ESAI Trap Library Making a Big Impact on Pest Numbers in the Area

Pest Trap Library Update
Our pest control efforts continue to make a real impact, thanks to the dedication of volunteers and the support of our community. Here’s an update on our trap library and ongoing work.
Trap Library Inventory
We now have a well-stocked trap library with the following equipment available:
• 60 x DOC 250 traps
• 5 rat traps
• 19 auto traps
• 30 Trapinators
• 40 x DOC 200 traps
Many of these traps were originally funded through MPI’s Jobs for Nature programme via the Tinaku Project, however, ESAI has gone on to receive funding from other businesses and organisations in the local areas which has allowed us to expand our inventory further.
Increasing Our Impact
The purchase of an additional ten auto traps has significantly boosted our possum catch numbers. In 2023, we caught 273 possums, while in 2024, that number jumped to an impressive 1,268.
Community Collaboration & Volunteer Efforts
A huge thank you to Dave Tilson, (pictured above busy refilling lure in some of the autotraps) who volunteers his time managing trapping efforts in the Ellesmere area on behalf of ESAI. Dave has built a strong working relationship with Te Taumutu Rūnanga, which has generously offered him a shed to store traps and use as a workshop for maintenance and repairs.
Dave is supported by local volunteers who help with checking, re-baiting, and resetting traps. If you’d like to get involved, Dave would love to hear from you—training and full instructions will be provided!
The Importance of Data Collection
Recording catch data is crucial, as it helps us secure funding to keep the programme running. Dave and his volunteers regularly log their catches, but we also encourage farmers and landowners using ESAI traps to report their numbers. If you have a trap on your property, please send your catch data to Dave so it can be added to the total tally.
Donations Needed
To keep our traps well-baited, we are looking for donations of the following items:
• Rabbit carcasses
• Eggs
• Peanut butter
• Icing sugar
• Flour
• Cinnamon
If you have any of these available, please get in touch with Dave.
Landowner Engagement & Programme Growth
We’re thrilled to see more local landowners getting involved in pest control efforts. Many have even gone on to purchase their own auto traps after seeing the success of Dave’s work on their properties.
The total catch count across all species is now close to 2,500—an incredible achievement in just two years!
Thank You to Our Supporters
A massive thank you to all the local businesses and community members who continue to support our pest control programme. Special thanks to Selwyn District Council, The Ellesmere Lions Club, Farmlands Leeston, DOC, and Pest Free Banks Peninsula for their contributions.

Get Involved!

If you’re an ESAI member and would like Dave to help control pests on your property, you can reach him at 027 737 2811 or email tilson@yahoo.co.nz.
Not a member yet? Consider joining ESAI to access valuable resources, advocacy, workshops, training, and ongoing support. Learn more at esai.co.nz or email admin@esai.co.nz.
Thank you for your continued support in making our region pest-free!