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Rat control needed on 'pest-free' island
03/02/2010
The Department of Conservation in New Zealand is considering possible rat control techniques after a rodent was found on the 'pest-free' island of Motuora in the Harauki Gulf.
Endangered species currently inhabit the island and it is thought that the discovery of the dead rat, which had died two weeks before it was found, could pose a threat to its biodiversity if it arrived onshore with others.
Experts have claimed that the island is too far away for any rodent to swim and it must have gained access by climbing aboard a visitor's boat or kayak.
Biodiversity programme manager Rory Renwick reiterated the importance of checking gear and boats for pests before entering conservation islands.
He said: "We're planning for the worst case scenario. We are doing everything feasible to catch anything else that's there."
Restaurants that are dirty or that suffer from mice and rat control issues are to be named and shamed as part of a new scheme.
It was recently revealed that businesses in Greater Manchester will be part of a new health and safety scheme, where those that suffer from mice and rat control issues will be named and shamed.
