Photo caption: UC geography students (clockwise from front) Darcy Kusabs, Hannah Smith, Bailey Mourton, Ashley Pedersen and George Gilbertson have provided valuable insights for Redcliffs' biodiversity.
New research by Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury (UC) students shows that targeted trapping, led by Predator Free Redcliffs volunteers, is successfully reducing rats, possums, mice and mustelids across the 45-hectare reserve.
The study was carried out by UC students George Gilbertson, Darcy Kusabs, Bailey Mourton, Ashley Pedersen and Hannah Smith, who analysed two years of trapping data collected by local volunteers. Their findings show capture rates increasing year on year, with 2025 shaping up to be the most successful year so far.
Using mapping and data analysis, the students identified pest "hotspots" in densely vegetated areas and around rocky outcrops. This has allowed traps to be placed where they are most effective, improving outcomes for native wildlife.
The project was completed as part of UCs Research for Resilient Communities and Environments course, linking student learning with real-world community conservation.
"This is exactly the kind of practical research we want our students to be involved in - work that supports communities, contributes useful evidence and helps inform practical environmental decision-making," course supervisor Professor Simon Kingham said.
Ashley Rule, from Predator Free Redcliffs, said the report provides both immediate guidance and a long-term benchmark.
"The report outlined the project to date and ended with recommendations for future trap placements as the project evolved. Equally important, it has given us a baseline we can refer back to and build on. This is a great way to record our progress," Rule said.
"The students were enthusiastic, diligent and a pleasure to work with on this project and produced a professional, valuable report for Predator Free Redcliffs."
Introduced predators are one of the biggest threats to native birds, particularly during nesting season. Reducing their numbers allows more chicks to survive and supports the regeneration of native plants.
The research also highlights the importance of sustained community involvement. Continued trapping and local participation will help ensure long-term success and could see Barnett Park become a model for neighbourhood conservation across Christchurch.
