Increased predator control planned for South Island beech mast
Tuesday 16 September 2025 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated In this story Department of Conservation
The Department of Conservation will increase 1080 drops in South Island beech forests this summer. The largest beech seeding in seven years is expected to trigger surges in rat and stoat populations. These predator increases pose a high risk to native birds, bats, and snails.