Y9 Science: Ecology in Aotearoa
๐ฏ Predator Free 2050 Simulation
Te Whakatauira Kore-Kฤซrearea 2050 - Can you save our native species?
"He taonga te manu, me tiaki"
Birds are treasures, we must protect them
๐ณ๐ฟ About Predator Free 2050
In 2016, the New Zealand government set an ambitious goal: eliminate rats, possums, and stoats from Aotearoa by 2050. These introduced predators kill an estimated 25 million native birds every year.
In this simulation, you'll explore the challenges and trade-offs of achieving this goal. Can you make the decisions needed to give our native species a future?
๐ฎ Simulation Dashboard
Regional Pest Levels
๐ 78%
๐ 52%
๐ 45%
๐ 63%
๐ 38%
๐ 22%
๐ 41%
๐ 18%
๐ 15%
๐ National Statistics
๐ Progress to 2050
๐ฏ Learning Outcomes
Through this simulation, you will:
- Understand the scale of the predator problem in Aotearoa
- Explore trade-offs between different pest control methods
- See how decisions affect native species populations
- Consider the economic and social aspects of conservation
- Reflect on what "Predator Free 2050" really means
๐ญ Discussion Questions
- Trade-offs: Why might some people oppose 1080 drops even though they're effective? How do we balance effectiveness with public concern?
- Priorities: Should we focus resources on mainland or islands first? What are the advantages of each approach?
- Realism: Is "Predator Free 2050" actually achievable? What would need to happen?
- Innovation: What new technologies might help us achieve this goal? (Research gene drive, thermal cameras, AI traps)
- Kaitiakitanga: How does this goal reflect our responsibilities as kaitiaki of Aotearoa?
๐ Real Numbers to Know
- 25 million native birds killed by predators each year
- $70 million+ spent annually on predator control
- ~30% of NZ land area covered by DOC estate
- 252 kฤkฤpล alive (2024) - up from 51 in 1995
- 2% annual kiwi population decline without predator control
- 95% kiwi chick survival in predator-free areas vs 5% elsewhere
๐ฉโ๐ซ Teacher Notes
Duration: 30-40 minutes including discussion
Key concepts: Population dynamics, conservation biology, ecological management, ethics in science
Sensitive topics: 1080 poison use is controversial - prepare for varied opinions. Focus on evidence-based discussion.
Extension: Have students research real predator-free projects (Zealandia, Tiritiri Matangi, Predator Free Wellington) and present findings.