Mountains and Hot Chocolate

Today started off with a lecture given by Dean Anderson discussing the mammal pests in New Zealand. Interestingly enough, there are only two types of native mammals on New Zealand (excluding marine mammals),  the short tailed bat and the long tailed bat. But as Dean Anderson discussed, today you can find multiple types of introduced mammal species such as rats, mice, stoats, possums (not like ours - these are cute and cuddly looking and add to the reasons why folks line up on the side of not wanting to kill them) and hedgehogs. These animals have caused a lot of damage to the native animals found on the island, especially concerning the bird populations - they are the main threat. Dean also discussed the feasibility of Predator Free New Zealand by 2050, with the goal to eradicate possums, rats and stoats by 2050. The eradication of rats has already been made possible on some smaller islands with the help of the toxin 1080. Possums and rats both will consume something with 1080, making it feasible to one day eradicate them. Stoats, however, will not consume bait with 1080, making them harder to eradicate.

Everyone's attention glued to Dean Anderson during his presentation

Once finishing the lecture, we all got into groups to create Logic Models for a specific issue each group wanted to combat. One group wrote about eliminating single use plastics, while another group wrote about eliminating plastic bags in Orlando. It was interesting to see the different inputs and outcomes for each issue.

Tati writing down ideas for her group concerning single use plastics

Bauer proudly holding up his groups poster

After presenting our models we were blessed with a sunny day throughout our hike at Ahriri Scenic Reserve. Once reaching the top up at Coopers Knob we enjoyed the beautiful panoramic views of Quail Island and the surrounding mountains, while even catching a glimpse of Birdlings Flat. At the top, we were also able to learn more about coffee from coffee aficionado himself, Dr. Hostetler. After learning everything about coffee, we were able to use the beautiful native fuchsia trees to help us on on our slippery descent down. We quickly stopped at Governors Bay to look for the White Spoonbill. Unfortunately, since we spent so much time on top of the Port Hills, the tide had already come in over the mud flats and since it was high tide, the likelihood of seeing one was slim.

Lunch with a view

Learning all about coffee from the coffee aficionado himself

We made it to the top!

On the hunt for the White Spoonbill

 We ended the day off by going to a chocolatier at Governor's Bay called She Universe. Even though the hot chocolate machine had been turned off for the day, luck was on our side as we were able to get a taste of their signature hot chocolate and enjoyed coffee and tea and a sampling of truffles. - Tess