Which Mammals Call New Zealand Home?

Prior to the arrival of the first human settlers in roughly the 13th century AD, New Zealand's entire mammal population consisted of just a few bat species and several dozen species of marine mammals, such as whales, dolphins, seals, and sea lions. However, with the arrival of Maori settlers from Polynesia, the fauna of New Zealand began to change, as mammals such as the Polynesian dog and the Polynesian rat were introduced. The arrival of European settlers in the late 18th century changed the ecosystem even more dramatically, with the introduction of a variety of other mammals ranging from pigs and sheep to cats and rabbits.

Wild, wild life:

• The country's three native bat species are the New Zealand long-tailed bat, the New Zealand lesser short-tailed bat, and the New Zealand greater short-tailed bat, the latter of which is critically endangered.
• New Zealand has no native snakes, and the effort to keep them out includes a law against owning one.
• The kiwi is arguably New Zealand's most famous native species. This bird is so well known that its name is also used as a nickname for New Zealanders. The kiwi can't fly, has no tail, and its feathers resemble fur.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the native mammals of New Zealand?

New Zealand's native mammals are primarily marine species, including the New Zealand fur seal and the Hector's dolphin, which is one of the smallest and rarest marine dolphins globally. The only native land mammals are bats, such as the long-tailed bat and the lesser short-tailed bat, which are both of conservation concern due to their declining populations.

Are there any introduced mammal species in New Zealand?

Yes, several mammal species have been introduced to New Zealand by humans. These include the common brushtail possum, rabbits, hedgehogs, various species of deer, and mustelids like stoats and ferrets. These introduced species often pose a threat to New Zealand's native flora and fauna due to predation and competition for resources.

How do introduced mammals impact New Zealand's ecosystem?

Introduced mammals have significantly impacted New Zealand's ecosystem, primarily through predation on native bird species, many of which are flightless and evolved without mammalian predators. For example, possums and rats threaten bird populations by eating eggs and chicks. Additionally, herbivorous mammals like deer can overgraze native vegetation, altering habitats and reducing biodiversity.

What conservation efforts are in place for New Zealand's native mammals?

New Zealand has implemented conservation efforts such as predator control programs and sanctuaries to protect its native mammals. The Department of Conservation (DOC) actively manages pest populations to reduce their impact on native species. Sanctuaries, like Zealandia, provide predator-free environments where native species, including bats, can thrive and repopulate.

Can you find any large land mammals native to New Zealand?

No, there are no large native land mammals in New Zealand. The country's isolation and unique evolutionary history have resulted in a predominantly avian and marine mammal fauna. The largest native animals are marine mammals like seals and dolphins, while the only terrestrial mammals are the small native bats.

What is being done to control invasive mammal species in New Zealand?

New Zealand has embarked on an ambitious conservation project known as Predator Free 2050, aiming to eradicate invasive mammalian predators like rats, stoats, and possums by the year 2050. This involves a combination of trapping, hunting, and the use of biodegradable poisons in controlled areas to protect native wildlife and restore ecological balance.