The significance of the Kepler Mountains is that they are effectively a peninsular, boarded by the Waiau River to the east, which links Lakes Te Anau to the north and Manapouri to the south. Additionally the interior sections of the Kepler Track are largely ringed by the Luxmore Mountain Range and the Iris Burn. This will reduce the rate of stoat and possum migration in to the Kepler Track area from surrounding areas, making the predator control operations more effective than if amongst a contiguous area of forest.
The proposed methods of control are proven methods of protection used in other areas within Fiordland National Park e.g. Clinton/Arthur (Milford Track) and the Eglinton.
Cost – setup $147,960 Cost – per annum $52,000
Timeframe
The work would need to be ongoing but increased sightings of native birdlife in the area would be likely in a short timeframe. The setup could take place over a number of years.
Project code – kepler1
Kepler Peninsular Conservation Project
So far nearly 60km of stoat trapping takes place on the Kepler Great Walk, which is funded and managed by the Kepler Challenge Committee. The Kepler track encompasses an area of 10,500ha. A string of endangered species inhabit this area include the kiwi, whio, kaka, kea, kakariki, robin, rock wren, mohua and weka. This makes the Kepler Mountains a very special site right here next to Te Anau Township. These birds need more protection to ensure their long-term survival and to rebuild the populations to a healthy density. Further extending the stoat trap network on this peninsular and undertaking possum control would be a great benefit to most of these endangered birds and likewise boost the local populations of more common species such as tui, bellbirds, fantails and kereru.
