Exploring the Revival of Okarito's Birdlife: An Okarito Boat EcoTours Update

Okarito Wildlife Rejuvenation and Hope

For 17 years, Swade and Paula have navigated the serene waters of the Okarito Lagoon, immersing themselves in its natural beauty and observing the diverse wildlife it hosts. Many people ask them about the changes they’ve seen over the years, often expecting stories of decline. However, their story is one of remarkable rejuvenation and revival of Okarito's birdlife. 

In the past two years in particular, Swade and Paula have witnessed a significant resurgence in local birdlife, a transformation they attribute to the dedicated efforts of Zero Invasive Predator (ZIP) in South Westland. ZIP’s relentless campaign which began in this region in early 2020, to eradicate rats, stoats, and possums from the forests has led to an unprecedented revival of native bird species and a resurgence of birdsong unlike any they had heard before.

Every morning now begins with the unmistakable calls of fernbirds, highly sought after by bird watchers and rarely seen but now flourishing in Okarito. The surrounding gardens and forests are alive with bellbirds, tui, kereru, tomtits, fantails, South Island robins, kea, kakariki, and even kaka deeper inland. On the tidal flats, the increased presence of banded dotterels hints at positive changes for other wading birds over time. Notably, sightings of the elusive Australasian bittern have increased from three per season to nine this year, showcasing the effectiveness of ZIP’s conservation efforts.  

Profound Evidence of Local Conservation Efforts

Swade and Paula have also noted fascinating changes in bird behavior. The birds appear more fearless and comfortable around humans, with tomtits frequently landing on their boat and bellbirds boldly singing nearby. One guest on a tour remarked in amazement to Paula, “They are just coming to you – they are all around you!” as warblers, bellbirds, and tomtits flitted around her. At their home, tui now rummage in the garden, and tomtits can be seen feeding their young on the front lawn during spring.

This year, guests of Okarito Boat EcoTours have been captivated by tours that venture deeper into the rejuvenated forests, often expressing that they’ve never experienced anything like it. Even local tourists, accustomed to quieter forests, are surprised by the vibrant birdlife. Swade and Paula believe ZIP’s dedication to restoring the natural environment deserves the highest accolades. Their tireless work in all conditions has breathed new life into the forests, a transformation that Swade and Paula are proud to share with their guests, leaving them with unforgettable memories of the thriving birdlife in Okarito.  

A particularly thrilling sighting has been the kakariki. When Swade and Paula first arrived 18 years ago, they were told these birds once thrived around the village, though they had never seen or heard one until this year. Now, a short walk into the forest reveals kakariki in abundance, a testament to the success of the conservation efforts and a source of great excitement.

Swade and Paula's experiences underscore the profound impact that dedicated conservation efforts can have on our natural world. They invite you to join Okarito Boat EcoTours and witness firsthand the extraordinary revival of birdlife in the Okarito Lagoon, and learn more about the work that is being done and how you can best experience this remarkable transformation during your visit to this region.  It’s a testament to the resilience of nature and the power of human commitment to environmental preservation.

#Okarito #Birdlife #NZBirds