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Reducing the rat threat to island birds

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  11 May 2010

P. J. Moors ,
I. A. E. Atkinson  and
G. H. Sherley
P. J. Moors
Affiliation:
Royal Australasian Ornithologists' Union, 21 Gladstone Street, Moonee Ponds, Victoria Australia.
I. A. E. Atkinson
Affiliation:
Landcare Research New Zealand, Private Bag 31902, Lower Hutt, New Zealand
G. H. Sherley
Affiliation:
Department of Conservation, PO Box 10-420, Wellington, New Zealand
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Summary

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Invasions of alien mammals, particularly predators such as rats Rattus spp., have been a major cause of the disproportionately high number of extinctions of island birds. This paper outlines how introduced rodents affect these birds, describes administrative, management and scientific measures which should be taken to prevent the spread of these mammals to additional islands and to limit their impact, and provides practical information about how to control or eradicate the rodents. We use examples from New Zealand's experiences with islands and rats to illustrate the problems and solutions. The information and recommendations in the paper are directed particularly towards legislators, administrators and managers all over the world who are responsible for the conservation of island faunas. The paper gives examples of rat-free islands deserving the highest level of protection, and a step-by-step checklist for action to minimize the risks of rodent invasion.

Type
Research Article
Information
Bird Conservation International , Volume 2 , Issue 2 , June 1992 , pp. 93 - 114
Copyright
Copyright © Birdlife International 1992

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