14 Jan 2017

Falcon's habitat under threat

11:01 am on 14 January 2017

Central Otago's unassuming grey shrubland - home to New Zealand's native falcon - is under threat from development, scientists say.

A New Zealand native falcon (karearea)

Photo: Supplied

A new study shows the dense scrub is home to a variety of lizards and small birds, which act as prey for the at-risk eastern New Zealand falcon, or kārearea.

Ecologist and study co-author Rebecca Teele said grey scrub - comprising a mix of small-leaved plants - often had a bad reputation because it can include prickly matagouri bushes, and is not thought of as attractive.

It was often located in areas that could come under threat of development, she said.

"Given it is such a hub of indigenous biodiversity, it's important, where we can to protect it and enhance it."

She encouraged Wakatipu developers and residents to nurture areas of the unassuming habitat, to preserve the falcon population.

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