The corpses of three endangered kiwi, killed in dog attacks, have been discovered in the last month on Kawau Island.
Two of the kiwi were found in the Kawau Island historic reserve, which is managed by the Department of Conservation. Dogs are banned from the area to protect native wildlife, including kiwi.
For the rest of the island, found in the Hauraki Gulf and home to many native birds and wildlife, dogs are allowed so long as they're under control.
The third kiwi's body was found during the weekend at School House Bay, an area which is not managed by DoC.
Keith Gell, DoC Auckland operations manager, says necropsies on the first two kiwi found they suffered injuries consistent with a dog attack.
Both had broken multiple bones in the attack and their internal organs ruptured, as a result of being bitten and shaken.
The necropsy on the third bird has not been completed yet, but DoC says its injuries were also consistent with a dog attack.
"It's deeply disappointing to find a dog attack has killed these kiwi," Mr Gell said.
"We need all dog owners to ensure their dogs are kept under control at all times. If dogs are left to roam, they will kill kiwi."
Around 90 percent of Kawau is privately owned with a mix of holiday homes and several dozen permanent residents.
Mr Gell says the residents are being reminded dogs need to be kept under control.
"They're privileged to have kiwi living right on their doorstep. With this privilege comes the responsibility of ensuring their dogs are not left to roam the island and kill kiwi."
Staff have now been enlisted to patrol the historic reserve day and night to try and track down the dog or dogs behind the attacks.
Newshub.
