Putauhinu Island facts for kids
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| Geography | |
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| Location | South Tasman Sea, southwest of Stewart Island |
| Coordinates | 47°13′S 167°23′E / 47.217°S 167.383°E |
| Archipelago | New Zealand archipelago |
| Administration | |
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New Zealand
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| Regional Council | Southland |
Putauhinu Island is a small island located off the coast of New Zealand. It lies to the west of the southern part of Stewart Island, which is also known as Rakiura. This island is very close to another island called Big South Cape Island. Putauhinu Island is an important place for protecting New Zealand's unique wildlife.
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Protecting Special Animals
Putauhinu Island is a safe home for some of New Zealand's rare and endangered animals. Islands like Putauhinu are often chosen for conservation efforts. This is because they are usually free from predators like stoats, rats, and possums. These predators can harm native birds and other wildlife on the main islands.
Moving Animals to Safety
One important way to protect animals is through something called translocation. This means carefully moving animals from one place to another. The goal is to help them survive and create new, safe populations.
South Island Saddlebacks
In the past, special birds called South Island saddlebacks were moved to Putauhinu Island. These translocations happened in 1974, 1976, and 1984. Saddlebacks are known for their beautiful orange-brown "saddle" on their backs. Moving them to Putauhinu helped ensure their survival.
Snares Island Snipe
Another bird that found a new home on Putauhinu Island is the Snares Island snipe. In 2005, thirty of these small, shy birds were moved from the Snares Islands. This move helped to create a new population of snipe. It also protects them from dangers they might face elsewhere.
Putauhinu Island continues to be a vital part of New Zealand's efforts to protect its precious native species.
