The Great Matuku Muster!
The population of bittern is known to be less than 1000, placing matuku-hūrepo at threat of extinction in New Zealand, but the actual number isn’t known. Matuku-hurepo inhabit wetlands across Aotearoa and their presence can be an indicator of wetland health, as they only thrive in strong ecologically diverse areas with a rich food supply. The hope is that in Southland we all can help contribute to their survival by restoring wetlands, carrying out pest animal control and then find out how well it is going by monitoring their presence.
Wendy Ambury has created and led this The Great Aotearoa Matuku Muster as part of the Love Bittern project, calling on everyone to learn more about these amazing, if elusive birds and help by recording any sightings or their deep booming calls at dawn and dusk. ES are organising two events for you to find out more about this elusive bird. Both events are free - koha to the Love Bittern project. To help more, get a T-shirt! or go to the website for information and head to Otatara on 17 November.
Matuku-hūrepo Australasian bittern Presentation by Wendy Ambury
3-4pm, 17 November
Southland Community Nursery, 185 Grant Road, Otatara, Invercargill
Matuku-hūrepo Australasian bittern Guided Survey
8.10pm. 17 November
Bryson Road entrance, Bushy Point Reserve, Otatara, Invercargill
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