A waxeye bearing a bird pox sore feeds with others at a Tahakopa Valley property in October. PHOTO: OWEN MCNUTTBird pox is widespread in Otago and remains a concern for conservationists protecting native species. At the time, Mr McNutt said he feared any increase in the prevalence of the disease could lead to its spread into vulnerable native species, like kākāriki. The Beresford Range, where his reserve was located, was home to both the endangered kākāriki and mohua, Mr McNutt said. Doc downplayed the severity of the outbreak, saying it was a widespread disease from which birds usually recovered.

Source: Otago Daily Times December 28, 2025 16:16 UTC