Short Tail Bat

This endangered ancient species is unique to NZ only and found in very few locations. It only weighs up to 15g.
Te Rūnanga-Ā-Iwi O Ngāpuhi had the opportunity to head into the ngāhere to visit two newly discovered roosting sites. Along with local mana whenua and Department of Conservation it was a 800m off-track hike, through creeks, ravines and unbelievable terrain to view where these very small ‘pekapeka’ have made their home.

These bats – pekapeka, feed on the forest floor up to 30% of the time, the other on pollen. Unfortunately they make tasty meals for Rats Stoats and feral Cats.

They are also an important pollinator. Flowers of the rare plant Wood Rose, exude a scent that attracts the bats to feed on them.
Pigs are damaging these very rare plants. Predator control is vital throughout Omahuta and Puketi Forest.
The symbiotic relationship of bat and plant is extremely important for the survival of our ancient native short tailed bat.

Check out the Omahuta Kauri Sanctuary Foo Gallery for more photos…

Tania Pene