Invasive Predators in New Zealand

This book provides a detailed historical and ecological analysis of invasive species in New Zealand, highlighting the impact of introduced mammals on the country's unique endemic wildlife and ongoing conservation challenges.

Invasive Predators in New Zealand delves into the unique and troubling narrative of invasive species in New Zealand, a situation that stands out globally. The book provides a thorough historical overview, chronicling how the country's iconic endemic fauna has been impacted over time. By the mid-thirteenth century, New Zealand was one of the last significant landmasses on Earth untouched by human presence and other land mammals. This isolation allowed the native species to evolve without the pressures of predation from introduced animals.

The arrival of Polynesians and later Europeans marked a turning point in New Zealand's ecological landscape. These newcomers brought various companion animals, including rats and cats, which were ill-equipped to coexist with the native wildlife. The introduction of these small mammals, along with stoats and ferrets in subsequent years, has had devastating effects on the delicate populations of native birds, lizards, and insects. The book highlights how these predators have disrupted the balance of New Zealand's unique ecosystems.

Carolyn M. King combines historical analysis with contemporary ecological research to shed light on this ongoing crisis. By examining the complex interplay between invasive species and native fauna, the book offers essential insights into one of New Zealand's most pressing environmental challenges. Invasive Predators in New Zealand serves as a vital resource for understanding the long-term consequences of human actions on an isolated ecosystem and emphasizes the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect its vulnerable species.