The Albert Town end of the Upper Clutha Track is closed for the coming weeks to protect a pair of New Zealand falcon/kārearea nesting in the area.

The pair, which have claimed a territory near Pawson’s Crossing, are believed to be the same pair that successfully nested there last year.

Department of Conservation (DOC) ranger Caroline Ogle said it’s great to see threatened species making a home in the area, but cautions that during breeding season, the birds of prey can become aggressive if threatened.

“Human health and safety-wise, this pair are already quite vigorously defending the territory around their nest, dive bombing walkers who get too close,” Caroline said.

“They have quite sharp talons so this can cause lacerations to people and dogs. Pairs that are regularly disturbed can get more aggressive over time, and can ultimately lead to females abandoning their nests.” 

Signs have been installed to advise the public the area is closed.

“There is also a risk the kārearea can injure themselves – if they strike a cyclist’s helmet they may render themselves unable to fly or defend themselves against predators who are happy to make a meal out of them and their chicks.”

Kārearea are native to New Zealand and found nowhere else in the world. They are our most threatened bird of prey, Caroline said.

They nest during spring and summer, usually on the ground in a nest scrape. Incubation of the eggs, by both parents, is for 25 to 35 days. Chicks stay in the nest scrape until about 28 days of age.

“Try to stay clear of nesting falcons, but if they start to dive bomb turn around and go back in the direction you came from. If you have a hat, or are wearing a hoodie, put that on and hold a soft, bushy branch of vegetation above your head. The birds normally only attack threats to their nests in an approximately 60 metre radius.”

The outcome of the Albert Town kārearea pair’s nesting attempt is being monitored for DOC and Queenstown Lakes District Council by the Karearea Project. Last year, this pair were the only successful breeders of those monitored in the greater Cardona Valley area.

DOC, with the support of QLDC (which is responsible for maintaining the Albert Town Reserve) have signposted the area warning users to steer clear. The warning is anticipated to be in place until December. 

“The best thing for everyone, humans, dogs and birds, is to give this pair the peace and privacy they need so we can all get through breeding season unscathed,” Caroline said.

PHOTO: Graham Parker/Parker Conservation