conservation biology

A small predator removal experiment to protect North Island weka (Gallirallus australis greyi) and the case for single- subject approaches in determining agents of decline

The hypothesis that predation on eggs and chicks by ferrets (Mustela furo) and cats (Felis catus) was limiting the productivity of North Island weka (Gallirallus australis greyi), was tested by removing predators from the home ranges of four breeding pairs of weka. Reproduction by four other breeding pairs was monitored to provide a control. I was not able to follow the breeding success of some weka because they died or removed their radio transmitters.