Ecology and management of the Black Stilt Himantopus novaezelandiae

Abstract

New Zealand's endangered Black Stilt Himantopus novaezelandiae is confined largely to South Island's upper Waitaki River Basin, where it breeds on braided riverbeds and associated wetlands. It is under pressure from nest predators (particularly introduced carnivorous mammals), habitat loss and hybridization with the Pied Stilt H. himantopus leucocephalus. Management focuses on localized predator control, habitat enhancement, egg manipulation and cross-fostering, and more recently captive breeding and release. Future management may be extended to establish an island population.