Scientists just eradicated thousands of invasive predators from a group of remote UK islands. Here’s why

More than 6,000 non-native stoats have been removed from Orkney – an archipelago off the north coast of Scotland.

By Daniel Graham

Published: Friday, 08 November 2024 at 14:42 PM

Orkney’s wildlife, including rare birds and the unique Orkney vole, is showing promising signs of recovery as the Orkney Native Wildlife Project nears its final phase, according to a new RSPB report.

Launched in 2019, this ambitious effort to remove invasive stoats has led to notable population increases and successful nesting rates among threatened species.

The first stoat was recorded on the islands in 2010 – here, one is seen with an Orkney vole/RSPB Images

Backed by RSPB and the Scottish Government, the Orkney Native Wildlife Project has transformed Orkney’s ecosystems in just four years. By targeting stoats, an invasive predator first recorded on the islands in 2010, the project has reduced threats to Orkney’s delicate wildlife balance.

Since 2019, nesting success for key species has surged. Curlews and oystercatchers are faring better, and the hen harrier, an iconic bird of prey, has seen its nest success rate more than double – from 36% in 2019 to 82% in 2023.

Hen harrier
Since the project began, vulnerable ground-nesting birds such as the hen harrier are experiencing more successful nesting attempts/RSPB Images

The Orkney vole, a species found nowhere else, is also making a comeback. Since 2019, signs of vole activity – such as droppings and food stores – have doubled, indicating a thriving population.

With more than 6,000 stoats removed, Orkney’s landscape is seeing a renewed balance as native wildlife gains a foothold once again.

Short-eared owl
A short-eared owl patrols its hunting grounds/RSPB Images

“This is a success story for conservation against the backdrop of a nature crisis that is pushing more of Scotland’s wildlife to the brink,” says Anne McCall, director of RSPB Scotland.

“Working in partnership on the biggest project of its kind ever attempted we are restoring the natural balance to Orkney. The accidental introduction of stoats to the islands has had a devastating effect on our wildlife, especially smaller mammals and ground nesting birds. Today’s report is a strong indication that our work is making a difference.” 

As the project heads into its final phase, the outlook is bright for Orkney’s extraordinary birdlife and unique fauna, showing what dedicated conservation can achieve for endangered island ecosystems.

ONWP team moving trapping equipment
The Orkney Native Wildlife Project team moving trapping equipment/RSPB Images

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