At least seven native kuaka, or diving petrels, have been found dead on a protected island reserve, prompting a warning to cat owners about the impact roaming pets can have on vulnerable wildlife.
The birds were found on Moturiki Island, also known as Leisure Island, off the southern end of Mount Maunganui’s Main Beach. Connected to the mainland by a permanent land bridge, the reserve is a popular spot for walkers and birdwatchers and provides habitat for native wildlife.
The warning follows the discovery of a black cat on the island. While Tauranga City Council said it could not confirm the cat was responsible for the deaths, some of the kuaka showed clear signs of predation.
The cat is now in the care of the SPCA while efforts are made to find its owner.
“Moturiki and the surrounding dune systems are sensitive wildlife areas, and it only takes one roaming cat to cause significant harm,” the council said in a social media post.
