Volunteers undertaking predator control work around Katikati’s Beach Rd coastal walkway for more than four years were thrilled by the sighting of a banded rail (moho pererū) last Friday.

Renaturing Katikati spokeswoman Sharon Strong said volunteer Dave Smith had spotted and taken a photograph of a juvenile banded rail while checking traps on the walkway on January 16.

“We’ve never seen banded rail in this area before,” Strong said.

The juvenile Banded rail spotted on January 16. Photo / Dave Smith

However, the group did find a dead banded rail on the beach in a similar location more than a year ago “which also was a complete surprise”.

Strong – who coordinates Renaturing Katikati volunteers to restore healthy habitat for wildlife in the urban part of the township via weeding bees and predator control – said the sighting was exciting.

“This is such a great success story and shows that the commitment and hard work of our volunteers is really paying off.”

Strong said Smith thought he may have disturbed a banded rail a few months ago while checking traps. His suspicion was now confirmed – later that day a member of the public spotted an adult banded rail.

Banded rail (moho pererū) is classified an at risk–declining species by the Department of Conservation. Found sparsely throughout New Zealand mainly in mangroves and salt marshes of the upper North Island, the bird’s main threats are habitat loss, predation, road-kills and human disturbance, according to DoC.

The habitat along the Beach Rd walkway, where Banded rails have been sighted. Photo / Sharon Strong

Strong said banded rail are territorial birds most often spotted at dawn or dusk, or after heavy rain.

“They love salt marshes, mangroves and reed beds – so we’re thrilled to see them returning to this area,” Strong said.

To help the banded rail thrive here, the public is asked to keep dogs on a lead while walking nearby.

“A small action can make a big difference for our wildlife.”

Renaturing Katikati is looking for more volunteers to help with predator control work. Those interested, or wanting to know, should email: kea@projectparore.nz