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There's plenty to see and do at the estuary.
The estuary walkway provides beautiful views, and there are signs along the way providing information about some of the birds you might see.
There is a lot of interesting wildlife at the estuary. As well as birds, the estuary is also home to some interesting plants and is an important habitat for native fish.
The Manawatū Estuary Trust enjoys giving people the opportunity to learn more about this amazing environ
Freshwater Gold Clam Corbicula fluminea
Introduced. Not assessed
The natural distribution of this small molluscs is Southeast Asia but has now been introduced and is now widespread in North America and many parts of Europe. In Aotearoa New Zealand was initially found in the Waikato when and now rather worryingly, in a man made lake.
This small clam measures only 2cm when fully grown and because of its fast rate of reproduction can colonise new areas rapidly, with the increase in numbers potentially creating problems with outlet pipes and drains.
It is an easy species to identify because of the deep ribbing on the shell and the rather elongated shell distinguishes it from several native species. Because of its filter-feeding on watercourse bottoms, it can accumulate toxins and consumption is not recommended.
https://www.mpi.govt.nz/dmsdocument/56950/direct
European Hedgehog Erinaceus europaeus
Introduced. Not assessed.
People have mixed emotions about this prickly wee beastie - on one hand it is a familiar animal and has been for generations through children's literature and is an extremely efficient consumer of snails and slugs.
Since its introduction in the 1870's in an attempt control introduced crop pests it has had a dramatic effect on Aotearoa New Zealand's endemic invertebrates. also taking birds eggs.
In the UK the species is in serious decline with populations down as much as 70% in some area, especially where badgers are present. It is far removed from the population here with fairly high densities in many areas, including in farmland around Foxton. Many are trapped.
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