story
How We Got Started
Predator Free Russell builds on the legacy of over 20 years of predator control undertaken on the Russell peninsula by Russell Landcare Trust and other passionate conservationists.
Launched in 2023, Predator Free Russell is NZ’s second landscape-scale urban mainland Predator Free 2050 project which includes rats as a target predator species. By eliminating rats as well as stoats and possums, we expect to see even greater explosions in bird life, than we have witnessed with our kiwi and weka populations (which were achieved just with stoat and possum control).
Where We Are Now
We are now in our next stage and starting predator control in Tapeka and Russell township.
Current Progress
(April 2024)
Become a Volunteer Today
Want to be helping clear our trap lines, build trap boxes, take part in biodiversity monitoring (eg. bird counts) and other valuable activites? Become a volunteer!
We are supported by the local Russell community!
Landowner access agreements
local donors - individuals, families & businesses
Volunteers
Our current project area covers 430 hectares of ‘elimination zone’, 370 hectares of ‘buffer zone’ and 220 hectares of project expansion zone.
But our plan is to expand each year. At the beginning of 2024 we are starting to work in Tapeka. After that we will move into Russell and other surrounding areas, covering the entire 3,000 hectares of the Russell peninsula. But it is possible only thanks to local landowners who support our project and give access to their land.
Landowner FAQ’s
Will it cost me anything?
No. We are funded by Predator Free 2050 Limited and Northland Regional Council.
What is needed from me?
Our primary request is permission to access your property, to install and service bait stations and/or traps.
Where do you need access to?
Only outside areas, which are discussed and agreed upon when assessing your property with you.
Is it safe for pets and children?
We use lockable bait stations in urban areas, to keep bait out of reach of pets and children, however toxins (rat bait) are optional, and we tailor our approach individually for each property.
How often will the trappers visit?
This varies throughout the year, from weekly to monthly. If desired, we can contact you before each visit.
Who will be doing the work?
We currently have a team of 5 trappers, and typically only one or two service our urban area. Our team has Predator Free Russell branded high-vis clothing and vehicle signage, for easy identification.
Predator Free Russell is being delivered by the Russell Landcare Trust, with funding from Predator Free 2050, Northland Regional Council, and donations from generous local supporters.
Get in touch!
We would love to hear from you. Please fill in the form and we will get back to you.