Protected birds are being killed through suspected poisoning in the Bay of Plenty.
The Department of Conservation (DoC) is investigating after receiving reports of several bird species found dead or dying at Hamurana Reserve on the northern shores of Lake Rotorua.
The birds include red-billed gulls, which are a protected species, mallard ducks, black shags and a cygnet.
DoC compliance officer Hayden Loper said the current evidence points towards poisoning.
"The necropsy of one bird by a local vet has revealed an unknown substance in its gut, while a Fish & Game officer has found and removed a potentially toxic paste – thought to be the avian poison alphachloralose - has been found at Hamurana Reserve, and removed," Loper said.
Alphachlorolose is a narcotic used to sedate pests or birds so they can be culled humanly.
"This may be a deliberate attempt to poison birds with an endemic protected species among those affected. DoC is calling on the public for information which may prove helpful to our investigation," Loper said.
Loper is also concerned about the toxic substance being used in a public space without any warning signs installed.
"We have two serious concerns here," Loper said. "Firstly, we've got a potentially toxic substance being used in a public area without the right permission, and secondly, we've got protected native wildlife being harmed as by-kill in someone's effort to control another species of bird."
The use of alphachloralose in a public place requires authority from the landowner. Iwi Ngāti Rangiwewehi, who owns the reserve, said no one has been permitted to use the product at the site.
Ngāti Rangiwewehi Te Tāhuhu o Tawakeheimoa deputy chair Mercia-Dawn Yates says Ngāti Rangiwewehi values wildlife and particularly any that make Hamurana home.
"As owner and kaitiaki of the reserve we have a responsibility to care for all taonga, and have not given permission for this activity," she said.
"We want this activity to cease, and we are supporting DoC in ending this activity. Please report any information as soon as possible."
Red-billed gulls are protected by the Wildlife Act and anyone caught deliberately trying to kill or harm the birds can face a fine of up to $100,000 or two years in prison.
Any members of the public with information, including witnessing suspicious activity at the reserve, should call 0800 DOC HOT or email wildlifecrime@doc.govt.nz - or Fish & Game on 0800 POACHING (0800 762 244) or 07 357 5501.
