Marshall Islands Thrive After Rat Removal

Quick Smiles:

• Native forests and seabird populations recover on Bikar Atoll and Jemo Islet.
• Community-led efforts successfully eradicated invasive black rats.
• Seabird colonies and vital plant growth return, benefiting the whole ecosystem.

Two small islets in the Marshall Islands are celebrating a vibrant ecological renewal thanks to the removal of invasive black rats. Local communities, with support from Island Conservation and other organizations, led successful efforts to restore Bikar Atoll and Jemo Islet.

Bikar Atoll and Jemo Islet are critical habitats for nativeplants, seabirds, and green sea turtles. With the eradication of black rats, local wildlife has made an inspiring comeback, especially as new generations of seabirds and plant seedlings flourish.

A recent visit with partners and community members confirmed the transformation. Seabird colonies, such as Sooty Terns, have rapidly multiplied, and seedlings of native Pisonia grandis trees now thrive across monitored plots.

“After only one year, the transformation is dramatic. A colony of 2,000 Sooty Terns, where there was previously none, was feeding hundreds of chicks,” stated Island Conservation Project Manager Paul Jacques.

Traditional resource-gathering grounds like Jemo are once again supporting the people of the Marshall Islands. The restoration not only aids nature but also helps the communities who rely on the islands’ bounty.

“Our Marshallese friends continue to add restored, pest-free islands to their list of achievements,” shared David Moverley, Invasive Species Adviser for the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Program (SPREP).

Island Conservation’s innovative methods have made a global impact, benefiting more than 65 islands worldwide. Their dedication continues to yield hope for both people and nature.

Celebrate this positive change and share the good news with friends and family!

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