Wednesday, March 19, 2025

Seabirds in Kaikōura Struggle to Survive

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The Hutton’s shearwater birds in Kaikōura are facing an unusual surge in crash landings as fledglings leave their nests, entering a world filled with bright lights and challenging conditions. This year’s mating season commenced earlier than usual, resulting in injured birds being reported sooner, prompting the Hutton’s Shearwater Charitable Trust to highlight the impact of street lighting on these vulnerable seabirds. In response, the Kaikōura District has implemented new lighting regulations to reduce glare, aiming to protect the birds following its recognition as an international dark sky sanctuary. Despite the challenges posed by potential disorientation and predation, the Te Rae o Atiu colony is thriving with 30 chicks surviving this season, attributed partly to supportive feeding measures during times of food scarcity. The Trust continues to advocate for conservation efforts as they work towards establishing a healthier, sustainable population of these iconic seabirds.

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