Sunday 3rd July 2016.

Getting ready !

​Hello friends and family.
I am penguin free! On Monday I opened the gate and released the last of the penguins in care. By Tuesday they had gone off to catch their own fish which is excellent. I am now in full swing with winter jobs. An important one is getting the predator traps up and running. I have a suite of 6 different kinds of traps, with the goal of being predator free by spring when the chicks are vulnerable.

The Spotted shags are showing breeding plumage.

Phil came on Monday afternoon, bringing traps, cages and most importantly, good advice. I took him to Okahau point so he could show me where to place traps and how to best set them. I will try to live up to the standard required!

Seal pups surfing​
Another winter job is to ensure that every penguin box is ready to hold a new family. I will make sure that all can be easily accessed and that they are secure against the weather, and on 3 sides – against predators. I have stewed up the last of the apples so now can start using the pile in the freezer.

A juvenile taking the day off fishing.

​Another winter job is to ensure that every penguin box is ready to hold a new family. I will make sure that all can be easily accessed and that they are secure against the weather, and on 3 sides – against predators. I have stewed up the last of the apples so now can start using the pile in the freezer.

penguin politics

Chris and Hiltrun came on Thursday night and we worked for 2 days in the reserves. Katiki Point is almost ready for the new season but Okahau point needs more work.
Have a great week!
Rosalie
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