Lions Predatory Free Newsletter May 2026

Protecting Our Local Songbirds: The Lions Predator Free Initiative

As the crisp autumn air settles over Palmerston North, we aren't the only ones looking for a warm place and a meal. For mustelids and rodents, these cooler nights are the prime time to bulk up for winter—often at the expense of our beautiful native birdlife.

What is the project?

The Lions Predator Free initiative, led by the Lions Club of Middle Districts, is a community-driven effort to remove invasive predators from our backyards. We provide high-quality traps to residents across Palmerston North and the surrounding Manawatū region to create a safe haven for our tūī, bellbirds, and fantails.

Why it matters

With the change in seasons, predator activity increases. Many traps that were quiet over the summer months are about to see a lot more action. By rebating your traps now, you are directly contributing to:

• Reducing the local rat and hedgehog population before they can impact nesting season.

• Providing a "buffer zone" for native birds in urban Palmy.

• Collecting vital data that helps us understand predator density in our city.

The Lions' Impact

To date, our dedicated team has placed over 150 traps throughout the region. Thanks to the efforts of our local volunteers, those traps have already accounted for more than 250 rats and several hedgehogs.

"We are all volunteers with a single objective: encouraging a more prolific native bird population in our own backyards. Every catch reported is a win for the environment." — Craig Hart, Lions Predator Free.

We need more backyard heroes! There is absolutely no cost to receive a trap, though we do ask that you report your catches to us. If you have a trap but are no longer able to maintain it, please let us know so we can relocate it to another eager volunteer.

Want to join the movement? Contact us today via our website to request your free trap or report a catch.