Story: Small forest birds

Rat in fantail nest

Rat in fantail nest

Ship rats are capable climbers, and have had a huge impact on native birds, particularly during the nesting phase. This rat is eating eggs or chicks in a fantail’s nest.

Using this item

Department of Conservation
Reference: 10048620
Photograph by David Mudge

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How to cite this page:

Christina Troup, 'Small forest birds - New Zealand’s small forest birds', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/12457/rat-in-fantail-nest (accessed 29 March 2024)

Story by Christina Troup, published 24 Sep 2007, reviewed & revised 17 Feb 2015, updated 1 Aug 2023