After 2005 rat removal, three seabird species on a Pacific island grew up to tenfold over decades

Times of India · 22/10/2026, 8:28:00 pm

The successful eradication of invasive rodents in 2005 has greatly influenced seabird populations on Surprise Island. Researchers closely monitored seven seabird species to document their recovery post-eradication. While some species thrived quickly, others needed more extended observation to show signs of improvement. Notably, noddies saw a significant increase in breeding pairs, whereas red-footed boobies showed a more gradual recovery.