When a Century-Long Rodent Invasion Ends
A recent study highlights the ecological recovery of Lord Howe Island following the removal of invasive rodents. After an eradication program in 2019, researchers observed a significant increase in invertebrate populations by 2023. This change has positively impacted local species, including the near-extinct Lord Howe woodhen, although the recovery process may take years or decades.
- ▪Lord Howe Island was invaded by black rats and house mice over a century ago.
- ▪An eradication program in 2019 successfully eliminated both rodent species.
- ▪Invertebrate abundance increased by more than 50 percent after the removal of rodents.
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