Use of traditional knowledge by Rakiura Maori to guide sooty shearwater harvests

t Traditional knowledge (TK) concerning the harvest of sooty shearwaters (Puffinus griseus) by Rakiura Maori in New Zealand was recorded and analyzed using scientific methodologies. The objective was to use information and techniques from traditional and scientific knowledge systems for more effective resource management. Rakiura Maori TK predicts that years with larger and fatter chicks will have greater chick abundance. Detailed harvest records (1978-89) from one muttonbirder on Poutama (Evening Island) indicated that harvest tallies were greater in years when chicks were larger. However, observations by muttonbirders in the last decade suggest that this traditional "chick quality-abundance" construct may be becoming less consistent. The lack of a relationship between harvest tallies and chick quality from 1990 to 1998 supported this reported change in TK. Muttonbirders target nights with rain, wind, and little moonlight when chicks can be caught more quickly. A multiple regression model indicated that year, effort, day of season, and nights with wind or rain determined number of chicks harvested. A lunar effect may not have been detected because muttonbirders adjust their harvest behavior according to phases of the moon. Scientific evaluation of chick emergence detected a lunar effect because sampling occurred at all stages of the lunar cycle. Local knowledge of the best conditions and areas on Poutama to hunt allowed the muttonbirders to maximize their harvest efficiency. Traditional knowledge can predict scientific findings for some key parameters of harvest, such as chick abundance, but also has value for understanding an ecological system. Complete integration of TK and ecological science is unlikely because of the spiritual and holistic aspects that partially define TK. However, parallel use of the 2 knowledge systems may improve the understanding and decision-making for conservation and natural resource use.