Northern Ireland’s Rathlin Island may have finally beaten rats, but the win is complicated because rabbits are now booming and seabirds are only just returning
Rathlin Island has successfully eradicated invasive rats after a large conservation project. This significant step removes a major threat to the island's vulnerable seabirds. However, rabbit numbers are now rapidly increasing, presenting a new ecological challenge. Island ecosystems are tightly linked, and removing one pressure does not immediately restore balance. Conservation efforts continue as scientists manage this dynamic and evolving environment.
Rathlin Island has successfully eradicated invasive rats after a large conservation project. This significant step removes a major threat to the island's vulnerable seabirds. However, rabbit numbers are now rapidly increasing, presenting a new ecological challenge. Island ecosystems are tightly linked, and removing one pressure does not immediately restore balance. Conservation efforts continue as scientists manage this dynamic and evolving environment.
