Contractor faces threats after poisoned birds found in Waitākere Ranges

NZ Herald

17 Jun, 2020 09:01 AM2 mins to read

The birds, including a myna, pukeko and sparrow, were found by locals in an unwell and distressed condition over the weekend. Photo / File

An Auckland Council contractor received "threatening phone calls and messages" after poisoned birds were found in the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park - but tests showed the contractor wasn't to blame.

The birds, including a myna, pukeko and sparrow were found by locals in an unwell and distressed condition over the weekend. Some of the birds had died.

Contact details of Feracon, the council contractor that carries out possum control in the area, were then posted publicly on a community Facebook group.

The contractor began receiving threatening calls and messages.

Waitākere Ranges Local Board chairman Greg Presland said the poisoning of the birds was "absolutely horrific" but it was no excuse for the abusive behaviour toward the contractor.

"Feracon's staff member who carries out possum control in the area is not to blame," Presland said.

"Third-party investigations have already established that the birds did not ingest possum bait."

A council investigation showed the birds are likely to have been poisoned with Alphachloralose, which sends the affected animal into a state of hypothermia.

The poison can be purchased by the general public and is not used by Feracon for possum control.

Green Bay Vets and the Bird Rescue organisation, which have been managing the birds' health since they were found, agreed with the findings.

"Threats against our staff and contractors will not be tolerated and need to stop immediately," Presland said.

"I understand emotions are high, but this act of cruelty is nothing to do with Feracon who work hard to protect bird life in the Waitakere Ranges through possum control."