Northland is thought to be home to roughly 7000 of the game birds, with significant populations at the Houhora, Rangaunu and Parengarenga Harbours and at Lakes Omapere and Owhareiti, near Kaikohe.
Doug Foster, of the Northland Regional Council, says anecdotal evidence suggests the swan – introduced to New Zealand from Australia almost 150 years ago - can affect the health of lakes, damage pasture and carry disease, especially in larger flocks.
Mr Foster, a Land Management Officer, says the Regional Council recently secured a $20,000 grant from the Foundation for Research, Science and Technology to determine key research gaps about the environmental and economic impacts the birds are having.
“The damage these birds are doing in high flock numbers needs to be quantified and advice given on management control methods to address farming, aquaculture, environmental and pest agency concerns. Information is needed to determine whether or not the management of black swan in Northland needs a comprehensive plan and further consideration.”
Mr Foster says Landcare Research - which late last year had provided an initial review of available information on black swan for the Regional Council – would carry out the research over the next 12 months.
Last year’s review by Landcare Research scientist Jim Coleman found that while there was a lot of anecdotal evidence about the role of black swan on the environment, little relevant scientific research had been done and he recommended the $20,000 project now underway.
Mr Coleman recommended the review include:
- a workshop of all key stakeholders in Northland to document their perspectives of black swan
- the ranking of future research needs and management options and their social acceptability
- a more detailed indentification of research gaps.
Mr Foster says as part of the research a workshop on black swan is to be held at the Orana Motor Inn in Kaitaia on Wednesday 18 April starting at 6pm. A short presentation on Canada geese (a game bird causing similar issues) will be also given.
Mr Coleman and Regional Council Biosecurity Team Leader Don McKenzie will speak at the meeting and there will also be a general discussion session on what needs to be known about the black swan, options for its management and future steps.
“We’re keen for as many members of the public as possible to attend this workshop to relate their experiences in relation to both species of these birds,” Mr Foster says.
Results of the new research are expected to be available in about a year’s time.