A dead stoat has been discovered on Stewart Island, a place known for being stoat-free.
The Department of Conservation found the animal earlier this month on the Rakiura Great Walk Track, with its skull crushed. Officials are now investigating how it got there and what it means for the island’s wildlife.
Rakiura lies 30 kilometres south of New Zealand’s South Island, across the Foveaux Strait. Stoats are strong swimmers, but only for about 2 kilometres. They also don’t usually travel by boat, so this finding is a mystery. Aaron Fleming, DOC’s Southern South Island Director, said the stoat’s injury may have come from a trap or something heavy, but how it ended up on the trail is still unknown.
There are two main theories: either the stoat somehow made it to the island, or someone brought it there on purpose. Both ideas are worrying. Genetic testing is being done to learn where the stoat came from.
If stoats were to spread on Rakiura, they could seriously harm native animals. For example, stoats can kill kiwi chicks, making it almost impossible for young birds to survive without help. Rakiura is home to the tokoeka, or southern brown kiwi, and is part of a major predator-free project.
The island is already working to remove pests like rats, possums, and feral cats. Bringing new pests like stoats is against the law and can lead to jail time or large fines. The DOC is asking anyone with information to speak up.
