The Conservation of New Zealand Birds: Past, Present, and Future

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to the conservation of New Zealand birds, focusing on their unique evolutionary history, the impacts of human settlement, and ongoing conservation efforts.

Endemism

The ecological state of being unique to a defined geographical location, such as New Zealand's high levels of bird endemism.

Translocation

The intentional movement and release of a living organism for conservation benefit.

Moa’s Ark

The hypothesis that New Zealand's unique biota is a product of isolated evolution.

Extinction

The state of a species that no longer exists, with 50 species lost due to human impacts in New Zealand.

Introduced Mammals

Non-native species brought to New Zealand that have caused significant ecological damage.

Kiore

The Pacific rat introduced to New Zealand by Polynesian settlers, contributing to ecological changes.

Other Major Introduced Predators

Alongside Kiore, introduced mammals like stoats, ferrets, and possums have severely impacted New Zealand's native wildlife due to predation and habitat alteration.

Vulnerability of Native Avifauna

New Zealand's native birds, many of which are flightless, evolved for millions of years in an environment devoid of mammalian predators, making them highly susceptible to extinction upon the introduction of predatory mammals.

Conservation Practices

Current methods employed to protect and manage wildlife, including habitat restoration and predator control.

Cryptic Plumage

A form of camouflage in birds that helps them avoid detection by predators.

Habitat Loss

The destruction or alteration of a species' natural environment, significantly impacting New Zealand's avifauna.

Pest Control

Methods implemented to manage and reduce populations of invasive species that threaten native wildlife.