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Otago Peninsula Declared Possum-Free After 15-Year Effort

3/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Otago Peninsula in New Zealand has been declared possum-free after more than 15 years of effort led by the Otago Peninsula Biodiversity Group and Predator Free Dunedin.
The project used camera networks and thermal drones to locate the last possums.
The initiative involved over 500 volunteers and covered 9,200 hectares, capturing more than 26,000 possums.
Officials urge ongoing vigilance and residents to report possum sightings to maintain status.

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Story summary

The Otago Peninsula in New Zealand has been declared possum-free after more than 15 years of effort led by the Otago Peninsula Biodiversity Group and Predator Free Dunedin.
The project used camera networks and thermal drones to locate the last possums.
The initiative involved over 500 volunteers and covered 9,200 hectares, capturing more than 26,000 possums.
Officials urge ongoing vigilance and residents to report possum sightings to maintain status.