Latest Posts on Roaming Ecologist
Inaka – Whitebait
Nurturing a life cycle requiring four habitats. Protecting habitat for a species thought to be common is challenging. Whitebait is caught when returning from the sea in nets along many rivers in New Zealand. Although most of us have seen and/or eaten these tiny creatures in egg fritters, the inaka* or whitebait is declining and […]
Milnthorpe Park Scenic Reserve and Arboretum Golden Bay
Can introduced species play a role in restoration? Hugh Wilson of Hinewai Reserve, Banks Peninsula is well known advocate for gorse as a nursery plant for protecting regenerating seedlings. Milnthorpe Park is another interesting experiment.
Vote Kea for Bird of the Year
KEEEEAAAAA! Kea (Nestor notabilis) was named by Maori for the sound of its call. Listen to it here It is the world’s only mountain parrot and found only in the Southern Alps of New Zealand. These sociable and highly intelligent birds are well adapted to their harsh alpine environment. Their curiosity and omnivorous appetite, that they have developed […]
Cynthia is announced as one of The People’s Choice Candidates
The People’s Choice Regional Council Candidate’s Announcement The People’s Choice has selected three strong candidates for the first semi-democratic elections for Environment Canterbury for six years. The People’s Choice is a Labour-affiliated group of people who share the core values of fairness, sustainability and social justice. “We are thrilled with the Regional Council candidates we […]
Island refuges – Matakohe-Limestone Island in Northland
Matakohe-Limestone Island was saved thanks to the hard lobbying by conservation groups over many years. Instead of being available for mining or a casino, golf course and hotel, this island became a scenic reserve in 1990 for all to enjoy.