A film production company has defended singer Taylor Swift against animal rights activists accusing her of putting an endangered species at risk.

Swift, 25, was in Bethells Beach, New Zealand, filming a new music video when campaigners claim her film crew potentially crushed the nests of endangered Dotterel birds.

• Internet goes crazy for Adele’s hunky bodyguard
• Anne Hathaway’s biggest role: motherhood

However, the film company responsible for the shoot, Cherokee Films, has issued a statement absolving the star of any blame.

“Taylor Swift and her management team were in no way at fault and did not do anything that violated permits or ordinances,” the statement read.

“Cherokee Films has a long history of responsible film shoots across Auckland, including Bethells Beach, where we have filmed many times.

“Our shoots have always been with the guidance and support of the relevant local authority – most recently Screen Auckland and Parks – and landowners.

“In acknowledgement of the concern this has added to those in charge of protecting local Dotterel population Cherokee Films will make a donation to the breeding program as we support your concerns.”

Swift is set to perform in Sydney’s ANZ Stadium tonight as part of the Australian leg of her 1989 World Tour.