ARATU FORESTS LTD NZ Falcon

NZ Falcon Karearea

The Kārearea (New Zealand Falcon) is a rare, threatened, and endangered bird species in New Zealand. The number of sightings that AFL staff and contractors record has significantly increased in the last few years with a lot of research being done surrounding Radiata Pine forests being a suitable habitat for them.

AFL have an ongoing program that monitors the potential and confirmed falcon nests within the estate, gathering valuable information about the falcon’s habitat and potential threats. All previously confirmed nesting sites are recorded within our internal Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping system. The areas being harvested surrounding these nests are monitored annually in Spring to identify if and where birds may be nesting in the following breeding season. Any falcon sightings are recorded throughout the year and are monitored, particularly around breeding time, and especially if any reported activity is aggressive or consistent. This helps determine if a new pair or new site is confirmed.

Management around any confirmed nesting sites during breeding season primarily involves implementation of a specialist consultant. When possible and resources are available, cameras can be set up around the confirmed sites to provide further valuable information on the number of eggs and chicks, the potential survival rates of chicks and the possible unknown threats.

In February 2024, a contractor discovered a falcon nest whilst carrying out a roading operation in Hineroa Forest. The nest was located on the ground in an area of cut over near a skid site. Operations were ceased in this area, and it was confirmed by an AFL staff member that the bird had fledged the area, this site was recorded in the GIS system for future reference.