In 1918, rats escaped from a shipwreck onto a remote island - over a century later, scientists found an odd consequence

A century-old accident introduced black rats to Lord Howe Island, decimating native wildlife. Following a successful eradication program, a remarkable recovery is underway. Larger invertebrates, previously targeted by the rats, have seen significant population increases. This restoration highlights the resilience of ecosystems when environmental pressures are removed. Native geckos and birds now benefit from this renewed food source.

In 1918, rats escaped from a shipwreck onto a remote island - over a century later, scientists found an odd consequence
A century-old accident introduced black rats to Lord Howe Island, decimating native wildlife. Following a successful eradication program, a remarkable recovery is underway. Larger invertebrates, previously targeted by the rats, have seen significant population increases. This restoration highlights the resilience of ecosystems when environmental pressures are removed. Native geckos and birds now benefit from this renewed food source.