Introduced mammals in a New Zealand forest: long-term research in the Orongorongo Valley Original Research Article

New Zealandʹs flora and fauna, the products of long isolation, have been drastically affected by human settlement and the animals and plants they brought with them. In 1966, Ecology Division, Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (now in Landcare Research), established a field station in the Orongorongo Valley, for research in forest ecology. Work focused on the effects of introduced mammals on the native flora and fauna, particularly the effects of possums on the vegetation and feral cats and their prey. Research since 1966 has included long-term monitoring and shorter, intensive studies on diverse topics. This mix has been valuable in providing clearer insights into the effects of introduced animals than would isolated studies of single species or interactions. It has also provided a deeper understanding of the forest ecosystem, essential for sound management.