Spencer “Corry” Jones, an American contestant on the reality show “Race to Survive: New Zealand,” has faced criticism for killing and eating a protected bird species, the weka, during the show’s filming last October. The weka, a flightless bird listed on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s red list, is legally protected in mainland New Zealand where killing it can result in a prison sentence of up to two years or a fine of nearly $60,000.
New Zealand’s Department of Conservation conducted an investigation into the incident and issued written warnings to both Jones and the production team. The department cited the “unique set of circumstances” surrounding the case, including the contestants’ fatigue and significant hunger, as reasons for opting against more severe penalties. Dylan Swain, the department’s investigations team lead, stated that despite the circumstances, killing a protected species is unacceptable and the production team has been put “on notice” regarding adherence to conservation laws.
The show, which airs on USA Network, features nine teams of two competing in a 150-mile race across New Zealand’s challenging terrain. Contestants are required to find their own food and water throughout the competition. In a clip from the show, Jones admitted that he was aware eating the weka was against the law but was driven by desperation and hunger. He and his teammate, Oliver Dev, were disqualified from the competition following the incident.
Jones expressed remorse for his actions, acknowledging the difficulty of the situation but maintaining that his decision was influenced by extreme conditions. The show’s producers had been briefed on wildlife rules and had a permit to film on public conservation land, but were still held accountable for the breach.
The weka, known for its curious nature and distinctive call, has seen fluctuating populations and is protected to preserve its numbers. The incident underscores the challenges faced by reality show contestants in extreme conditions and the importance of adhering to local conservation laws.
Perspective:
Wildlife Conservation and Legal Consequences
Key Points
Spencer Jones killed and ate a protected bird, the weka, during filming of “Race to Survive
New Zealand,” an act punishable by significant fines or imprisonment
The Department of Conservation issued a warning to Jones and the production team due to the unique circumstances of the situation, including fatigue and hunger
The show’s producers had prior knowledge of wildlife rules and took immediate action once the incident was discovered
Perspective:
Contestant’s Experience and Show’s Challenges
Key Points
Spencer Jones expressed regret for his actions, citing extreme hunger and the difficult conditions of the competition as factors influencing his decision
The contestant and his teammate were disqualified from the competition after the incident
The reality show requires contestants to find their own food in a challenging environment, which contributed to the incident
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