"The proliferation of seals on the Mutton Bird Islands may prompt southern Maori to investigate culling the mammals, which have been protected for more than a century.
Fur seals were hunted to the brink of extinction by early settlers, but the population of mammals had increased markedly since granted full protection in 1894.I think the study will determine whether the numbers are affecting the titi or if other factors come into it. The relationship between the seals and birds is complicated and cannot be understood, or have a solution designed, without considering as many interrelated factors as possible. otherwise a solution can turn into a bigger problem - anyone remember ferrets and stoats? Bought in to fix the rabbit problem... luckily they didn't bring in foxes to get the ferrets and stoats!
Conversely, their numbers were now affecting mutton birds, an important source of food and income for a small group of southern Maori who have exclusive harvesting rights on the 36 islands making up the Mutton Bird Islands, around Stewart Island."
Footnote - anon raised a good point in the comments about acknowledging the kaitiaki of the islands and the good work that has been done and continues to be done. Thank you for all your mahi and aroha. You have kept our ancient tradition alive, you have protected the islands and the titi, you have taught your children as you were taught. Sorry for not saying that in my initial post.
