Natureland Wildlife Trust proud to support

Natureland Wildlife Trust proud to support

Natureland Wildlife Trust is proud to be supporting the Brook Waimārama Sanctuary with the arrival of their first group of kākā.

These birds are an important step toward establishing a wild population within the sanctuary and restoring this iconic native parrot to the Nelson region. Natureland has been part of the Department of Conservation’s kākā captive breeding programme for more than 10 years, developing significant expertise in the husbandry and care of these intelligent native parrots. In the lead-up to the birds arriving, Natureland staff worked closely with project partners to help prepare for their care. This included developing feeding plans and husbandry procedures, organising equipment such as drinkers and feeding stations, and making site visits to assess the aviary and ensure everything was ready for the birds’ arrival.

On the day the kākā arrived at the sanctuary, Natureland Manager Leah Foster and Senior Keeper Hani were on site to assist with handling the birds while they were fitted with identification bands and radio transmitters.

These transmitters will help the team monitor the birds once they are released into the sanctuary. Because Natureland staff work closely with kākā every day, our team’s experience is particularly valuable during this early stage while the birds are settling into the aviary.

For the next few weeks, Natureland staff will be visiting the sanctuary twice daily to check on the birds, prepare food, and ensure they are adjusting well. Next month Natureland will also receive four Top of the South Island kākā that will form the breeding group supporting future releases to the Brook Sanctuary