Mammals
Our work on mammals relates to the ecology and control of introduced pest species: possums (and other marsupials), mustelids (principally ferrets and stoats), rodents (principally rats, mice in native forest), and any economically and environmentally significant diseases they carry. Past research has involved deer, tahr, and goats.
Research
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Biological control of possums
Research is being conducted to develop biological control of possum fertility, which will provide possum management agencies with a wider range of control options. -
Consequences of multiple herbivores for forests
New Zealand’s land biota evolved in the near–absence of mammals. Māori introduced one new mammalian herbivore (the rat, kiore) and Europeans introduced over 25 more species, including three more rodent species, brush–tail possums, and various species of deer. -
Dating human arrival in New Zealand
The pacific rat (kiore) spread with voyaging humans; therefore, its earliest presence in New Zealand indicates initial human contact. Radiocarbon dating of kiore bones suggests they were introduced to New Zealand c. ad 100 . However, these radiocarbon ages are controversial because there is no supporting ecological and archaeological evidence for the presence of kiore or humans until c. ad 1280 –1300. -
Ferret and Stoat Research
This site provides an overview of recent or ongoing research on ferrets and stoats with a particular focus on work undertaken by Landcare Research scientists. -
Management of multiple species of pests
Protection of critically threatened native animals and environments requires the control of multiple introduced animal pests. -
New and improved baits, toxins, traps and delivery systems
Vertebrate pest management is a critical component of many New Zealand conservation efforts and relies on the development of both new and improved baits and toxins. -
Wildlife diseases and disease threats to humans
Animal pests and associated diseases threaten New Zealand’s native and productive environments: our research aims to develop a greater understanding of the transmission and behaviour of these diseases in their hosts so that we provide improved control or eradication strategies.