Temperate rainforest on Ulva Island. |
|
| Geography | |
|---|---|
| Location | Paterson Inlet |
| Area | 2.7 km2 (1.04 sq mi) |
| Length | 3.5 km (2.17 mi) |
| Country | |
| Demographics | |
| Population | 0 |
Ulva Island ( from Scottish Gaelic: Eilean na Ulbha) is a small island about 3.5 km (2.17 mi) long lying within Paterson Inlet, which is part of Stewart Island/Rakiura in New Zealand.[1] It has an area of about 270 hectares (670 acres), the majority of which is public land. It was named after Ulva Island in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland, and was formerly called Coopers Island.
Ulva Island's relative isolation, but easy access from Stewart Island has allowed it to become an important natural resource area. It is a sanctuary for both birds and plants, holding species that on the mainland of New Zealand are rare or have died out. In 1997, the island was declared rat-free, following an eradication program, and extirpated birds have been reintroduced to the island. The birds include the South Island saddleback (tieke), yellowhead (mohua) and Stewart Island robin (toutouwai). Other birds on the island that are rare on the mainland include the Stewart Island Brown Kiwi (tokoeka) , Rifleman (Tītitipounamu), Yellow-crowned and Red-fronted Parakeet, and South Island Kākā or forest parrot, as well as several other species. The endangered Yellow-eyed penguin uses the island for breeding sites.[2]
Occasionally rats make their way to the island but are caught in a network of traps. In 2010 twelve rats were found on the island, including a juvenile indicating that there is now a breeding colony present.[3]
The Department of Conservation currently maintains the public portion of the island including its predator free status. A small portion of the island (approximately 8 hectares / 20 acres between Sydney Cove and Post Office Bay) is privately owned.