Wake Atoll Wildlife Rebounds After Major Rat Eradication

Quick Smiles:

• Wake Atoll is seeing a major ecological comeback after invasive rats were removed.
• Bird populations are rising, including record Sooty Tern breeding and the first documented Bonin Petrel nesting.
• Native plants and smaller wildlife are also rebounding, with geckos, crabs, and Pisonia seedlings returning.

Wake Atoll is experiencing a remarkable ecological revival following a successful multi-agency mission to eliminate invasive rats. This collaboration between the U.S. Air Force, USDA, and Island Conservation has restored the island to its natural state.

The removal of these rodents has triggered a cascade of positive changes for both wildlife and human residents. Infrastructure is now safer from contamination, while the risk of disease transmission has been significantly reduced for personnel stationed there.

“We’re astonished—and thrilled—at the results of this work,” said Tommy Hall, Project Manager at Island Conservation.

Native bird populations are soaring, including a record-breaking breeding season for Sooty Terns and the first documented nesting of Bonin Petrels. Without predators eating their eggs, sixteen species of nesting birds are finally reclaiming their home.

“The rats consumed virtually all of the Pisonia seed—I had never seen a seedling before the rat eradication. Now there are hundreds, if not thousands, of Pisonia seedlings,” said ornithologist John Gilardi.

The island’s flora and smaller fauna are also rebounding, with geckos, crabs, and rare trees showing massive growth. This success serves as a powerful model for how dedicated conservation efforts can rapidly heal entire ecosystems.

This achievement highlights the profound impact of restoring balance to island habitats for future generations.

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