7 October 2018

People from the Ponderat staff were invited to the final Conference of the LIFE Shiants project, which is aimed at removing the black rat population from the Shiants islands (Outer Hebrides, north-west Scotland) to protect the existing seabird colonies and to encourage colonisation by other important seabirds. The project succeeded in completely removing rats, which were feeding on seabird eggs and chicks and were a major threat for nesting seabirds. The Conference took place at the An Lanntair Art Centre in Stornoway and lasted two days. All kind of activities were presented, such as rat eradication, ante e post-operam monitoring, investigations on marine areas where seabirds go hunting. Life PonDerat was presented in a specific session dedicated to projects worldwide that focus on recovery of island ecosystems through the eradication and control of invasive alien species. There was also a field visit to the Shiants islands (unfortunately only from the sea, due to adverse weather conditions) and the areas nearby Stornoway. The Conference was a great occasion for exchanging ideas and sharing knowledge and experiences. Congratulations to RSPB Scotland and Scottish Natural Heritage and many thanks for your invitation!