dispersers than exotic species, partly because they don’t damage the seeds by chewing them, they tend to swallow them whole. Figure 4: Number of native seedlings at Pigeon Flat (near Dunedin) in the presence of possums and rats, were possums were controlled and where possums and rats were removed (from Wilson et al. 2003). In areas with high numbers of herbivore pests, the highly preferred plant species often disappear. Removal of the rats and possums allows the natural return of species such as kōtukutuku (tree fuchsia) and raukawa. Removal of goats will result in an improved understorey and also contribute to better survival and seed dispersal for shrubby species. Ecological Processes As well as supporting individual species, the removal of mammal pests also supports forest processes, for example te pua o te reinga (Dactylanthus, woodrose) is normally pollinated by bats, but when it is flowering it is highly attractive to pigs, rats and possums who destroy it before it can be pollinated. Removing these animals allows natural pollination and if bat populations are still present, pest control will help them recover. Spillover (or ‘halo’) effects are common around areas where pest control occurs. These are where species disperse from the management area into surrounding forest or farmland and become more common there as well. Reintroductions In terms of biodiversity, pest management allows the opportunity to return species which have been lost from the area because of increased pests. This includes species like kōkako, pōpōkatea (whiteheads), toutouwai (robins) and kākā. The return of these species also contributes positively to forest processes and health. Social and Cultural Benefits It’s not just biodiversity that benefits. For those involved with the project or even just visiting restored forest they experience an increased personal connection to, and familiarity with, the forest and its species and habitats. 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 Possums and Rats Rats only Neither possums nor rats Native Seedlings Present
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