Dogs Central to Protecting and Saving Endangered Species in New Zealand

pai-piri-3 — Pai and Piri are a part of New Zealand’s Conservation Dog Program, doing their part to eradicate vermin and keep endangered species safe. (Photos: Pai and Piri Facebook)

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

It is an important job a little terrier has as protector of endemic animals on the brink of extinction. Piri and her brother, Pai, are charged, along with the other team members of their canine entourage, with this important job as part of New Zealand’s Conservation Dog Program. Together, they work to keep the 100 pest-free island sanctuaries, free from pests that are a danger to the protected species.

Rats, mice, weasels, cats, and other predatory animals are kept at bay by the pair which work among the cargo and shops that travel inter-island or from beyond, and they come by their skill set somewhat naturally. Their father, Jak, worked for the government, too.

10606357 555516491251805 1241240542254075940 n

Piri and Pai are so popular among the locals they even have their own Facebook page.

In addition to canines like the terrier siblings, the Conservation Dog Program also has four-legged investigators that perform other conservation tasks, each with different specialties such as locating endangered animals, like kiwis, or detecting wild cats. The program utilizes over 60 dogs in across their programs.

For more information, please visit the Conservation Blog, to learn more about the amazing dogs that are such an important part of the conservation efforts of New Zealand.