Hi there weka counters
You will all be aware of our concerns for the sudden drop in weka numbers in the winter of 2015.
To get a good idea of where the weka population stands in autumn 2016 we need a really good turn out of counters this year.
The dates set for the 2016 annual weka count are the four Saturdays in April. Please note the dates in your diaries and try to get to at least one.
We meet at the Kawakawa Bay dairy for initial briefing and allocation of count sites.
Saturday 2nd April Meet at 5.30 Sun set is at 7.12
Saturday 9th April Meet at 4.15 Sun set is at 6.00
Saturday 16th April Meet at 4.05 Sun set is at 5 50
Saturday 23rd April Meet at 4.00 Sunset is at 5 45
The counts are for an hour and a half finishing one hour after sunset.
Saturday 16th is the day of the 8th AGM of WekaWatch Kawakawa Bay (at 2.00) This count will be followed by our annual pot luck dinner.
Remember a reasonable standard of fitness is required for all but one site.
What to bring Bring warm clothes and a back pack, something to sit on, at least one torch, (the LED headlamps are popular) a charged cell phone if you have one, a watch/clock, a pencil, insect repellent (some sites are in bush and there are mosquitoes. A few nets are available but repellent is still helpful), snacks and drinks if you need them. You will be provided with a small safety kit on the day.
Weather check If the weather looks doubtful, watch for an email on the day, our Face book page perhaps or phone 2922 512 or 2922 221 on the afternoon for our decision.
Ian Southey
Count organiser