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Takahē Thrive: Largest Wild Population Beyond Fiordland
30 Sep
Summary
- 86 takahē now reside in Rees Valley, forming a significant wild population.
- Takahē released in February 2025 have already begun breeding in the wild.
- Rees Valley restoration aids return of whio and weka alongside takahē.
The Rees Valley has become a vital sanctuary for takahē, now housing the largest wild population beyond their original Fiordland stronghold. Since their initial release in February 2025, 86 takahē have been reintroduced, establishing a significant presence in the Upper Whakatipu region.
This conservation milestone is underscored by the birds' successful breeding in the wild, demonstrating the valley's suitability for supporting a thriving takahē population. This effort follows the 2023 return of takahē to the nearby Greenstone Valley, collectively reinforcing the Upper Whakatipu as a key area for the species.
The Rees Valley's ecological restoration is also facilitating the return of other native wildlife, including whio, which have reappeared after a 50-year absence, and weka. These developments are part of broader conservation initiatives aimed at predator control and long-term landscape restoration.
Securing the future of the takahē, a species rediscovered in 1948 and still nationally threatened, relies on establishing resilient populations in new areas. The success in the Rees Valley highlights the importance of sustained predator control and collaborative partnerships involving DOC, Ngāi Tahu, and various conservation groups.
