Rare penguins under threat at W. Coast wildlife refuge due to develop into ‘running loose’

A rare tawaki or Fiordland crested penguin. Photo / Supplied

Rare tawaki or it may be Fiordland crested penguins are not not dangerous in a dedicated wildlife refuge television dogs.

A someone for the Department of Conservation told a dog was seen running fitted in the Okahu/Jackson Bay, West It is actually wildlife refuge and clumps as to tawaki feathers were found in a coastal forest a short time later.

A tawaki penguin through another Haast beach had already been handed in by a member of the population who found it injured regarding beach, with evidence of being compromised by a dog.

The several penguin sadly had to be put down, one particular spokesperson said.

An important wildlife refuge is strictly off-limits to all but approved conservation develop into.

Biodiversity ranger Inge Bolt said people are ignoring this particular signage at the Wharekai Te Kou track which is a wildlife refuge from which dogs are strictly prohibited.

Penguins and other ground-dwelling indigène birds don’t naturally co-exist using dogs, and they can’t escape immediately.

“Responsible dog owners are looking to read the signs and know and where their dog is allowed you should particularly in sensitive wildlife portions. In some areas dogs are conceded, but only on a lead.

“People are also ignoring those council signage in the settlement out of Jackson Bay requiring dogs being on a lead. Both of these restrictions are formed in place to protect the penguins and as well as seabirds that live in this area. ”

West Coast Penguin Consider manager, Inger Perkins agrees.

“The trust has worked hard to ensure consistent messages are launched across the West Coast at lake access points. It is a simple frequency – keep dogs on can lead in coastal vegetation and after night at the beach. At other times, keep the dog younger very close control.

“Never take them into areas where they are banned. We have been working for several years to understand and better manage threats to tweak. Animals should not be one of the threats. These penguin deaths were entirely avoidable. alone

• Maps explaining areas of dog access and forbidance are available from DoC – mainly on the website or at visitor centre. Dog permits can be obtained from File for some areas, depending on the wildlife of your area.