Rathlin Island Now Ferret-Free After Eradication Effort
Why this is here: The project utilized 110 cameras across the island to monitor ferret populations, demonstrating a technology-driven approach to invasive species management.
Predatory feral ferrets have been completely removed from Rathlin Island, Northern Ireland, for the first time ever. The five-year, £4.5 million project involved RSPB NI, islanders, charities, and volunteers. Ferrets were introduced to the island in the 1980s to control rabbits but bred rapidly.
The invasive species preyed on rare birds like corncrakes, peregrine falcons, and puffins, even killing 26 puffins in a two-day span. The project used cameras, thermal drones, and a trained labrador named Woody to locate and humanely kill the ferrets.
Rathlin Island has already seen positive results, including six calling male corncrakes and Manx shearwaters breeding for the first time in 40 years. Ongoing biosecurity measures will monitor for new invasive species, including brown rats.