Environment – Birds great bug controllers

Can there be too many birds? Well, of course I would say “never,” and I hope you would too. As predator control increases through Pest Free Hibiscus Coast and similar projects around the country we are starting to see our birdlife recover, but there is still a lot of work to be done. Recently there have been more reports of rare and exciting species like kākā visiting Coast gardens. However, we do need to make room for our feathered friends this spring, when they are at their most vulnerable. 

Prevention of harm is something we can all do, putting stickers on windows to prevent birds like kereru flying into them is simple, try the NZ Dragonfly ones from Matuku Link. Cat owners can keep their pets safely indoors, at least at night, use a bright collar and bell and keep them well fed and entertained. When walking the beaches we can ensure that our dogs, and children too, don’t disturb shorebirds like the tūturiwhatu, dotterels at Big Manly, or the kororā, little blue penguins, soon to be raising their chicks along our coastlines.

It’s also the time of year where there are nests and baby birds everywhere and we need to be extra vigilant. Listen carefully and you might hear the faint chirp of a chick – or the alien-like sound if it’s a young kingfisher calling for its next meal. 

What do you do if you find a lost looking chick? Firstly please ascertain if it actually needs help. Fledgling thrushes are often found looking rather hopeless hopping around. However, they rarely need rescuing as they are waiting for their parents to bring food. They are at that awkward stage which many parents can relate to – too big for the nest but not yet able to fly away. So don’t bird-nap them! 

If you find a nest that can be put back in the tree, do so, as the parents may find it. However if it is clear that you have an injured bird, place it in a towel in a box somewhere quiet, with something to keep it warm, then call the experts at Birdcare Aotearoa. This incredible charity is a bird rehabilitation centre, the closest one permitted by DOC to care for native birds. If you can’t get it to them yourself, they will advise you where you can take it while they arrange transport. If they are closed, an out of hours vet would be your first call. If the bird has been in a cat’s mouth it will need urgent medical treatment to survive as the bacteria in a cat’s mouth are fatal. 

It’s also the time of year where people are getting out in their gardens more – and what is the best way to control unwanted bugs? Welcome in the birds, and lizards too! Create a safe haven for them and they will help you too. 

If you want to learn more about the birds in your garden, we recommend the NZ Birds Online website, and also the iNaturalist app for identification.