Removing rodents from small tropical islands with success

Abstract

While eradication projects on large islands require substantial funding and a high level of technical and logistical support, projects on small islands are much simpler and can achieve success with much less funding and outside assistance. The Pacific has thousands of such islands that can contribute to significant biodiversity outcomes. The purpose of this guide is to assist the practitioner in removing invasive rodents from small islands (less than 20 hectares) where access to all parts of the island is possible. These guidelines are designed to be used in conjunction with the resource 'Use anticoagulant rodent bait safely'. Thanks to our partner Island Conservation, who drafted this guide following the successful removal of rodents on Motutapu and Malinoa islands in the Kingdom of Tonga.