On the look out for Rook pests

“We want people to let us know if they see or hear Rooks to help us prevent the pest bird nesting in the region,” says Council’s shared science services manager Lois Easton.

Gisborne District Council’s Biosecurity team will be conducting annual surveillance for Rooks during October.

“In large numbers Rooks can be destructive to our environment,” says Ms Easton, “they can cause significant losses to farming and cropping industries.

Rooks forage over pasture land and leave large areas bare, and vulnerable to weed infestations and wind erosion.

“Council is trying to prevent populations establishing in the region particularly now, during spring as it’s their breeding season.”

Rooks are mostly black with a violet blue glossy sheen and are larger than a magpie.

“Their noisy vocal “KAAH” calls are usually heard before they are sighted, particularly near nesting sites or if alarmed by intruders.

“If you see Rooks flying daily from a particular stand of Eucalyptus or Pine trees this is a good indication that a nesting site has been established.

“People should let us know of any possible sightings but avoid disturbing possible nesting areas.

“It’s important that eradication is done by our Biosecurity team as the birds require quite a precise operation to eradicate.

“If a nesting group are spooked they will split up and disperse to other locations making it even more difficult to locate them or carry out any effective control.”

Visit Council’s website for further information on Rooks in our region. Report any sightings to Council 24 hours a day on 06 867 2049.
ENDS

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