Urgent action is needed to protect dotterel populations, with advocates calling for increased responsibility from cat owners and potential bylaws regulating pet ownership. The call comes as conservationists report declining breeding pairs and a risk of local extinction for the birds.
Dotterel Decline and Predation
A spokesperson, Barker, stated that “Whatever it takes is what should be done,” emphasizing the urgency of the situation and framing the issue as a choice: “You’re either on the side of the birds, or you’re on the side of the predators.” He suggested considering rules similar to those in Australia, where councils have implemented overnight curfews for cats and banned them from new subdivisions.
Predation, particularly from cats and rats, is a significant threat to dotterel nests. Marilyn Scott, who coordinates monitoring in the Waipureku/Clive area, noted that while cat predation has occurred there, rats destroyed most early nests this season.
Local Council Response and Potential Solutions
Napier City Council (NCC) has not identified sufficient evidence to implement a cat bylaw, stating that it must meet specific legal tests before introducing new rules. However, the council has not ruled out future consideration if robust data emerges or central government provides clearer direction.
Several measures have been proposed to address the issue, including compulsory desexing and microchipping of cats, licensing breeders, limiting the number of cats per household, and requiring cats to be kept indoors at night. Lynne Anderson, coordinator for Save the Dotterels HB, emphasized that these measures are “pro-cat, not anti-cat,” acknowledging that cats are often cherished pets.
Broader Implications
The Department of Conservation (DoC) supports responsible cat ownership, including desexing, microchipping, and keeping cats indoors. A long-term solution, according to Hawke’s Bay Regional Council, would involve a national-level policy on cat management, covering both domesticated and feral cats.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current risk to dotterel populations?
Save the Dotterels HB co-ordinator Lynne Anderson said local extinction is a real risk, as each season sees a decline in breeding pairs.
What action is being requested of cat owners?
Cat owners are being asked to act responsibly and ensure their pets are locked up at night to prevent predation on dotterels.
What is Napier City Council’s position on cat bylaws?
Napier City Council (NCC) is not currently progressing a cat-control bylaw, citing a lack of sufficient local evidence demonstrating a require for such regulations.
Given the ongoing decline in dotterel populations and the challenges in implementing effective regulations, what role should community involvement play in protecting these vulnerable birds?
