New Zealand Turns to Backyard Trappers to Protect Rare Birds

New Zealand is undertaking an ambitious nationwide effort to eradicate invasive species like rats and possums to protect its native wildlife, especially rare birds like the kiwi. Community volunteers, including students and backyard trappers, play a crucial role in trapping and removing these predators, which have historically devastated native bird populations. The project emphasizes social participation, technological innovation, and public support to achieve a predator-free goal by 2050, aiming to restore New Zealand's unique ecosystem.