It’s that time of year when the Great Kereru count is happening. This is a chance for citizen scientists to participate by recording their observations of Kereru.
I remember about this time last year when I first heard of the Great Kereru count. I thought it was such a cool idea and chance to get my kids involved in something. My son and I went for a walk near our house in the Kaitake Range of Taranaki and managed to see nearly 10 of these cool birds. We enjoyed standing still several times and just watching these birds. It was a cool father/son time and it helps this native New Zealand bird.
All About Kereru
Kereru, also known as the New Zealand wood pigeon, are endemic birds to New Zealand.
These birds live in native forests across the country and can also be found in urban settings. Similar to many native birds, their population was greatly reduced since people arrived. However, unlike many, they have rebounded and their population is now on an upward trajectory. You can find more facts about kereru here.
What Is The Great Kereru Count?
This project, that takes place all over the country, is attempting to use citizens to get a better understanding of how many kereru there are, where they are, and some of their habits. This data is vital to working to protect them in the future.
When Is The Great Kereru Count 2019?
The event happens this year from 20 to 29 September. That means by the time you are reading this it is already happening, or may already be done!
How Do You Participate?
You don’t have to take a walk with the specific purpose of observing these birds. Rather anytime you see them just keep track of that information. Or, you could use this as a great excuse to get your kids out on a walk with you.
All you need to do is to write down any time that you see Kereru during this period of time. Write down some basic information, including where you were, how many you saw, and what time of day it was. That is the basic information needed, but there is more you can add if you want, such as was this a planned survey, were you walking, and so on.