A popular breeding ground in the Catlins for endangered yellow-eyed penguins has received more than $2500 to control predators.
The Clutha District Council voted this week to grant the Yellow-eyed Penguin Trust $2668 for predator control at the Long Point reserve in the Catlins.
Field manager David McFarlane said he was very pleased with the grant.
"Long Point has not had trapping there before and the trapping of stoats, rats and ferrets will help make sure that the birds survive and stay in the area."
The trust's core restoration practices for Long Point include revegetation, trapping of predators and control of weeds.
A total of 50 traps will be placed around the main breeding areas in the reserve.
The reserve at Long Point covers 12km of coastline and is a significant mainland breeding area for yellow-eyed penguins, with about 50 breeding pairs at Long Point and almost 20 at Cosgrove Creek.
Long Point is also a breeding area for native fur seals and sea lions, in addition to many species of seabirds, including the titi (mutton bird).
The council said the Long Point coast had significant biodiversity values, with the site a breeding ground not only for yellow-eyed penguins but also at least 15 other indigenous bird species.
The site is protected under the Clutha district plan and by the trust and the Department of Conservation.
