Rare falcon on comeback trail in Christchurch

DAVID HALLETT/The Press

IN RESIDENCE: A rare karearea, or New Zealand falcon, briefly takes residence in a Christchurch garden at the weekend.

Relevant offers

Karearea, the endangered New Zealand falcon, has returned to Christchurch, delighting bird lovers and alarming pigeon fanciers.

The native falcon, one of the world's fastest birds, has rarely been seen in Christchurch for more than a century but, in the last two years, three or four birds have taken up residence in the city.

"It's fantastic to see them," said Christchurch City Council Port Hills ranger Andrew Crossland. "They add a bit of class to the area."

One breeding pair is now resident at Bottle Lake, while a couple of other birds have established territory on the Port Hills.

Crossland said the Port Hills were rich pickings for the birds of prey, which hunt feral rock pigeons. Unfortunately, they have also eaten tame pigeons.

He has fielded calls from three pigeon owners who have lost birds to the falcons. "Obviously we're concerned they might eat someone's prize racing pigeon and get (shot)."

So far, the pigeon owners have been philosophical about their loss and even excited to see a falcon, Crossland said.

"We've got bellbirds all over town, we want to reintroduce tui, tomtits are increasing quite quickly on the Port Hills, and now we've got falcons," Crossland said. "Everything is coming to life."

Falcon numbers have been declining, partly because its ground nests are vulnerable to predators. Nationally, the bird numbers 4000 breeding pairs.

- © Fairfax NZ News