Help us rid New Zealand of the most damaging introduced predators that threaten our nation’s natural taonga.
Pest detectives at work
These pests chew seedlings, nibble seeds and devour insects. They also eat our rare lizards and attack our native birds and their eggs.
Native tūī. Photo: Janice McKenna ©
Thanks to the Toyota Kiwi Guardians programme, your whānau can now contribute to the predator free goal in your very own backyard!
Using your detective skills you can track down pests like rats, stoats and mice and earn a Kiwi Guardians medal for becoming a Pest Detective.
Tracking tunnels are the most common method used to determine what pests are hanging around in your backyard. These tunnels can be as easy or as fancy as you like. Use your imagination to build something spectacular!
Tracking tunnel
When you have collected your prints you can use the Pest Detective website to determine what pests are in your backyard. Once you’ve identified the pests it’s time to start trapping.
You can catch mice or rats by putting a trap in your tunnel. Placing your trap in a tunnel makes the trap less dangerous for birds and pets.
Follow the steps in this video to become a Kiwi Guardians Pest Detective:
Toyota Kiwi Guardians
Kiwi Guardians is an activity programme for kids to learn about nature, earn cool rewards and go on epic family adventures. Find out more on the DOC website.
What a wonderful initiative to get kids involved and appreciate the perils of our birdlife.