Kiwi aversion training for dogs

[Dave Houston]

I'm aware that kiwi aversion training for dogs has been used/trialled in NZ but I don't have any idea how effective it might be.  I assume that similar training has been used in Australia -  see the post on the penguin forum about Maremma guardian dogs and blue penguins, however as you will read it hasn't been entirely successful.

Any comments on aversion training and its effectiveness?

[Jason Rox]

I have been involved with avian aversion training for dogs (mainly kiwi, but also for Pateke and Whio) since 1995. This technique is not a silver bullet. However, on the Coromandel Peninsula, where pig hunting is nearly a religion, we have pig hunting happening within the five areas intensively managed for kiwi, with very few deaths of kiwi from dogs. The technique is currently the subject of a research project by Unitech to measure its level of effectiveness. Results are due early next year. 

There are many methods to avert your dogs from birds, and all work to some degree. However, this is the only one I know of being used in NZ that is quickly and cheaply applied. Its also probably better than doing nothing, as pig and other hunters are going to hunt in areas with kiwi whether or not they are "allowed" to be there. Hppy to discuss this technique with anyone who wants further info

Cheers

Jason