When Predators Thrive, Ecosystems Survive: Saving NZ's Birds of Prey (with Ineke Milner)

What New Zealand predator flies at up to 200km/hour yet is now rarer than our iconic kiwi? With fewer than 8,000 kārearea (NZ’s endemic falcon) remaining, these aerial hunters serve as crucial indicators of our ecosystem's health.For 32+ years, the Wingspan Bird of Prey Centre in Rotorua has been at the forefront of protecting these remarkable predators and reversing their decline.In this episode of the People Helping Nature Podcast, General Manager Ineke Milner, reveals how Wingspan blends 4,000-year-old falconry practices with cutting-edge conservation techniques.Through Wingspan’s four main focuses (rehabilitation, research, education, and advocacy), they're creating meaningful connections between people and these often-misunderstood birds.Despite their fearless hunting prowess, kārearea face serious threats. Introduced predators like feral cats target their nests at night, while habitat loss and even deliberate persecution further challenge their survival.The kārearea's unique adaptability as both a forest and open-country hunter has been their saving grace as forests have diminished. As Ineke explains, this rare dual-hunting ability has helped them adapt where other species couldn't - though their numbers still remain low.Here are some of the key topics we discussed:The five bird of prey species in New Zealand and their conservation statusWhy raptors function as crucial indicators of overall ecosystem healthThe 4,000-year history of falconry and its surprising connection to conservationHow Wingspan uses falconry techniques to rehabilitate injured birdsThe major threats facing NZ falcons, including introduced species and human persecutionSimple actions anyone can take to support raptor conservationWhy conservation ultimately connects to human wellbeing👩 About Ineke:A passionate advocate for wildlife and conservation with a journey spanning from the lush landscapes of Rotorua to the far reaches of the globe, Ineke has a deep-rooted love for nature.She contributed to Wingspan in earlier years, serving as raptor PR and aviculturist, where she honed her expertise in caring for ngā manu. Her time at International Wildlife Consultants (Wales) further solidified her commitment to conservation efforts on an international scale. Notably, she proudly represented NZ at the 2014 International Falconry Festival (UAE), showcasing her expertise and passion for avian conservation.In addition to her conservation work, Ineke has made significant contributions to education as a science/biology teacher and as assistant head of the science department. Her devotion to outdoor education has allowed her to instil a love for nature in students, inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards.Ineke's career is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and a deep connection to the natural world. She is excited to lead Wingspan into the next chapter of its journey.🔗Learn more:Wingspan’s website: www.wingspan.co.nzFacebook: www.facebook.com/WingspanNewZealandInstagram: www.instagram.com/wingspan.nz🎙️Learn more about the podcast at www.conservationamplified.org