Thread: Tahr control update from NZDA

NZDA update on the Tahr situation:

Tahr numbers have increased to such a stage that serious concern has been raised by the Minister, and conservation groups.

NZDA acknowledges that the numbers are well above the limit set by the Himalayan Tahr Control Plan 1992 and is cooperating with DOC in a program to reduce numbers.

Facts

· The HTCP sets a limit of 10,000 across the entire feral range
· Monitoring (2 methods) by DOC places the number on DOC land alone at around 35,000 with the estimate of 20,000 on private and leased land.
· The feral range has extended from that recognised in 1992.
· Annual harvest up to now has varied but in 2016/17 totalled 4615 ( excluding recreational hunters outside the ballot and organised hunts)
- The annual harvest has not kept the numbers under control.

Reaction

· NZDA, SCI, Guides etc accept that the increase has happened.
· The Minister has directed DOC to take effective action.
· The Tahr Plan Liaison Group has been reactivated.
· A designated person and DOC office (Twizel) will coordinate operations.

Operations

· DOC will switch Search & Destroy operations from containment to concentrating on hi density areas.
· DOC and LINZ will work with land managers (private and leased land) to reduce numbers

· NZDA and other recreational hunters will be engaged in management hunts on areas identified by DOC as priority areas. (Oct – March)

· Applicants for management hunts will need to meet criteria (experience and capability).
· Recreational hunters will be encouraged to provide kill returns.


Related issues

· Commercial interests (guides, WARO, AATH) have raised the concern that their business is based on a tahr herd large enough to sustain the current harvest and that a reduction to 10,000 would destroy their industries.

· Recreational hunting of tahr has never been more popular and a reduction to 10,000 would have serious implications particularly for trophy hunting of mature males.


NZDA Position

· NZDA represented on the Tahr Liaison Group and will cooperate with DOC in reducing numbers.

· NZDA will insist on a “No Bulls” policy for management hunts including DOC SAD .

· NZDA along with commercial interests will review the on-going DOC monitoring and research and further discussions on the appropriateness of the 10,000 limit.

Stay tuned for further information to come, updates on Facebook/Instagram.