Ulva Island, located off the eastern coast of Stewart Island in New Zealand, is a predator-free bird sanctuary that is home to many native bird species. The 300 hectare island provides important habitat for rare and endangered birds that are no longer found on mainland New Zealand due to introduced predators like rats, stoats, and possums.
Overview of Ulva Island Birds
Some of the key birds that can be found on Ulva Island include:
- Kiwi
- Saddleback
- Stewart Island robin
- Rifleman
- Parakeet
- Bellbird
- Tui
- Fantail
- Silvereye
- Kereru (wood pigeon)
In total, there are over 40 species of birds on the island, providing excellent birdwatching opportunities. Many of the birds on Ulva Island are endemic species that can only be found in New Zealand.
Bird Population Estimates
Estimates of the breeding populations on Ulva Island include:
Bird Species | Population Estimate |
---|---|
Saddleback | 1,000 pairs |
Stewart Island robin | 1,000 pairs |
Rifleman | 500 pairs |
Kiwi | 50-100 pairs |
These remarkable recovery stories show how bird populations can thrive when predators are removed from offshore islands like Ulva. For example, saddlebacks were reduced to just 36 birds on Ulva Island in the 1960s. The current estimated 1,000 pairs shows their resurgence in a predator-free environment.
Notable Birds on Ulva Island
Kiwi
The kiwi is one of New Zealand’s national symbols. This large, flightless, nocturnal bird is threatened on mainland New Zealand but thrives on Ulva Island. The Southern Tokoeka Kiwi subspecies is present, foraging for food like insects, grubs, and worms at night. Kiwi are vulnerable to predators but are able to roam the island safely thanks to the predator-free environment.
Saddleback
Named for the chestnut-colored saddle across their backs, the South Island Saddleback is common throughout Ulva Island. These sparrow-sized birds were once threatened with extinction. Saddlebacks are inquisitive and friendly, often approaching humans closely when walking the island trails.
Stewart Island Robin
This handsome robin inhabits scrublands and forests on Ulva Island. They have a beautiful melodic song and are very tame, hopping alongside hikers on the trails. Stewart Island Robins like to perch on branches and fallen logs close to the walking tracks.
Parakeet
The rare Red-crowned Parakeet inhabits treetops on Ulva Island. This bright green parrot with blue wings and a distinctive vermillion crown is a delight to spot among the foliage. About 150 Red-crowned Parakeets live on the island after being relocated from Little Barrier Island to restore this species.
Rifleman
One of New Zealand’s smallest birds at just 6 grams, the Rifleman feeds on insects in trees and shrubs across the island. Despite their tiny size, they are pugnacious and will attack much larger birds intruding on their territories.
Bellbird
Named for its resonant, bell-like call, the bellbird is common on Ulva Island. This honeyeater has olive-green plumage and a black and white head. Bellbirds play an important role dispersing seeds and pollinating native plants through their feeding.
When to See Birds on Ulva Island
The best time of year to see birds on Ulva Island is typically spring (September to November) when birds are nesting and more active. However, you can spot interesting birds on the island at any time of year. Some tips for successful birdwatching on Ulva Island:
- Arrive early morning when birds are most active singing and feeding
- Walk slowly and quietly along tracks to avoid disturbing birds
- Use binoculars and cameras with zoom lenses
- Look carefully in the forest canopy and dense vegetation where birds may hide
- Listen for bird calls and songs
- Stop frequently to scan for movement and sights of birds
- Look for bird tracks and signs like droppings and feathers
Having patience and moving slowly will help you spot shy and secretive birds like the kiwi at night.
Best Places to See Birds on Ulva Island
Some of the top sites and trails on Ulva Island for birdwatching include:
Boulder Beach
This beautiful boulder-strewn beach on the island’s west coast attracts shorebirds and seabirds including oystercatchers, gulls, terns, and shags.
Sydney Cove
This tranquil cove is a hotspot for seeing Stewart Island robins, saddlebacks, and little blue penguins coming ashore in the evenings.
Post Office Bush
One of the island’s most diverse forests, with parakeets, bellbirds, saddlebacks, riflemen, and more.
Boris’s Table
A picnic table where birds are used to being fed. Fantails, saddlebacks, robins and others will approach very closely here.
Millar’s Beach
A beautiful sweeping beach on the island’s east coast where shorebirds like oystercatchers and gulls roost.
Lords River Track
Follow this track through dense rimu forest to spot parakeets, robins and riflemen.
Post Office Track
Winding through diverse forest and scrub with abundant birdlife including weka, bellbirds and fantails.
Other Wildlife on Ulva Island
In additional to prolific birdlife, Ulva Island hosts other native wildlife including:
- Reptiles like skinks and geckos
- Giant weta – large cricket-like insects
- Woodrose flowering plants
- Rare orchids and ferns
Visitors should stick to marked trails to avoid damaging sensitive ecosystems on the island that support all of this wildlife.
Accessing Ulva Island
Ulva Island is easily accessible via a short boat ride from Golden Bay on Stewart Island. Regular water taxi services operate, taking about 10 minutes one-way. Some options include:
- Ulva Island Ferry
- Rakiura Charters
- Stewart Island Experience
There are also guided walking tours of Ulva Island showcasing the birds and wildlife. Pack a lunch, snacks, and water as there are no shops or eateries on the island.
Conservation of Ulva Island
Ulva Island provides a sanctuary for native birds thanks to intensive conservation efforts. Possums were eradicated in 1997 and rats eliminated in 1999. This allowed bird numbers to rebound in the absence of these invasive predators. Ongoing work includes:
- Stoat trapping
- Weed control
- Monitoring and banding birds
- Installing nesting boxes
- Replanting native vegetation
Visitors to the island need to follow rules to protect the fragile environment and birds, staying on marked tracks and not disturbing or feeding wildlife.
Conclusion
Ulva Island is a remarkable place to see stunning native New Zealand birds up close. Now predator-free, the island provides vital sanctuary allowing rare birds to thrive. Visitors are rewarded with encounters with kiwi, saddlebacks, robins and parakeets that are difficult to find elsewhere. With over 40 bird species calling the island home, Ulva is a must-visit destination for birdwatchers visiting Stewart Island.