For birds and humans: challenges and benefits of rat eradication from an inhabited island (Ventotene, central Italy)

Abstract

BackgroundRat eradication from islands is a very effective tool that can free entire ecosystems from the pressure of alien predators. In this study we present the case study of Ventotene (Ponziane Archipelago, Central Italy), which to date is by far the island with the greatest number of human inhabitants ever freed from the negative implications of rats. Rat eradication was carried out in the framework of the Life PonDerat project, co‐financed by European Union. Besides considering the conservation benefits due to the removal of rats, we also considered the socio‐economic and pathogenic impacts from introduced rats.ResultsThe overall economic cost of rats was quantified at least € 18,500 per year to the residents of the island. Several zoonotic pathogens were detected in the rat population prior to eradication. A reduction in the rodenticide distributed over time on the island was also estimated. Identifying the origin of the rat population allowed for the development of a more targeted and effective biosecurity measures. The eradication effort was challenged by the presence of domestic animals and variability in support for baiting in urbanised areas.ConclusionsResults of this study open new perspectives about island restoration projects. We demonstrated the cost‐effectiveness of the action including ecosystem restoration, reduction of rat impacts in agricultural systems and improving overall health and food safety. Our findings will have significant implications for similar interventions on other islands, potentially bringing significant benefits.This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.