Home / Environment / Pukunui Population Soars 52% After Cat Cull
Pukunui Population Soars 52% After Cat Cull
27 Oct
Summary
- Southern dotterel population increased 52% in one year.
- Intensive feral cat control on Stewart Island was key.
- Conservation aims for 300 dotterels by 2035.
The critically endangered southern dotterel, known locally as pukunui, has experienced a significant population surge of 52% in one year, a record increase for the species. This achievement follows a concentrated campaign in 2025 to control feral cats on Stewart Island, also called Rakiura.
An annual bird count in April 2026 revealed an estimated 160 pukunui, up from 105 in April 2025. This growth is a direct result of a joint effort by New Zealand's Department of Conservation (DOC) and the non-profit Zero Invasive Predators. They targeted feral cats, which had severely impacted the dotterel population by preying on adults and chicks.
The 2025 operation utilized biodegradable 1080 bait to reduce feral cat numbers in crucial mountain breeding areas. DOC Rakiura Operations Manager Jennifer Ross noted the immediate positive impact on nesting success, stating it was the result needed to prevent extinction. Protecting nesting birds allowed more successful breeding, with some pairs hatching three chicks.
Despite this success, the southern dotterel remains vulnerable as feral cats still inhabit Rakiura. Trail cameras have detected cats near the cleared zones, and continued management is vital for the island's broader ecosystem and other native species. Efforts are ongoing to prevent cats from re-entering protected areas.
While no aerial control is planned for 2026, conservation teams are expanding ground traps and bait stations to maintain gains. Support for these trapping initiatives comes from private donations. The Pukunui Recovery Project's long-term goal is to reach at least 300 southern dotterels by 2035.
