In recent years rabbit damage to vegetation on Macquarie Island increased significantly, resulting in serious vegetation changes and impacting on burrowing seabirds that require vegetation cover around their breeding habitat. Rodents were also having a significant impact on the island, with ship rats in particular eating the eggs and chicks of burrow-nesting petrels.
Consequently, the unique natural values of this remote sub-Antarctic island which led to its World Heritage listing were being threatened by these introduced animals. The eradication of these animals is now the highest conservation priority for the reserve.
The project is the largest island eradication program for rabbits, rats or mice ever attempted, and one of the largest conservation projects in Tasmania. Baiting of the island was completed in July 2011.
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Macquarie Island
Macquarie Island is a unique and remote part of Tasmania. It is a World Heritage site renowned for its rich diversity of sub-Antarctic plants and wildlife. |
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The Pest Problem
Introduced rabbits, rats and mice are threatening the island’s World Heritage values by damaging plants, wildlife and habitats. |
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The Eradication Project
The Australian and Tasmanian Governments are working together to protect the outstanding universal values of Macquarie Island, and have provided almost $25 million to eradicate these pests from the island, the largest attempt of its kind in the world for these three species. |
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Project News and Updates
Look for the latest information on this seven-year, two-stage project that is technically and logistically one of the most ambitious conservation programs underway anywhere in the world. |
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Opportunities
Throughout the project there will be opportunities for employment and tendering to support the project. |
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Project People
The project involves a number of staff, numerous support people and partner organisations. |
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Image Gallery
A photographic depiction of the natural values and the threats facing Macquarie Island.
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Frequently Asked Questions
An outline of the Macquarie Island Pest Eradication Project aims and objectives.
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