Source: Northland Regional Council
GREAT MATUKU MUSTER
End your school holidays with a ‘boom’ and take part in the Great Matuku Muster this Friday October 03, Saturday October 04 and Sunday October 05.
The Northland Regional Council is encouraging volunteer citizen scientists of any age to head to a nearby wetland from 7.30pm to 8.30pm during these dates and listen out for the Australasian Bittern (Matuku-hurepo) male booming call. This cryptic, highly mobile threatened species is said to number less than 1000 individuals and current research points to us being the last generation to hear and see the species so let’s all play a part in the nationwide synchronised count of male bittern in Te Taitokerau.
To participate:
– Visit a nearby wetland on October 03, 04, 05 from 7.30-8.30PM. Do one night or all three! Pack the thermos, a torch and rug up.
– Sit, listen and take note of any booming on the app or write down the details.
– Take a photo and win! Kids, send a photo of your muster ‘listening spot’ to education@nrc.govt.nz by October 10 and win.
Check out the Northland Regional Council social pages for more information.
