Predator Trapping Program Maintenance in Upper Ashburton River Catchment

The Regional Council is looking to continue the trap servicing of an established and ongoing predator trapping programme in the Upper Ashburton/Hakatere River for the 2021/22 year.

Trapping targets feral cats, mustelids, hedgehogs, possum and rodents in the upper catchment in an attempt to reduce predation on native braided river birds such as wrybill, dotterel and black-fronted tern, but also on all native fauna generally. Approximately 340 traps are to be serviced at the Upper Ashburton/Hakatere site on a fortnightly basis.

Tasks to undertake include: � Fortnightly/2x month checking and rebaiting of traps at both locations � Recording of predator trap kill results on provided data sheets and submission of these to Council and into Trap NZ at the end of each month � Liaison with relevant landowners in which traps are located � Anticipate high river flows and consequently adjust trap location when necessary � Maintaining traps?

� Procuring traps?

Skills and abilities: � Experience maintaining trap lines in braided river environments � Experience in servicing trap lines within high country environments � 4WD experience � Trap servicing to ensure traps remain in good working order � Knowledge of predator ecology (feral cats, mustelids, hedgehogs, possum and rodents) relevant to baiting and micro-trap placement following servicing � Awareness of sensitive braided river environments and ability to identify native flora and fauna to ensure trap servicing/driving does not disturb or harm these species.

� Ideally a familiarity with the trapping area(s) � Good communication skills, especially with high country run holders and Environment Canterbury staff