Conservation director Kevin Smith responds:
Pukeko are one of four native birds on the game bird list (the others are paradise duck, grey duck and shoveller). The management of these birds is the responsibility of the Fish and Game Council. Little monitoring of wild population sizes for these species is undertaken by Fish and Game and none by DoC. Anecdotal evidence from good bird observers reports declines in grey duck (far easier to shoot than mallards) and shoveller. I have seen little
information on pukeko population trends but the inclusion of pukeko on the game list has long been controversial with pukeko fans especially as the dead birds are not eaten but just thrown away. Pukeko impacts on pastures — often overstated — are cited as a reason for them being on the game list. Like Sandra, I would be interested in members’ observations on pukeko population trends in their areas and in members’ views as to the appropriateness of pukeko being on the game list.
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https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/periodicals/FORBI19961101.2.8.4
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Forest and Bird, Issue 282, 1 November 1996, Page 3
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164Conservation director Kevin Smith responds: Forest and Bird, Issue 282, 1 November 1996, Page 3
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