Auckland Council will put measures in place deal with the wild chicken and rat population in Titirangi.
While the council has limited powers to control chickens, rats and non-native species under both bylaws and the biosecurity act, in the short term it will be increasing rodent control activity in local parks and facilities and is working on options for local roads.
Longer term, it has commissioned a report on chicken control options to go to Waitākere Ranges Local Board in July and is investigating the support it can give to business owners and private residents, including through placing traps on private property.
Important role to play
Auckland Council Director of Infrastructure and Environmental Services, Barry Potter, says the council is doing all it can to tackle the issue but that Titirangi residents have an important role to play managing the chicken and rat population.
“While the council has authority to act in its parks and open spaces, it is the responsibility of homeowners and businesses to manage pests such as rats, mice and possums on their premises”, he says.
“While the council will do all it can to address the problem we encourage residents not to feed or encourage chickens as this is exacerbating the problem and encouraging rodent activity.
“While the increase in population isn’t entirely unexpected, as winter is the season when we typically see a spike in rodent infestations as they seek out food and shelter, this year’s super mast has increased the issue beyond normal levels.”
Encouraged
Waitākere Ranges Local Board Chair, Greg Presland says that the board is fully supportive of the measures taken and is working with the council to find a resolution as soon as possible.
“The board fully understands, and shares, the frustration of the Titirangi community, but we are encouraged by these steps taken by the council.
“We have been actively looking for solutions to this issue for some time and understand that this will have to be a collective effort in order to bring the problem under control.
“In the short term the increased rodent control activity on council land is a positive step and we look forward to further options being brought to the board in July.”
