Aotearoa's ecosystems are being devastated by rodents such as rats, which compete with native wildlife and plants, spread various diseases and contribute to the extinction of many bird species.
The possum is a marsupial introduced to Aotearoa from Australia in the 19th century and was originally used in the fur trade. They breed across much of Aotearoa, causing severe impacts on natural ecosystems and farming.
These carnivorous mammals, including weasels, stoats and ferrets, were introduced to Aotearoa to control rabbit populations. However, they are today a major threat to Aotearoa's native fauna.
There are many more other harmful invasive animals that are having serious impacts on Aotearoa's ecology and economy. For example, a hedgehog in the garden, a wild cat on the street, a wasp in the forest, etc.
These are a great way to get an idea about what sort of animals and in particular pest animals you might have in your garden or around your home. Even if you don't think you have pests, or you don't ever see them, chances are they are there.
